Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast: Recent Episodes
Penny Sansevieri Author Marketing Experts, Inc.
Join Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell for fun and frank discussions packed with clever ideas and easy-to-implement book marketing strategies! Designed to help self-published authors and traditionally published authors at any level, the Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast will definitely inspire you with new ideas for how to sell books and grow your platform. Subscribe today and take that next step toward a more successful, long-term book marketing plan!
Top authors are not successful simply because they write good books or have bigger marketing budgets. The strongest authors understand something many writers overlook: readers are constantly deciding whether a book feels worth their time, attention, and money—and those decisions often happen before the first page is ever read.
In this episode, we unpack what top-performing authors understand about reader choice and how newer, midlist, and independent authors can apply those same lessons without trying to imitate a celebrity bestseller’s career. From Amazon and Goodreads to BookTok, newsletters, podcasts, social media, subscription platforms, and AI-powered recommendations, readers now discover books through more channels than ever. But the core question remains the same: when a reader sees your book alongside dozens of others, what makes them choose yours?
We break down the practical signals successful authors use to build reader confidence. That includes clear genre positioning, covers that immediately communicate the right reading experience, compelling retail descriptions, consistent series branding, strong author presentation, and messaging that makes it easy for readers to understand exactly what they are getting. The most successful books are rarely confusing. They are clear about their audience, their promise, and the emotional or entertainment experience waiting inside.
We also talk about the smartest way to study successful authors. Instead of comparing yourself only to household names with decades of visibility, legacy media coverage, and enormous reader bases, look for your true market neighbors: rising authors, successful midlist writers, and indie authors who are steadily gaining traction with readers now. Their categories, cover choices, series pages, pricing, descriptions, reviews, and reader conversations can reveal valuable clues about what is working in your genre today.
You’ll learn why readers often need familiarity before they are willing to take a chance on originality, why clarity consistently outperforms cleverness on a retail page, and how professional, cohesive branding reduces the perceived risk of trying a new author. Readers are not only choosing where to spend their money. They are choosing where to spend their time.
The takeaway is not that you need to become a copy of a top author. It is that you need to understand the reader-confidence strategies top authors use so you can make better decisions about how your own book is positioned, presented, and marketed.
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Order Penny's latest book, Think Local Sell Global and start building a book sales strategy you have more control over!
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your reviews help more authors discover the show!
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Amazon is changing how readers discover books, and authors who understand the shift now will be in a much stronger position than those who wait for the results to become obvious. Search is becoming more conversational, recommendations are becoming more context-driven, and AI is increasingly influencing how books are matched with reader interests, moods, questions, needs, and expectations.
In this episode, we break down what those broader AI changes mean for your Amazon presence and why the old approach to retail copy is no longer enough. A book description cannot simply sound polished. Your subtitle cannot rely on vague promises. Your categories, keywords, author bio, and book-page messaging all need to work together to clearly communicate what your book is, who it is for, and why the right reader should choose it.
We talk through the biggest mistakes authors still make on Amazon, including generic descriptions, keyword stuffing, unclear genre signals, overly salesy subtitles, and back-cover copy that never tells readers what kind of experience they are actually buying. You will hear practical ways to strengthen your book’s positioning, clarify its themes and reader promise, and make your retail page more useful for both human readers and AI-driven discovery tools.
We also look at the overlooked areas that can either support or weaken visibility, including your Author Central bio, the per-title “About the Author” section, and the language you use to describe your audience. As Amazon search becomes more intelligent, the authors who win will be the ones who make it easy for the platform to understand their books—and easy for readers to recognize that they have found exactly what they were looking for.
Subscribe, share this episode with an author friend, and leave a review to help more writers find the show.
Send us your feedback!
Order Penny's latest book, Think Local Sell Global and start building a book sales strategy you have more control over!
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your reviews help more authors discover the show!
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts or Spotify? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Selling direct to readers can sound like the ultimate author-business upgrade: higher royalties, faster payouts, more control, and a customer list you actually own.
But is it the right move for your book right now?
In this episode, we unpack the real tradeoffs behind selling books from your own website—and why launching a direct-sales store before you have the audience, systems, or offers to support it can become an expensive distraction. Amazon may take a bigger cut, but it also delivers something many authors underestimate: reader trust, familiar checkout, Prime shipping expectations, and an enormous built-in shopping habit.
We break down what direct sales actually require behind the scenes, from inventory, shipping, sales tax, customer service, refunds, and fulfillment to the not-so-small challenge of convincing a reader to pay shipping when Amazon has trained them to expect it fast and free.
Then we get into the more important question: when does selling direct make sense?
You’ll hear what successful direct-selling authors tend to have in place first, why your email list is the real engine behind direct revenue, and which offers give readers a reason to buy from you instead of defaulting to Amazon—think signed books, exclusive editions, bundles, bonuses, and companion products.
We also answer a listener question about beta reader feedback: what you can ethically use, what should stay private, and how to turn powerful reader comments into marketing assets across your Amazon page, website, email newsletter, and social media.
Before you build a store, make sure you understand what will actually move the needle. Listen now, subscribe for more practical book marketing guidance, and share this episode with an author who is wondering whether direct sales are worth the effort.
Send us your feedback!
Order Penny's latest book, Think Local Sell Global and start building a book sales strategy you have more control over!
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your reviews help more authors discover the show!
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts or Spotify? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Could your author newsletter become a new income stream—or will charging readers create more work than revenue?
Paid newsletters are everywhere right now, especially with platforms like Substack making it look easy to turn emails into monthly income. But for authors, the question is not whether someone is making money with a paid newsletter. It is whether your readers have a compelling reason to pay for yours.
In this episode, we break down what actually works: the types of exclusive content readers may value, why a strong mission or niche can matter more than a large subscriber count, and how expert curation, analysis, behind-the-scenes access, or special offers can help a paid tier feel worthwhile.
We also get honest about the parts no one likes to talk about: the ongoing content demands, the pressure to keep subscribers engaged every single month, and the conversion math that can quickly change the revenue picture. With free-to-paid conversion rates often landing around 3%, authors need to understand what it really takes to make this model profitable before building an entirely new content machine.
You’ll also hear why your free newsletter should remain the foundation of your reader relationship, even if you decide to test a paid option—and what to consider before moving your audience to Substack or another platform that could pull attention away from your website, SEO, and broader author brand.
Plus, we answer a listener question about book relaunches: when a relaunch makes sense, what separates it from simply “always promoting,” and how to use new momentum—like an award win, fresh positioning, or an updated edition—to give a book another real shot at visibility.
Before you put your newsletter behind a paywall, listen to this episode. It could save you time, help you protect your reader relationship, and give you a clearer path to building income that actually supports your author career.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
You do not need a free afternoon—or an exhausting new marketing plan—to make meaningful progress with your book. In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell break down how authors can use just 15 focused minutes to improve the parts of their marketing that keep working long after the timer stops.
They start by celebrating Penny’s new release, Think Local, Sell Global, then get straight to one of the biggest traps authors fall into: confusing constant activity with actual momentum. Posting randomly, scrolling for ideas, or trying to “do all the things” may feel productive, but it rarely builds the visibility, trust, and reader connection that lead to book sales.
Instead, Penny and Amy share a smarter question to ask before you spend your time: What can I improve today that will still be helping my book next week, next month, and three months from now?
You will hear practical, high-impact ways to strengthen your book’s discoverability and conversion in short, manageable bursts. From tightening the opening lines of your Amazon description and reviewing your categories and keywords to refreshing your author bio, improving your website, adding A+ Content, and checking what readers see inside your Look Inside preview, these are the book marketing assets that can quietly do more of the selling for you.
They also talk about the long-game power of email marketing, how to reconnect with a quiet newsletter list, and what to say when you are convinced you have “nothing to send.” Plus, they share realistic 15-minute, 30-minute, and 60-minute marketing plans to help you stay visible between launches without burning yourself out.
If your book marketing has felt scattered, time-consuming, or impossible to keep up with, this episode will help you refocus on the small improvements that create a much bigger payoff.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
As Penny's new book, Think Local, Sell Global, heads into pre-order, this replay felt especially timely.
One of the biggest mistakes authors make is assuming that local book marketing is somehow “small.” In reality, the relationships you build in your own community can become the foundation for stronger visibility, more reader connection, better word-of-mouth, and opportunities that continue expanding well beyond your ZIP code.
In this replay episode, Amy and Penny dig into one of the most underused local marketing opportunities available to authors: libraries. We talk about how to get your book in front of the right library contacts, what librarians may consider before adding a title to their shelves, and why simply walking in and asking them to stock your book is rarely the smartest approach.
You’ll hear practical ways to become part of your local library community first—from getting a card and attending events to supporting their programs, following them online, and identifying where your book, expertise, or perspective could genuinely add value. We also cover how to pitch library events, collaborate with other local authors, work with Friends of the Library groups, and avoid creating an event that requires more staff time than a library can realistically provide.
Libraries are not just places where books live. They are community hubs filled with readers, families, educators, local organizations, and people actively looking for meaningful resources and experiences. That makes them an ideal place to begin building the kind of hometown visibility that can support your book far beyond launch week.
This may be a replay, but the strategy is more relevant than ever—especially for authors who want to stop waiting for visibility to happen and start creating it closer to home.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Holiday book sales do not start when shoppers begin panic-buying gifts in December. They start months earlier, when smart authors begin positioning their books for the gift guides, media mentions, newsletters, local segments, creator roundups, and seasonal recommendation lists that influence what readers actually buy.
In this episode, Penny and Amy are talking Christmas in July — and why authors who want stronger holiday book sales need to start planning long before the holiday rush. Waiting until Thanksgiving to chase seasonal visibility is one of the biggest missed opportunities in book marketing, because many magazines, websites, bloggers, newsletters, creators, and regional outlets plan their holiday content months in advance. If you want your book to be part of the holiday shopping conversation, the time to start is now.
We’ll walk through what “holiday book marketing” really means and how to think beyond the obvious. Gift guides are a powerful part of the strategy, but they are not the only opportunity. Your book may also fit into seasonal media angles, local holiday shopping stories, niche newsletters, podcast recommendation episodes, bookstore roundups, reader gift lists, school or library recommendations, and specialty audience features. The goal is to help your book show up where your most likely buyers are already looking for ideas.
We’ll also challenge the myth that holiday marketing only works for “gifty” nonfiction, cookbooks, coffee table books, or children’s titles. Children’s books, YA, romance, memoir, business, self-help, niche nonfiction, local interest books, and even certain fiction genres can all work beautifully when they are framed for the right reader, buyer, occasion, or seasonal need. The question is not simply, “Is my book a gift book?” The better question is, “Who would be excited to give, receive, recommend, or share this book during the holidays?”
Then we get practical. You’ll learn what to prepare before you pitch, including a clean book one-sheet, a targeted email, a clear audience fit, and a subject line that does not sound like every other author asking for coverage. We’ll talk about why audience alignment matters more than sheer volume, how social media can extend the life of a good placement, and why bloggers, newsletters, regional publications, local morning shows, and niche creators can often be more accessible — and more effective — than chasing only national media.
We’ll also share places to look for active opportunities, including HARO, Source of Sources, and similar journalist request platforms, plus the quick credibility check curators often make before they consider your book: your author website, Amazon book page, reviews, description, bio, and overall retail presentation.
Most importantly, this episode gives you a starting point. Holiday book marketing does not have to be overwhelming. Start with one strong-fit pitch this week. Build from there. The authors who sell more books during the holidays are usually not the ones scrambling in December — they are the ones who started earlier, pitched smarter, and gave their books time to be discovered.
Subscribe, share this episode with an author friend, and leave a review wherever you listen. Have a question or want us to cover your specific genre? Text the word podcast to 888-402-8940.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Most authors overlook one of the most powerful marketing opportunities they already have: their local market. While everyone else fights for attention online, smart authors are building visibility, reader loyalty, and consistent book sales right in their own backyard — often with far less competition and far better results.
In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell unpack the local marketing strategies that actually move books. From wine bars hosting “books and bubbly” nights to thriller-and-whiskey pairings, cookbook tastings, boutique retail partnerships, fitness collaborations, farmers markets, seasonal festivals, and school appearances, we break down how authors can create events and partnerships that feel engaging, profitable, and easy for businesses to say yes to.
We also talk about why local visibility matters far more than most authors realize. Community exposure can fuel Amazon traffic, strengthen word-of-mouth marketing, create stronger reader trust, and open doors to media, speaking opportunities, and long-term platform growth. The authors seeing the best results are often the ones creating visibility in places their competitors never think to look.
You’ll hear practical strategies for pitching businesses that have never stocked books before, setting up simple consignment arrangements, building collaborative events that benefit everyone involved, and turning small local wins into momentum that compounds over time.
Plus, we share overlooked “micro marketing” tactics with surprisingly big payoff, including QR-code bookmarks, local networking opportunities, seasonal tie-ins, collaborative giveaways, and smart ways to move readers from in-person discovery into your long-term digital funnel.
If online marketing feels crowded and exhausting, this episode will show you why local visibility may be the smartest — and most underused — book marketing strategy available to authors right now.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
You hired help so publishing would feel easier. Instead, your Amazon listing disappears, your book ends up connected to the wrong author page, and suddenly nobody can figure out who actually owns the account. Sound dramatic? We wish it were rare.
In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on the publishing disasters they keep seeing behind the scenes, many caused not by outright scams, but by freelancers, “experts,” and AI-generated advice that sounds confident while quietly breaking your publishing foundation. From KDP accounts set up incorrectly to authors losing access to their own metadata, royalties, and retail pages, we unpack the mistakes that can create months of cleanup and long-term visibility problems.
We also talk about the growing role AI is playing in publishing confusion. ChatGPT and other tools can absolutely help authors brainstorm and streamline work, but publishing platforms evolve constantly, and outdated instructions combined with inexperienced providers can create expensive messes fast. Just because advice sounds polished does not mean it is current, strategic, or even correct.
Most importantly, we explain how to protect yourself before problems happen. We cover the must-have ownership rules every author needs to know, the red flags that should immediately make you pause, the questions to ask before hiring anyone, and why retaining control of your Amazon infrastructure, website, and publishing assets is non-negotiable if you want a sustainable author career.
If you want to avoid the publishing mistakes that cost authors time, money, rankings, and sanity, this episode is required listening.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Most authors treat launch day like a verdict: the book goes live, sales come in (or don’t), and suddenly it feels like the market has spoken. Quiet numbers can trigger a brutal spiral — exhaustion, disappointment, and the sinking feeling that maybe the opportunity already passed. We disagree completely.
In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell break down a four-part relaunch strategy designed to help authors stop chasing a single "big moment" and start building ongoing visibility. Because the truth is that successful books rarely explode from one launch. They gain traction through repeated opportunities, smarter timing, and consistent refinement.
We walk through the first phase: the Visibility Launch — where your goal is not perfection or massive sales, but data. You’ll learn why early readers, initial messaging, and small audience response become the foundation for everything that follows. Then we move into the Proof Launch, showing how reviews become more than social proof. They become market intelligence. Reader language often reveals stronger hooks, better positioning, and selling points authors miss entirely.
Next comes the Opportunity Launch, one of our favorite strategies. Instead of creating attention from scratch, attach your book to moments already happening: holidays, cultural conversations, seasonal trends, awareness months, news cycles, and built-in buying behavior. Borrow momentum instead of manufacturing it.
Then we get into Market Expansion, where smart authors create multiple "new release" moments by staggering formats and audience entry points. Audiobooks, hardcover editions, large print, translations, workbooks, companion guides, and special editions can each create fresh visibility and reach readers who missed you the first time.
We also unpack why Amazon rewards ongoing engagement. Updated descriptions. Improved A+ content. Fresh reviews. Better positioning. Small changes made consistently often outperform giant one-time marketing pushes.
If your launch felt disappointing, this episode is your reset button. Because one quiet launch day does not mean your book failed. It may simply mean you're still in chapter one of the marketing plan.
Subscribe for more practical book marketing strategies, share this episode with an author who needs a second chance mindset, and leave a review so more writers can find the show.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Amazon just removed one of the biggest barriers to international publishing, and authors are going to be tempted to move fast. With Amazon quietly rolling out an AI-powered translation tool inside KDP, turning your book into Spanish, German, and other languages suddenly feels almost effortless. But easy and effective are not the same thing.
In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell unpack what Amazon’s new AI translation feature actually means for authors and why this could become one of those publishing moments where convenience creates a wave of expensive mistakes. Because when translation becomes a checkbox instead of a strategy, it becomes dangerously easy to expand into markets you do not understand.
We get into the risks many authors will not see coming: AI missing emotional nuance, humor that collapses in translation, phrases that work beautifully in one culture and feel awkward—or completely wrong—in another. We also discuss a bigger misconception: assuming a language automatically equals a market. “Spanish readers” are not one audience. Readers in Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and the U.S. often buy differently, respond to different pricing, and even prefer different styles and tones.
We also look at what happens inside the Amazon ecosystem itself. How translated editions may appear on your Author Central profile, why ratings and reviews can become fragmented across marketplaces, how weak social proof in a new market can affect perception, and why a poorly translated book description may quietly destroy conversion before a reader even downloads a sample.
And because we never leave authors with fear and no roadmap, we walk through a smarter testing strategy: how to validate demand before translating, identify genres that travel well internationally, choose the right title to test first, and support launches with country-specific Amazon ads and market research.
Global expansion sounds exciting. But before you hand your backlist over to AI and click publish, listen first.
This episode could save you time, money, and a lot of one-star reviews.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
If your book sales have you questioning everything, the problem might not be your book—it might be the benchmark you’re using.
In this episode, we’re dismantling one of the biggest misconceptions in publishing: what “normal” book sales actually look like. Because once you understand how few copies most books sell—even from traditional publishers—it completely reframes the narrative around success, failure, and what’s realistically achievable.
We also take a hard look at the numbers authors throw around online. Big sales claims rarely come with context, and without understanding the costs behind them—ads, discounts, royalties, and margins—you can end up chasing results that look impressive but don’t actually translate into profit. Visibility is not the same as viability, and we break down why that distinction matters.
From there, we get into what’s really happening behind the scenes. Book sales data is often incomplete, especially when it comes to ebooks and indie platforms, which means many authors are comparing themselves against numbers that don’t tell the full story. That comparison spiral? It’s built on shaky data.
We also tackle one of the most persistent (and damaging) myths in publishing: the idea that a publisher will handle your marketing. In reality, most authors—traditional or indie—are responsible for building their own visibility. The authors who gain traction are the ones who treat their book like a business: they think long-term, build a reader funnel, invest in their backlist, and focus on creating consistent, compounding momentum.
This episode is a reset. Not a discouraging one—a clarifying one.
Because when you understand how this industry actually works, you stop chasing unrealistic outcomes and start building a strategy that has a real chance of working.
If you’ve ever felt behind, discouraged, or unsure what “good” even looks like anymore, this is the perspective shift you need.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Most authors think they’re selling to readers. That’s the first mistake.
Because readers and book consumers are not the same—and confusing the two is one of the biggest reasons books don’t sell.
In this episode, we break down the critical difference between someone who loves to read and someone who actually buys books, and why that gap quietly derails even the most well-intentioned marketing plans. If you’ve been showing up, posting, running ads, pitching podcasts—and still watching your sales stall—this is the missing piece.
We get into the real psychology behind book buying. A consumer isn’t just browsing—they’re evaluating risk. Is this worth my time? Will I enjoy it? Does it deliver what I want right now? That’s why someone will wait weeks for a library copy instead of spending money (or even an Audible credit) on an unknown author. It’s not about price—it’s about certainty.
And that’s where most books fall apart.
We walk through what your Amazon retail page is actually responsible for—and why it’s not just “information,” it’s conversion. From your cover thumbnail to your title, categories, keywords, and especially your book description, every element needs to answer one question fast: why this book, right now?
You’ll get specific, actionable fixes:
- Why fiction needs to sell an experience, not a plot summary
- Why nonfiction must clearly define the outcome, not just the topic
- How weak positioning shows up instantly in your description (and how to fix it)
- Why “well-written” copy often underperforms—and what works instead
We also connect this directly to your broader marketing: ads, influencer outreach, publicity. Because none of that matters if your retail page can’t convert the traffic you’re sending.
This is the shift most authors never make—and it changes everything.
If your book isn’t selling the way you expected, start here.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Scam emails used to be obvious. Bad grammar, generic messaging, easy to ignore. That version is gone.
Today’s scams sound like a real professional—someone who’s “read your book,” understands your audience, and has a polished, confident plan to grow your sales, land media, or build your platform. It feels legitimate because it’s designed to. AI has fundamentally changed the scam landscape, and authors are now a prime target.
We see these pitches every day—forwarded by authors who aren’t quite sure what feels off, but know something isn’t right. Fake PR firms. Fake podcast booking services. Fake reader communities. Even impersonators posing as established marketers and recognizable industry names. The volume is up, the quality is higher, and the financial risk is real.
In this episode, we break down exactly how these scams are built so you can recognize them before you engage. You’ll hear how flattery is engineered to disarm you, why vague “big picture” strategies are a deliberate tactic, and how scammers create just enough surface credibility to pass a quick Google search. We also walk through the critical moment every scam converges on: pushing you to pay quickly, before you’ve had time to verify anything.
More importantly, we give you a clear, practical framework to protect yourself. What unsolicited outreach actually signals. Why free email domains should immediately slow you down. How artificial urgency (“only two spots left”) is used to bypass your judgment. And why “guaranteed results” without defined deliverables is one of the biggest red flags in book marketing.
We also cover payment risk—where things like wire transfers and crypto remove your ability to recover funds—and the proactive steps you should be taking now to protect your author identity, including locking down your domain and social handles before someone else does.
If you’ve ever received a pitch that felt a little too polished, a little too perfect, this episode will recalibrate how you evaluate every offer that lands in your inbox.
Listen now, then share this with an author who needs it.
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Your Amazon book page might be costing you sales—and the worst part is, you probably can’t see it.
Most authors assume that once their book is uploaded, the hard part is done. But in reality, your Amazon page is a live sales environment, and small misses can quietly kill conversions every single day. A great book isn’t enough if the page around it isn’t doing its job.
In this episode, we break down the hidden issues that stop readers from clicking “Buy,” starting with the two-inch thumbnail test. Can your cover be read instantly? Does it signal the right genre in seconds? If not, you’re losing readers before they ever click through.
We also get into the mechanics of a high-converting description—why your first 140 characters matter more than anything else, how “burying the lead” drains momentum, and what actually turns casual browsers into buyers. From there, we look at A+ Content (the “From the publisher” section) and how to use it strategically—even if you don’t have awards, endorsements, or a big platform.
You’ll also hear why most keyword strategies fail, especially when they’re built using tools or AI that don’t reflect real shopper behavior. We walk through how readers actually search on Amazon—and how to align your keywords with that behavior so your book shows up where it should.
We cover one of the most expensive mistakes authors make: running ads to a page that isn’t optimized. If your page doesn’t convert, you’re not just wasting money—you’re actively training Amazon’s algorithm to stop showing your book.
Finally, we unpack “ghost categories,” how to identify them inside KDP, and why being in the wrong (or invisible) category can quietly tank your visibility.
If your book isn’t selling the way it should, your Amazon page is the first place to look—and this episode shows you exactly what to fix.
Subscribe, share with an author who needs this, and leave a review if you find it helpful. Got a question or topic idea? Text “podcast” to 888-402-8940.
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Publicity feels like the breakthrough moment every author is chasing—but most big interviews, features, and media hits don’t translate into book sales the way you expect. In many cases, they don’t move the needle at all.
In this episode, we unpack what publicity really is—TV, radio, magazines, online media—and why it’s rarely a direct path to sales. The core problem is simple: you’re often putting your book in front of a cold audience with no reason to act right now. Visibility without context, trust, or repetition doesn’t convert.
We break down the “glamorous” marketing choices authors make that sound impressive but quietly underperform, and then shift into a more effective strategy.
The key is reframing publicity as an asset, not an outcome.
When used correctly, media coverage becomes a long-term marketing tool—something you can leverage across your website, media page, Amazon presence, and ongoing promotion. We talk through how to extract value from every feature: pulling quotes, building credibility, reinforcing your positioning, and creating repeat exposure so readers recognize you later and feel more confident buying. Because for books, familiarity isn’t optional—it’s what reduces perceived risk and drives decisions.
We also tackle a listener question on marketing books that require deeper trust—topics like grief, caregiving, and spiritual struggle. These readers aren’t casually browsing; they’re actively looking for guidance and reassurance. That means your publicity and marketing need to clearly communicate authority, experience, and proof. We show you how to position those “receipts” so your visibility actually leads somewhere.
If you’ve ever landed a great interview and wondered why it didn’t translate into sales—or you’re trying to make your publicity work harder for you—this episode gives you a more strategic framework.
Subscribe, share it with an author who’s chasing publicity, and stay tuned—because next, we’ll break down how to actually land the right podcast interviews in the first place.
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Offer ends July 31.
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95% of books are sold through word of mouth—but most authors are still chasing reach instead of building relationships. That’s a problem, especially in a market where social media visibility is unpredictable and ad costs continue to climb.
In this episode, we break down the one marketing engine that consistently works: a small, engaged group of readers who genuinely want to see your book succeed.
We walk through a simple but powerful reader funnel—how casual readers become fans, how fans become superfans, and how a select group naturally evolves into a street team that supports your launches, promotions, and long-term visibility. More importantly, we explain what “engagement” actually looks like in practice, how to identify the readers already leaning in, and why you don’t need a massive email list to see meaningful results.
If marketing feels overwhelming or never-ending, this framework simplifies the process. It’s designed for authors who want to spend more time writing while still building steady momentum.
We also share one of the most effective (and overlooked) tactics for generating more Amazon reviews and Goodreads ratings: a strategically placed back-of-the-book letter that invites readers to stay connected and take the next step. Done right, this creates a natural bridge from reader to subscriber—and eventually, advocate.
From there, we get tactical about building a street team without overcomplicating it. You’ll learn how to vet members using a simple form, organize assets in a shared folder, and provide clear, brand-safe guidance so your team amplifies your message the right way.
Finally, we address the growing wave of AI-generated books and what it means for discoverability. Algorithms can be influenced—but genuine reader connection cannot be replicated. A trusted group of engaged readers is one of the most reliable ways to stay visible in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
If you’re looking for a smarter, more sustainable way to market your book, this episode lays out a framework you can start using immediately.
Send us your feedback!
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“I’d love to come on your show and talk about my new book” is one of the fastest ways to get ignored.
In Part 2 of this series, we move from mindset to execution—breaking down exactly how to pitch podcasts in a way that gets attention, earns replies, and leads to bookings. Because podcast hosts aren’t looking for guests who want promotion—they’re looking for conversations their audience will care about.
We start with the most common mistakes authors make, especially leading with the book instead of the idea. You’ll learn how to reframe your pitch into something a host or producer can instantly picture as a strong episode—and why clarity, specificity, and focus will outperform a long list of vague topics every time.
From there, we cover smarter targeting:
- How to choose podcasts based on audience alignment, topic fit, and engagement—not just size
- Why smaller, niche shows often outperform larger podcasts with broad, less-focused audiences
- How to think about podcast appearances as part of a long-term visibility strategy
Then we get tactical about the pitch itself:
- What a strong podcast pitch email actually needs (and what to leave out)
- How to reduce decision friction and make it easy for a host to say yes
- What to include for credibility—links, short bio, past media—and how to present it cleanly
We also address a common roadblock: what to do when a podcast doesn’t accept guests. Instead of moving on, we share smarter ways to build visibility and relationships through show engagement, social sharing, and strategic follow-up.
If you want to become the kind of guest that podcasts are eager to book—and avoid the mistakes that get most authors ignored—this episode gives you a clear, practical roadmap.
Subscribe for more no-fluff book marketing strategies, share this with an author who’s pitching right now, and stay tuned for future episodes where we continue breaking down what actually works.
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📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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Most authors want podcast interviews to sell books—and that’s exactly why so many pitches get ignored.
In this first episode of a two-part series, we break down the simple shift that changes everything: pitch value first. Your book is the credential—it proves you belong—but it’s not the content. What matters is what the audience walks away with after they listen.
We unpack what podcast hosts and producers are actually screening for, why vague or book-centered pitches fail, and how to avoid the “drinking from a fire hose” approach that overwhelms your marketing. You’ll learn how being a genuine listener gives you a built-in edge, and how to turn a broad book topic into a clear, compelling hook that makes a host say yes.
We also walk through practical positioning:
- How nonfiction authors can lead with expertise, insight, and actionable ideas
- How fiction authors can connect their stories to history, culture, research, or real-world conversations
- Why full-length, book-only interviews are rare—and what to pitch instead
Then we zoom out to the bigger picture. Podcast interviews aren’t about instant spikes—they’re about long-tail visibility, searchability, credibility, and reusable marketing assets you can leverage across your website, newsletter, and social platforms.
We wrap with a listener question on using a trade paperback release as a true relaunch opportunity—so you can turn new formats, new pricing, and renewed attention into real momentum.
If you’ve been pitching podcasts and hearing nothing back—or you’re about to start—this episode will recalibrate your entire approach.
Subscribe, share with an author friend, and stay tuned for Part 2, where we break down how to find the right shows and pitch them effectively.
Send us your feedback!
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📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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Books aren’t “news” on their own anymore—and repeating “buy my book” is one of the fastest ways to burn out (and lose your audience’s attention).
In this episode, we break down a smarter, more sustainable approach: borrowed buzz—anchoring your marketing to moments people are already paying attention to. Think holidays, awareness months, seasonal shifts, and even quirky observances that give you a natural, timely reason to talk about your book again and again—without sounding repetitive or pushy.
We unpack why this works, including the psychology behind seasonal buying behavior and emotional relevance, and how aligning your message with what’s already on your audience’s radar can dramatically improve engagement and conversion.
Then we get tactical:
- How far in advance to plan for major holidays vs. quick-hit promotions
- When to pitch podcasts, media, and local outlets for maximum traction
- How to build simple, repeatable campaigns around awareness months and niche observances
- Real examples you can adapt immediately—from big cultural moments to offbeat hooks like Maple Syrup Saturday
We also focus on execution—where most authors fall short. You’ll learn how to align your social content, email marketing, and pitch angles around a single theme, where to incorporate seasonal messaging on your Amazon page (and where not to), and how to use AI to brainstorm ideas without losing strategy or control.
Finally, we cover the biggest mistakes—like forcing irrelevant tie-ins or starting too late—and how to avoid them.
If you want your marketing to feel more strategic, more consistent, and a lot less exhausting, this is the playbook.
If you want your marketing to feel more fun, more strategic, and a lot less exhausting, hit play. Subscribe, share this with an author friend, and leave a review wherever you listen to the show.
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Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
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Goodreads recently rolled out changes that have authors and readers debating everything from review bombing to pre-publication ratings. In this episode, we break down what actually changed, what it means for authors, and how to respond without getting pulled into online panic.
We start with review bombing—coordinated waves of ratings from people who often haven’t read the book—and how this behavior has distorted the launch window for many titles. Then we explain Goodreads’ new safeguards around pre-publication ratings. Readers can no longer rate a book simply because it appears on their Want to Read shelf. Instead, they must mark the book as Read or Currently Reading and disclose how they accessed the copy, such as through an ARC or giveaway. It doesn’t eliminate manipulation, but it adds transparency and makes abuse easier to identify.
One of the most talked-about additions is Goodreads’ official Did Not Finish (DNF) shelf. Readers have been creating their own versions for years, but formalizing it changes the dynamic. We discuss why this feature may actually reduce reactionary one-star ratings and how thoughtful readers use DNF shelves to track timing, taste, and expectations. For authors, those signals can offer useful insight into positioning, blurbs, and category alignment.
We also look at how Goodreads and Amazon function very differently. Goodreads behaves more like a community for dedicated readers—more conversational, more visible, and often more responsive when issues arise. Amazon, on the other hand, remains a massive retail engine where reporting problems can feel like shouting into the void. Understanding that difference helps authors use each platform more strategically.
Finally, we tackle a listener question about category mismatches and the temptation to chase bestseller badges. Short-term tricks may create momentary spikes, but long-term visibility comes from clear positioning, honest metadata, and reaching the readers who actually want your book.
If the latest Goodreads changes have you wondering what matters and what doesn’t, this episode will help you focus on the controllables—and avoid the noise.
If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with an author friend, and leave a quick review so more writers can find us. Have a topic you want covered next? Text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 and tell us what you need.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
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“Make you a bestseller.” It’s the loudest promise in book marketing—and often the least meaningful.
In this episode, we break down how to distinguish real strategy from fear-based selling, AI-polished outreach, and high-pressure tactics designed to close a sale rather than build a career. From alarming emails about “missing metadata” to vague guarantees and unusual payment demands, we explain what’s legitimate, what’s inflated, and what’s simply noise.
Then we shift to what actually compounds.
We walk through the foundational elements of sustainable book marketing: an optimized Amazon retail page, intentional category and keyword strategy, a reader-focused website, an email list you control, and targeted outreach to reviewers, influencers, and podcasters who genuinely reach your audience. You’ll hear why one-off promotional blasts rarely build traction, how to evaluate podcast quality beyond download numbers, and what meaningful preparation looks like before any pitch goes out.
We also unpack the proposal details that matter: specific deliverables, realistic timelines, strategic positioning, and measurable outcomes rooted in discoverability—not guaranteed sales. A professional team should explain the “why” behind every tactic and connect today’s work to results you can still benefit from months later.
Finally, we talk author readiness. What should you own yourself? How should you think about ROI without chasing instant payoff? And if your budget is limited, where does your money work hardest?
If you want to avoid scams, invest wisely, and choose partners who assess your book instead of selling you fear, this episode gives you a clear, practical framework.
If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with an author friend, and leave a quick review so more writers can find us. Have a topic you want covered next? Text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 and tell us what you need.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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Amazon reviews are the currency of credibility—and one misstep can cost you both visibility and account standing. In this episode, we break down exactly how to earn more reviews, keep the ones you get, and build a system that works long term—without crossing Amazon’s invisible lines.
We start with what actually moves the needle. Why the first five reviews matter more than most authors realize. Why trust increases dramatically at twenty. And why books with fifty-plus reviews consistently convert at higher rates. But here’s the nuance: momentum matters more than a one-day spike. A steady cadence of authentic feedback outperforms a suspicious surge—both in reader perception and algorithmic trust.
Then we get specific.
You’ll learn:
- How to structure a compliant review ask that invites honesty without incentives
- When to activate early readers—and how to stagger timing to avoid red flags
- How to build a launch team that produces sustainable results
- The exact back-of-book language that turns satisfied readers into reviewers
- Why repeated phrasing, shared IP activity, and review swaps quietly trigger removals
We also address the shortcuts. Paid review schemes, manipulation tactics, and “review clubs” may look tempting—but they rarely survive scrutiny and can jeopardize your account.
Instead, we outline a reader-first system built on newsletter growth, ARC strategy, consistent outreach, and ethical momentum. The goal isn’t a quick spike. It’s compounding social proof that strengthens every future release.
If you want reviews that stick—and a strategy that protects your publishing career—this episode gives you the playbook.
If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with an author friend, and leave an honest rating wherever you listen. What review strategy has worked for you? We want to hear it.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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The market doesn’t reward originality alone. It rewards clarity.
Readers make buying decisions in seconds—and those seconds depend on signals: cover cues, category alignment, keyword precision, and a description that instantly communicates who the book is for.
In this episode, we break down why following a proven framework isn’t creative compromise—it’s strategic positioning.
A formula is not a box. It’s a blueprint.
For fiction, that means honoring genre expectations and recognizable tropes so readers immediately understand the emotional experience you’re promising. For nonfiction, it means knowing exactly where your reader is on their journey—beginner, stuck mid-process, or advanced—and framing your title, subtitle, and opening lines accordingly.
We also unpack:
- Why “my book fits multiple genres” is often a red flag
- How Amazon’s algorithm prioritizes clarity over cleverness
- Why ads that get clicks but not sales usually signal positioning misalignment
- The real reason roughly 70% of purchases stem from recommendations, not direct searches
- How to correct misalignment without rewriting your manuscript
You’ll walk away with tactical action steps:
- Audit your categories for buyer intent
- Refine backend keywords to reflect how readers actually search
- Evaluate whether your cover signals genre in under one second
- Rewrite your description opening to lead with the strongest promise
You’re not copying creativity.
You’re copying clarity—so your creativity can shine.
If this episode reframes how you think about positioning, share it with an author who insists their book is “different.” Then subscribe and leave a review telling us what shift made you rethink your book page.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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Most authors don’t have an ad problem.
They have a patience problem.
If you’ve ever stared at your Amazon dashboard 48 hours after launch and declared your campaign a disaster, this episode is for you.
We’re breaking down the 7-Day Amazon Ads Sanity Check — a structured, data-driven framework that keeps you from sabotaging campaigns before the algorithm has time to work. You’ll learn what the learning phase actually means, which numbers matter in week one, and why obsessing over ACOS too early can send you in the wrong direction.
We walk through:
- What to confirm in the first 48 hours (and what not to touch)
- Why impressions without clicks are diagnostic, not disastrous
- When 1,000 impressions with zero clicks is a real signal
- How Amazon quietly penalizes low engagement
- Why automatic campaigns are a brutal but honest positioning test
- How your cover, category, and copy determine ad success before a single click happens
We also tackle one of the biggest myths in indie publishing: that ads can rescue a misaligned book. They can’t. Ads amplify what already exists. If your positioning is weak, ads simply expose it faster.
Instead of daily bid tinkering that resets learning, we outline a calm weekly review process, smart bid adjustments, portfolio caps that protect your budget, and the small one-percent improvements to your retail page that compound over time.
If you’re ready to replace dashboard doom-scrolling with disciplined strategy — and finally let your ads work 24/7 without emotional interference — this episode gives you the framework.
Subscribe for more author-first marketing strategies, share this with a writer who needs ad clarity, and leave a review telling us one takeaway you’ll apply this week.
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Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
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Getting book reviews shouldn’t feel exhausting, awkward, or ethically murky. Yet many authors are stuck chasing influencers, sending endless cold emails, or quietly wondering why all that effort isn’t translating into real momentum.
In this episode, we break down a smarter, sustainable system for landing reviews that actually matter—the kind that build trust with readers, strengthen your Amazon presence, and keep working long after the outreach is done.
We start by resetting expectations around response rates and silence (because “no reply” isn’t failure). Then we show you where the real wins happen: micro and mid-tier reviewers, genre-aligned blogs, and community-driven creators who consistently outperform flashy, high-follower accounts. You’ll learn why long-tail review coverage is one of the most overlooked visibility tools authors have—and how stacking multiple mid-level yeses creates the social proof needed to move the needle.
From there, we get practical. We walk through the anatomy of a sub-200-word pitch that leads with fit, not favors; the small personalization signals that prove you’ve done your homework; and the mindset shift that changes everything: your dream doesn’t obligate someone else’s labor. That respect shows up in better responses—and better relationships.
We also cover smart follow-up strategies that add value instead of pressure, how to tailor your outreach for blogs, podcasts, and social platforms, and how to know when it’s time to outsource reviewer outreach so you can focus on writing instead of inbox triage.
If you want a steady cadence of credible reviews, stronger keyword visibility, and a review strategy built on trust—not desperation—this episode gives you the framework to do it right.
Subscribe, share this with an author friend, and leave a review to tell us what topic you want us to tackle next.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
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Want more readers who buy, finish, and recommend your books? It starts with one thing most authors underestimate: keeping the promise your brand makes.
In this episode, we break down the real driver of sustainable author growth—reader trust—and why clear genre signals, accurate positioning, and consistent delivery outperform hype every time.
We begin with expectation alignment: how your cover, subtitle, and book description create an instant promise in a shopper’s mind. When the vibe is off—or the opening pages don’t match the pitch—clicks disappear and reviews quietly signal the disconnect with phrases like “not what I expected.” We show you how to read those reviews as marketing intelligence, spotting language patterns that reveal whether your tone, pacing, tropes, and emotional promise are landing as intended.
From there, we tackle consistency: unified series branding, predictable communication, and an author website that speaks clearly to your ideal reader, not just your aesthetic preferences. We also call out overhyped copy and vague clichés—why words like “unputdownable” often dilute your positioning, and how to replace them with specific, sensory hooks that only fit your book.
You’ll learn how to create a simple Reader Expectation Statement—an internal compass that guides your covers, copy, and content decisions. We also use Amazon ads as a practical gut check: when relevant targets don’t click, the issue is often misaligned packaging, not bad keywords. The fix is usually small and strategic—tightening your first three blurb lines, adjusting your cover to match top comps, or refining subtitle language—rather than a full rebrand.
Throughout, the focus stays on retention. Repeat readers are easier to reach, faster to convert, and the true engine behind word-of-mouth growth. When you treat readers like partners—showing up with clarity, respect, and consistency—you build a brand they trust and return to.
If you’re ready to trade noise for loyalty, and quick hacks for durable growth, this conversation gives you a clear path forward.
If this helped, follow the show, share it with an author friend, and leave a quick review so we know what to dive into next.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
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A brand that doesn’t line up is a silent sales killer. We dig into why readers make snap judgments in under a second, how confusion and inconsistency create friction, and the small, practical moves that turn browsers into buyers. Think of branding as a trust filter: the clearer your patterns, the faster the “yes.”
We start with the highest leverage fix—your bio. Using a simple four-line framework, we show how to match voice to genre, humanize your profile, and direct readers to a next step. From there, we tackle a deceptively powerful change: one clear, current photo everywhere. In a world of spammy accounts and AI noise, visual consistency signals “this is real,” boosting recognition and engagement across Amazon, your site, newsletters, and social.
Then we sharpen your book description so it stops burying the lead. Open with the promise and stakes, align tone to category, and mirror the best version across your retail page and website. We move into visual cohesion with a lightweight (and easy to implement) brand kit. You’ll hear why evergreen banners can save you work, how to align promo assets to the book’s typography, and what makes a series instantly recognizable at thumbnail size.
Finally, we unlock Amazon Author Central’s underused fields—From the Author, From the Inside Flap, and more—to deepen connection and feed the algorithm with relevant, brand-aligned copy. Overwhelmed? Use our 1% rule: make one improvement per week. Update the bio, unify the photo, polish the hook, build the brand kit. These small, steady steps compound into trust, discoverability, and sales.
If this helped, subscribe, share with an author friend, and leave a quick review. Tell us the first 1% change you’ll make, and text “podcast” to 888-402-8940 with your questions and ideas.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Feeling like every promo is uphill? We unpack why marketing stalls when a book is presented to the wrong readers — and how smart positioning turns traffic into sales. Penny and Amy break down the signals that shape buying decisions in under five seconds: category choices, keywords that actually guide Amazon, cover conventions that telegraph sub-genre, and hooks that speak to what readers want right now.
We share real-world shifts that changed outcomes fast, including a romance that soared after moving from an overly spicy label to a truer contemporary slot and a mystery that found its people by swapping “cozy” for “amateur sleuth.” You’ll hear how to diagnose a mismatch when ads get clicks but no buys, why “too unique” covers quietly repel your ideal audience, and how to use reviews as free market research to refine your description and promise.
This conversation is a roadmap for authors who want to sell more without burning everything down. You’ll learn to niche with confidence, align title and subtitle with retail reality, refresh descriptions with language readers already use, and adopt the 1% rule: small, targeted improvements that compound. If you’ve been trying to reach everyone, it’s time to reach the right ones.
Ready to fix the foundation and stop wasting ad spend? Listen now, then text podcast to 888-402-8940 to share your positioning challenge, subscribe for upcoming deep dives, and leave a review to help more authors find this show.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Want a simple, concrete way to sell more books on Amazon? We’re taking you inside A+ Content—the image modules beneath your description—and showing how smart visuals, tight copy, and brand consistency can raise conversions, reduce returns, and make your page feel like a pro built it.
Together we map the shopper’s journey down the page: how the cover earns the scroll, how A+ tiles anchor expectations, and how crisp visuals plus one-line hooks close the gap between browsing and buying. We share real numbers from Amazon (yes, A+ content can help you sell more books!). You’ll learn the most common mistakes, the right way to quote reviews, and why fewer, stronger modules beat filling every slot.
We also cover the nuts and bolts of access—KDP’s Marketing tab for indie authors, and how to coordinate with your publisher if they control the page. For series authors, we explain how to showcase world-building and covers without turning your tiles into a tech spec sheet.
Finally, we tackle a listener question: should you use an author photo or a brand logo on your Amazon Author Page? We weigh trust signals, genre expectations, and when a logo makes sense for pen names or corporate-facing nonfiction.
If you’re ready to turn your Amazon detail page into a conversion engine, this walkthrough gives you the blueprint. Subscribe, share with an author friend, and leave a quick review telling us the one A+ change you’ll make this week.
And here is the article on the KDP changes we mentioned at the start of the call: https://www.ibpa-online.org/news/717526/Amazons-2026-eBook-Download-Update-A-Reader-First-Change-that-Publishers-Should-Understand.htm
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
You can run ads, post daily, and grind all week—and still watch your book stall. The missing piece isn’t more hustle. It’s positioning. We pull back the curtain on the quiet issues that throttle sales!
We start with the most common and costly mistake: treating categories like identity badges rather than traffic lanes. Amazon’s ecosystem pattern-matches behavior, so a miscategorized book gets shown to the wrong readers, earns letdown reviews, and falls into a negative feedback loop. From cozy mysteries that aren’t actually cozy to memoirs that read like prescriptive nonfiction, we show how small misalignments ripple into poor conversion and expensive clicks.
Then we reframe the hook as the reason to care, not a plot dump. If a reader can’t repeat your promise in one sentence, they won’t buy it and they won’t recommend it. We share practical ways to surface stakes, transformation, and genre signals at the top of your retail page. We also tackle covers: why “unique” can backfire, how milliseconds decide “for me or not for me,” and what it means to fit your shelf without blending into noise. Finally, we rebuild the description around a scannable promise and reader outcomes, and we tighten keywords to match how real readers search.
Walk away with a priority checklist: verify category and subgenre, pressure-test your cover against top sellers, craft a repeatable one-sentence hook, rewrite your description to promise value, and align keywords with market language. We’ve also added a quick alignment test in the show notes to help you spot gaps. If you’re ready to turn attention into sales and let the right readers find you, this conversation gives you the exact steps to get there.
And as promised in the episode here's your quick Alignment Test:
Score each from 1–5:
- Category Fit
- Cover Fit
- Hook Strength
- Description Clarity
- Reader Fit
Interpretation:
- 20–25: You’re positioned well — focus on visibility next.
- 14–19: One or two areas need tightening.
- 13 or below: You’ve got significant positioning friction (totally fixable!).
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 to share your questions or ideas.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Six years in, we’re starting the year by cutting through the noise and zeroing in on what truly predicts book sales. We unpack a practical framework that helps you diagnose why a launch spikes and stalls, why great reviews don’t always translate to revenue, and how small, targeted changes deliver outsized gains. If you’ve ever felt busy but not better off, this conversation will give you focus, language, and a step-by-step path to momentum.
We walk through five core signals: reader response, visibility and impressions, conversions, retention and backlist behavior, and consistent author activity. You’ll learn how review language outperforms star counts, why keywords and categories must be chosen for buyer psychology rather than author preference, and how to hit a healthy 5–10% product-page conversion rate. We share practical fixes—leading with social proof, tightening hooks, clarifying payoff, aligning covers with genre codes—and explain why a 1–2% conversion lift can transform ad ROI. We also address the hidden costs of high click-through rates without purchases and how platforms penalize poor relevance.
For multi-book authors, we dig into retention: series branding that reads at a glance, back-of-book letters that tell readers what to do next, and content that nurtures your list between releases. Throughout, we make the case for consistent, strategic repetition over random hustle, showing how fewer tactics executed well outperform constant, scattershot activity. The result is a calmer plan that compounds: fewer vanity metrics, more signals that correlate with real sales.
If this episode helps you refocus your marketing, share it with an author friend, subscribe for the January series, and leave a quick review. Want to send us ideas or questions? Text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 and chat with us directly.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
We are so excited to share our new podcast format! In this short episode we break down what to expect in the new year! Based on your feedback and input, we're changing up our podcast to serve YOU even better!
Ready to stop guessing your next marketing move and start stacking real wins? We’re sharing a flexible monthly roadmap that pairs structure with freedom, so you can either follow along from January to December or drop into the exact topics you need right now. Each theme stands on its own yet builds momentum toward the moments that matter most—like hitting holiday sales without the last-minute scramble.
We break down how seasonal timing naturally supports author goals: fresh starts in January for planning and positioning, spring cleanups for visibility, midyear platform tune-ups, and fall strategies for peak buying behavior. Along the way, we commit to clarity you can trust. You’ll also get updated takes on evergreen essentials—think Amazon optimization, category strategy, keywords, pricing psychology, and retail page conversion—because what worked five years ago likely won’t move the needle today.
Our approach is reader-first and action-driven. Whether you’re drafting, revising, or heading into launch, the focus is on consumer experience: how readers discover your book, feel confident in it, and decide to buy. We’re doubling down on 30-minute episodes packed with practical steps you can apply the same day, so learning turns into measurable progress. And because your input sharpens our aim, we’re keeping the listener survey open to steer topics that deliver the highest impact for your brand and your genre.
If you’re ready for a smarter year—clear priorities, timely updates, and no fluff—this roadmap is your guide. Hit follow, share this with an author friend who needs structure without rigidity, and leave a quick review to tell us the next topic you want prioritized.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Last week, we counted down your favorite episodes based on downloads.
This week? It’s our turn.
In this end-of-year episode, Penny and Amy each revisit one standout episode they couldn’t stop thinking about — not just because listeners loved them, but because they perfectly captured what authors struggled with (and grew through) all year.
This isn’t a nostalgia episode. It’s a clarity episode.
Both picks reflect the themes we’ve seen again and again in consultations, campaigns, and real author careers: realistic expectations, better positioning, clearer messaging, and the foundational work that separates steady progress from constant frustration.
And yes — full episode links are in the show notes, because we fully support holiday re-listens while politely avoiding family conversations.
🎙 Amy’s Pick: What Most Authors Get Wrong About Debut Success
This episode struck a nerve because it told the truth about debut books — without crushing optimism.
We revisit:
- Why breakout debuts are the exception, not the standard
- How misunderstanding the publishing industry leads to expensive mistakes
- The most common sabotage pattern: skipping professional help where it matters most
New bonus takeaways include:
- The 90-Day Reality Window — why early quiet doesn’t mean failure
- Why social media “success stories” distort expectations
- One practical action authors can take today to improve positioning and reader clarity
It’s a reality check — but somehow still feels like a hug.
🎙 Penny’s Pick: Hook, Line, Bestseller: The Art of the Elevator Pitch
If there’s one skill authors underestimate, it’s this one.
In this segment, we revisit why a strong elevator pitch isn’t just for media or conferences — it’s a universal tool that impacts:
- readers
- bookstores
- book clubs
- librarians
- metadata
- emails
- and discovery everywhere
We break down why great pitches are specific, not vague, and why clarity always outperforms cleverness.
New bonus takeaways include:
- The 5-Second Scan Rule for modern attention spans
- Why every author needs three pitch versions (short, medium, spoken)
- A mini holiday challenge to rewrite your pitch and test it in the real world
Because clarity doesn’t just sell books — it builds confidence.
🎁 End-of-Year Recommendations
✔️ One thing to fix before January:
Your book description. Sharpen the promise. Remove filler. Speak directly to the right reader.
👀 One trend to watch next year:
Short-form video as connection, not promotion. Behind-the-scenes beats sales copy every time.
❌ One thing to stop doing:
Trying to skip the line. Sustainable careers are built — not hacked.
🥂 Thank you for an incredible year of listening, learning, and growing with us.
Check the show notes for full episode links, and don’t forget to take our quick listener survey to help shape next year’s conversations.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
As we wrap up the year, we’re celebrating you — the listeners who made this podcast such a powerful space for honest, practical conversations about author success.
In this episode, we’re counting down the top 3 most-downloaded episodes of the year — and more importantly, unpacking what your listening choices reveal about what authors really care about right now.
Spoiler alert: it’s not hacks, hype, or shortcuts.
These three episodes all point to the same deeper truth:
authors are craving clarity, realism, and control over their long-term success.
Episode Highlights:
#3 – “The Grey Box Syndrome: Why Authors Who Skip the Basics Get Ignored”
We revisit why skipping foundational elements — like an optimized Amazon page, professional branding, and reader trust signals — quietly sabotages sales. If you’ve ever wondered why ads, promos, or media didn’t move the needle, this segment explains what’s really happening (and how to fix it).
#2 – “Creating Memorable Author Book Signing Events That Sell Books”
Bookstore events aren’t dead — boring ones are. We break down how authors can turn signings into experiences that build real reader connection, generate word of mouth, and create lasting momentum beyond a single day.
#1 – “The Sneaky Ways Authors Sabotage Their Own Success”
This listener favorite dives into the emotional side of publishing: unrealistic expectations, comparison traps, premature discouragement, and the habits that quietly derail careers. It’s equal parts tough love and reassurance — and a reminder that most “failures” are actually fixable patterns.
What These Episodes Reveal:
This year, authors weren’t searching for viral moments — they were looking for frameworks, confidence, and sustainable strategies. They want to stop wasting energy and start making progress they can control.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what actually matters next, this episode ties it all together — and sends you into the new year with clarity instead of noise.
🎧 Press play and see what your fellow authors taught us this year.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Tired of shouting into the void with a book you believe in? We unpack a simple, proven path to clarity that makes every marketing move easier and cheaper: find your shelf, define your reader, and deliver the payoff your genre promises. Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on what actually drives sales velocity for authors—clear positioning, focused targeting, and small, high-impact pivots that align your book with how readers shop.
We start by grounding your work with “shelf neighbors,” those three to five titles your ideal readers already love. From there, we build a one-sentence reader statement that communicates value at a glance and respects genre expectations. You’ll hear how a smart subgenre pivot turned a stalled romance into a winner, why “my book is for everyone” is the most expensive mistake in publishing, and how to turn your unique elements into crisp marketing hooks that get clicks, not shrugs.
For nonfiction writers, we dig into articulating outcome-driven benefits that media and influencers can immediately pass on to their audiences. For fiction authors, we show how to pair familiarity with freshness—a recognizable promise with a distinct twist—using comps that do the heavy lifting on retail pages, ads, and pitches. Throughout, we emphasize that marketing can sharpen and amplify, but it can’t invent a market where none exists. That’s liberating: focus on fit first, then flourish with confident messaging, right-sized keywords, and cover cues that signal the right story to the right people.
Ready to stop guessing and start gaining traction? Listen now, craft your one-sentence reader statement, and text us your top targeting question. If this episode helps you refocus your book’s positioning, share it with an author friend, subscribe for more practical strategies, and leave a quick review so we can reach more writers who need it.
Send us your feedback!
Preorder Think Local Sell Global and claim your free Local Buzz Blueprint, a customized local visibility plan with personalized outreach ideas, pitch angles, and ready-to-use marketing tools built around your book and community!
Offer ends July 31.
📱 Text Penny & Amy: Send your marketing questions, show feedback, and episode ideas. Text PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to join and get new episode alerts. Save our number!
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please follow the podcast and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more authors discover the show.
💬 Don't use Apple Podcasts? Email your review to info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll feature it on our website.
Feeling like you’re doing everything and getting nowhere? We’ve been there, and we’re pulling the brakes on burnout to rebuild your book marketing on a foundation that actually moves books. Because book marketing burnout is real—and if you’ve been feeling stretched thin by ads, social media, newsletters, and endless promotion tasks, this episode is your reset. In this week’s Book Marketing Tips & Author Success Podcast, Penny and Amy break down what sustainable book marketing really looks like and how authors can simplify their efforts while improving results. You’ll learn why focusing on long-term assets—like your Amazon retail page, your newsletter, reader relationships, and a clean author website—outperforms chasing every new trend or algorithm shift. We also dig into practical fixes for author burnout: reducing social media overload, tightening your PR strategy, and creating evergreen newsletter templates you can reuse year-round. Whether you’re an indie, hybrid, or traditionally published author, this episode delivers smart, sustainable strategies you can maintain—and that actually sell books.
The heart of this conversation is sustainable marketing. We walk through the assets you control and that work 24/7: a clean, on-brand website; an optimized Amazon page with compelling description, keywords, and A+ Content; and a subscriber list you nurture with useful, human updates. We highlight local wins you can drive—libraries, bookstores, festivals—and the power of genuine thank-yous to reviewers and influencers. Finally, we share a quarterly audit routine to decide what to cut, what to keep, and which single experiment is worth testing next, so your effort compounds instead of scattering.
If you want clarity, fewer moving parts, and a plan you can actually maintain, this one’s for you. Subscribe for new episodes every Friday, text podcast to 888-402-8940 to share your questions, and if you found this helpful, leave a quick review to help other authors find us.
Send us your feedback!
Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!
Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: inf...
Want a media strategy that actually fits how authors work today? We’re flipping old-school media training on its head and showing how every post, interview, and Zoom window shapes your story. Instead of waiting for a big break, we walk through how to create your own opportunities, refine your message, and show up with the kind of presence that builds trust with readers, influencers, and journalists.
We start with the most powerful tool you can own: a reader sound bite. We break down what to include, how to make it sound natural, and why it’s your best defense against rambling or getting lost in the weeds. From there, we move into authenticity that isn’t sloppy: smart video setups, tight Zoom etiquette, and bringing real energy to camera.
We also unpack the mindset shifts that keep you steady under pressure. Negative comments? Bad reviews? Tough questions? Bridge back to your message with composure and clarity.
If you’re ready to treat everything as media and make every touchpoint count, this conversation will give you the tools and confidence to show up prepared, polished, and unmistakably you. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share it with an author friend, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.
Send us your feedback!
Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!
Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
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What if the biggest thing holding your book back isn’t the algorithm or your ad budget—but your attachment to a specific outcome? We dig into the hidden cost of expectation-driven marketing and show how to swap emotional gambling for a strategy that compounds. From launch-day myths to social comparison traps, we unpack the subtle ways authors derail progress and offer a practical reset rooted in consistency, curiosity, and clear execution.
We start by challenging the instant gratification mindset that indie publishing can unintentionally fuel. Launch day is just 24 hours; real traction is cumulative. You’ll hear how to ground your plan in what you can control. We walk through why sequencing matters.
Mindset shifts take center stage: detaching through curiosity, treating no and silence as data, and limiting comparison triggers from author groups and glossy posts without receipts. We break down micro wins that actually move the needle and explain why both fiction and nonfiction sales hinge on timing and intent.
If you’re ready to trade rush for rhythm, this conversation gives you concrete steps and the mental framework to stay committed. Subscribe, share this with an author friend who needs a reset, and leave a review to tell us the one expectation you’re letting go of this week.
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Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!
Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
- Be sure you're following the show: by clicking the + Follow button on the top right of our show page. If you're already following you'll see a ↓ downward arrow.
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The algorithm finally caught up with reality: readers want real authors, not content mills. We unpack Amazon’s A10 shift and share a clear plan to stand out with signals that only humans can create—engaging pages, authentic reviews, meaningful off-site links, and a living brand that shows up beyond the buy button.
We start with the quick wins you can tackle today. Then we raise the ceiling with strategies that compound over time. You’ll hear why external links matter more than ever, and creative ways to place them.
From there, we explore community and collaboration. We also demystify Amazon ads: how to target with intent, and why ads rarely convert on first click.
If you want a roadmap that respects your time and boosts your odds in a crowded marketplace, this one’s packed with practical steps you can implement this week and habits that will pay off at your next launch. Subscribe, share with a writer friend, and leave a review to help more authors find these strategies. Which tactic will you try first?
Send us your feedback!
Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!
Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
- Be sure you're following the show: by clicking the + Follow button on the top right of our show page. If you're already following you'll see a ↓ downward arrow.
- Locate Ratings & Reviews: Scroll down on our podcast page until you find the "Ratings & Reviews" section.
- Rate the podcast: Click on the stars to give the podcast a rating.
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A haunted house of marketing mistakes can scare off readers faster than any bad blurb—so we flipped on the lights and started slaying. We kick things off with Frankenstein’s platform, that stitched‑together mess of tactics that feels productive but burns time and cash. From there, we pull back the curtain on werewolf branding.
We also drive a stake through the vampire vanity press. Predatory packages can lock you out of key levers and lock you into a bad publisher.
Then we unwrap the mummy mailing list. A cold, unused list is wasted gold.
We close with a practical mindset for trolls and negative reviews: fix what’s fixable, ignore what’s not your market, and keep serving the people who show up for your work.
If you’re ready to trade chaos for consistency, protect your rights, and turn seasonal scares into steady growth, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with an author friend who needs a boost, and leave a quick review to help more writers find the show. Your support helps us keep the lights on—and the monsters out.
Send us your feedback!
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A reviewer gets thousands of books a month—so why did one plain-looking title jump to the top of the pile? The packaging signaled a story worth opening. We break down the art and strategy of creative mailers and author swag that make reviewers, influencers, and readers pay attention, share photos, and prioritize your book.
We start with the first impression: simple upgrades like colored bubble mailers, clever on-theme stickers, or parchment-style wraps that create instant curiosity without custom-box budgets. Then we get practical about what goes inside. You’ll hear how consumables turn a pitch into a memorable experience, and why handwritten notes still win in a digital age.
Not everyone wants print, and that’s okay. We share a hybrid approach, too.
We also profile three investment tiers: Budget ideas, mid-range boosters, and deluxe - when you really want to get creative! Beyond the book, we show how to reflect your author identity and causes you care about so your package feels human, not corporate.
You’ll walk away with a sourcing list (printers, Etsy makers), a QR strategy that routes to a clean landing page with buy links and bonus content, and a checklist to keep shipping costs low and breakage near zero. Ready to turn your next book review request into an experience people keep and share? Be sure to tune in!
Subscribe, text us your favorite swag ideas at 888-402-8940, and leave a quick review to help more authors find the show.
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Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: inf...
Hate refreshing your Amazon rank only to feel stuck? We walk through a saner, smarter way to measure progress—one that puts you back in control of your author career. Instead of chasing daily sales blips, we focus on the data you can influence: podcast bookings, media hits, website traffic spikes, newsletter clicks, and the kind of social engagement that signals real interest. Along the way, we share how to build a simple marketing journal that captures what you did, when you did it, and what happened next, so you can repeat what works and ditch what doesn’t.
We also get honest about the myths that drain energy. Amazon rankings are noisy; follower counts can be hollow; daily review checks erode morale. The better path is tracking visibility and engagement that compounds: comments and shares over likes, replies and click‑throughs over opens alone, and local wins that build trust fast. We dive into practical ways to use Google Analytics to spot post‑placement traffic, test subject lines that drive action, and turn lead magnets and bonus content into measurable signals. Plus, Goodreads strategies and why targeted communities often outperform broad blasts.
If you’ve ever asked, “Am I doing the right things?” this conversation offers a roadmap. Sales will come—on their schedule—not because of one big splash, but because your visibility stacked up over time.
Want to shape future topics or get tailored advice? Text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 to subscribe and send your questions. If this helped, follow the show, share it with an author friend, and leave an honest review—we’re pushing for 100 and cheering you on.
Send us your feedback!
Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!
📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!
Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
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In this episode we dig into a practical, 30-day pre-order plan built for writers with small followings (or no following), limited time, and a whole lot of heart. No fluff, no clickbait—just smart moves that create real curiosity and guide readers toward a confident yes on release day.
We start by reframing pre-orders for small platforms: you’re not shouting into the void, you’re leading with value. That means sharing content readers already search for—true-crime sparks for thrillers, trope takes for romance, world-building wins for fantasy, and concrete tips for nonfiction. Then we tap borrowed audiences and we unpack this idea in our show.
As launch nears, we move from concept to book. We replace bland countdowns with a “reader hook” and talk about “book fairy drops” and why we love them!
If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t do a pre-order; no one knows me,” this conversation flips that script. Pick two tactics you can sustain, focus for 30 days, and lead with generosity. Curiosity beats volume, every time.
If this was helpful, subscribe, share the episode with an author friend, and text the word podcast to 888-402-8940 to send us your questions or show ideas. Your next best pre-order move—what will it be?
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Book awards can transform your author platform, yet they remain one of the most overlooked marketing opportunities for writers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're traditionally published or self-published, these accolades are more accessible than you might think—and they pack a powerful promotional punch.
When your book displays an award seal or mention, readers take notice. Our research shows that award recognition can boost Amazon click-through rates by up to 25%, with an average increase of 5%. In a marketplace where standing out is increasingly difficult, that gold seal or award mention signals quality and credibility to potential readers who may be unfamiliar with your work. As we often say, people like what other people like, and awards provide that crucial social proof.
In this episode, Penny and Amy unpack what it takes to successfully select and submit books for awards. The duo offers guidance on picking the right book award genre/placement (because this matters!) and finally, how to find the best book awards for your book as well as guidlines for successful book award submissions!
Book awards aren't just about prestige; they're about connecting with readers who value curated recommendations in an overwhelming sea of publishing options.
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The growing chorus of authors reporting mysterious declines in their Kindle Unlimited page reads has sparked anxiety throughout the indie publishing community. But before you panic about your own KU numbers, this episode dives deep into what's really happening behind the scenes.
Penny and Amy explore the multifaceted reasons behind fluctuating page read counts, from seasonal shifts and algorithm changes to subscription saturation and increased competition from AI-generated content. They challenge the dangerous "set it and forget it" mentality that leaves authors vulnerable to Amazon's ever-evolving ecosystem.
What makes this conversation particularly valuable is the strategic alternatives they offer. The duo is also doing a deep dive in Amazon's recent Kindle Unlimited policy changes, which is an exciting development for authors!
Whether you're all-in on Kindle Unlimited, considering enrollment, or deliberately staying wide, this episode provides critical perspective on navigating Amazon's subscription service with eyes wide open. Subscribe to the podcast for more insider insights on book marketing strategies that actually work in today's publishing landscape.
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Ever wondered why some books get noticed while others gather dust? The secret might be simpler than you think: a powerful elevator pitch.
In this eye-opening episode, Penny and Amy reveal how one author transformed her fortunes at a writers' conference by crafting a compelling elevator pitch – going from zero interest to landing both an agent and a publishing deal for the exact same book.
The hosts break down exactly what makes an effective elevator pitch, walking you through the essential components. They tackle common mistakes authors make, from drowning pitches in unnecessary details to relying on generic descriptions like "it's about love and loss" (cue the buzzer sound!).
Through before-and-after examples across fiction, romance, business, and memoir genres, Penny and Amy demonstrate the dramatic difference between mediocre and magnetic pitches. They offer practical exercises to help you create your own winning pitch, including recording yourself, testing on strangers rather than supportive friends, and creating tailored versions for different audiences.
Whether you're pitching to agents at a conference or marketing directly to readers, this episode provides the tools to make your book stand out in seconds. Ready to transform how you talk about your work? Your perfect elevator pitch awaits.
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Could your book be the next big streaming hit? Before you start dreaming of red carpets and Hollywood premieres, there's a reality check you need to hear.
While Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other platforms are constantly hunting for fresh content, the journey from page to screen involves far more strategy than most authors realize. This candid conversation unpacks what truly makes a book "film-ready" and why so many aspiring authors miss the mark.
We dive deep into the elements producers actually look for—and they're not what you might expect. Forget expensive "sizzle reels" and screenwriting services that promise to get your book noticed. The real keys to catching Hollywood's attention lie in creating an irresistible elevator pitch, building a robust author platform, and demonstrating that readers are already obsessed with your story.
Through practical examples, we examine what makes certain loglines instantly captivating and how simpler, budget-conscious stories often have better adaptation potential than complex narratives spanning multiple worlds. You'll discover why your book cover, title, and online presence form a crucial "resume" that producers evaluate before even considering your story.
Perhaps most valuable is our candid discussion about the misconceptions that lead authors astray—from pursuing tenuous celebrity connections to investing thousands in unnecessary marketing materials. Instead, we offer actionable strategies for positioning your work effectively, including how to craft the perfect elevator pitch and leverage writers' conferences for meaningful industry connections.
Whether a film adaptation is your ultimate dream or just one possibility on your author journey, these insights will help you approach the process with realistic expectations and professional savvy.
Leave us a review if you found this episode helpful—we're just 5 away from reaching our goal of 100 ratings!
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Navigating Amazon's constantly shifting landscape is challenging enough for authors, but now there's a new frustration to contend with. In this eye-opening episode, Penny and Amy tackle the latest Amazon Author Central crisis that's preventing authors from updating crucial marketing content on their profiles. Penny and Amy present the issue, as well as solutions!
Drawing from their direct experience helping clients navigate this issue, Amy and Penny provide a practical, step-by-step solution for getting your Author Central updates implemented despite Amazon's resistance.
The duo speculates whether these issues might signal upcoming platform changes, perhaps even a return to the more feature-rich Author Central of pre-December 2022.
Have you encountered this Amazon Author Central issue? We'd love to hear about your experience! Subscribe to our weekly episodes to stay informed about Amazon's ever-changing landscape and ensure your books maintain maximum visibility and appeal on the platform.
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Have you been neglecting the most powerful marketing tool at your disposal? Your email newsletter provides something social media simply cannot—a direct line to readers without algorithm interference.
Many authors resist starting newsletters because they believe they don't have enough subscribers or content ideas. This mindset creates a significant missed opportunity. Those first few subscribers who share their contact information in today's privacy-conscious world are often your most dedicated fans. They're the readers who will recommend your books, leave reviews, and engage meaningfully with your content.
We explore how to grow your email list strategically using "set it and forget it" methods, which are so easy to implement, you'll wonder why you haven't done it sooner!
In this episode, Penny and Amy share insights and examples and easy ways to grow your list. We also discuss what kind of content to put into your newsletter and we also dive into reader magnets that will help you attract new sign ups!
Whether you're just starting out or looking to revitalize an existing list, implementing these newsletter strategies creates reader connections that drive engagement and builds a loyal community around your work. The time to start is now—your future book launches will thank you.
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Amazon has finally unleashed the full potential of its Goodreads acquisition, and savvy authors should be paying close attention. After years of minimal integration, Amazon has introduced a game-changing feature that transforms the Goodreads "Want-to-Read" shelf from a simple bookmarking tool into a powerful sales catalyst.
When readers browse Amazon, they'll now receive reminders about books they've added to their Goodreads Want-to-Read shelves—creating the perfect impulse buy opportunity exactly when they're already in shopping mode. For authors, this single change dramatically increases the value of Goodreads engagement, especially giveaways. With successful Goodreads giveaways averaging between 2,000-4,000 entries (each adding your book to a different Want-to-Read shelf), the $119 investment suddenly offers exponentially more marketing reach.
Ready to leverage this new connection? Tune into this informative show as Amy and Penny unpack this new feature! Don't miss this opportunity to transform casual interest into actual sales through Amazon's newest author-friendly feature.
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Ever wonder why your marketing efforts aren't translating to book sales? The answer might be simpler than you think.
Marketing and sales are often used interchangeably in the publishing world, but they're fundamentally different beasts. This distinction isn't just semantic—it's crucial for your success and sanity as an author. When you confuse these two functions, you set yourself up for disappointment, wasted resources, and unnecessary frustration.
Traditional marketing wisdom suggests it takes at least seven impressions before someone makes a purchase decision. In today's overwhelmed digital landscape, that number has likely doubled or more. This explains why focusing solely on immediate sales numbers after marketing efforts is the wrong approach.
By understanding this crucial difference between marketing and sales, you'll develop more realistic expectations, make better strategic decisions, and maintain the motivation needed for long-term success. Have you been confusing marketing with sales? Share your experiences in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights that will transform your approach to book marketing!
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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What would you do if your entire author career disappeared overnight? That's exactly what happened to one unfortunate writer who shared their devastating experience on Reddit—all 30 of their books, representing four years of work and a significant portion of their income, vanished without warning when Amazon banned their account.
The shocking part? This catastrophic ban stemmed from a single book being flagged for "misleading metadata" because it referenced a popular influencer in the subtitle. Despite the author's attempts to appeal, Amazon rejected their plea and withheld pending royalty payments, effectively erasing both their catalog and money already earned.
We believe this case represents Amazon's increasingly aggressive approach to combating AI-generated content flooding their marketplace. Like a sledgehammer rather than a scalpel, their enforcement mechanisms are catching legitimate authors in the crossfire. Throughout this episode, we dissect the specific triggers that put authors at risk, including lookalike covers, celebrity name-dropping in subtitles, unverifiable claims, and implied endorsements.
Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting your publishing journey, this episode provides critical information that could save your author career from an unexpected catastrophe. Have you experienced similar issues with Amazon or other platforms? Share your story with us and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts!
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Gone are the days when simply having a book positioned you as a media-worthy expert. Modern journalists, podcasters, and TV producers have become increasingly selective, requiring authors to demonstrate substantiated expertise, professional credentials, and the ability to deliver value beyond what's already available. Your book should complement your platform, not be your only qualification.
Building legitimate media appeal requires strategic thinking. Start by documenting all your relevant professional experience, speaking engagements, awards, and organizational involvement – even those seemingly tangential to your book's topic. These credentials create the foundation media gatekeepers need to justify featuring you. For those just beginning their platform journey, local media provides valuable experience while building your press portfolio, as media coverage naturally breeds more opportunities.
We provide practical advice for connecting your expertise to timely events, creating compelling "book hooks," and preparing for different media formats. From recording practice interviews to developing concise soundbites, these incremental steps help develop the confidence and capability needed for larger media opportunities. Remember to time your pitches strategically – when stores start displaying Halloween decorations in August, that's your cue to pitch October content!
In an age where anyone can generate content with AI, authentic expertise becomes more valuable than ever. Readers and media alike hunger for genuine insights from people who have truly lived their subject matter. The path to meaningful book marketing isn't through technological shortcuts but through establishing legitimate authority and effectively communicating your unique value.
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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Ever felt like you're throwing money into the Amazon advertising abyss with nothing to show for it? You're not alone—and the problem might be simpler than you think.
When your Amazon ads aren't performing, it's rarely about bad ad copy or poor bidding strategies. The real culprit is usually genre confusion: putting your book in front of the wrong readers. Think about walking into a bookstore and finding a tax guide shelved between health and fitness books. That's exactly what happens when authors mismatch their marketing to their actual content.
Amazon's algorithm punishes this misalignment ruthlessly. When people click your ads but don't buy your book, the system registers your content as irrelevant or low quality. Your visibility drops while your costs climb—a devastating combination for your marketing budget and your author morale.
The solution starts with brutal honesty about where your book truly belongs. A romantic suspense novel with light tension doesn't belong in the thriller category alongside dark psychological dramas. A business book for seasoned entrepreneurs shouldn't target new startups. As one successful indie author memorably put it, you simply can't "sell a cat to a dog person"—you must identify and target the specific readers who want exactly what you're offering.
Amazon ads remain one of the most powerful tools in your marketing arsenal—the rare strategy that works 24/7 to introduce new readers to your books. But they amplify what's already working rather than fixing what's broken. Take 30 minutes today to ensure you're showing your book to readers who actually want it. Your sales (and your wallet) will thank you.
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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!
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The holiday season represents a golden opportunity for authors to boost book sales—but only for those who start planning early enough. In this strategic episode, we dig into why "Christmas in July" isn't just a retail concept but a vital timeframe for authors who want holiday marketing success.
We reveal the shocking truth about holiday marketing timelines: if you're waiting until November to plan your holiday book promotions, you're already months too late! Media outlets finalize gift guides during summer, promotional spots book up by early fall, and consumers need time to discover your book before making purchase decisions. This episode walks you through the essential preparations you need to make now to position your book effectively for holiday sales.
You'll learn the crucial distinction between marketing a holiday-themed book versus positioning any book as a gift, and why specific messaging matters ("perfect for your adventure-loving niece" resonates more than generic "great gift" language). We cover practical steps including website preparation, scheduling promotional content, booking eBook deals for Black Friday, building up reviews, and how to successfully pitch to holiday gift guides at outlets like Buzzfeed and major online magazines.
Whether you're planning to offer special holiday bundles, signed editions, book-plus-merchandise packages, or simply want more Amazon sales, the groundwork must begin now. Don't let another holiday season pass with disappointing sales—grab your marketing calendar and start implementing these proven strategies that have helped countless authors transform the holidays from a missed opportunity into their most profitable season.
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The summer break scramble is real! Parents everywhere face the same challenge when school lets out: keeping kids entertained without surrendering to endless screen time. For authors of children's and young adult books, this presents a golden opportunity to connect with an audience hungry for solutions.
Drawing inspiration from Jennifer Garner's brilliant parenting strategy (she tells her kids they can have social media once they find articles proving it's beneficial for children), we explore how authors can position their books as the perfect summer entertainment option. Parents are actively seeking recommendations, activities, and reading materials to keep young minds engaged during the long break—and they want decisions that are easy to make.
Whether your book was published yesterday or five years ago, now is the perfect time to refresh your marketing approach. We share practical strategies and easily implemented tips and ideas!
Don't let another summer pass without maximizing this perfect marketing opportunity. Your book could be exactly what a parent needs when they hear those dreaded words: "I'm bored!"
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Summer is upon us, and savvy authors know this season presents unique marketing opportunities—but what exactly makes a book beach-worthy? Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell dive into the evolving definition of "summer reads" and reveal practical strategies for positioning any book to capture readers' attention during these warmer months.
The podcast challenges traditional notions of what constitutes summer reading material. While escapist genre fiction remains popular, today's readers are equally drawn to true crime, activity-based children's books, and "maker" titles that inspire summer projects. With rising travel costs leading many to embrace "staycations," books offering at-home experiences or local exploration guides are experiencing unexpected popularity surges. The hosts emphasize that even serious books needn't be shelved until fall—they simply require different positioning to connect with summer readers.
What makes this episode particularly valuable is its focus on low-cost, high-impact marketing pivots. Rather than suggesting expensive cover redesigns or content overhauls, Penny and Amy recommend simple tweaks and easy changes to grab more summer readers!
Ready to transform your book into this summer's must-read? Update your marketing approach with these practical strategies, engage your fans with seasonal promotions, and watch your conversions grow. Remember—these techniques work for books of all genres and publication dates, and once developed, can be adapted for any season throughout the year.
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Ever felt like you're just shoving your book down people's throats? You're not alone. In this illuminating conversation, Penny and Amy tackle the critical difference between book marketing and brand marketing—revealing why the latter might be your secret weapon for long-term author success.
Brand marketing creates the foundation upon which all your book promotions will stand. But here's the surprising insight: the best time to network is when you don't have anything to sell. This counterintuitive approach allows you to build authentic relationships, observe what resonates with potential readers, and establish connections with influencers before you need their support. As Penny notes, "If you're going to make mistakes, make them before the book is out."
For authors anxiously waiting months before publication, this episode offers a roadmap of productive activities and unique ideas!
Whether you're preparing for your first launch or looking to revitalize your existing author platform, this episode transforms the overwhelming concept of marketing into an authentic, relationship-focused approach that feels less like selling and more like connecting. Ready to build your brand rather than just sell your book? Listen now, then share your biggest marketing challenge with us!
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Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive occasional announcements when we release really time-sensitive episodes. And don't forget to save our number!
Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!
- Be sure you're following the show: by clicking the + Follow button on the top right of our show page. If you're already following you'll see a ↓ downward arrow.
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Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
With a new book hitting the market every eight seconds, standing out has never been harder—and for many authors, the temptation to pay for visibility is real. But does paying for reviews or influencer features actually work? And more importantly… is it worth the risk?
In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on the rapidly shifting world of paid book promotion. From once-taboo paid reviews to TikTok influencers charging thousands per post, the rules have changed—but that doesn’t mean the results are guaranteed.
You’ll hear real-world stories of paid promotions gone sideways, including AI-generated reviews that spoil endings and pricey group ads that vanish without a trace. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Penny and Amy also offer a framework for making smart, strategic choices, including how to vet influencers, what red flags to watch for, and why micro-influencers often deliver more bang for your buck.
Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned pro, this episode is your roadmap for navigating the blurry line between earned and paid media—so you can promote smarter, not just spend more.
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AI isn’t a threat to creativity—it’s a secret weapon, and savvy authors are already tapping into its power. In this episode, Penny and Amy explore how ChatGPT can transform the way you write, market, and manage your author business.
Discover how to use ChatGPT as a creative collaborator to generate fresh story ideas, refine your prose, spot plot holes, and develop engaging bonus content for readers. We also dive into how authors are streamlining their marketing efforts—writing ad copy, planning social media, and creating newsletters—without losing their voice or burning out.
But this episode doesn’t shy away from the boundaries. You’ll learn where ChatGPT falls short (think Amazon keywords, SEO, and media contacts) and why knowing what not to outsource to AI is just as important as knowing what to delegate.
With actionable tips on prompt crafting, organizing AI chats into manageable projects, and using AI to support—not replace—your process, this episode is a must-listen for any author ready to work smarter, not harder.
The AI advantage is real—if you know how to use it. Tune in to learn how ChatGPT can elevate your creativity, boost your productivity, and help you run your author career with more clarity and ease
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Unrealistic expectations can destroy an author's career before it truly begins. We've seen it countless times—talented writers who become discouraged, bitter, and ultimately abandon their writing dreams because their first book didn't land them on bestseller lists or bring financial freedom.
In this deeply practical conversation, Penny and Amy challenge authors to rethink what success looks like for a debut book. Rather than viewing your first publication as the finish line, consider it the foundation of your author career—a launch pad for building reader relationships, growing your email list, and establishing your author brand. These elements, while less glamorous than overnight fame, create sustainable momentum that carries forward to future books.
Success in publishing rarely follows the exceptional stories we've all heard about overnight sensations. For most authors, the path involves patient, deliberate growth and learning. As Penny shares from her own 25-book journey, each publication offers valuable lessons that inform and improve the next. If you can identify five things you'll do differently with your next book, you've gained priceless knowledge that no shortcut could provide.
The podcast explores the concept of "choosing your hard"—acknowledging that publishing is challenging regardless of your approach, but productive difficulty leads to growth while discouragement leads nowhere. By focusing on reader connection, professional presentation, and consistent improvement, authors position themselves for long-term success rather than fleeting luck.
Whether you're completing your first manuscript or reflecting on why your published book hasn't met expectations, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on measuring success through sustainable metrics rather than exceptional circumstances. Reframe your goals, focus on building relationships with readers, and approach each book as another opportunity to refine your craft and platform.
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When Amazon quietly shifted from its A9 to A10 algorithm in May, many authors felt panic rising. Would their books suddenly disappear from search results? Would years of keyword optimization become obsolete overnight? The good news is that if you've been focusing on quality and reader experience all along, you're already aligned with Amazon's new direction.
Amazon is increasingly behaving like Google—prioritizing relevancy, quality content, and authentic engagement over keyword manipulation. This makes perfect sense when you consider Amazon's fundamental nature as a search engine that profits from purchases rather than just clicks. What matters now more than ever is creating a cohesive author presence that extends beyond Amazon itself.
In this episode Penny and Amy unpack every element of this new algorithm change, giving insightful guidance and debunking myths that are circulating in the industry.
Join us as we dive deep in the mysteries of getting more visibility for your book on Amazon!
Ready to optimize your Amazon presence? Pre-order our new book "The Amazon Author Formula Workbook" today and get entered into our contest for Amazon Page Power-Up packages! Subscribe to our podcast for weekly insights that will help you navigate the ever-changing world of book marketing and publishing success.
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Imagine reaching a million potential readers without spending a dime on advertising or having a massive social media following. This episode unveils one of publishing's best-kept secrets: Reddit AMAs (Ask Me Anything) as a powerful tool for authors at any career stage.
Penny and Amy explore how Reddit's unique culture offers authors something increasingly rare in today's marketing landscape—a platform where success depends on being genuinely interesting rather than famous or promotional. Unlike traditional social media where your reach is limited by follower count, Reddit allows anyone with compelling content to potentially reach millions of engaged users who actively seek out interesting conversations.
The hosts break down exactly how to approach Reddit moderators, craft attention-grabbing AMA titles, and execute an event that drives real interest in your book without overtly promoting it. They share real examples, including an author whose AMA about Edgar Allan Poe predicting the Titanic disaster generated massive engagement, demonstrating how the right framing can capture widespread attention.
Tune in for this not-to-be-missed episode!
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In this game-changing episode, we reveal the secrets that turn ho-hum author book signings into unforgettable experiences.
Discover why the classic author signing model is broken—and how to fix it. We dive deep into proven strategies for pitching bookstores and other venues, creating irresistible event formats, and building connections that keep readers coming back for more. Whether you write thrillers, romance, or nonfiction, you’ll learn how to captivate readers, collect emails, and even secure local media coverage.
This isn’t just about selling books on the day. It’s about creating a ripple effect of opportunities, from retail partnerships to reader loyalty. With real stories of authors who turned quiet signings into packed events—including one unforgettable rain-soaked rescue—this episode gives you everything you need to master events that drive future sales.
Ready to turn your next author book signing into a packed house? Listen now and discover how.
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In this eye-opening episode, we pull back the curtain on a heartbreaking scam targeting authors—promising dream book deals that quickly turn into financial nightmares. We explore how scammers craft elaborate schemes that seem too good to be true, preying on authors' hopes with promises of massive book orders, media coverage, and exclusive events. But beneath the glossy promises lie red flags: upfront fees, lack of formal contracts, and guarantees that no legitimate publicist would ever make.
Join us as we dissect the common tactics used in these scams, reveal the emotional and financial devastation they cause, and share practical strategies to protect yourself. We also clarify what real author opportunities look like—so you can confidently spot the difference between a genuine offer and a deceptive ploy. Whether you're a new author or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of publishing.
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Your older books aren't outdated—they're untapped potential. In this episode, we explore how a strategic refresh can breathe new life into your backlist and help you recapture reader interest. From updating covers and content to rethinking your positioning and marketing assets, we’ll show you how to treat every previously published title as a fresh opportunity.
Whether you’ve got one backlist title or a dozen, this episode reveals how to apply what you’ve learned since those books launched and make them work harder for your author brand. You'll get practical ideas, easy wins, and creative inspiration to turn yesterday’s releases into today’s bestsellers.
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The elusive goal of media coverage keeps many authors awake at night, dreaming of that big break on national television or in major publications. But what if everything you thought about securing media attention was based on misconceptions?
In this eye-opening episode, we pull back the curtain on what really matters to media gatekeepers and why so many authors sabotage their chances before they even make their first pitch. The hard truth? Media outlets don't exist to promote your book—they exist to serve their audience. Your success hinges on how well you position yourself as valuable to that audience.
We reveal why local media opportunities might be your most powerful pathway to national attention, and why turning down "small" media appearances could be the biggest mistake in your marketing strategy. You'll learn how national scouts constantly monitor local channels for fresh voices and compelling stories, often making local coverage your best audition for bigger opportunities.
The episode offers practical guidance on crafting a pitch that resonates with producers, staying current in your knowledge base, building a professional online presence, and leveraging every media win to create momentum. We share real examples of authors who climbed the media ladder strategically, turning modest beginnings into significant visibility.
Whether you're just starting your publicity journey or have been frustrated by lack of media interest, this episode provides the framework to transform your approach. The path to media coverage isn't about lucky breaks—it's about strategic positioning, consistent effort, and understanding the media landscape from the inside out.
Ready to position yourself as the expert that media outlets actually want to feature? Listen now and discover how to build the platform that makes media come to you.
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Book bundling represents an untapped opportunity for authors seeking to revitalize their backlist, attract new readers, and generate fresh marketing momentum. This strategic approach – combining multiple books into a single e-book package – offers benefits far beyond simply grouping titles together.
Originally popularized by romance authors who packaged multiple books into value-driven collections, book bundling has evolved into a sophisticated marketing tool applicable across genres. When you bundle your books, you're essentially creating a new product that deserves its own promotional campaign, giving you permission to approach marketing with renewed enthusiasm rather than feeling like you're pushing the same titles year after year.
The timing for implementing a bundling strategy couldn't be better. After an initial surge where "every single book on Amazon was bundled," the approach has become less ubiquitous, making well-executed bundles more likely to stand out. This creates an opportunity for authors willing to be strategic about their bundling decisions.
For fiction writers, options include series bundles (books 1-2 as a new book 4 releases), connected standalones (books sharing characters or universe), and short story/novella collections that offer low-commitment entry points to your writing. Nonfiction authors can create topic-based collections or seasonal/themed groupings that address complementary aspects of readers' interests.
The technical aspects are straightforward – existing EPUB files can be combined without redesigning interiors, though you'll want a fresh cover that effectively communicates the bundle's value. Pricing strategy deserves careful consideration; while deeply discounted bundles might drive immediate sales, they often fail to create engaged readers invested in your work.
Ready to breathe new life into your backlist? Consider how bundling might create a second chance at a first impression with readers who missed your earlier work. We'd love to hear your experiences with book bundling – subscribe and leave a review to join the conversation!
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When authors dream of book marketing success, they often fixate on bestseller campaigns, major media appearances, and viral social media moments. But what if these splashy strategies are actually built on something far less glamorous yet infinitely more important?
Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on the unsexy side of book marketing – the foundational elements that truly drive long-term success. Through real-world examples and candid insights, they reveal why authors who chase high-level strategies while neglecting their foundation often find themselves disappointed with results, regardless of their marketing budget.
One author with a solid email list generated 7,000 reviews within 48 hours of publication, while others with significant marketing investments struggle to gain traction. The difference? A strategic approach to foundational marketing elements like optimized Amazon retail pages, professional author websites, consistent email communication, and deliberate review acquisition strategies.
"It's like inviting people to a party that you forgot to attend," Penny explains when discussing abandoned social media accounts still linked from author websites – just one example of how overlooked details undermine reader trust. The hosts debunk common misconceptions about what marketing "counts," emphasizing that buyer psychology and retail optimization are not secondary concerns but rather the bedrock of effective book promotion.
For both fiction and nonfiction authors, this episode delivers actionable insights on building a marketing foundation that supports your long-term author career rather than chasing quick fixes. Whether you're preparing for launch or wondering why your current marketing isn't delivering results, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what truly matters in connecting with readers.
Ready to stop building your marketing house on sand? Subscribe to the podcast, share your thoughts, or suggest future topics through our website – we love hearing from our listeners!
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Have you ever judged a book by its title? Most readers do. In this eye-opening episode, Penny and Amy tackle the surprisingly overlooked aspect of book marketing that could be silently sabotaging your sales: your book title.
Drawing from years of marketing experience, the hosts break down the three critical mistakes authors make when naming their books. First, they examine titles that lack clarity or are difficult to pronounce, revealing how authors often "bury the lead" by creating mysteriously worded titles that confuse rather than intrigue potential readers. Fiction writers take note – even complex character names can pull readers out of your carefully crafted world.
The discussion then shifts to the dangers of generic titles, with Amy explaining how Amazon's search algorithm works against new books with common titles. "If you type 'Good Things' into Amazon," Penny demonstrates, "you'll get crackers, children's books, and 25+ pages of other products." This real-time search experiment highlights why specificity matters in a crowded marketplace.
Perhaps most compelling is their analysis of titles that only make sense to the author – a trap particularly common with memoirs and personal stories. Both hosts acknowledge the emotional attachment writers develop to their original titles, with Penny sharing a coaching session where it took nearly an hour to convince a business author to abandon his ineffective title choice.
Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, traditionally publishing or self-publishing, this episode offers practical strategies to ensure your title works as hard as you do. After all, as Amy points out, "If readers are consistently confused about what your book delivers based on its title, that's a significant red flag." The good news? Unlike many publishing decisions, titles can be changed – and sometimes, that one adjustment makes all the difference.
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Ever feel like you're banging your head against a wall trying to get your Amazon ads approved? You're not alone. When a mystery thriller author's cover featuring a bloody knife was rejected because it looked "too menacing" and appeared to be "pointing at the consumer," we knew we had to address this frustration head-on.
The absurdity reaches new heights when you discover Amazon approved the print version with the identical cover but rejected the ebook ads. This is just one example of Amazon's maddening inconsistency across its various platforms and departments. While the ads team remains vague and often contradictory, other Amazon departments like A-plus content provide clear, specific feedback. Romance authors face similar arbitrary judgments about how much skin is acceptable on covers, with guidelines that seem to shift without warning.
Our battle-tested advice? Channel your inner toddler. Be persistent, submit multiple support tickets, provide examples of similar approved books, and don't take the first "no" as final. We've seen countless cases where persistence pays off, including our mystery thriller author who eventually got approval after multiple attempts. Whether you're dealing with ad rejections or even having your book mysteriously pulled from the platform, advocacy works. Remember: Amazon's only consistent trait is its inconsistency.
Are you struggling with a specific publishing or marketing challenge? Email us and we'll dedicate a show to solving your problem! We prioritize listener questions because we know how crucial timely answers can be when you're in the trenches. And if you've implemented our advice successfully, we'd love to hear about it and give you a shout-out on our next episode.
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Demystifying Kindle Unlimited might be one of the most requested topics from our podcast audience—and for good reason. The confusion between Amazon's KDP platform and the Kindle Unlimited subscription service continues to trip up both new and experienced authors alike.
After five years hosting this podcast, we've noticed certain questions appear in our inbox repeatedly: "Should my book be in Kindle Unlimited?" "What's the difference between KDP and KU?" "Will I make more money in KU or by going wide?" Today's episode tackles these questions head-on, cutting through the noise to help you make strategic decisions about your book's distribution.
What many authors don't realize is that Kindle Unlimited enrollment can dramatically improve Amazon advertising performance. We've consistently observed that ads convert significantly better for KU books, particularly in genres where subscription readers are abundant. This alone might justify exclusivity for some authors.
As with all marketing decisions, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Kindle Unlimited is simply another tool in your publishing arsenal—not a magic solution for books that aren't selling elsewhere. Think strategically about your genre, audience, and overall publishing goals before making your decision.
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Should you start your own publishing company? Word seems to be getting around in author circles that this may be the key to unlocking greater credibility, bookstore access, or even “jumping the line” beyond the self-published category.
But is that really true? In this episode, we break down the myths and realities of becoming your own publisher, exploring when this strategy works—and when it doesn’t. We’ll also lay out what truly makes an author successful, so you can make the best decision for your publishing journey. If you’ve ever wondered whether launching your own imprint is worth the effort, don’t miss this insightful episode!
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Pricing your book isn’t just a numbers game—it’s a strategy that can make or break your success on Amazon. In this episode, we’re busting the biggest pricing myths, like whether your eBook really needs to be $0.99 or free to gain traction. We’ll dive into the realities of price positioning, share savvy strategies to make your book competitive, and reveal how the right pricing can fuel sales, visibility, and long-term profits. Whether you're launching your first book or fine-tuning your backlist, this episode is packed with insights to help you price with confidence. Tune in and learn how to make your pricing work for you!
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Amazon Author Central just made a quiet but significant change—no more URLs in author bios. What does this mean for your author platform, and how can you make sure your website still gets traffic? We break down why keeping your bio fresh matters more than ever and share a simple, proven workaround to keep your readers connected.
Plus, we dive into emerging shifts in search result trends, particularly impacting genre fiction authors. Could this be a sign of bigger changes ahead for book discoverability across all categories? Tune in for the latest updates, strategies, and what you can do right now to stay ahead of the curve!
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Success as an author isn’t just about writing a great book—it’s about making smart marketing and business decisions. But what if you’re unknowingly getting in your own way? In this eye-opening episode, we’re unpacking the sneaky ways authors sabotage their own success, from marketing missteps to mindset traps that hold you back. You’ll discover the subtle mistakes that could be costing you book sales, visibility, and career momentum—plus, we’ll share actionable strategies to help you course-correct before it’s too late. Don’t let self-sabotage derail your success—tune in and take control of your author journey!
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Every author hits a point where they wonder: Should I just give up? If your book isn’t selling, your marketing efforts feel like a dead end, and hope seems lost—don’t throw in the towel just yet. In this episode, we’re digging into the real deal-breakers that can make or break a book’s success, but more importantly, we’re exploring powerful ways to turn things around.
Sometimes, it’s not about giving up—it’s about making the right adjustments. From common pitfalls to creative solutions, we’ll help you assess what’s really going on with your book and what steps you can take to salvage its success. Before you walk away, tune in for fresh strategies, a new perspective, and a much-needed reality check on what’s possible for your book’s future.
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An investment in book marketing and publicity is an investment in all the hard work you've poured into your book. But why is book marketing so expensive? And are those cheaper, one-off services really worth it? In this episode, we're breaking down the true cost of book marketing—what you’re really paying for, what actually moves the needle on book sales, and whether a big budget always equals big results. Is it a case of "you get what you pay for," or is there more to the story? If you’ve ever wondered whether to spend a little or a lot on marketing—and which options deliver real impact—this deep dive is for you!
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We spend a lot of time talking about Amazon (and that matters) but when was the last time you searched for your name or book on Google? Did your website show up? Or is your author website getting lost in the vast expanse of the internet? While Amazon visibility is crucial, Google matters just as much when it comes to connecting with readers and maintaining relationships with them beyond the purchase. This is especially critically if you plan to release more than one title. In this episode, we’ll explore how to play nice with the Google machine using straightforward SEO strategies. Forget the confusing jargon—we’re breaking down SEO into simple, actionable steps that will help you boost your online presence. Whether you’re building your brand or trying to drive traffic to your books or business, this episode will give you the tools and roadmap you need to ensure your site stands out where it counts most! Grab a pen or pencil and be prepared to take notes!
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Ever gotten on Amazon to search for your book and—BAM—nothing? If your title isn’t appearing for search terms you think should be working, you’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode, we’re lifting the curtain on Amazon’s elusive algorithm to explain why some books get prime visibility while others remain hidden in the shadows. We’ll walk you through the key factors that influence Amazon search results, reveal common challenges that can keep your title from being discovered, and share proven strategies to secure the spotlight your book deserves. Tune in to learn how to snag crucial Amazon visibility—and keep it!
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Is your book lost in a sea of titles on Amazon? If you feel like your title is dead in the water, you’re not alone. In this episode we’re digging into the horror of feeling rudderless on Amazon—why it happens and, most importantly, how to fix it. We chat about the telltale signs of a lost book and proven strategies that can reignite your engagement. Don’t waste anymore time hiding in the shadows—tune in and learn how to resurrect your book’s visibility!
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Dreaming of seeing your book featured in libraries—and even appearing there in person to meet eager readers? This episode is for you! We’re unlocking the secrets to getting your title onto library shelves, plus sharing insider tips on securing author events right where your audience is waiting. Discover how to approach librarians, learn what makes your book appealing to them, and leverage strategies that position you as a must-invite guest. Whether you’re looking to boost your book’s visibility or create memorable, community-driven author events, this episode will help you master the library market from every angle. Tune in and start building your library presence today!
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Everyone wants to guest on podcasts these days—but landing the spot is just the beginning. In this episode, we’re going beyond pitching and diving into the art of being a truly unforgettable podcast guest. Discover how to prep effectively, calm your nerves, and bring your A-game to the mic. We’ll share insider tips on what hosts and audiences really value, plus a few last-minute adjustments that can give you that extra edge. Whether you’re brand new to the podcast scene or looking to level up your guest appearances, this episode will help you shine and leave listeners hungry for more!
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In a crowded digital landscape, authors are always on the hunt for new ways to reach readers. Substack has risen as a newsletter platform that promises creative freedom and direct audience connection—but is it right for you? In this episode, we’re diving deep into Substack’s features, benefits, and challenges. We’ll explore who it’s best suited for, how it can fit into your existing marketing strategy, and what kind of commitment it requires. If you’ve been wondering whether this platform could help you grow a loyal readership—and maybe even earn some extra income—don’t miss this informative, no-fluff conversation. Tune in to find out if Substack is the next big thing for your author career!
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It’s almost time to flip the calendar and embrace a brand-new year—and with it comes the perfect opportunity to refresh, reset, and reinvigorate your author brand. In this episode, we’re sharing a step-by-step checklist to help you usher in the next twelve months with confidence. From the one thing authors almost always forget to update on their website, to easy ‘housecleaning’ tasks that ensure your books and brand are poised for success, we’ve got you covered. Tune in, get inspired, and let’s make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running when the clock strikes midnight!
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Ready to supercharge your book’s visibility on Amazon? In this episode, we’re revealing some of the best-kept secrets for optimizing your Amazon retail page to drive traffic and boost sales—just in time for the holiday shopping season! From insider tips to easy-to-implement strategies, you’ll learn how to fine-tune your page, attract more readers, and stand out in the crowded marketplace. If you’re eager to take advantage of the busiest buying season of the year, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to make your book shine and watch the traffic roll in!
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What’s the secret to writing a book readers can’t wait to pick up? In this episode, we’re uncovering the overlooked strategies that make a book not only fit its market but also compel readers to buy. From crafting the perfect book idea to aligning your work with reader expectations, we’ll deep dive into the steps most authors miss when creating and bringing their books to market. And if your book is already out, don’t worry—this episode is for you, too! We’ll share actionable tips to identify what’s not working and how to fix it to get your book back on track. Whether you’re starting your next project or trying to breathe new life into an existing title, this is a must-listen episode packed with insights to set you up for success!
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We’ve got something truly special for you in this episode and we're launching it on Small Business Saturday!
We've just launched a program created by and for you, our amazing listeners! After four years of incredible questions, feedback, and requests, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new mentorship program. If you’ve loved the insights and advice shared on this podcast, you’re going to adore this opportunity to dive deeper, get personalized guidance, and take your author journey to the next level. Tune in for all the details about how this program came to life, what you can expect, and how you can join. Don’t miss this quick but exciting announcement!
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We’re closing out the year with a bang in this special episode where Amy and Penny answer some of the best book marketing questions we’ve received all year! From “How many books do I need to write to be successful?” to predictions for next year’s trends, and even “What’s the most successful marketing strategy you’ve ever seen?”—we’re diving into it all. Plus, we’ll share insights on how much authors can realistically earn from their books and reveal our favorite strategies that truly work. This fun and informative episode is also available in video format, so don’t miss our candid reactions and in-depth answers. Check the YouTube link and join us for this must-listen (and must-watch), end-of-year show packed with actionable tips and insights!
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In this unabashedly honest episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the rookie mistakes that can make authors look like amateurs—and even open them up to being taken advantage of. From networking missteps to pitching for reviews or media consideration, we’re covering the blunders that cost time, money, and reputation. Everyone starts as a newbie, but you don’t have to look like one! If you’re attending events, presenting your book, or putting yourself out there, tune in to learn the essentials for making a polished, professional impression. This episode is packed with the insights and tips you need to put your best foot forward every time.
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It seems like now, more than ever, scammers and hacks are everywhere. Penny can't go a week without someone offering to "turn her book into a movie" and if you've listened for a while, you know how we feel about that!
In today’s world of book publishing, scammers and inexperienced providers are everywhere, and knowing who to trust can be tough. In this eye-opening episode, we’re diving into the art of spotting legitimate vendors versus the ones who may be out to scam you or simply don’t know what they’re doing. With our trademark honesty, we’ll guide you through the red flags to watch for, key questions to ask, and how to safeguard yourself from costly mistakes. Don’t let your dream project fall into the wrong hands—tune in to equip yourself with the tools to make the right choices every step of the way!
Organizations we love, who do a ton of industry vetting!
Alliance of Independent Authors: https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/watchdog/
Selfpublishingadvice.org/ratings:
https://selfpublishingadvice.org/best-self-publishing-services/
Writers Beware:
https://writerbeware.blog/
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Like Amazon, Goodreads is cracking down on spam and bot author accounts, many of which are producing subpar AI generated content — but protecting the platform means adding a stricter vetting process before authors get to network with readers. In this urgent episode, we dive deep into these changes with insights from Amy, our resident Goodreads expert, who unpacks what’s required and how to navigate the approval process with ease. If you’re planning to establish your author presence on Goodreads, this is a must-listen! Get the latest on what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can successfully meet the new standards. Don’t let these updates slow you down—tune in and stay ahead!
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We thought we'd drop in with another urgent Amazon PSA!
Amazon delays can be a nightmare for authors, especially when everything is set for a carefully planned launch day, and your book still hasn’t gone live. Recently, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform has been experiencing lengthy approval delays, sometimes taking weeks to process books. In this crucial episode, we’ll guide you through what to do if Amazon’s hold-ups affect your launch. We’ll discuss practical steps to take if your release day is at risk, plus creative backup plans to help you stay on track, keep readers engaged, and avoid costly disruptions. Don’t let these unexpected delays derail your hard work—tune in for the strategies and solutions you need to navigate Amazon’s KDP bottlenecks!
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Struggling to get media attention for your book? You’re not alone. In today’s ever-changing media landscape, landing interviews and features has become more difficult than ever. In this episode, we dig into the reasons why it’s so hard to get a “yes” and more importantly, what you can do to change that. We’ll reveal strategies for cutting through the noise and still securing valuable media coverage, even in a tough market. Whether you’re an author, entrepreneur, or expert looking to elevate your profile, this episode will equip you with actionable tips to uncover the right opportunities and close the deal.
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Audiobooks are all the rage, but are you truly ready to dive in? In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of the audiobook world, revealing why it’s not as simple as it seems. Yes, thanks to AI it’s easier (and cheaper) than ever to create an audiobook, and with its booming popularity, the revenue potential is tempting—but rushing in could be a costly mistake. We’ve got a real-time story for you, featuring a disastrous audio narration (with an actual audio sample brought by Penny!) that shows how the wrong choice can wreck your brand. We’ll cover the essentials of audiobook production and why waiting might save you from turning off your audience.
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In this episode we’re exploring a unique but underutilized strategy that even the biggest publishers swear by—having a backup book cover! Join us as we dive into why our very own author, Marlene Bell, is always prepared with a second cover, and why you should be, too. We'll share her experience and how her sleuthing around the strategies of major publishers has served her well. We’ll break down the unexpected benefits and how you can implement it to maximize your book’s success.
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We’re dropping a special, urgent episode into your feed! Amazon is cracking down hard on claims like "100,000 books sold" and "Amazon bestseller" and even "Award-winning author." If you’ve used these statements on your cover, your book description or author bio - really anywhere on your retail page - this is a must-listen episode. We’re breaking down the reasons behind this strict enforcement, the proof Amazon is now requiring, and the serious consequences of not complying. Don’t wait—tune in to protect your author profile and avoid potential penalties in this new Amazon landscape!
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Don’t let the wrong vendors hold you back! We're talking about finding the best service providers for your book project. From choosing the right cover and interior designers, to selecting the perfect website developer, we’re giving you all the inside knowledge to avoid the common (and costly) mistakes authors often make.
We’ll discuss key questions to ask, red flags to watch for, and expert tips to ensure you pick the right team to bring your vision to life.
Don't fall victim to subpar service providers that drain both time and money - prepare properly by listening to this episode today!
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Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this eye-opening episode, we’re tackling one of the most underrated tools in your book marketing arsenal: your Amazon author bio. Could this often-overlooked section be costing you book sales? Quite possibly! Many authors leave their bios as an afterthought, but it’s a vital piece of the puzzle that can either engage readers or turn them away. Join us as we break down what makes a stellar bio, what you should avoid, and how to craft the perfect one to capture attention and boost your book’s visibility. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your author profile and maximize your sales potential!
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Help promote the podcast and earn free swag!
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
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Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're taking a deep dive into the world of publishers—what they can do for authors, and more importantly, what they can’t. We'll explore the benefits of working with a publisher, the potential drawbacks, and why choosing to work with one could either boost or hinder your success. Join us for a frank and honest conversation that will help you make informed decisions about your publishing future!
Send us your feedback!
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag!
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
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We're tackling the Author Success Checklist—a crucial exercise that helps identify any issues preventing your book from reaching its full potential. And this isn’t your typical to-do list. Instead, it’s a thoughtful evaluation that ensures both your book and your author brand are as polished and market-ready as possible. Inspired by a call with an author on the verge of giving up, we walk you through the checklist we use to help authors turn things around. If your book isn't selling as well as you'd hope, or you're just starting out and want to ensure you're leaving no stone unturned, this episode is for you. Join us as we break down the checklist and explore potential upgrades that could be the key to your book's success!
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Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode, we're diving into the world of author tools—those must-have apps, time-saving shortcuts, and money-saving methods that can make a huge difference in your author journey. We'll share our favorite tools that every author should consider, highlighting why we love them and how they can boost your productivity. But it doesn't stop there—stay tuned for the second half of the show, where we discuss some common shortcuts that we've seen authors use, and why we're not fans. Whether you're looking to enhance your writing process or avoid potential pitfalls, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the world of author tools and productivity!
Send us your feedback!
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag!
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of indie bookstores. These hidden gems are more than just places to buy books—they're vibrant communities that can play a crucial role in your book's success. We'll explore why indie bookstores matter, how to build relationships with them, and actionable steps to get your book onto their shelves. From understanding their unique culture to crafting a pitch that resonates, you'll walk away with a wealth of tips and creative strategies to connect with your local indie store. Tune in and discover the untapped potential of this important market!
Send us your feedback!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Join us in this exciting episode as we bring one of our most popular blog posts to life! We're unpacking the best book marketing strategies that every author should have in their toolkit. Whether you're looking to spark new ideas or re-evaluate your current approach, we've got you covered. We talk about the tactics that work, expose those that don't, and offer a fresh perspective to help you market your book more effectively.
Tune in and discover creative strategies that might just change the way you think about promoting your work!
Send us your feedback!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode we delve into the power of a well-crafted reader profile. Understanding who you’re writing for can transform your marketing strategy and elevate your writing to the next level. We'll explore the essential elements that make up a comprehensive reader profile—demographics, interests, reading habits, and more. Plus, you'll learn actionable steps to leverage this information you compile to connect with your audience, tailor your content, and maximize your book's impact on the market.
Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to help you truly know your readers and write for them with purpose. Tune in to unlock the secrets of effective audience profiling!
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Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're often asked, "How can I find the best publisher for my book?" And we've done publisher episodes before, but now we're focused on critical marketing questions to ask before making your decision.
Publishers are appealing to some authors because they promise to ease a lot of the production work, but more often than not the marketing piece is overlooked. Don't find yourself trapped with a book that can't take off!
Whether you're a first-time author or looking to switch publishers, this episode offers valuable insights to ensure you choose the best path for your success.
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Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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Today we're exploring the confounding new security features around Goodreads author profiles that have left many authors frustrated and puzzled.
Join us as we discuss practical workarounds and provide step-by-step guidance on how to easily claim and manage your Goodreads author profile despite the new security hurdles and how your Amazon Author Central account plays a critical role.
Love it or hate it, Goodreads is a crucial element to marketing and branding in today's market, where 11k new books are releasing every single day. If you don't step up, you'll get looked over.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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Despite all the information that's out there, it never fails to surprise us how many folks get it absolutely wrong when it comes to what it takes to succeed, and what are outdated guidelines, ideas, and mindsets.
In this episode we comb through a recent article from Esquire magazine that sheds light on the struggles debut authors face in today's literary world.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the industry's landscape and equip yourself with knowledge that could make all the difference in your author journey.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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In this episode of we take a serious look at the Amazon Bestseller flag and unravel the myths behind this iconic orange banner.
Many authors dream of that coveted orange "bestseller" banner gracing their book covers, but how do you actually get it? And more importantly, is it always a guaranteed indicator of success?
Join us as we delve into the truths and misconceptions surrounding the Amazon bestseller status. We'll discuss the criteria, the challenges, and the realities of achieving this elusive flag. We'll also reveal why you should be wary of anyone promising a guaranteed bestseller title.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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A few weeks ago you may have heard about Romance Writers of America (RWA) filing for bankruptcy - they aren't going away, per se, just reorganizing. And you may have thought this doesn't matter to you - but it does.
This single development that holds significant implications for the entire writing community, so we're talking about the vital role organizations like RWA play in the literary world, from advocacy and support to networking and learning opportunities.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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This is our third most downloaded episode of all time!
Why do we think it's popular? Because being an author can be exhausting, and most of us don't have time to waste on marketing efforts that don't produce results.
And social media is typically at the top of the list of time-wasters, at least when it comes to moving the needle on sales and reviews.
If you're ready to say goodbye to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, let's learn how to forge your success off of the social media hamster wheel!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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In this episode we break down the recent announcement that Costco will no longer be carrying books in their warehouses—a decision with significant implications for authors. You may have heard this and thought it doesn't matter to you, but it does, and we'll unpack why.
We’ll also explore the discouraging trend of shrinking shelf space and delve into the reasons behind the dwindling presence of books in big box stores.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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In this episode we tackle the challenging yet essential topic of recouping your book creation and marketing investment. Many authors face the harsh reality of under-planning and overspending during production, only to find themselves without the funds needed for aggressive marketing in an extremely competitive market.
With 11,000 books being published every day, making a serious go at this requires a strategic approach.
Join us as we dive into the major issues that prevent authors from recovering their investments. We'll cover what you need to be aware of, how to prepare effectively, and highlight some expensive pitfalls to avoid.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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In this exciting episode we're breaking away from traditional book marketing methods and exploring innovative, fun, and often easy-to-implement strategies to boost your book sales. If you're looking to make a splash in the literary world, don't miss this!
We’ll delve into unique venues for book events and sales that go beyond the bookstore, discuss the benefits and tactics of selling books in bulk, and reveal a host of other creative ideas that can help you reach new audiences.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
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In this eye-opening episode we dive into Amazon’s latest updates that are shaking up the way book descriptions are managed on the platform. For authors who use Author Central, these changes are crucial to understand if you want to keep your book pages in top form.
Join us as we uncover the surprising new features Amazon has rolled out, discuss how these updates can impact your book’s visibility and sales, and provide actionable tips to navigate the new system effectively. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with must-know information to help you stay ahead in the competitive world of publishing. Tune in and learn how to leverage these changes to your advantage!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Welcome to a pivotal episode of our show where we shine a spotlight on a crucial aspect of the publishing process: how your name appears on Amazon. Join us as we dissect the intricacies that can make or break an author's visibility and success on the world's largest online retail marketplace.
From the complexities of incorporating titles like PhD to the impact of middle initials and even spacing, we explore how seemingly small details can have significant repercussions on your book's discoverability and sales potential.
Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned pro, this episode is essential listening for anyone looking to maximize their success in the competitive world of book publishing.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Are you marketing to the wrong audience?
As authors, we often find ourselves inadvertently targeting the wrong demographic, because while the reader may be obvious, they're not always the individuals buying or recommending (or gifting) your book.
Join us as we unravel the complexities of audience targeting, uncover common pitfalls and offer practical strategies to ensure you're reaching the right audience for your work. From identifying your true buyers to navigating less obvious markets, we provide actionable insights to help you refine your marketing approach and connect with those who matter most.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode we're talking about book endorsements, getting them, timing them, and what to do with them once they start coming in. Whether you're a seasoned author or a newbie, you're going to want our tips and advice!
We'll explore the strategies and tactics for identifying the ideal personalities to lend their credibility to your work and outline the dos and don'ts of making your pitch.
We'll also tackle the pros and cons of delaying your book release in pursuit of coveted endorsements. Is patience truly a virtue, or is there merit in striking while the iron is hot?
Let's make your book the talk of the town – one endorsement at a time!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this week's episode, we're unpacking the crucial role of Nonfiction Amazon retail pages. Join us for an in-depth exploration of the pitfalls and common mistakes that can hinder your success in the competitive world of online retail. From lackluster descriptions to uninspiring visuals, we'll highlight the key areas you need to focus on to ensure your Amazon page stands out from the crowd. Plus, we'll share our top five must-do strategies for crafting a compelling Amazon retail page that transforms casual browsers into eager buyers. Whether you're a seasoned author or new to the publishing game, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you maximize your book's potential on the world's largest online marketplace.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode Penny and Amy, the dynamic duo behind a successful book marketing and PR firm, invite listeners to join them for an intimate peek behind the curtain of their collaborative journey. While their chemistry is often praised, it's their ability to navigate different visions for growth that has been a cornerstone of their success.
In this revealing episode, Penny and Amy share both triumphs and pitfalls with unfiltered, humorous honesty.
But this isn't just a recounting of past experiences—it's a treasure trove of lessons learned. Penny and Amy delve into the invaluable insights gained from their shared challenges, offering practical wisdom authors can resonate with as well. Through candid anecdotes they showcase the power of assessing any new business building or marketing endeavor from multiple angles.
This episode promises to leave you entertained and informed, whether you're a new author fresh out of the gate, or a veteran with a dozen books already published, you'll gain insight, wisdom and inspiration to inspire your success!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this week's episode, we chat about connecting with the elusive reader who seems to dwell beyond the realms of mainstream social media platforms.
Even though the digital age is dominating how a lot of us consume content, not every reader can be found scrolling through Instagram reels or TikTok videos. So how do they find the books they buy, and how can authors tap into a market demographic that tends to read prolifically and has disposable income?
From unconventional platforms to grassroots efforts, we uncover where readers congregate away from the glare of social media.
Whether you're an aspiring author seeking to establish your readership or a seasoned vet navigating the ever-shifting currents of the publishing world, this episode is your guide to unlocking the untapped potential of the hard-to-reach reader.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Not everyone talks about it, but all authors want to sell books. And we know a lot of you secretly (or not so secretly) would love to make enough to be a full-time author.
But is achieving significant sales still a possibility? The surprising answer lies in the realm of self-publishing, where a lot of successful authors are find their footing.
Join us as we go through some suprising statistics and dissect the advantages that heavily favor self-published authors in today's dynamic market. From increased creative control to streamlined publishing processes, discover why this avenue has become a beacon of opportunity for aspiring bestselling authors.
Plus we've got some solid "rags to riches" examples to remind you anything is possible if you know how to write a great book and you put in the work!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
This is another listener request and we're talking about trigger words that could potentially result in your hard-earned reviews being pulled from your retail page.
We chat about the fine line between what reviewers should say to maintain authenticity and what words they should tactfully avoid to ensure their reviews don't get flagged or worse, their accounts blacklisted.
And what's your role as an author? You must lead this charge! It's your responsibility to stay on top of industry standards so your readers feel confident supporting your brand.
We'll share tips on effectively communicating with your readers and potential reviewers, and fostering genuine engagement while steering clear of any violations of Amazon's terms of service.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Have you ever wondered why some books seem to effortlessly rack up Amazon reviews while others struggle to even get noticed? This week we're unveiling a secret strategy that savvy authors have been using to bolster their review numbers.
We chat about the art of prompting reviews from your readers in a way that feels natural and seamless. It's a genius tactic that surprisingly few authors employ, but the results speak for themselves.
From crafting the perfect call-to-action to timing it just right, we'll guide you through the basics of this simple and FREE strategy.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
This week we're talking about literary agents. Who they are, what they do, and whether you really need one.
We'll explore the ins and outs of literary representation, breaking down the roles and responsibilities of literary agents, and shedding light on the services they provide for authors.
We'll also discuss the darker side of the industry, including common scams to avoid and red flags to watch out for when seeking representation.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Join us in this week's episode as we chat about the latest innovation from Amazon: the Virtual Voice.
Imagine a world where authors can transform their written words into audiobooks using artificial intelligence. FOR FREE. It's a game-changer for indie authors, but what does it mean for the future of storytelling and the traditional audiobook industry?
Is this advancement a boon for indie authors seeking accessibility and affordability in audiobook production, or does it signal a threat to the livelihood of professional narrators? Maybe it's a little of both.
Join us as we weigh the pros and cons, and offer insights into the evolving landscape of audiobook production and consumption.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode, we take a peek behind the curtain and dive into the sometimes harsh realities of the publishing world, shedding light on the obstacles that can slow an author's rise to the top – and sharing insights on how to avoid them.
While we love authors who dream big, keeping expectations in check is essential. Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a bummer episode but rather a discussion of actionable things authors can do to avoid wasting precious time and resources on futile pursuits.
From the allure of quick-fix marketing campaigns to the importance of reader reviews and social proof, we dissect the common traps authors fall into when seeking book success and we offer ideas for the right steps to take.
Ultimately, this episode serves as a reality check for aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and strategic thinking in navigating the treacherous path to literary success. So, if you're an author with big dreams of hitting the big leagues, tune in to learn how to avoid the pitfalls and keep climbing toward your goals.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode, Penny and Amy decode the intricate world of big media outlets and help you understand what they're looking for and whether or not you’re right for a big media outlet.
We kick off by addressing a common misconception – that success in media equals instant fame or a bestselling book. We’ll discuss the importance of finding your niche and leveraging various platforms to reach your target audience effectively.
But who exactly is your target market? We’ll unpack that, too! We explore the nuances of identifying and reaching the right audience for your content.
Join us as we unravel the mysteries of big media and equip you with the tools to navigate this dynamic landscape with confidence.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on a common dilemma many memoir authors face: determining whether their book can be classified as self-help.
While storytelling and imparting wisdom often go hand in hand, understanding the nuances between these genres is essential for maximizing the impact and success of your book.
Too often, authors find themselves straddling the line between memoir and self-help, leading to confusion for both themselves and their readers. We dissect the key differences between these genres, offering insider insights into what sets them apart and how to leverage those distinctions to your advantage.
From potential pitfalls in mislabeling your book to the financial and time costs associated with genre confusion, we explore the real-world implications of getting it right.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Join us for a candid discussion as we shine a light on the often-overlooked aspects of the author journey. In this episode, we tackle the things that many authors aren't adequately prepared for but are crucial to their success.
From the seemingly mundane task of reading contracts to the sobering realization that publishing is indeed a business, we explore the facets of authorship that can catch even the most seasoned writers off guard. We understand that delving into legal jargon may not be the highlight of your day, but we break down why it's essential and how it can protect your interests in the long run.
Tune in to learn how to prepare for the realities of the publishing world and emerge stronger on the other side.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode, we delve into a crucial but often overlooked aspect of being an author: education in publishing. And we get it, it’s another thing to learn. But it’s crucial to your success and we’ll unpack why. But don't worry, you don't need a PhD in publishing to thrive.
Join us as we explore why understanding the ins and outs of the industry can not only save you money but also significantly impact your success as a writer. From the ever-evolving landscape of Amazon to emerging trends shaping the publishing world, we break down the importance of staying informed.
We offer practical tips and strategies for self-education, making it easier than ever to navigate this complex ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to stay ahead of the curve and maximize your potential in the competitive world of publishing.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Whether you're a seasoned author navigating the industry or an aspiring writer with dreams of seeing your work on the screen, this episode is a must-listen. Join us in uncovering the hidden dangers, understanding the deceptive tactics, and learning how to safeguard your literary creations from potential exploitation. Don't let the allure of TV and movie deals become a pitfall – empower yourself with the knowledge to navigate these waters wisely.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're delving into the recent changes that Amazon has implemented for international book buyers.
The notable shift is the disallowance of gifting copies of books internationally, a move that carries significant implications for authors. Why the continued tightening of the reins? We have our theories, so tune in!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're chatting about the often misunderstood differences between publicity, marketing, advertising, and branding.
Why? Because knowing the differences can save you a lot of time and money in terms of what kind of support you need to achieve your goals. If you're looking to hire a team, or you're trying to develop a self-promotion plan, this episode is essential.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Have your Amazon Ads suddenly stopped working? Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind why your carefully crafted ads may have taken a nose dive.
We break down the complexities of Amazon advertising, and how oftentimes the elements that need some TLC aren't on the ad dashboard at all!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
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If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Beyond the cover, your book's title is its first impression. Dive into the discussion on why the right title, paired with a captivating subtitle, can be the key to converting more shoppers to buyers.
- Discover what that make a book title memorable, intriguing, and reflective of its essence.
- Explore the subtle art of crafting subtitles that add depth, intrigue, and additional layers to your book's narrative.
- Learn how to tap into your creativity to generate title and subtitle ideas that resonate with your target audience.
Whether you're releasing your debut title or you're a veteran author looking for stronger sales numbers, this episode will guide you through the creative process of creating titles and subtitles that create a strong first impression.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Your book is priced well and the cover is great – so why isn’t it flying off the shelves?
In this eye-opening episode, we demystify the confusion surrounding book sales. We’ll dig into the reader journey and explore why books, despite their relatively modest price tag, aren't impulse buys.
Discover why books aren't just commodities but investments of time, a priceless currency in our fast-paced lives.
Plus we provide some tips on how to hone in on your audience and position your book for maximum impact.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Drumroll, please!
Tune in for a big announcement about Penny's latest book that just hit Amazon!
This book is bigger and better than any previous Amazon title and you definitely want to tune in to find out why. We're also going to be running a lot of special promos so keep an eye out on all Penny's social media channels to win special swag and great bonuses!
Penny on Instagram
Penny on Facebook
Penny on X
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
This is our second most downloaded episode of all time!
Why do we think it's popular? Well, as an author you want people to love your work, we get it. You also put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into getting your book made and it's normal to have moments of, "it's good enough" because you just want to move on to the next thing. But good enough and assuming you've created the field of dreams can be a dangerous mindset to get into.
Two of the biggest pitfalls we see in author marketing are "good enough" and "everyone loves it" and it's a real problem. Having Facebook followers isn't marketing, and they're not sales. Your alumni newsletter isn't marketing, and it's not sales. See the trend here? Marketing is a lot more than simply tapping into low hanging fruit. And nothing is good enough if you haven't done everything. If you haven't used a good editor, it's not good enough. If you haven't hired a good book cover designer, it's not good enough. See the other trend here?
Listen to our discussion about this to figure out the best ways to avoid these pitfalls and why our honesty is really going to set you and your book up for the best chances at success!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
This is our most downloaded episode of all time!
Why? Well, because display advertising has been a part of marketing and promotion forever. It's also tempting to be able to run display ads to take some of the pressure off of coordinating other kinds of marketing that require a lot more hands on work.
But does display advertising stack up in terms of getting the best return for your investment? Check out our thoughts!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast where we will deep dive into all things book pricing, a vital yet often overlooked facet of your book marketing journey.
Pricing is your silent powerhouse.
Is a discounted price a boon or a bane?
How do you know if you've hit the pricing bullseye for your market?
Learn from the missteps of others as we dissect the most common pricing blunders and sidestep the pitfalls and avoidable mistakes that can hinder your success.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Ever wished you had a crystal ball to foresee your book's success? Say no more! Penny and Amy are decoding the mysteries of effective book marketing, empowering you to plan your 2024 without the daily struggle of figuring out your next move.
Tune in to discover pre-planned strategies that not only ensure consistency but also guarantee more attention.
No more pondering, "What's my next move?" We're laying it all out – the smart, actionable steps that will make your book stand out.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Calling all aspiring and seasoned authors! It's a great time of year to reassess what's working and what isn't!
In this episode, we share insights on how to distinguish game-changing strategies from outdated ones.
Learn how to amplify your author brand, captivate your audience, and find more readers, and what that sometimes means doing less of some things, and trying new tactics.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Join us as we unravel the secrets of the author success mindset. This isn't your typical "stay positive" pep talk; we're dissecting the distinct mental strategies that set go-getter authors apart from the rest.
Learn how to navigate challenges with resilience, and witness firsthand the extraordinary impact a refined mindset can have on your writing career.
Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary adventure, this episode is your compass to navigate the maze of all the things that can derail your upward trajectory.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
In this episode we're talking about another hidden gem in book marketing - trade magazines!
What exactly are trade magazines? They're not just ordinary periodicals that you're almost guaranteed to see at the grocery store check out. They're your gateway to dedicated topic, hobby, lifestyle, and industry fans.
Discover how to research and find these opportunities, refine the art of pitching them, and harness their reach and influence to pull in the kind of quality attention you're really going to benefit from.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Hear about Penny's trials and tribulations through the process of book cover design while we unveil the secrets, struggles, and triumphs of book design done right.
We'll equip you with invaluable tips and tricks to streamline your own book cover creation, saving you time, energy, countless headaches and even more critically - giving up and settling for a less-than-stellar cover.
Don't embark on your book cover journey unprepared – learn from Penny's years of publishing experience and especially her latest struggle!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
This is a holiday edition of our podcast, where we unveil some helpful tips to ramp up your book sales during the festive season!
Picture this: twinkling lights, cozy evenings, and a festive bump in revenue!
In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on our most coveted strategies and easy-to-follow action items to make your holiday season truly magical.
🎅 Discover how to leverage the holiday spirit to connect with your readers on a deeper level.
🎁 Uncover the hidden gems of holiday book marketing that will have your sales on an upward trajectory.
📚 Explore innovative and creative techniques to make your book stand out in the crowded holiday market.
This is not your average podcast episode; it's a treasure trove of holiday book marketing wisdom, and you won't want to miss it! So grab a hot drink, snuggle up, and get ready to transform your holiday book marketing.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Ah, Bestseller lists - they are shrouded in mystery but are often at the top of every author's team board!
Our goal for this episode is to cover what it really takes to hit a bestseller list (and what doesn't work), and tips for all the things you need to make sure you're doing right to earn one of those coveted slots.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're back for another Amazon update! Recently it's been discovered that if you're only choosing categories from the KDP dashboard you might end up with a category that doesn't even exist. What?!
Our goal for this episode is to educate ya'll on how this potentially affects your shot at a bestseller, and how to double-check your work and avoid this potential landmine in the future.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Our goal for this episode is to break down when you should start working on key elements of your platform, including everything from your website, to social, to Amazon, to Goodreads and BookBub. Plus we've included tips for saving time and ensuring you've got all the details covered.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Our goal for this episode is to break down the elements of a really great book pitch: one that generates responses and opens doors. So whether you've pitched your book in the past and were underwhelmed, or you have a release coming up that you want to be really prepared for, this episode is a must-listen.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Our goal for this episode is to break down what your Amazon sales rank really means - and spoiler alert - it's more than just book sales.
We're firm believers that the more the author community understands about the Amazon machine, the more successful we'll all be, so get busy educating yourself!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Our goal for this episode is to help you think inside the box, see what we did there? But in all seriousness, catalogs and subscription boxes are underutilized opportunities to reach a wider audience, and a lot of potential buyers you couldn't reach through other marketing efforts. We'll chat about options, tips, and making the most of pitching these outlets.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
We're seeing this a lot more - books being populated on Amazon (often written by AI) and published under well-known author names.
Our goal for this episode is to uncover why it's happening, and what you can potentially do to protect yourself or deal with it if it happens to you!
Penny shares her unfortunate (yet hilarious) experience with this as well and you'll want to be sure to follow her on Instagram to see the book!
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now!
FREE BONUS
If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email.Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
Amazon is making a lot of changes lately, but this one could really level the playing field for indie authors! Tune in and we'll break it all down!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
We get it, writing is the fun part. And we generally don't write books because we can't wait to market them, right? But we also can't keep writing books without putting in the effort to get them in front of readers.
Our goal for this episode is to share some tips and recommendations that stem from the experiences of authors who love to write but don't love to market. You'll learn about things to avoid, things to definitely plan for, and ways to get back on track without losing all your writing time. If you have more than one book out there, or you're planning another release, this show is for you!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
The Amazon book search algorithm is changing again! In this week's episode, the dynamic book duo takes another peek under the Amazon hood to help you better understand what's happening, why it matters for your book, and what you can do now, or at least for your next release, to stay competitive and land on more search results.
Our goal for this episode is to discuss all the new things we're seeing and what Amazon is beta-testing for book searches! Don't miss it!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Nothing makes us madder than an author who has been scammed, so this week we're unpacking all the ways authors could get scammed.
Our goal for this episode is to highlight some of the most common (and expensive) scams in publishing, along with some of the most overhyped marketing services, what to look out for, what to avoid, and when it's a good idea to push for more answers!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
So what's going on with Amazon categories? Have the changes really impacted us a lot?
Our goal for this episode is to break down all the things and we're also dishing on something new we spotted at Amazon that could impact your book's visibility.
And in other news... is Threads worth your time? Probably not, yet, but that doesn't mean there's not something you should do on the platform ASAP.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
You've seen the special tables in bookstores that draw your immediate attention, right? They're either for local authors, special promotions, holidays, observances, the list goes on but there's no denying they do the job well.
Our goal for this episode is to walk you through best practices for getting your book prominent placement in bookstores throughout the year!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
There's so much more marketing to be done offline than many authors realize.
Our goal for this episode is to explore some potential sales opportunities you may not have considered for your book. We'll discuss specialty shops, special placement, and unique stores that could be a perfect match for your genre or topic. Get ready to take notes!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
If you've been hearing a lot about AI and sites like ChatGPT you're going to want to dig into this episode right away!
Our goal for this episode is to discuss creative ways to use ChatGPT to improve your book description, elevator pitch, blog content, and marketing materials. We'll also discuss how to use AI to boost your marketing and give you a leg up over the competition!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
There's a lot of pay-for-play out there right now, and while some of it is great, some of it really isn't. How can you tell the difference? What's a reasonable fee to ask for? What should your budget be? If you've been influencer-curious or tempted to shell out cash to a big TikToker, we're pretty sure this episode will save some of you thousands of dollars in the long run, while uncovering other options you can add to your arsenal of marketing ideas.
Our goal for this episode is to discuss how you can determine if your money is well spent when an influencer asks you to pay for a review, feature, or ad on their social media stream, and other influencer-related best practices.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Have you ever wondered why your social media is falling flat? It could be because of the shelf life of your posts - how long do users actually see your content?
Our goal for this episode is to talk about the shelf life of content on different platforms, and strategies to get more exposure on social media. We also discuss why being on one site (and killing off all the others) may be the best strategy of all.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Podcasts are all the rage, this is not news - but if you've ever thought about getting on the podcast train, this show is for you. We'll talk about how to pitch yourself to podcasts, how to find podcasts to pitch to , and the surprising benefits of getting on shows. We'll also cover everything you need to consider if you're looking to start your own someday!
Our goal for this episode is to pull back the curtain on the podcast world, and open your eyes to this rapidly growing area of digital media.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Yes, we said more changes. Amazon is on a roll lately with the changes that are impacting authors and in this episode we unpack some recent changes to book reviews and everything you need to know to succeed!
Join Amy and Penny for this lively discussion on the new changes, what we see and one type of Amazon review that we really hate! Tune in!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Amazon has done it again! They dropped some category changes that have sent the industry into a tailspin! Amy and Penny will unpack all-the-things related to the Amazon category changes and how they will impact your book going forward. Of course, Penny will also share why she hates this because we have strong opinions about all the things.
Here's the link we reference in the show - to check your existing categories! https://www.bklnk.com/categories_2022.php
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
It feels great to check marketing chores off your to-do list, but how do you know if what you're doing is really worth your time?
Focused and strategic marketing isn't actually that hard. GASP! How can we say that? Because the education and research needed for strategic marketing is front loaded. You set yourself up correctly, and every marketing effort after that is significantly more effective!
But too often authors start marketing before they fully understand the bigger picture of why they're doing what they're doing.
Our goal for this episode is to have a candid chat about the differences between marketing with the goal of simply "doing marketing" and marketing in ways that connects with readers and actually help you build a successful brand.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Social media advertising is a staple in many authors' DIY marketing plans, but when is social media advertising not beneficial? And how do you really know if it's paying off?
Our goal for this episode is to have an unfiltered and honest conversation about social media advertising, the challenges and the requirements for ensuring they're working for you. You might be surprised (or you might not) but you'll no doubt come away with a better understanding of how to assess the appropriateness for your brand.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Bonus hashtags below!
Despite what the "vibe" might be out there these days, parents are still really committed to reducing screen time for their kids, especially over summer break!
If you've written a book for independent readers, tweens, and even teens, this is your time to shine. But don't forget, you're marketing to the parents of these kids, so your goal is to convince them your book is a way to keep kids engaged this summer, and will be a slam dunk with their kids.
Our goal for this episode is to spark your creativity and encourage you to get some really fun and aggressive summer promotions going, so you don't want to miss this one!
Here are some great hashtags to use when you're promoting your book on social media this summer:
**#childrensbookrecommendations
summerreading
summerreadingchallenge
raiseareader
kidsbookshelf
kidswhoread
childrensbookstagram
booksforkids
middlegradebooks
teenbooks**
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
We love book contests, in fact, Penny has judged a few of them, including Writer's Digest and IBPA's Benjamin Franklin Awards!
So this podcast is both a behind-the-scenes deep dive into book awards and contests, why you'd want to enter your book, and how to find the right ones. Plus, we'll talk about what to avoid, like scammy contests that just want to take your money (sadly, they're out there, too).
Our goal for this episode is to inspire you to put yourself out there and start submitting yourself to contests and awards (or more of them) because there are a lot of surprising ways they can help your platform!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Most of us have heard the term 'soft launch' before, whether in the publishing industry or for another product or company launch.
But what is a soft launch really? And how does it work in the publishing industry?
Our goal for this episode is to chat about the origins of the soft launch, and what they are and aren't, especially in today's publishing market. We'll also give you tips for running a successful soft launch if you think you're ready for it!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
There's a lot of confusion around book distribution, and the terminology can be really confusing.
For example, what is distribution exactly, and how does it differ from digital distribution?
Our goal for this episode is to go over the origin of distribution, what it used to mean, what it means today, and what your role is in making sure you get the opportunities you're looking for!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
Drum roll please! Penny has just finished updating How to Sell Books by the Truckload and it's the 10th edition! We're so excited (especially Penny, who was getting Amazon algorithm-fatigue)!
Our goal for this episode is to celebrate the upcoming release by sharing some insider info on what Penny discovered revising this book and, more specifically, why your Amazon ads aren't working!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, ***we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast***
We realize this industry is full of authors with a range of abilities. We don’t all have the same computer savvy, some of you may feel you’ve earned the right to not jump on every trend, and hell, maybe some of you just aren’t interested! We get that - but there are some things you have to know how to do. Whether you’re 17 or 87, there are expectations in this industry that need to be met if you in fact want to get your books in the hands of readers. In this episode, we discuss a few must-haves and why it matters!
Our goal for this episode is to cover what really needs to be ready for your release, what you can expect to take more time on, and maybe most importantly, discourage you from continually moving the goalposts and delaying your wins along the way.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
We get it, it's hard to know what you spend on book marketing. So we thought it was a good time to talk about the elephant in the room: How much should you expect to spend (and have to budget for) when it comes to book marketing? And, the million dollar question (pun intended): how much money does it take to make a best seller.
In this episode we discuss why having a budget is not only imperitive, but also empowering. Know your limits and find a firm that will respect them. Also, what do things really cost? We'll discuss all that and more!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Book formats are often not talked about enough until it's too late, or more accurately, until the options and missed opportunities cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Too many authors actually end up limiting their sales potential by not fully understanding the benefits that come along with having multiple formats of their book.
Our goal for this episode is to open your eyes to the short and long-term potential of releasing multiple formats of your book, no matter your topic or genre.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Is there such a thing as the perfect book release? Actually yes, but it's not what you think!
Too often authors get caught up in having ALL the pieces in place for a book release, but it's not about having everything ready on launch day, it's about having the right things ready, and knowing when, and how, to get the other pieces in order along the way.
Our goal for this episode is to cover what really needs to be ready for your release, what you can expect to take more time on, and maybe most importantly, discourage you from continually moving the goalposts and delaying your wins along the way.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
We keep repeating ourselves because authors don't do it enough, but promoting locally is one of the best ways to start securing media opportunities, and your local exposure is one of the best tools for securing bigger, national-level features and other media.
Our goal for this episode is to discuss pitching local media and other tips for building a stronger local brand by leveraging support from those who have a vested interest in your success!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
This episode was inspired by an author that came to us with a wonderful book (but terrible cover) saying, "This one won the Facebook poll I did."
Getting advice from your personal network can be tricky, whether it's about your cover, your editing, your website - really anything that represents your brand and your author resume.
Our goal for this episode on our podcast for writers is to discuss the pitfalls that come with soliciting advice from people that are close to you, and why consulting with a professional is absolutely worth your time and money in the long run.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Today's podcast is about rules and yes, we know that sounds like a lot of buzzkill but trust us when we say: publishing rules matter and those who follow them, are always successful. That's not an overstatement!
Our goal for this episode is to discuss the rules that are often broken, but shouldn't be, and why it can negatively affect your success, because we want you to carve out a path that will continue to serve you long-term.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Pricing a book has always been a tricky concept, and we get it, finding the balance between making your book accessible while also making money can be challenging.
Our goal for this episode is to tackle the hurdles a lot of authors end up facing, with everything from production choices to market choices, and to give you some really helpful tips on pricing your book for success.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
If you've been on any publishing news sites, I'm sure you've heard about AI (artificial intelligence) and more specifically, ChatGPT. AI is really ramping up across all industries, including publishing.
In this episode we're not only breaking down what AI is and how it can be used, but also sharing our predications of how it might change publishing as well as how books are written. Will an AI start writing books? You'll have to tune in to find out!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
We talk about book covers a lot, because they really are that important.
Your book cover alone can keep a potential buyer interested long enough to read your description - or it can send them scrolling without a second glance - and you won't ever get that potential sale back.
So we decided to each share our number one pet peeve when we're assessing whether or not a book cover is strong enough to compete it today's market.
Our goal for this episode is to focus on just a couple elements of book cover design, and spend a bit more time explaining why these details are so critical.
Do you think you'll be surprised? Let us know!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
It's not easy trying to compete as a how-to or self-help author, and Penny knows this first hand.
Not just from the 18 books she's written and released, but also because she and her team have worked with hundreds of books in this genre!
Our goal for this episode is to candidly tackle the challenges you're likely facing, and offer up ways to improve both your platform and your book's sales potential.
Honestly, anyone writing non-fiction will benefit from this episode, so don't miss it.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
Permissions aren't fun or sexy - but they're necessary. Any time you're using someone else's words, praise, input or inspiration there are right and wrong ways to go about it.
Our goal for this episode is to share some pitfalls other authors have experienced so you can better avoid them!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
We know it's tempting to want to do all the right things to get your book out there.
But in reality, it's more important to do the right things, at the right time!
Our goal for this episode is to help you avoid getting caught up in the whirlwind of marketing and publicity, and instead, help you feel confident creating a plan that you can both manage, and get a solid return from.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
This is a revival from the archives because it's really THAT important!
How's your bio on Amazon? When was the last time you checked it and gave it an update?
Penny and Amy break down the often ignored author bio, with tips for how to use it to improve your sales conversions!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
You got a great endorsement or review, or maybe you won an award, or finally set up your newsletter - so what do you do now?
A lot of authors have a checklist of things they know they should do, but most forget that each achievement can (and should) be turned into a handful of other wins or positive additions to your marketing and promotion.
Our goal for this episode is to help you develop a simple, yet strategic, approach that makes the most out of every dollar and hour you spend trying to ensure your book and author brand becomes a success!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to thank followers!
In our final episode of 2022 we want to address why it's important to reevaluate what success means to you, and how to let failure boost your will to succeed.
Let's face it, most of us don't share our failures online. We share success, little snippets of our lives that only show the good stuff and hides the bad. So our perception of failure is skewed.
"Where's my Netflix deal?"
"Why isn't my book a bestseller?"
The truth is, big wins can happen, but you'll have to learn how to deal with failure first, because the road to success is long and twisty!
Our goal for this episode is to give you a much-needed dose of reality, with some inspiring real-life author examples, so you'll hopefully feel more confident on your path, and motivated to keep up the effort.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
This is a revival from the archives because it's really THAT important!
As soon as you put your title up on Amazon the platform starts to "learn" about your book and how shoppers are responding to it.
Listen to us discuss the top five pitfalls to putting your book on Amazon before you're ready to promote, and why they potentially cause so many problems!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
This is a revival from the archives because it's really THAT important!
I'm betting when you read this title, you thought: "I'm proud of my book!" But we aren't talking about your book, we're talking about the things you may not have considered - like a social media channel you hardly ever use that's still in your signature line or on your website, or a release date announcement that's long since expired... as we often say: details matter!
In this episode we're breaking down what to pay attention to, and what you may have overlooked that's making you look less professional than we know you want to be!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
How would you like to sell 5,000 copies of your book in one deal?
Have we got your attention? Good, because you're absolutely going to want to listen to this show.
Our goal for this episode is to break down selling books in bulk, specifically what works and what doesn't, and why planning and diligence matters, because Penny has done this before quite successfully.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
This is a revival from the archives because it's really THAT important!
Book titles play a huge role in positioning your title competitively in the market, it's also the supporting actor to your cover design in terms of creating a strong first impression - one that convinces shoppers to spend a bit more time reading your description and checking out your reviews.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
We get it, you have knowledge and expertise to share, and you genuinely feel you can help a wide demographic of people.
But shoppers don't buy books that don't feel personal to them.
And one of the biggest marketing mistakes we see non-fiction authors make is marketing a single title to too many different kinds of people.
Instead, you should be identifying and focusing your marketing efforts on reaching the core audience your book will resonate with most.
Our goal for this episode is to cover why being too inclusive with your marketing can actually lead to fewer sales. And even better, we'll share ways you can successfully cater to multiple demographics while also making the most of your knowledge and expertise!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
It's a simple thing really, but surprisingly, so few authors do it.
Our goal for this quick episode is to discuss a simple yet effective tip for authors - regardless of genre - that will leave a lasting impression on readers, thought leaders, and media.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
Hiring a company to do marketing for you can be confusing. How much should you spend? What do things cost? And how can you maximize your marketing budget?
Our goal for this episode is to shine a light on guidelines and realistic expectations for how you'll need to budget and pay for your book marketing.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
It seems obvious, doesn't it? But Amy's got strong feelings about this, and she's not wrong.
Marketing and sales are not the same but they are often used interchangeably, which can create unrealistic expectations and divert your attention from elements of your platform and promotion that really matter. Amy will explain more (as only Amy can).
Our goal for this episode is to ensure you fully understand how to focus on sales and marketing as two separate elements of your business and book marketing plan.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
If you’ve ever been pulled into a book by the enticing headline on the book retail page, chances are you were reading an elevator pitch.
Our goal for this episode is to unveil the secrets behind a great elevator pitch, and tips for how to create one that will help you pull in readers and sell more books.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
We see this all the time but it still surprises us how many authors do this one thing. Want to know what it is? Tune in!
Our goal with this episode is to help you convert more website browsers to buyers and fans.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
The first 30-days of the life of your book is really exciting, isn't it? But what happens after that? If you're like most authors, not much.
So we're unpacking what starts after the 30-day honeymoon is over. We'll share how long you can still pitch your book for review, what you ideally want to be doing at the six month mark, and one thing you should never wait too long to do!
Our goal for this episode is to help you create a tangible checklist you can follow the first 12 months your book is out, and beyond.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
Having your book up on Amazon for pre-order can be a really fun and exciting time, and we admit, the allure of racking up additional sales is real, but there are also some potential downsides to pre-orders if not planned for and managed properly.
Our goal for this episode is to ensure you understand the pros and cons of pre-orders so you can strategically prepare to reap the benefits of an early marketing campaign for your next release.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
We get it, your book came out and five hundred other things were vying for your attention.
While book launches are important, sometimes we miss the mark, or life happens and your efforts fell short, or your marketing ideas didn't quite hit it out of the park.
If this resonates with you, you're going to love this episode!
In this episode Penny and Amy get candid about limitations, while also uncovering some things you can do to come back from a failed book launch, whether your release was a couple months ago, or a year ago.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
Not all marketing is created equal! In this episode we're uncovering some ways that book marketing firms waste your money. Looking at the things that seem good on paper, but don't actually move the needle on book sales or help build more reader fans.
Sometimes it's a lot of smoke and mirrors and our goal with this episode is to cut through the things don't work, so you can focus on more of what does work!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
You've got big book marketing goals but very little time. If this statement resonates with you you're going to love this week's episode!
Effective book marketing doesn't have to consume days, or even hours. If done smartly, and strategically, you can power through your list and make some pretty extraordinary gains!
Let's get started if you're big on goals, but short on time.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
Sometimes the things you can do to improve your book sales require very little effort and while Amazon often seems confusing there are a lot of very simple things you can do to improve your book sales.
In this episode Amy and Penny dig into an often-overlooked issue when it comes to bringing your A-game to Amazon!
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
This episode was inspired by a series of frustrated comments we got on our blog, many of which lamented that nothing they were doing was moving the needle when it came to book sales.
We've got some remedies for that!
In this episode we tackle several popular scenarios related to book marketing challenges and encourage you to take notes.
Remember to leave a review for the podcast and email us to let us know, we're always finding creative ways to reward followers!
Have you heard what's happening with audio book content?
Audible's new offerings have really leveled up audio books, and today we're talking about the future of audio books and how this matters to you!
If you've ever considered doing an audio book, or you have one out now, you'll want to tune in!
August Promotion:You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.
Let us help you find out where the holes are in your approach and provide you with personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers.
Click here for our must-have Custom Amazon Keyword and Category Optimization program and receive $50 off your purchase! Revive your listing and enjoy better searchability and rankings! Be sure to use the promo code AugPodPromo.
It's been one heck of a week.
An author called us, having sent $7,000 to a firm promising him the moon, and guess what?The firm was pretending to be Author Marketing Experts.
We're dishing the dirt in this special episode and sharing all the details of what happened, and who did this - and how you can avoid getting scammed!
August Promotion:You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.
Let us help you find out where the holes are in your approach and provide you with personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers.
Click here for our must-have Custom Amazon Keyword and Category Optimization program and receive $50 off your purchase! Revive your listing and enjoy better searchability and rankings! Be sure to use the promo code AugPodPromo.
We see you. You're exhausted by trying to learn how to gain some traction on social media. You've flunked out of TikTok and find that the best use for Instagram is looking for cute emu videos (hello....Emmanuel!) or scouring for recipes.
Or you flat out don't even want to even start.
If you're reading this and nodding, then you've come to the right place.
Packed full of ideas, tips, and some cool insider info, Penny and Amy will guide you through what you need to know about marketing your book without social media. Say goodbye to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and let's learn how to forge your success off of the social media hamster wheel!
August Promotion:You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.
Let us help you find out where the holes are in your approach and provide you with personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers.
Click here for our must-have Custom Amazon Keyword and Category Optimization program and receive $50 off your purchase! Revive your listing and enjoy better searchability and rankings! Be sure to use the promo code AugPodPromo.
Display advertising has been around a long time, and it can be really effective for some products and services - but does it work for books?
We'll discuss our thoughts on display advertising, the pros and cons, and what to watch out for and consider if you're offered an opportunity to advertise your book!
August Promotion:You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.
Let us help you find out where the holes are in your approach and provide you with personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers.
Click here for our must-have Custom Amazon Keyword and Category Optimization program and receive $50 off your purchase! Revive your listing and enjoy better searchability and rankings! Be sure to use the promo code AugPodPromo.
This idea was born from a listener request, specifically they wanted some tips on how to work with libraries to book more events. So we decided to cover that, and more!
Because libraries are a great way to build your reader-base, but getting involved with libraries is also a great way to support your community and even garner local media attention. Get ready to jot down some of our creative tips and recommendations for easy (and honestly fun) ways to claim your spot as a well-known local author.
July Promotion:
We talk a lot about Amazon, and for good reason - it can make or break your success as an author.
Download your free copy of our Amazon Cheatsheet today to start taking your brand and sales potential up a few notches!
Want to grab your share of holiday sales? Then now is the time to plan! In this special bonus episode, Amy and Penny break down what you need to do - and how you can prepare - for big holiday book sales! Packed with tips and some insider scoop, we'll get you ready for the biggest shopping market of the year!
July Promotion:
We talk a lot about Amazon, and for good reason - it can make or break your success as an author.
Download your free copy of our Amazon Cheatsheet
Download your free copy of our Amazon Cheatsheet today to start taking your brand and sales potential up a few notches!
If you've ever considered hiring a book marketing company, are already interviewing potential teams, or still feeling a bit burned by your last book promotion campaign - this episode is not-to-be missed!
We're getting candid about what to expect (and what's often off the table), smart questions to ask about the work, ways to evaluate what you're being offered, and even tips that can **save you money.
July Promotion:**We talk a lot about Amazon, and for good reason - it can make or break your success as an author.
Download your free copy of our Amazon Cheatsheet today to start taking your brand and sales potential up a few notches!
Your website says a lot about you, so you really don't want to risk giving potential visitors the wrong impression. But sadly, we see authors miss seemingly small, yet critically important details all the time that are setting them back. Check out our tips for ensuring your website is primed to help you convert more shoppers into buyers and fans.
July Promotion:We talk a lot about Amazon, and for good reason - it can make or break your success as an author.
Download your free copy of our Amazon Cheatsheet today to start taking your brand and sales potential up a few notches!
We see this a lot: an author puts a bunch of stuff on their website because they think that’s what goes on a website. But they’re missing the point that their website should be focused on a very particular market, and rarely does turning it into a digital resume or superficial biography of your life work in your favor. This show will unpack what to do, and what not to do, when it comes to your website.
Packed with tips, insider info and some ideas for those of you who don't have a website yet, you won't want to miss this episode!
June Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let us help!
Check out our book cover collaboration opportunity here and save $50 this month!
Discount code: covers622
Online media alerts have seemingly taken a back seat in recent years because there's just so much distracting us online - but that's exactly why you need them! Honestly, they're a really valuable tool for building and maintaining your brand. Review our tips and recommendations before getting yourself set up to know everywhere your brand is mentioned online, and how to make the most of the exposure!
June Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let us help!
Check out our book cover collaboration opportunity here and save $50 this month!
Discount code: covers622
If you are writing under a pen name, or considering one, you won't want to miss this show. Amy and Penny discuss a lot caveats and (avoidable) mistakes authors make when it comes to establishing and using pen names.
Learn how to plan for success, issues and challenges to consider and avoid, and how to maximize on your pen name once you feel confident you're ready to introduce your "other" self to the world!
June Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let us help!
Check out our book cover collaboration opportunity here and save $50 this month!
Discount code: covers622
We got to chat with a team at Goodreads and wow, we got a lot of insight into their future plans, but also, a great reminder about what really moves the needle when it comes to effective book marketing. Listen in to see what we learned!
June Promotion:Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let us help!
Check out our book cover collaboration opportunity here and save $50 this month!
Discount code: covers622
Amy volunteered at her kids' book fair this year and came out of the experience with a lot of cool and exciting insight into what kids are looking for, so she and Penny were inspired to chat about what's working in the children's book market, and how authors can really stand out and build their kiddo super fan base!
June Promotion:Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let us help!
Check out our book cover collaboration opportunity here and save $50 this month!
Discount code: covers622
A lot of authors when thinking about “editions” of their books think: audio! Hardcover! Translation! But so few think of large print books - which are a hugely underserved market with a dedicated clientele: librarians.
May Promotion:
Let's celebrate the good ones.
If you've worked with a great editor, cover designer, interior designer, agent, author assistant, website designer - or someone else you credit for your success in getting your book "out there" - then we'd love to help you thank them!
Simply send your recommendation to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book or website and we'll give them a shout out on Penny's social media to hopefully introduce them to more grateful, hard-working authors!
We thought it was time that we did a show on Tiktok, because while I realize it’s not a new-new platform per se, as social media sites go it’s fairly young, and it’s gotten such great buzz, and especially with the #BookTok hashtag and such building so much interest for books, which we always love!
May Promotion:
Let's celebrate the good ones.
If you've worked with a great editor, cover designer, interior designer, agent, author assistant, website designer - or someone else you credit for your success in getting your book "out there" - then we'd love to help you thank them!
Simply send your recommendation to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book or website and we'll give them a shout out on Penny's social media to hopefully introduce them to more grateful, hard-working authors!
Are you interested in creating a Kickstarter campaign to finance your next book? Tune in to listen to our take on one crowdfunding campaign that worked because he outlined it as a business venture - not as a way to get free money!
Here's the link to the author's page we discussed for your reference: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dragonsteel/surprise-four-secret-novels-by-brandon-sanderson?ref=msa
May Promotion:
Let's celebrate the good ones.
If you've worked with a great editor, cover designer, interior designer, agent, author assistant, website designer - or someone else you credit for your success in getting your book "out there" - then we'd love to help you thank them!
Simply send your recommendation to mailto:info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book or website and we'll give them a shout out on Penny's social media to hopefully introduce them to more grateful, hard-working authors!
We did this episode because there still seems to be a lot of confusion around the differences between self-publishing, traditional publishing, and using a publishing service.
Which is understandable!
But there's a lot of grey area in the industry today that really needs to be explored and understood before you can confidently make the publishing decision that's going to be right for you right now and down the road too.
Keep an open mind, you might be surprised at how much your opinion shifts after listening!
May Promotion:
Let's celebrate the good ones.
If you've worked with a great editor, cover designer, interior designer, agent, author assistant, website designer - or someone else you credit for your success in getting your book "out there" - then we'd love to help you thank them!
Simply send your recommendation to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book or website and we'll give them a shout out on Penny's social media to hopefully introduce them to more grateful, hard-working authors!
We get it, bad reviews can be hard. But instead of focussing on the negative, it's important to understand all of the positive benefits that can come from reviews.
In this episode, we talk about how to approach reviews and what you can learn from them- yes, even the bad ones!
April Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- let us help!
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a discount code for 50% off our Book Cover Collaboration!
Separating fact from fiction, in this episode we tackle the myths, untruths and yes, even a few urban legends - all of which can tank your publishing career. Tune in as Penny and Amy share 10 myths you maybe thought were true, but actually aren't!
April Promotion:Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- let us help!
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a discount code for our Book Cover Collaboration!
We hear a lot about paid reviews and many authors are eager to get their book into these services, but are there drawbacks to paid reviews? In this episode we take a candid look at paid vs. organic reviews - what to look for in paid reviews and what to what out for, and maybe why you need both!
April Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- let us help!
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a discount code for our Book Cover Collaboration!
Is your book cover helping or hurting your success? In this podcast Amy and Penny dig deep on what it means to have a successful book cover vs. one that's hurting your author brand and book sales. We also unpack how to find a good cover designer and the questions to ask when you're interviewing someone to design (or redesign) your cover!
April Promotion: *Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- let us help!
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a discount code for our Book Cover Collaboration!*
"I know enough people who will buy my book I don't have to worry about marketing it!"
If you've said this you're not alone, but you're also not setting yourself up for real success.
Two of the biggest pitfalls we see in author marketing are "good enough" and "everyone loves it" and it's a real problem. Having Facebook followers isn't marketing, and they're not sales. Your alumni newsletter isn't marketing, and it's not sales. See the trend here? Marketing is a lot more than simply tapping into low hanging fruit. And nothing is good enough if you haven't done everything. If you haven't used a good editor, it's not good enough. If you haven't hired a good book cover designer, it's not good enough. See the other trend here?
Listen to our discussion about this to figure out the best ways to avoid these pitfalls and why our honesty is really going to set you and your book up for the best chances at success!
April Promotion:
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize.
So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- let us help!
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a discount code for our Book Cover Collaboration!
We love creativity, but sometimes there's such a thing as "too creative." When authors are looking for readers, they sometimes want to dip into other, nearby markets - and we're here to tell you there's a right way and a wrong way to do that.
In this episode Penny and Amy unpack the pitfalls of not understanding who your real markets are, and why and how to stay laser focused on who your audience is!
March Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
You've probably heard by now, the Amazon ads team just opened up Amazon ads to every author. Previously you had to be a KDP author to get this. In this special episode, Penny and Amy discuss the benefits, and pitfalls of Amazon ads with enough juicy tips to hopefully get you started on Amazon ads today!
March Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
There's so much to learn and do as an author to continue building your platform, and it's easy to get overwhelmed - whether you're releasing your first title or your 20th.
So in this episode we talk about the secret to spending more time writing without your marketing and brand suffering - and it's hiring a virtual assistant (VA)!
There are tons of people out there who call themselves virtual assistants, but they are not all created equal and they do not all have the same skill sets.
It's important to figure out what you need and how to successfully work with a VA, and we've got a bunch of tips and recommendations for you!
Bonus: here's a great place to start to get leads on virtual assistants that specialize in working with authors and publishing.
March Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
This is another gem from the wayback machine that we felt deserved a second shot to get in front of more listeners.
Send us an email and let us know if this episode resonates with you, we love getting feedback and personal stories from our listeners!
March Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
Today we talk about Superfans and Street Teams and what they can do for your longevity as an author!
There are some major differences between them, but both are important to your book marketing plan and long-term success. Get ready to take notes!
February Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
This is an episode from the time machine!
But in all seriousness, we feel this is a really important topic to cover and felt it was worth revisiting. We'd love for you to send us an email and let us know if you plan on making any changes to your marketing approach based on the tips we provide in this episode!
February Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
There’s so much free information out there, and a lot of non-fiction authors forget that Google is often their toughest competition.
We've covered some important pitfalls to avoid, and provided tips for really helping your book stand out as something unique to the market.
February Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
A book, like a business, doesn't become successful due to luck!There's detailed research, smart budgeting, clever promotion, and a lot of strategic planning involved in hitting the marketing strong and keeping the momentum going.
Fortunately for you we're here to help with the book part of this analogy!
So get ready to take some notes and prepare for the lightbulbs to start going off over your head.
February Promotion:
Rate and leave a review for the show, forward a confirmation or screenshot of your live review to info@amarketingexpert.com and get a free email coaching session where you'll get to ask 5 of your most pressing book marketing and promotion questions!
We're covering a lot of "success topics" in 2022 in order to help our authors elevate their perspective on what it takes to make it in this industry - and media is a huge part of that.
Most of us dream of getting coverage that really tips the scale, but many authors still turn down opportunities that don't fit their idea of that "life changing interview" or "perfect review" and that's one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
And the reasons why this is so critical may actually surprise you!
January Promotion:
Calling all frustrated authors!
This month we’re asking for your show ideas! Email info@amarketingexpert.com with your questions, struggles, etc. – and if we choose to feature your submission on either a full episode or a minisode we’ll send you an “Ask me about my book!” decal that you can put on your laptop, water bottle, car window- really anything you can get your hands on!
We’re here to help YOU, so your continued feedback on what we can cover to help make you a smarter, more savvy author, is the ultimate goal!
We told you to buckle in for 2022 and we meant it!
Reverse engineering means to start with the end in mind, but what does that mean for you as an author?
We'll cover some very key aspects of what it takes to be successful in this industry, and how you can use those skills to start reverse engineering your success in order to see better results.
And here's a spoiler alert: it's not at all what you think!
Intriguing? Tap play and learn more, we promise you'll love it!
January Promotion:
Calling all frustrated authors!
This month we’re asking for your show ideas! Email info@amarketingexpert.com with your questions, struggles, etc. – and if we choose to feature your submission on either a full episode or a minisode we’ll send you an “Ask me about my book!” decal that you can put on your laptop, water bottle, car window- really anything you can get your hands on!
We’re here to help YOU, so your continued feedback on what we can cover to help make you a smarter, more savvy author, is the ultimate goal!
We love listener questions, and this is one we absolutely wanted to address:
How do I engage with readers who don't use social media?
This listener even says she has people in her network that don't want to use Amazon either.
So we cover a number of creative (yet cost effective) ways to promote your brand, connect with current fans, and even draw in new readers on channels outside of social media and even Amazon.
But please know we're still HUGE proponents of using the right social platforms, and definitely utilizing Amazon to your benefit, so this episode isn't a get out of jail free card - but it should inspire you to look beyond the typical options!
January Promotion:
Calling all frustrated authors!
This month we’re asking for your show ideas! Email info@amarketingexpert.com with your questions, struggles, etc. – and if we choose to feature your submission on either a full episode or a minisode we’ll send you an “Ask me about my book!” decal that you can put on your laptop, water bottle, car window- really anything you can get your hands on!
We’re here to help YOU, so your continued feedback on what we can cover to help make you a smarter, more savvy author, is the ultimate goal!
We're back with our first show of 2022 and we're kicking this year off with a bang - so buckle in!
In this episode we're talking about how to be a profitable author. Because yes, it's absolutely possible.
But it's more than just calculating your return on investment or obsessing about your bottom line - in fact, we're not even talking about money in this show.
How is that possible? Tune in! We're unpacking the tips and tricks to being profitable in 2022 (and beyond!).
January Promotion:Calling all frustrated authors!
This month we’re asking for your show ideas! Email info@amarketingexpert.com with your questions, struggles, etc. – and if we choose to feature your submission on either a full episode or a minisode we’ll send you an “Ask me about my book!” decal that you can put on your laptop, water bottle, car window- really anything you can get your hands on!
We’re here to help YOU, so your continued feedback on what we can cover to help make you a smarter, more savvy author, is the ultimate goal!
When it comes to book marketing, we've seen a lot - including the folks and issues we refer to as "red flags." Part therapy and part cautionary tale, this end-of-the-year podcast is a wrap-up of the best and worst we've seen, but it's also a cautionary tale for authors. We hope you'll enjoy this fun, often funny (and ok sometimes sarcastic) year-end episode!
December Promotion:
Are you wondering if it’s time to revise and re-release your book?
We’re going to help some dedicated fans determine what they can do to revise and re-release a book for a second shot at success!
To be considered send us an email confirming you’ve reviewed the podcast, let us know what platform you reviewed on and your reviewer username.
You should also include the Amazon link to your book, and your website if you have one.
If you’re chosen you’ll be notified with a timeline of when you can expect our custom recommendations!
In this episode, we're digging into some creative ways to strategize your book marketing for 2022. We're also looking at common pitfalls that'll cost you a ton of time and effort, as well as some ways to get more bang from your book marketing dollar!
Penny and Amy will unpack strategies, success tips, and some easy-to-implement ideas to get you on the road to success in the new year!
December Promotion:
Are you wondering if it’s time to revise and re-release your book?
We’re going to help some dedicated fans determine what they can do to revise and re-release a book for a second shot at success!
To be considered send us an email confirming you’ve reviewed the podcast, let us know what platform you reviewed on and your reviewer username.
You should also include the Amazon link to your book, and your website if you have one.
If you’re chosen you’ll be notified with a timeline of when you can expect our custom recommendations!
Yes, the global Covid-19 upheaval changed a lot of things, but if you're considering writing a Covid-focused book or memoir, you may want to reconsider. In this episode, we're talking specifically about Covid-centric books. Are they worth publishing and if so, what types of pandemic inspired books should you focus on?
December Promotion:
Are you wondering if it’s time to revise and re-release your book?
We’re going to help some dedicated fans determine what they can do to revise and re-release a book for a second shot at success!
To be considered send us an email confirming you’ve reviewed the podcast, let us know what platform you reviewed on and your reviewer username.
You should also include the Amazon link to your book, and your website if you have one.
If you’re chosen you’ll be notified with a timeline of when you can expect our custom recommendations!
Publishers are great, but sometimes they can negatively impact an author's success. In this episode, Amy and Penny are unpacking what to look for and what to avoid if you're thinking of working with an indie press or a hybrid publisher. We'll dig into the questions to ask- as well as the red flags to avoid!
December Promotion:
Are you wondering if it’s time to revise and re-release your book?
We’re going to help some dedicated fans determine what they can do to revise and re-release a book for a second shot at success!
To be considered send us an email confirming you’ve reviewed the podcast, let us know what platform you reviewed on and your reviewer username.
You should also include the Amazon link to your book, and your website if you have one.
If you’re chosen you’ll be notified with a timeline of when you can expect our custom recommendations!
We all need editors! Sometimes we love them, and sometimes, well, we don't love them as much. In this podcast, Amy and Penny discuss what to look for in a good editor, and what to avoid. We also talk about the different between a content editor and copy editor.
December Promotion:
Are you wondering if it’s time to revise and re-release your book?
We’re going to help some dedicated fans determine what they can do to revise and re-release a book for a second shot at success!
To be considered send us an email confirming you’ve reviewed the podcast, let us know what platform you reviewed on and your reviewer username.
You should also include the Amazon link to your book, and your website if you have one.
If you’re chosen you’ll be notified with a timeline of when you can expect our custom recommendations!
This time of year, especially, we hear a lot about gratitude and being grateful. But incorporating gratitude is also a highly underutilized strategy for long-term success. In this episode we uncover some creative ways to say "thank you" not just this time of year, but all year long, and how it strengthens the overall effectiveness of your marketing plan and the return you get for your efforts!
November promotion:
Want Penny to promote your book to her thousands of engaged followers on social media??
Pitch us your book and tell us WHO it will make a great Christmas present for, and WHY.
Yes, it’s a great opportunity to get a lot of new exposure, but it’s also a fantastic exercise to work on your elevator pitch and really sharpen it for maximum impact – if you can impress us, we want to help you get the word out!
Simply email your holiday elevator pitch to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book on Amazon to participate!
Unknown fiction authors need to stop planning their marketing efforts around national media, television shows and big name podcast and radio interviews. Fiction isn’t “news” unless the author is a household name. But don't get discouraged, there are great opportunities for new or unknown fiction authors and we will explain how to make the magic happen!
November promotion:
Want Penny to promote your book to her thousands of engaged followers on social media??
Pitch us your book and tell us WHO it will make a great Christmas present for, and WHY.
Yes, it’s a great opportunity to get a lot of new exposure, but it’s also a fantastic exercise to work on your elevator pitch and really sharpen it for maximum impact – if you can impress us, we want to help you get the word out!
Simply email your holiday elevator pitch to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book on Amazon to participate!
It's great to have goals, but is there a trick to creating book marketing and sales goals that produce results? Indeed there is! We discuss how to create great goals that will help drive real success AND why brainstorming can be problematic when it's not done strategically.
November promotion:
Want Penny to promote your book to her thousands of engaged followers on social media??
Pitch us your book and tell us WHO it will make a great Christmas present for, and WHY.
Yes, it’s a great opportunity to get a lot of new exposure, but it’s also a fantastic exercise to work on your elevator pitch and really sharpen it for maximum impact – if you can impress us, we want to help you get the word out!
Simply email your holiday elevator pitch to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book on Amazon to participate!
Goodreads is not just a virtual library, it’s a social networking site, and it’s important they encourage engagement and interaction! Check out what this feature change up means and how you can help petition for more networking options with readers.
November promotion:
Want Penny to promote your book to her thousands of engaged followers on social media??
Pitch us your book and tell us WHO it will make a great Christmas present for, and WHY.
Yes, it’s a great opportunity to get a lot of new exposure, but it’s also a fantastic exercise to work on your elevator pitch and really sharpen it for maximum impact – if you can impress us, we want to help you get the word out!
Simply email your holiday elevator pitch to info@amarketingexpert.com along with a link to your book on Amazon to participate!
As soon as you put your title up on Amazon the platform starts to "learn" about your book and how shoppers are responding to it. Check out the top five pitfalls to putting your book on Amazon before you're ready to promote, and why they potentially cause so many problems.
October Promotion:
Book to Bestseller Pre-Order Giveaway and Prizes!
It’s finally here – Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author’s Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success is up on Amazon for pre-order and that means it’s time to announce all the fantastic promotions we’ve been planning to celebrate!
Honestly, this has been the most exciting release yet, so I encourage you to read through this post twice to ensure you know what’s on the table!
Amazon Author Central has added a feature that allows you to create additional author bios in other supported languages. But before you log on and just start adding new elements to your profile, we want you to understand when it makes sense and how you can use it to support your platform. October Promotion:
Book to Bestseller Pre-Order Giveaway and Prizes!
It’s finally here – Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author’s Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success is up on Amazon for pre-order and that means it’s time to announce all the fantastic promotions we’ve been planning to celebrate!
Honestly, this has been the most exciting release yet, so I encourage you to read through this post twice to ensure you know what’s on the table!
This is a very special episode!
We hear this a lot, "I can't deal with Amazon!" or "Amazon won't help me!"
And guess what? We face this, too!
Penny's new release, From Book to Bestseller,was denied for publishing by KDP and this episode breaks down what happens when you have to battle the 10,000 pound gorilla, plus constructive and helpful ways to work within the (often confusing) Amazon system and how to WIN.
October Promotion:
Book to Bestseller Pre-Order Giveaway and Prizes!
It’s finally here – Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author’s Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success is up on Amazon for pre-order and that means it’s time to announce all the fantastic promotions we’ve been planning to celebrate!
Honestly, this has been the most exciting release yet, so I encourage you to read through this post twice to ensure you know what’s on the table!
Can you compete if you don’t want to list your books with major online retailers? We get this question more often than many of you might think, authors that have very strong feelings about not bowing to “the man” but how realistic is it that you’ll be able to build a strong network of readers and return buyers using just your website or through sites like Smashwords?
October Promotion:
Book to Bestseller Pre-Order Giveaway and Prizes!
It’s finally here – Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author’s Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success is up on Amazon for pre-order and that means it’s time to announce all the fantastic promotions we’ve been planning to celebrate!
Honestly, this has been the most exciting release yet, so I encourage you to read through this post twice to ensure you know what’s on the table!
Amazon is a great place to sell books, but you know what's even better? Selling more direct to your readers! Is it possible to do this? Absolutely it is and we'll teach you how.
In this episode Amy and Penny discuss some key strategies and simple tips to build more sales on your website and sell more directly to your readers!
September Promotion:
It's time to start working on holiday book sales!
If you're wondering how to work a clever holiday sales angle into your book marketing we're here to help.
Simply email us a link to your book on Amazon (or on your website if it's not released on Amazon yet) and we'll feature your book on an upcoming show along with some personalized tips and recommendations for fun ways to turn your book into the perfect holiday read or gift, and how to make it really stand out to shoppers!
Are you getting ready to launch a book? Why not consider doing some special pre-order pricing? If you haven't considered it, or even if you have, you'll want to tune into this episode where we break down why it might help you, considerations you have to make, and what pricing pitfalls you'll want to avoid!
September Promotion:
It's time to start working on holiday book sales!
If you're wondering how to work a clever holiday sales angle into your book marketing we're here to help.
Simply email us a link to your book on Amazon (or on your website if it's not released on Amazon yet) and we'll feature your book on an upcoming show along with some personalized tips and recommendations for fun ways to turn your book into the perfect holiday read or gift, and how to make it really stand out to shoppers!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com.
You've got a book that's still current and interesting, but it's a bit older. Can something be done to spike book sales on this older title? The answer is a resounding YES!
Whether it's a single book, or a backlist, we'll unpack some strategies to help you revive and reignite book sales for your older book!
How's your bio on Amazon? When was the last time you checked it and gave it an update?
Penny and Amy break down the often ignored author bio, with tips for how to use it to improve your sales conversions.
September Promotion:
It's time to start working on holiday book sales!
If you're wondering how to work a clever holiday sales angle into your book marketing we're here to help.
Simply email us a link to your book on Amazon (or on your website if it's not released on Amazon yet) and we'll feature your book on an upcoming show along with some personalized tips and recommendations for fun ways to turn your book into the perfect holiday read or gift, and how to make it really stand out to shoppers!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com.
A lot of authors jump onto social media without a real plan, or knowing which social media platform best suits their message. You wind up wasting a lot of time and effort trying to get more readers, and find you wind up with very little to show for it.
If this feels like you, you'll want to listen to this episode! Penny and Amy discuss the pitfalls of social media, how to avoid them and how to find the exact right place for you to be to get more followers, readers, and book sales!
We’ve all been told that a newsletter is something that will help us build a better, often more engaged, fan base. But getting sign ups is quite another thing.
The term “reader magnet” is often tossed around a lot, but what is it and what do you do with it?
Penny and Amy break down some great tips to help you increase your newsletter sign ups!
August Promotion:
A lot of companies offer Amazon Optimization – we do it better.
Most people don’t realize Amazon is a search engine – and it needs to be treated like a search engine – not simply an online bookstore.
Keywords and categories may seem obvious when picked the old fashioned way, but Amazon is cutting edge, so are its systems, and its shoppers know what they want and they don't want to waste time. Third party apps and keyword aggregators are not the answer to figuring out how real people are using Amazon to find books they actually end up buying.
But fortunately for you, we’ve figured it out.
Save $100 by using code AUGUSTPODCAST.Find out more here!
What’s your author brand saying about you right now? Not sure? Don’t have one?
Well guess what you do. Because your brand is out there, whether you want it to be or not.
In this episode, Penny and Amy unpack and demystify the author brand - because it's really not as complex as you may think. We'll look at tips to easily create your "look" or brand as well as a few things you may not have even considered!
Join us, won't you?
August Promotion:
A lot of companies offer Amazon Optimization – we do it better.
Most people don’t realize Amazon is a search engine – and it needs to be treated like a search engine – not simply an online bookstore.
Keywords and categories may seem obvious when picked the old fashioned way, but Amazon is cutting edge, so are its systems, and its shoppers know what they want and they don't want to waste time. Third party apps and keyword aggregators are not the answer to figuring out how real people are using Amazon to find books they actually end up buying.
But fortunately for you, we’ve figured it out.
Save $100 by using code AUGUSTPODCAST.Find out more here!
I'm betting when you read this title, you thought: "I'm proud of my book!" But we aren't talking about your book, we're talking about the things you may not have considered - like a social media channel you hardly ever use that's still in your signature line or on your website, or a release date announcement that's long since expired... as we often say: Details matter.
In this episode we're breaking down what to pay attention to, and what you may have overlooked that's making you look less professional than we know you want to be!
August Promotion:
A lot of companies offer Amazon Optimization – we do it better.
Most people don’t realize Amazon is a search engine – and it needs to be treated like a search engine – not simply an online bookstore.
Keywords and categories may seem obvious when picked the old fashioned way, but Amazon is cutting edge, so are its systems, and its shoppers know what they want and they don't want to waste time. Third party apps and keyword aggregators are not the answer to figuring out how real people are using Amazon to find books they actually end up buying.
But fortunately for you, we’ve figured it out.
Save $100 by using code AUGUSTPODCAST.Find out more here!
ALERT! This is a special minisode because this announcement from Amazon is awesome!
It's a big book marketing win for all of you KDP authors out there! Amazon just released an exciting new update to their KDP offerings: A+ Content!
What's A+ Content? Penny and Amy break it down in this show! We also just published a blog on this, too which you can see here: https://www.amarketingexpert.com/2021/08/04/amazon-book-marketing-a-content-now-available-to-self-published-authors/
August Promotion:
A lot of companies offer Amazon Optimization – we do it better.
Most people don’t realize Amazon is a search engine – and it needs to be treated like a search engine – not simply an online bookstore.
Keywords and categories may seem obvious when picked the old fashioned way, but Amazon is cutting edge, so are its systems, and its shoppers know what they want and they don't want to waste time. Third party apps and keyword aggregators are not the answer to figuring out how real people are using Amazon to find books they actually end up buying.
But fortunately for you, we’ve figured it out.
Save $100 by using code AUGUSTPODCAST.Find out more here!
There's a lot of confusion around Kindle Unlimited vs. Kindle and in this episode we break down what it is, why it matters - and does it matter to you? Should your book be in Kindle Unlimited and if so, what does that mean exactly?
We break down the options, what's good - and what's not so great and what does it really mean to be "exclusive to Amazon"?
August Promotion:
A lot of companies offer Amazon Optimization – we do it better.
Most people don’t realize Amazon is a search engine – and it needs to be treated like a search engine – not simply an online bookstore.
Keywords and categories may seem obvious when picked the old fashioned way, but Amazon is cutting edge, so are its systems, and its shoppers know what they want and they don't want to waste time. Third party apps and keyword aggregators are not the answer to figuring out how real people are using Amazon to find books they actually end up buying.
But fortunately for you, we’ve figured it out.
Save $100 by using code AUGUSTPODCAST.Find out more here!
It happens a lot: we get to release day and our marketing falls through the cracks, and the book winds up languishing on Amazon with little to no sales. So you focus on the next book, assuming it'll fix the first, right? Well, it won't unless you make some serious changes to how you approach your marketing.
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!July Promotion**:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.**To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
When was the last time you read your book reviews on Amazon?
Book reviews can be a goldmine for authors wanting to find out how they can improve their books (yes, even after they're published) and reviews can also offer you some outstanding insights into other, potentially creative markets you may want to dig into. Readers who are authentic in their reviews will tell you what you got right, and what you got wrong. Tune in to this episode for some insights, some brutal truth, and a few laughs along the way. Ever honest, Amy and Penny break it down for you in ways that will help you not just succeed, but maybe unearth flaws that may be preventing your book from being all it can be!
July Promotion:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
Don't miss these strategies you must consider for a successful book release, especially if you want to create the biggest window possible for media attention, from national magazines to genre specific bloggers.
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!July Promotion**:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.**To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
Did you hear? Apple is pushing out a new iOS update in September with even more security features which could change the way you market your book(s). Tune into this special episode covering what we know, and what you can do to prepare!
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!July Promotion**:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.**To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
Book marketing can help your book succeed, but there's a lot that book marketing can't fix and in this episode we're exploring what those limitations are. Join Amy and Penny as we lift the curtain on some things that many book marketing professionals won't tell you and learn what may be preventing your book from being successful!
July Promotion:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
If you've written a book series, or even if you have multiple books out - you might be missing this one, crucial detail that can cost you book sales!
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!July Promotion**:
You have a book, you’ve had some good reviews, but sales are lackluster.**To find out where the holes are in your approach and get personalized recommendations to get noticed by more readers and buyers simply provide us with some basic information about your book and your current marketing approach.
We'll assess things like:
- Your website and how well it’s set up for sales
- Your social media presence
- Your Amazon product listing
- Your Amazon keywords and categories
- Your current marketing efforts
Save $50 on our custom book marketing assessment by using code JULYPODCAST.Find out more here!
Picking the "birth" date of your book can be tricky. You want to pick the right one, but where do you start? A lot of authors get confused about picking a publication date that will help their book be successful.
Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!June Promotion:Email us your most frustrating marketing challenge and we'll talk about it on the show and give you some honest advice on how to tackle it and move forward! We'd love to get a link to your website, social, or Amazon as appropriate, depending on your question. If you prefer to remain anonymous for the purposes of our discussion on the show please be sure to mention that as well. Email info@amarketingexpert.com.
Do media kits and press releases still matter? A lot of authors still want one, but does it really make sense and will it move the needle?
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!June Promotion:Email us your most frustrating marketing challenge and we'll talk about it on the show and give you some honest advice on how to tackle it and move forward! We'd love to get a link to your website, social, or Amazon as appropriate, depending on your question. If you prefer to remain anonymous for the purposes of our discussion on the show please be sure to mention that as well. Email info@amarketingexpert.com.
Summer is in full swing and if you're ready to kick your book marketing up a notch, maybe it's time to consider marketing your book as a summer read! In this episode we talk about some books that are summer reads that might surprise you as well as some tips and tricks to get your book in front of readers looking for a summer escape (or a summer project, hint, hint).
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!June Promotion:Email us your most frustrating marketing challenge and we'll talk about it on the show and give you some honest advice on how to tackle it and move forward! We'd love to get a link to your website, social, or Amazon as appropriate, depending on your question. If you prefer to remain anonymous for the purposes of our discussion on the show please be sure to mention that as well. Email info@amarketingexpert.com.
Yes, we would all love blurbs for our covers and in prep for our releases, but they're tough to get. Luckily today's market gives you more options and is a lot more flexible!
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!June Promotion:Email us your most frustrating marketing challenge and we'll talk about it on the show and give you some honest advice on how to tackle it and move forward! We'd love to get a link to your website, social, or Amazon as appropriate, depending on your question. If you prefer to remain anonymous for the purposes of our discussion on the show please be sure to mention that as well. Email info@amarketingexpert.com.
This spicy yet insightful episode breaks down common mistakes a lot of amateur authors make and why you should avoid them when building your brand and platform!
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We see a lot of authors waiting too long to release books in a series. So what's the RIGHT timing?
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Promoting a memoir can be challenging, but that doesn't mean it can't be successful. Check out our tips for doing things correctly out of the gate! And even if memoir isn't your genre, we guarantee you'll learn a few things you can apply to your self-promotion as well.
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Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
What's the worst thing you can do on social media? Amy and Penny unravel this mystery!
A lot of authors still think social media is a sales channel, and that couldn’t be further from the truth. Social media is part of your brand, and your brand will support sales if managed the right way, or it could kill sales if you let it falter. Here’s a simple but important tip!
Please remember to leave a review and send us an email with show topic requests!
And we love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
The first 30-days of the life of your book are the most critical! If you miss that window, you're fighting a much tougher battle toward success. In this episode Penny and Amy chat about the 30-day window, and what do you need to do to prepare.
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
April 2021 Promotion:
Let’s collaborate on your next bestselling book cover!
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize. So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let me help!
For a special price of just $25 I’ll consult with you and the designer of your choosing on the creation of your next cover. Trust me, I understand buyer markets and I understand what’s working in publishing.
This is a special offer for April 2021 only so act fast, the retail price of this service will be $150 in the future.
Check out this page on our website to find out more!
Ready to dress up your Amazon page? In this episode we unpack some quick ways to dress up your Amazon book page with review enhancements and fun ways to drive more attention to your fabulous reviews!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!April 2021 Promotion:
Let’s collaborate on your next bestselling book cover!
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize. So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let me help!
For a special price of just $25 I’ll consult with you and the designer of your choosing on the creation of your next cover. Trust me, I understand buyer markets and I understand what’s working in publishing.
This is a special offer for April 2021 only so act fast, the retail price of this service will be $150 in the future.
Check out this page on our website to find out more!
This episode is a deep dive into the children's book market and what it really takes to succeed! Amy and Penny unpack the stuff they love, and the mistakes they see a lot of children's book authors making when they release their books.
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
April 2021 Promotion:
Let’s collaborate on your next bestselling book cover!
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize. So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let me help!
For a special price of just $25 I’ll consult with you and the designer of your choosing on the creation of your next cover. Trust me, I understand buyer markets and I understand what’s working in publishing.
This is a special offer for April 2021 only so act fast, the retail price of this service will be $150 in the future.
Check out this page on our website to find out more!
There’s a new player in the book game and readers (or should we say listeners) are really excited!--
We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
April 2021 Promotion:
Let’s collaborate on your next bestselling book cover!
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize. So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let me help!
For a special price of just $25 I’ll consult with you and the designer of your choosing on the creation of your next cover. Trust me, I understand buyer markets and I understand what’s working in publishing.
This is a special offer for April 2021 only so act fast, the retail price of this service will be $150 in the future.
Check out this page on our website to find out more!
With so many choices when it comes to publishing, what's an indie author to do? In this episode we unpack the differences between your publishing options: hybrid, small press, independent publishers like Ingram Spark, etc. And we also share some of the ugly pitfalls to avoid, what to look for in your contract and when to never sign a contract if certain things aren't present. Also, our checklist for finding and working with the right publisher!
Whether you're new to the publishing game, or getting ready to publish again, this episode is a must-listen!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
April 2021 Promotion:
Let’s collaborate on your next bestselling book cover!
Book covers matter, more than a lot of authors realize. So if you’re releasing a book this year, or you’re open to breathing new life into an already existing title by creating a new cover worthy of the bestseller list -- please let me help!
For a special price of just $25 I’ll consult with you and the designer of your choosing on the creation of your next cover. Trust me, I understand buyer markets and I understand what’s working in publishing.
This is a special offer for April 2021 only so act fast, the retail price of this service will be $150 in the future.
Check out this page on our website to find out more!
We love non-fiction books, but they often carry with them the responsibility of being a topic expert. If you wrote a book you're passionate about, but not necessarily a topic expert - tune into this episode as we break down why it matters, and what you can do to give your book a "expert" boost!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat! March 2021 Promotion:Does your book need help?
We’re offering free Amazon book evals during our full length shows – with honest feedback on what can be fixed! This free eval will be aired on the show, and we’ll share your author name and book title. Please note we may also share your book on social media to encourage other readers to listen and learn from our recommendations! If you’re open to solid, honest input contact us!
To qualify email info@amarketingexpert.com with “Can This Book be Saved” in the subject line.
Include your book’s Amazon link.
Include up to 5 challenges you’ve had (other than book sales).
It's happened to all of us - even Penny! What happens when this happens to you? Should you ask Amazon to remove it? We all hate getting bad reviews, but is there a way to spin this to the positive? We'll unpack this really important and often troubling question in this short minisode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
March 2021 Promotion:Does your book need help?
We’re offering free Amazon book evals during our full length shows – with honest feedback on what can be fixed! This free eval will be aired on the show, and we’ll share your author name and book title. Please note we may also share your book on social media to encourage other readers to listen and learn from our recommendations! If you’re open to solid, honest input contact us!
To qualify email info@amarketingexpert.com with “Can This Book be Saved” in the subject line.
Include your book’s Amazon link.
Include up to 5 challenges you’ve had (other than book sales).
Getting found on Amazon is a top priority for most authors, but coming up high in search is often challenging. Now there's another wrinkle in the whole optimization process, and it's something you may never have thought of. Tune in as we nerd out on all things Amazon from their recent algorithm changes to some insider tips for getting more visibility!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Yes, as an author you still have topics you’re passionate about, like politics or social justice, and it’s intriguing to want to weave those into your fiction or non-fiction book, so we’ll discuss how this can limit or support your marketing plan in strategic ways. **--
We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat**!
Do you write books in different genres? Are you sure? Because we often find that authors sometimes do write cross-genre, without even realizing it.
If you're a multi-genre author, or even if you've considered it you'll want to tune into this short but informative minisode on what works, and what doesn't, for multi-genre authors!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat! http://www.amarketingexpert.comDoes your book need help?
We’re offering free Amazon book evals during our full length shows – with honest feedback on what can be fixed! This free eval will be aired on the show, and we’ll share your author name and book title. Please note we may also share your book on social media to encourage other readers to listen and learn from our recommendations! If you’re open to solid, honest input contact us!
To qualify email info@amarketingexpert.com with “Can This Book be Saved” in the subject line.
Include your book’s Amazon link.
Include up to 5 challenges you’ve had (other than book sales).
If you have an author newsletter that hasn't really done much for you in the way of book sales - or maybe you haven't considered starting one, you'll love this podcast show!
Penny and Amy break down a ton of creative ideas related to starting an author newsletter, building your newsletter list, and creating a message that drives book sales!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
It seems like a simple thing, but discount eBook promotions are often tricky. What's the exact right price to maximize your exposure? We'll share some tips on pricing in this short minisode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you're struggling to get more reviews, or if you just want more love on your Amazon page, we'll unpack all of that in this episode. Also, when should you start to pursue reviews? That answer might surprise you!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Local libraries may not be open, but they're still doing lots of business and helping readers find new books, why not yours? We got this idea when a local library started doing something super creative with their book selections! Tune in as we unpack this nifty idea in this short minisode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We're back for season 2! We thought we'd kick off the season with one of the biggest mistakes we see authors making. Surprisingly though, it's often an easy fix. So grab a notepad and a pen (because we promise you'll want to take notes!).
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
It's here, the final show of the year - and might we add that we're so glad 2020 is behind us. But now as we look forward to 2021 we're looking at new things in book marketing - fun new ways to market your book and hot trends you will absolutely want to be a part of! This New Year's Eve show is jam-packed with ideas that will have you raking in the book sales in 2021!
Happy New Year everyone!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
What in the world is going on with Amazon categories? If your book is showing up in odd categories don't despair, we have a solution! Yes, it's happening all over Amazon right now. Tune in for more!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We know so much has changed in 2020 - more so than other years. The pandemic has really altered how book marketing is done. But was it all bad? Listen as Penny and Amy unpack the good, the bad and the "oh gosh I hope we never see this again" about 2020!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
The Amazon review system is being glitchy again and by glitchy we mean: lots of odd reviews showing up on an author's book page. Has this happened to you? Tune in to find out more!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Doing Amazon categories the wrong way can hurt your book sales - but picking the right categories can help your book sales soar. In this episode we unpack the secrets to finding the best categories for your book and some elements of picking categories that might surprise you. Want to sell more books? Tune in!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
With so many people reading these days, getting your book in front of more readers can really help book sales. This short but impactful episode helps to unpack how Little Free Libraries can help you get more exposure for your book and if you use them, a few cool tips to help you get more reviews!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Amazon ads are a great addition to any book campaign but you can also waste a lot of money on ads, too - without a lot of return. In this episode we discuss the secrets to a great Amazon ads campaign and the pitfalls to look out for.
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
This fun and quick episode explores the school market and virtual school events. Don't think your book is a fit, think again!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Though rarely talked about, Amazon's relevancy score is an important piece in the book sales puzzle. Understanding it, and working with it are extremely important to helping reach your book sales goals. In this episode Amy and Penny unpack the Amazon relevancy score, what it means, how to decipher yours and how to improve it to sell more books!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Do you find yourself having to explain your book cover, or your book - a lot? If so, that may be why you're not selling books. In this episode we'll unpack the reasons why over-explaining is a problem and how to fix it!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
As anyone who's published a book can tell you, it's a lot of work to write a book and even more work to publish one. Making sure you're ready is not just about having a finished book, it's just so much more. We'll unpack the topic and tell you why it's important to make sure you're ready, before you hit "publish."
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Have you incorporated video into your book marketing? If not, maybe you should be. Consider these statistics:
2022 video viewing will make up 82% of all internet traffic. This is 15 times higher than it was in 2017. In fact 6 out of 10 consumers would rather watch a video than television.
We're talking more than just fancy book trailers, videos are lots of things and can be incorporated into your book promotion in lots of creative ways. We'll unpack all of them in this fun, insightful episode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We know that book titles are important but can a bad title kill your book sales? Absolutely. And we'll unpack that and more in this minisode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
The old saying "the devil is in the details" is true, especially in book promotion. This short episode addresses many of the vital details authors miss. Want to sell more books? Listen up!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat! http://www.amarketingexpert.comDoes your book need help?
We’re offering free Amazon book evals during our full length shows – with honest feedback on what can be fixed! This free eval will be aired on the show, and we’ll share your author name and book title. Please note we may also share your book on social media to encourage other readers to listen and learn from our recommendations! If you’re open to solid, honest input contact us!
To qualify email info@amarketingexpert.com with “Can This Book be Saved” in the subject line.
Include your book’s Amazon link.
Include up to 5 challenges you’ve had (other than book sales).
Now more than ever, folks will be shopping online and, have you noticed, the Christmas buzz has started earlier than ever. It's called "Christmas creep" when all the holiday stuff, sales, and the buzz for sales kicks in. Your book can be a part of that buzz and this show will teach you how! Ready, set, sell!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Has your book fallen prey to the buzzword trap? It could be impacting your book marketing! This quick episode will tell you why and how to avoid the book buzzword trap!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Is it too early to start talking about holiday marketing? NO! This quick and fun episode will give you some tips on how to get more exposure for your book around the upcoming Christmas season!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Gift guides are all the rage, especially as the holiday season approaches. Could your book be a fit? Join us for a fun and informative deep dive and quick how-to to get your book submitted to gift guides just in time for the holidays!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you're ready to give your website a quick boost, this episode offers a really simple trick to get more readers onto your website, and get them buying your book.
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
"What am I doing wrong?" We get this question a lot, and in this quick 5 minute minisode we're going to break down the right and wrongs of social media!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you've done eBook promotions, discounts, or specials with very little fanfare, downloads or sales, you'll love this episode where Amy and Penny break down the recipe for an outstanding eBook promotion to not just increase book sales but reap other benefits as well. Never done an eBook promotion? We've got you covered!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Welcome to another minisode, we hope you love these! They're super quick short tips we'll drop weekly.
The future of marketing is here - and it's called collaboration! This short podcast will offer some cool tips and ideas about how you can grow your book marketing and book sales!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Welcome to another first minisode, we hope you love these! They're super quick short tips we'll drop weekly. This week we talk about a quick tip to not only clean up your newsletter but to greatly improve it! It's simple and easy!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Have you heard of BookBub? If not you'll love this show! We're digging into this site and taking you beyond their uber-popular daily deals to show you some cool tricks to build a following there (and why you'd want to!) and we'll also dig into the ultra-affordable BookBub ads!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Welcome to another minisode, we hope you love these! They're super quick short tips we'll drop weekly. This one is on Goodreads! We hope you love this and we always welcome your feedback!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Welcome to our first minisode, we hope you love these! They're super quick short tips we'll drop weekly. This one is on Amazon ads, a quick idea to refine your ads and make them work better!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
This was a listener suggestions and we're so delighted to share this episode! So if you've wondered whether you need a Fan Page, Facebook Group or just a profile to market your book, we have the answer? We'll discuss the benefits of each and the secret ingredient to making your Facebook presence rock and help you sell more books!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Lots of us love blog tours and lots of authors do them, but do they actually sell books? In this episode we'll dig into what a blog tour is and what it isn't - and how to find the exact right tour for your book. We'll also demystify "tours" with tour dates - do they still matter as much as they used to? And talk about how to build your own blog tour!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
To say book marketing has changed in 2020 would be an understatement, really. With author events canceled, book tours rescheduled for who knows when – and book releases moved – the publishing world has seen a lot of change.
But the thing is, books are still selling. Perhaps now more than ever. And in this podcast your book marketing hosts are digging into all of the things you could be doing NOW to push book sales. Even if you just pick one of them - we hope to motivate you to success.
Ready? Let's dig in!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We hear a lot about Bookstagrammers - a hashtag made popular by book loving Instagrammers - but who are they and what can they do for your book? In this episode we'll dig into this popular Instagram hashtag and the book loving folks who push out tons of great reads on Instagram!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you have a book that's a bit older but is it still marketable? In this episode we break down the mystery of promoting an older book. When should you re-release a book vs. when can you promote a book that's been out for a while?
Your book marketing duo walks you through tips for marketing, ideas you can implement today and some creative solutions to get your older book out there and selling!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Getting a book out into the world is a tricky thing. When should you release it? Does timing matter? Should you start marketing your book before it's out? And how early should you start?
In this episode your book marketing duo talks you through all facets of timing, pre-planning, and launch. Unraveling the mystery behind the perfect timing of a book launch!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you haven't been pitching yourself to local media, you really should. It's one of the biggest areas authors miss, but it can really offer some maximum benefit. The second most overlooked area is trade media. Trade media is core focused on your market and if you're really interested in selling more books, you shouldn't overlook this goldmine of an opportunity!
This is part 3 of our 3-part media series!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
If you're ready for the big time you'll love this show! Amy and Penny dig into pitching big, national media. Uncovering the secrets and sharing tips only publicists know about how to get more media for your book!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
Two book publicists share their secrets for getting more media for your book. In the episode we'll dig into how to get more media attention for your book. We're talking pitches, timing, and how to be a media star!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
In part two of this two-part blogger series we're digging into the importance of the pitch and how to pitch bloggers to get more "yes" responses to your email pitches. If you've been pitching bloggers for a while but aren't sure if you're doing it right, you'll love this show. Get more reviews and more attention for your book!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We're exploring the mysterious and often elusive blogger reviews. How to find bloggers and how to pitch them. This episode will be in two parts and in this fist section we're looking at how to find the right bloggers for your book. We're looking at the value of blogger directories, creative ways to find bloggers and most important: finding the exact right blogger markets for your book.
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
In this final episode we're digging into Goodreads giveaways, why they matter and how they can actually help you sell more books!
This is the final part of a 3-part Goodreads series to help you maximize that platform and sell more books!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
This week we're digging into some fun networking with readers (yah!), Goodreads groups and other authors! It's easier than you think and will benefit you in big ways. Tune in to this fun and helpful show packed with easy-to-implement tips!
This is the second part of a 3-part Goodreads series to help you maximize that platform and sell more books!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
In this podcast we're digging into the best social networking site for authors: Goodreads. This podcast includes tips and tricks for using it - and why you'd want to! We'll dig into how to set up a platform there, some simple steps for optimizing and how to get more visibility for your books!
This is the first part of a 3-part Goodreads series to help you maximize that platform and sell more books!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
These are unique and difficult times for many - and as authors, we're in a unique position to push lots of entertainment value out to the world. With escapism at an all-time high, now is the time to get busy and start promoting! In this episode we look at the things you can be doing right now to drive more interest to your book - unique things that work well in this environment. Additionally, we discuss some great newsjacking ideas to tie your book into the topic of Covid-19!
Be well, stay safe - and don't forget to wash your hands. 🖐
PS if you follow these tips, please tag me in social so I can see what you're doing:
Twitter: @bookgal
Instagram: @therealbookgal
Publisher's Weekly is now free to the online community! You can sign up here:
https://mailchi.mp/publishersweekly/our-commitment-to-the-book-community?e=8bda67f2a9
How debut authors are getting creative with their marketing:
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/18/books/debut-novels-book-tours.html
Supporting Bookjobs.org is a great way to encourage people to shop for books online but also support their local bookstores:
https://bookshop.org/
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
In episode three we're looking at easy, fun, and super effective ways to connect with more readers and sell more books! Readers love having a connection to the author and this show will inspire some easy-to-implement ideas you can do right away!
Here are some unique efforts driving more reader outreach and more sales!
Download and use quotes and eCards for free: https://clairecook.com/quotesecards/
Connecting yourself with a good cause: https://clairecook.com/resources/readers-readers/
She called her media room her “scrapbook” because she understands her buyer market: http://cathyday.com/about/in-media/
Such a smart, witty call to action front and center on her site: https://cjlyons.net/
Includes where and how she does her research for her thrillers and it’s hard core: https://cjlyons.net/extras/
Lots of fun stuff for her readers: https://danicollins.com/extras/
She created a quiz to support her topic: https://quiz.gretchenrubin.com/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=homepage
She also created journals and posters, that’s next level branding, getting people to invite you into their everyday life: https://gretchenrubin.com/shop/
This author does a live book club: https://www.instagram.com/p/BbPtAqjAaY8/
She also encourages engagement with giveaways: http://bit.ly/2WnnxzR
We have a fun marketing planner (which will help a ton), you can grab here: https://www.amarketingexpert.com/monthly-book-marketing-planner
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
In this episode, we dig into the specifics on how to tweak your Amazon book page to sell more books - because your Amazon book page is key to your book sales. Yes, your cover is important, but if your page is lackluster, you'll limit your book sales potential.
We discuss in-depth tips for maximizing your book page and how to really maximize it to sell more books!
Here are some Amazon page examples, both good and bad. We discuss these pages, in particular, on the podcast and reference changes that might be applicable to each!
These two links are examples of books that could use a little work on their pages – having great subtitles, and adding more reviews would be a good start in both of these cases:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1393135293?tag=books2read02-20
https://www.amazon.com/Time-Deception-Sue-Lee-Mystery-ebook/dp/B01N4RBNRO/ref=sr_1_4?qid=1570032146&refinements=p_27%3AD+M+Sorlie&s=books&sr=1-4&text=D+M+Sorlie
Doing better, but could still use some polish:
https://www.amazon.com/Scent-Fear-NJ-Litz-ebook-dp-B07KB5MNV8/dp/B07KB5MNV8/ref=mt_kindle?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=1569550571
https://www.amazon.com/Celtic-Thorn-Darcy-Morgan-Book-ebook/dp/B07W8G2K78/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1569949629&refinements=p_27%3AWilliam+Crosgrove&s=digital-text&sr=1-1&text=William+Crosgrove
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1089383835
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ6E3EM?_encoding=UTF8&isInIframe=1&n=133140011&ref_=dp_proddesc_0&s=digital-text&showDetailProductDesc=1#iframe-wrapper
These are doing pretty good:
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Imperfect-Bride-Lone-Dynasty-ebook/dp/B07V4FHS6C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1N0O03P4XLJ0V&keywords=love+with+an+imperfect+bride&qid=1569442176&s=gateway&sprefix=Love+with+an+im%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Alluring-Attraction-Book-Illicit-Illusions-ebook/dp/B07KY5L5WD/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1548627213&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl1&tag=afzoelle-20&linkId=e51839211a25ef1435954fcf0e1febbb&language=en_US
This one is just great!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PBQL4D8
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
95% of books are sold word of mouth - so if you want to sell more books, your one-on-one reader connection matters!
How is your reader outreach going? This episode unwraps the importance of creating a strong reader connection as part of selling more books, with fun, creative tips to help you build your tribe and get more readers recommending your books to their networks!
The real focus when it comes to being able to sell more books really needs to be about making connections with readers and building relationships.
Books are personal, and I want to believe authors are also readers, and in their heart of hearts, as much as they want to make money by publishing, they can still keep that personal connection they have with books in mind too.
Focus on your audience and understanding your audience.
Network with readers on Goodreads, being an active fan of your genre matters.
Get involved locally with your libraries, book groups, seasonal and community events.
Be unique and memorable with your website content, including your bonus content, and on Amazon, personalized touches are important.
Run giveaways and promotions that give back to dedicated followers and people who engage with you. BOGOs are great, that’s “buy one give one”.
Be a resource, if you write non-fiction that’s a bit more straightforward, if you write fiction, recommend books and or lifestyle products that fit the theme of your work.
Write that next book!
Here is an author worth checking out that’s gone above and beyond to create content and lots of opportunities for her readers to stay immersed in the worlds she’s created:
https://melissafoster.com/reader-goodies/
And check out her Goodreads profile for some serious inspiration:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3023973.Melissa_Foster
We have a reader profile brainstorm (which will help a ton), you can grab here: https://www.amarketingexpert.com/reader-profile-brainstorm
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!
We're unraveling the mystery of selling more books, one entertaining and book-nerd loving episode at a time. In this discussion, we'll look at one of the biggest secrets to selling more books - and it's surprisingly simple. Dig into the details of how to find more readers, how to sell more books, and how to build a big sales funnel in our very first episode!
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We love a good DIYer, but if you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, drop us a line and let's chat!