Write Publish Market: Recent Episodes
Jodi Brandon
The Write Publish Market podcast explores all facets of the book publishing process for entrepreneurs.
In this episode Jodi breaks down exactly what a strong nonfiction book introduction needs to accomplish, why so many business owners overcomplicate it, and the simple framework that makes writing your book introduction easier.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and episode introduction
01:15 – Why book introductions feel so intimidating
03:05 – The real job of your introduction
04:12 – Making sure readers recognize themselves in your book
06:02 – "Tell them what you're going to tell them"
08:05 – Building buy-in and reader investment
09:11 – Why readers need to trust you as the guide
11:35 – The role of the know-like-trust factor in business books
13:10 – Explaining what makes your book different
14:44 – How to end your introduction with momentum
16:10 – Structuring and formatting your introduction
18:05 – The overall purpose of a strong introduction
19:22 – Pro tip: write your introduction last
22:05 – Final encouragement and wrap-up
Keywords:
book introduction, nonfiction book introduction, business book writing, writing a business book, book introduction tips, author platform, book marketing, book writing process, nonfiction writing, business author, thought leadership, writing a book introduction, book structure, book outline, business book strategy, know like trust factor, author credibility, book transformation, reader journey, business book coach, book publishing strategist, book writing for business owners, book writing for leaders, leaders writing books, business owners writing books
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XPXP37Rp3XXoIm7y1xjhKVfTcLjlHeptdNnhQ6SBvms/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi explains how business owners can turn scattered ideas into a workable table of contents, and shares why an outline should be viewed as a flexible, living document rather than a restrictive set of rules. If you've been avoiding the outline phase of your book project, this episode will change how you think about the entire writing process.
Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Write.Publish.Market. 01:10 – Why business owners resist outlines 02:15 – The real problem with "figuring it out as you go" 03:35 – Why thinking about writing is not the same as writing 05:00 – Reframing the outline as a working document 07:15 – How outlines reduce decision fatigue and build momentum 09:10 – Introducing the "book brain dump" exercise 11:00 – Finding themes, patterns, and sections in your ideas 13:20 – How your outline evolves into a working table of contents 15:05 – Using your outline to repurpose existing content 17:10 – Why outlines actually fuel creativity 18:35 – Final encouragement to stop fearing the "O word"
Keywords:
business book outline, book outline for entrepreneurs, writing a business book, book planning process, working outline, working table of contents, business book strategy, book brain dump exercise, how to outline a nonfiction book, writing process for business owners, book coaching for entrepreneurs, writing momentum, repurposing content into a book, nonfiction book structure, overcoming writer overwhelm, book planning for CEOs, author productivity, writing a manuscript, content repurposing for authors, writing your first business book, business owners writing books, book writing for business owners, book writing for leaders, leaders writing books
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Book Brain Dump Exercise: https://bit.ly/bookbraindump
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OGnkwVTpzBSY6ryVFFU0M6gn0trGt9Gt957OPsvjuWg/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi interviews Heidi Yarger to break down three of the biggest myths around book visibility—and what actually moves the needle for business owner authors.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Intro and welcome back to Heidi
03:00 – Myth #1: Sharing your book cover is enough
07:30 – Why readers need to connect with you, not just your book
10:15 – Myth #2: Your launch is months away, so you can wait to market
12:00 – What a 6–9 month visibility runway looks like
16:30 – What to share before your book comes out (content ideas)
20:45 – Visibility vs. trust: what actually matters
23:30 – Myth #3: A great book will sell itself
27:00 – Why your presence gives your book meaning
30:00 – What happens after launch (and why most authors stop too soon)
34:00 – How Heidi works with authors (strategy + execution)
38:30 – Recap of the three myths
40:30 – Reading recommendations
Keywords:
ook marketing, author platform, book visibility, nonfiction authors, business books, personal brand, book launch strategy, book marketing myths, author marketing, social media for authors, book promotion, publishing strategy, hybrid publishing, self-publishing marketing, traditional publishing marketing, content strategy for authors, thought leadership, book business strategy, author brand building, prelaunch marketing, business owners writing books, leaders writing books
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Your Publisher Won't Do It for You: 3 Ways Authors Can Build Brand and Buzz Before Launch: https://spitfiregirldesign.com/publisher
Dog Medicine by Julie Barton
Take What You Can Carry (linked in show notes)
How to Read a Book (novel)
Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
About Our Guest:
Heidi Yarger is founder & creative director of Spitfiregirl, an award-winning agency for visionaries, leaders and doers ready to take the next step. Using brand strategy and thoughtful design, Heidi & her team help authors go beyond traditional book marketing to help them show up and show out online - creating a personal brand that will serve you before, and long after your book launch.
Website: https://spitfiregirldesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespitfiregirl
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiyarger/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thespitfiregirl/
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FCblgRDIqFxQgH85Js-F11LP_LJyo4JzrjXxFEDmq20/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down why focusing on sales numbers alone can mislead you, and what you should be tracking instead to measure the real ROI of your book. Book sales might be the most visible metric—but for business owners, they're rarely the most meaningful. From lead generation to visibility and client conversion, this episode will help you redefine what success actually looks like.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Intro and recap of last week's episode
02:00 – Why book sales are the default (but flawed) metric
04:00 – What book success really looks like for business owners
05:30 – Metric #1: Client conversion & sales cycle
08:00 – Metric #2: Visibility opportunities (speaking, podcasts, partnerships)
10:15 – Metric #3: Lead generation and calls to action
12:30 – Why defining success early matters
14:30 – Understanding "invisible ROI"
17:00 – Real-world examples (speaking, bulk books, indirect revenue)
19:00 – Final takeaway: define success before publishing
Keywords:
book marketing strategy, business book ROI, book sales vs ROI, author marketing metrics, lead generation from a book, book as a marketing tool, business book strategy, publishing for entrepreneurs, book sales cycle, thought leadership books, nonfiction marketing strategy, book funnel strategy, author visibility strategy, speaking opportunities from a book, book lead magnets, measuring book success, business ecosystem marketing, ROI of writing a book, book marketing for entrepreneurs, strategic book writing, business owners writing books, book writing for business owners
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dUQLCUrzkHo_8QA38ISvZ_8KJUoojxbMcnL7ajwzaRM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down a topic that many business owners encounter when considering writing a book: understanding the role of the book within their business ecosystem. This understanding helps business owners writing books set realistic expectations and appropriate goals.
Time Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – The common misconception about book sales
03:15 – Why your book isn't your primary revenue stream
05:45 – The math behind book sales vs. client revenue
08:10 – The real ROI of a business book
10:25 – What happens when expectations are misaligned
12:40 – Reframing your book as a supporting asset
14:30 – Where your book fits in your business ecosystem
16:00 – Thinking in terms of offers: tripwires, upsells, and more
18:20 – Why clarity early in the process matters
20:00 – Final thoughts and wrap-up
Keywords: book as a business asset, business book strategy, author marketing strategy, book ROI for business owners, how a book grows your business, lead generation with a book, book as a supporting product, signature offer vs book, business ecosystem strategy, sales funnel and books, nurturing leads with a book, know like trust factor, book marketing expectations, monetizing a business book, book vs coaching revenue, entrepreneurial author strategy, writing a book for your business, book marketing for entrepreneurs, long term ROI of a book, tripwires and upsells, offer suite strategy, book as lead magnet, sales cycle acceleration, content marketing with a book, business growth through publishing
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Episode 170: Sales Multipliers + Your Book: http://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/170
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Du0z1Lhu5UKwry1ayv1sqrwAlE91FpsGm3VEDhqA_Eo/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi welcomes back Hailey Dale to discuss how business owners can write a book without putting their business on pause. They discuss how your signature process can become the foundation of both your content strategy and your future book, why your content is an asset (and not disposable), and how to use your editorial calendar as a book-writing tool.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome + Introduction of Haley Dale
02:00 – The push-pull between content creation and book writing
04:00 – Why you need a signature process before writing a book
05:30 – From signature process to book outline
07:30 – Content campaigns as chapters
08:20 – Example: Atomic Habits by James Clear
09:30 – Validating book ideas through content response
11:00 – "Your content is an asset"
13:30 – Permission: This is not your magnum opus
16:00 – "Your content is your book. You just need the right system."
18:30 – Building audience while writing the book
20:00 – The 4-step process recap
23:30 – Why the first draft feels overwhelming
27:30 – Book recommendation: The Lifestyle Business Playbook by Daniel Priestley
Keywords:
signature process, content pillars, editorial calendar, content campaigns, repurposing content, business book strategy, nonfiction book writing, first draft overwhelm, content as an asset, lifestyle-first business model, minimalist content system, authority building, thought leadership, book marketing strategy, content repackaging, table of contents development, audience building, book launch preparation, IP development, sustainable content systems, book writing for business owners, business owners writing books, book writing for entrepreneurs
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Lifestyle Business Playbook by Daniel Priestley
About Our Guest:
Hailey Dale is an author and award-winning content creator behind Your Content Empire. With 10+ years of experience, she helps coaches, course creators and service providers scale their businesses through custom strategies, sustainable systems and lifestyle-first business model design.
https://www.yourcontentempire.com/
https://www.instagram.com/yourcontentempire
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nzLKUyI0gEwu4PVOuPzDHdKE-Lzi3dymr9h7YXnGJ1U/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi breaks down the emotional and mental challenges of writing a nonfiction book as a business owner, focusing on the "messy middle" when motivation dips and doubt creeps in. She explains why these cycles are completely natural, how to recognize your personal patterns of resistance, and what to do to get back on track. Jodi also shares practical strategies for recommitting to your writing schedule, revisiting your goals, and understanding the hidden costs of delay so your book can become the powerful marketing asset your business needs.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome to the Write Publish Market Podcast
02:00 – What the "messy middle" really is
03:30 – The predictable motivation arc: excitement → resistance → doubt
06:00 – Why messy middle ≠ wrong project
07:45 – Invisible progress and lack of external deadlines
10:00 – Competing priorities and deprioritizing your book
12:00 – How to reset: clarity, structure, accountability
14:00 – The Book Planning Intensive evolution
16:30 – Creating a realistic writing schedule with data
19:30 – The hidden costs of not finishing your book
22:00 – Final encouragement: dips are normal—regroup and continue
Keywords:
messy middle, book writing motivation, sustaining momentum, resistance and doubt, writer's block, imposter syndrome, fear of rejection, invisible progress, self-publishing, external deadlines, competing priorities, realistic writing schedule, writing habit, authority building, invisible ROI, clarity and recommitment, accountability and support, book as a marketing asset, nonfiction book strategy, long-term projects in business, business owners writing books, book writing for business owners
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: https://bit.ly/readysetwritechallenge
Book Planning Intensive: https://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PqhNXwesdEO_LnN84Wenq_ZxQHuoQ3RpB_Ylk_z8QFw/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi and Erin Ollila discuss how business owners should use website copy strategically to sell and promote a book, whether that's a dedicated book website or a book sales page on your existing business site. Erin shares with listeners where to feature the book throughout your website for trust-building and SEO, and how blog posts and podcast show notes can drive long-term book visibility. Jodi and Erin also discuss email marketing as it relates to books, including direct sales strategies, customer data, and email list permissions best practices.
Time Stamps:
00:01 — Intro + welcome Erin back
02:40 — Book page on existing site vs. separate book website
05:23 — Why keeping the book on your site supports SEO + authority
07:36 — The must-have: a dedicated book page (and where to place it)
09:31 — Where to reference the book (About page, homepage, resources)
11:46 — Use blog posts + podcast show notes to promote the book naturally
13:00 — SEO strategy: long-tail keywords + "more windows on your house"
16:44 — Why direct sales matter: upsells, funnels, customer data
23:23 — Email compliance: permission-based opt-ins + receipt email strategy
28:20 — Build a book-specific nurture sequence (before general newsletter)
29:45 — What a book page needs (keep it simple)
32:52 — Media page vs. media section on book page
35:45 — Permission to take a "B-minus approach" and improve later
39:44 — Book recommendations + where to find Erin
Keywords:
book sales page, book website vs sales page, author website copy, website copywriting for authors, book landing page, book page on website, how to sell a book on your website, direct book sales, selling books direct, book marketing for business owners, book funnel, book nurture sequence, email opt-in compliance, CAN-SPAM laws, customer data for authors, SEO for authors, book SEO keywords, blog posts for book marketing, podcast show notes SEO, branded keywords, author platform, about page book placement, website navigation book page, media page for authors, speaking page for authors, book page conversion rate, copywriting tips for book pages, business owners writing books, book writing for business owners
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Erin's podcast: Talk Copy to Me: https://erinollila.com/podcast/
About Our Guest:
onversion copywriter. Copy Coach. Lover of ice cream, especially in non-dairy forms. Erin Ollila is a conversion copywriter who believes in the power of words and how a message can inform—and even transform—its intended audience. When she's not working with big brands and small businesses to marry strategy, storytelling, and SEO, you can find her exploring southeastern MA with her family and friends. Erin graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing.
Website: http://erinollila.com
Talk Copy to me (podcast): https://erinollila.com/podcast/
Links to social media accounts:
Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/12NfaADDVbezVb5EPLxs3sdmq6g8M9N-eDN3BnJT67v0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down what sustainable book marketing really looks like for business owners and leaders, and why long-term promotion should feel manageable rather than exhausting. She explains how marketing energy shifts after launch, why business owners need a different approach than traditional authors use, and how combining active and passive strategies creates a marketing plan your book (and your schedule) can sustain.
Time Stamps:
00:00 — Introduction: Why sustainable book marketing matters
01:00 — Burnout and overwhelm in book marketing
02:20 — Launch energy vs. long-term marketing energy
03:30 — Why business owners market books differently than traditional authors
04:45 — Experimentation and data in book marketing
05:40 — Active vs. passive marketing explained
06:45 — Practical day-to-day marketing approaches
07:15 — Simple visibility tactics that work quietly
08:15 — Quarterly promotion pushes and marketing cycles
09:30 — Building a sustainable long-term marketing plan
Keywords:
sustainable book marketing, book marketing for business owners, long-term book marketing strategy, author marketing plan, book promotion strategy, passive book marketing, active book marketing, book launch vs long-term marketing, marketing a business book, entrepreneur author marketing, book marketing burnout, evergreen book funnels, book marketing systems, book marketing for CEOs, book ROI strategy, business book promotion, marketing after book launch, author platform growth, book visibility strategy, marketing books sustainably, book writing for business owners, business owners writing books
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Write Publish Market Episode 179: Effective Long-Term Book Marketing for Business Owners Writing Books
Write Publish Market Episode 143: Think Beyond the Book Launch
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/15HlbN4esX56SHyL9fgJlh0hyTYoF6txEsGTfoOQkeqc/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi explains why direct selling your book is the smartest marketing strategy for business owners and leaders. She breaks down the limitations of third-party sellers (including Amazon), explores how upsells and bundles can create increased ROI, and shows how direct sales help business owners collect data, build relationships, and guide readers through their business ecosystem.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Part 2 of the Business-First Book Series
01:10 – Why direct selling matters more than ever
02:15 – The limits of retail outlets and Amazon fatigue
03:45 – Why traditional book marketing advice doesn't work for business owners
05:10 – The real purpose of a business book
06:30 – Why royalties are not the primary goal
07:40 – Relationship-building vs. transactional sales
09:00 – The importance of owning customer data
10:20 – "Do the Math" – how direct sales multiply ROI
12:45 – Upsells, downsells, tripwires, and order bumps
14:20 – Example: pairing a book with a workbook or masterclass
16:30 – Using experimentation to refine your strategy
18:10 – Episode recommendations and resources
19:00 – Book Planning Intensive and final thoughts
Keywords:
direct book sales, book marketing for business owners, selling books directly, Amazon fatigue, third-party booksellers, book royalties, author revenue, book sales strategy, sales multipliers, upsells and downsells, order bumps, tripwires, book bundles, customer data, business ecosystem, author marketing, publishing strategy, self-publishing marketing, book ROI, tangible ROI, intangible ROI, book funnels, relationship-based marketing, business-first books, entrepreneur authors, book promotion
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Episode 207: Self-Publishing: A Business-First Approach for Business Owners
Episode 204: Do the Math to Generate Tangible and Intangible ROI from Your Nonfiction Book
Episode 200: Direct Sales Are the Future of Book Marketing
Episode 170: Sales Multipliers + Your BVook
Book Planning Intensive: jodibrandoneditorial.com/services
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wlm9UPHknZOjtrSg843DMi4a0kfS0DCY4WIArG4px_w/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi makes the case for self-publishing as Plan A for business owners. She explains how control, speed to market, pricing flexibility, and brand alignment make self-publishing a smart strategic choice for business owners and leaders who want their book to serve their business goals.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and episode overview
01:05 – Making the mindset shift: self-publishing as Plan A
02:10 – Why the "traditional publishing or bust" mindset persists
03:30 – The importance of foundational book planning
04:45 – How publishing paths have evolved
06:00 – Why traditional publishing isn't author-centric
07:30 – Control: the biggest advantage of self-publishing
09:10 – Timeline, pricing, royalties, and messaging control
11:30 – Why retail placement may not serve your goals
13:00 – Fitting your book into your business ecosystem
15:10 – Self-publishing as a strategic business decision
16:30 – The book's role in revenue and client journey
18:20 – Overview of hybrid publishing as an option
19:30 – Preview of Part 2 of the Business-First Book Series
Keywords:
self-publishing, traditional publishing, hybrid publishing, business books, author mindset, publishing paths, book strategy, publishing control, book marketing, business ecosystem, author royalties, book pricing, book timeline, publishing decisions, entrepreneur authors, CEO authors, publishing process, book authority, client journey, book as business asset, direct sales, publishing strategy, publishing options, thought leadership books, book publishing mindset
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Episode 171: Self-Publishing as a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure
Episode 150: Understanding Hybrid Publishing
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AKm-0yEISiy7vWmgz4TLL5DOru7drwDqgXqnNMfVwPE/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down why so many business owners overthink their book projects—and how to replace overwhelm with clarity and momentum. She walks through the foundational planning steps, explains how to structure your book based on your business goals, and shares practical tips for reducing decision fatigue through repurposing and realistic scheduling.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:55 – Why business owners overthink their book projects
02:05 – Acknowledging the many moving pieces
03:10 – Why a vague "book time" block doesn't work
04:15 – A personal story: discovering the power of a more specific plan
06:00 – Understanding your writing capacity and time tracking
07:30 – How writing, publishing, and marketing all fit into your plan
09:00 – Foundational book building blocks: who, what, and why
11:35 – Deep dive vs. overview structure—how to choose
13:00 – Repurposing content without guilt
15:00 – Using a Book Brain Dump to reduce overwhelm
17:10 – Why you won't (and shouldn't) know everything about publishing
18:15 – Final encouragement for moving from idea → manuscript → asset
Keywords:
book planning, writing strategy, author overwhelm, book project plan, content repurposing, book structure, business owner authors, publishing process, book timeline, writing capacity, author mindset, book building blocks, Book Brain Dump, book coaching, author productivity
Resources Mentioned:
Book Brain Dump Exercise: https://bit.ly/bookbraindump
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Write Publish Market Episode 203: Prepare Now to Write a Book in 2026: 3 Tips for Business Owners: http://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/203
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1snDUCQ5RI4unQ5MLjBppn0iY2ODYo2OPk8SSUpQ0BD8/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down why registering your copyright is essential—especially in the age of AI and digital piracy. She explains what automatic copyright does (and doesn't) protect, shares a recent real-world case involving AI scraping thousands of books, and walks through what to do if your work is pirated. If your book is part of your business ecosystem, this episode is a must-listen.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and introduction
00:55 – Why copyright registration matters more than ever
02:05 – Automatic copyright vs. registered copyright: what's the difference?
03:15 – The Anthropic/Claude AI scraping case and what authors learned
06:00 – Why some authors received settlements and others didn't
07:20 – Why registration is a powerful "insurance policy"
08:30 – Human-generated content and what can be copyrighted
09:45 – The $35 decision that protects your IP
10:30 – What to do if your work is pirated or used without permission
12:15 – DMCA takedown notices and how they work
13:45 – Legal disclaimers (Jodi is not a lawyer!)
15:00 – Final encouragement: protect your work, protect your business
Keywords:
copyright registration, book piracy, DMCA takedown, Claude AI case, author rights, book protection, intellectual property for authors, US Copyright Office, AI and copyright, publishing law, business owner authors, book copyright basics, protecting your book, legal steps for authors, copyright infringement
Resources Mentioned:
U.S. Copyright Office: https://copyright.gov/
Anthropic/Claude AI lawsuit coverage: https://www.anthropic.com/
DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act): https://www.copyright.gov/dmca/
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TwagY7clIYTeqeEWZA13BMhiNZQYJ0kc_iutoSgyfpY/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi explores the tangible and intangible ROI of a book for business owners and why focusing solely on book sales misses the bigger picture. She shares examples from her new "Do the Math" sections in the newest edition of Write.Publish.Market., showing how books can drive revenue through coaching, courses, and offers — not just book royalties.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction and context for today's topic
01:00 – Revisiting the "intangible ROI" concept
02:00 – Introducing the "Do the Math" feature in Write.Publish.Market.
03:15 – Book launch reflections and why bestseller status isn't the goal for business owners
05:00 – Key takeaways from the 2024 Business Book ROI Report
07:30 – Example 1: Book + Webinar or Masterclass upsells
10:00 – Example 2: Book leading to coaching and consulting offers
12:30 – Example 3: Comparing direct sales vs. third-party platforms
15:00 – Stacking offers: upsells, tripwires, and mini courses
18:00 – The power of pairing tangible ROI with intangible outcomes
20:00 – Final thoughts: "Do the math" for your book's business impact
Keywords:
book ROI, business book strategy, book marketing, author revenue, direct book sales, coaching offers, book funnels, upsells and tripwires, tangible ROI, intangible ROI, book launch strategy, Smith Publicity ROI Report, book as business asset, publishing ROI, author income streams
Resources Mentioned:
A Comprehensive Study of Business Book ROI (2024) by Amplify Publishing Group, Gotham Ghostwriters, Smith Publicity, and Thought Leadership Leverage: https://authorroi.com/
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1on6VyH0_jXw6d4tFB7QcohKG56WiSHWO78vhJy7tDLA/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi shares three practical tips to help business owners prepare now for a 2026 book project. From clarifying the book's role in your business to making time for the work and organizing existing content, Jodi walks through the early steps business owners and leaders should take to set up a smooth writing, publishing, and marketing process.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction and setting the stage for 2026
01:20 – Why planning ahead matters for big projects like a book
02:30 – Tip 1: Plan for the long term and clarify your book's role in your business ecosystem
06:15 – Tip 2: Prepare well and make space on your calendar
10:45 – Tip 3: Brain dump your content library to jumpstart writing
14:00 – Recap of three tips and encouragement to start preparing now
15:30 – Book brain dump resource and repurposing masterclass
17:00 – Closing remarks
Keywords:
book planning, book writing strategy, book marketing, publishing plan, author strategy, vision board goals, business book, content repurposing, project planning, writing schedule, publishing timeline, book ecosystem, time management for authors, 2026 planning, book launch prep
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Book Brain Dump Exercise: https://bit.ly/bookbraindump
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TCCZa4ienHiubvHL5mkUKMwGWODHQAKZ289EXvOQkQ8/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi shares a final behind-the-scenes look at the third edition of Write.Publish.Market. She talks about on the production process, launch preparations, and the strategic updates that shaped this revised edition. Jodi also discusses why book marketing is a long game and how smart planning, the right book team, and intentional updates can set a book launch up for long-term success for business owners writing books.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction and launch day excitement
01:15 – Why book marketing is a long game
03:10 – Production phase: from Word doc to real book
06:20 – Assembling the book team and cover design decisions
09:45 – Launch planning: email sequences, tech prep, and strategy
12:00 – Updating the book content and structure for a new edition
16:30 – Using the book as a business asset and funnel
19:00 – Final reflections, key takeaways, and launch invitation
Keywords:
book launch, book marketing, behind the scenes, book production, copy editing, typesetting, cover design, book team, publishing strategy, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, author platform, book funnel, book promotion, book update, marketing strategy
Resources Mentioned:
Write.Publish.Market., 3rd Edition: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/book
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xd0QusQZh1Nrox6i0-NBhRyfITKwFmMwtNjPv2GkYt0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi shares why podcast guesting is one of the most effective and underutilized strategies for authors who want to market their books long term. She explains how guest appearances help you repurpose content, build trust with new audiences, and shorten the sales cycle—making podcast guesting a powerful tool in your overall visibility strategy.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and introduction 01:10 – Why podcast guesting belongs in your book marketing plan 03:00 – Reason #1: Repurposing guest appearances as long-term content 07:30 – Reason #2: Leveraging the host's know-like-trust factor to warm up new audiences 14:00 – Bonus: How podcast guesting connects directly to sales multipliers 16:30 – Sponsor break: Coffee and Commas newsletter 18:00 – The importance of shortening the sales cycle with podcast appearances 23:00 – Reason #3: Helping audiences get to know you faster (voice, personality, expertise) 28:15 – Bonus tip: Why guesting works long after your book launch 34:00 – Ongoing marketing, quarterly visibility pushes, and ROI from your book 38:30 – Wrap-up and closing thoughts
Keywords:
book marketing, podcast guesting, visibility strategy, content repurposing, know-like-trust, author platform, book launch, business growth, sales cycle, sales multipliers, evergreen marketing, author visibility, marketing ecosystem, ROI for authors, business owners writing books, leaders writing books, book writing for business owners, books writing for leaders
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Write Publish Market Episode 170: Sales Multipliers and Your Book: http://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/170
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/15DsDOgy4u0qDyLPeM1FFDdGeI-XeYdSL-TX10-o-5Po/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi explains why direct sales have become the future of independent publishing and a must-have strategy for business-owner authors. She shares the pros and cons of selling books directly, why it offers more control, and how it helps you increase ROI by using customer data, sales multipliers, and bundling strategies.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and episode introduction
01:00 – The shift away from Amazon and third-party sellers
03:00 – Industry insight from Joanna Penn on direct sales as “the future”
05:30 – Why control matters for business-owner authors
09:00 – Print-on-demand eliminates storage headaches
12:00 – The real costs of selling direct (and why they’re manageable)
15:00 – The pros: customer data, retargeting, and sales multipliers
20:00 – Bundling strategies and increasing the value of each sale
24:00 – Comparing royalties: direct vs. Amazon
29:00 – Why third-party sellers don’t care about your business growth
34:00 – The ROI of direct sales and next steps for authors
38:00 – Final thoughts and wrap-up
Keywords:
direct sales, book marketing, author profit, sales multipliers, bundling, print on demand, self-publishing, independent publishing, ROI for authors, author platform, business ecosystem, book as marketing tool, customer data, Amazon alternatives
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CKCFcVHZun2eNGJeHefygLh0Vzm0qu0aDpVk52ttaP0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi highlights the most common red flags that signal a book was not professionally published. She explains why issues like poor typesetting, weak cover design, excessive typos, and missing required elements can undermine an author’s credibility and the book’s effectiveness as a business asset. Jodi also points listeners to the IBPA Industry Standards Checklist as an essential tool for ensuring self-published and hybrid books meet professional publishing standards.
Time Stamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast Welcome to the Right Published Market podcast, where business owners learn about using books as marketing assets.
00:01:00 - Signs of Unprofessional Publishing Discussion on the importance of professional publishing and the potential pitfalls of DIY publishing.
00:01:55 - Red Flag #1: Unprofessional Design Exploring the significance of typesetting and design in making a book look professional.
00:04:16 - Red Flag #2: Too Many Typos The impact of typos on a book's credibility and the importance of professional editing.
00:05:41 - Red Flag #3: Poor Cover Design Key elements of effective book cover design and common mistakes to avoid.
00:07:48 - Red Flag #4: Incorrect Order of Matter The importance of following industry standards for the order of sections in a book.
00:09:13 - Red Flag #5: Missing Required Information Discussing essential elements that should be included in a book, such as copyright information.
00:10:59 - Utilizing IBPA Standards Encouragement to use the Independent Book Publishers Association standards for self-publishing.
00:12:35 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Recap of the importance of professionalism in publishing and resources for authors.
Keywords:
book publishing, professional publishing, self-publishing standards, hybrid publishing, typesetting, book design, book cover mistakes, copyediting, proofreading, typos in books, book structure, copyright page, IBPA standards, independent publishing, business owner authors, book marketing asset
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
IBPA Industry Standards Checklist: https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/standards-checklist-download
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JXjzuG9U7D8hWD9wW8YOdGii0Rtrge48H2cgUCSI1cQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi and guest Robbie Samuels discuss the allure of bestseller status, whether it's worth pursuing and the pitfalls of paying for such titles, and the importance of a well-planned book launch. Robbie emphasized that while hitting number one can be a byproduct of a well-executed launch, it doesn't directly translate to financial success.
Time Stamps:
00:00:01 - Welcome to the Podcast Introduction to the Right Published Market podcast and host Jody Brandon.
00:00:44 - Introducing Robbie Samuels Overview of Robbie Samuels' achievements and contributions to the book publishing industry.
00:01:27 - The Allure of Bestseller Status Discussion on the importance and implications of achieving bestseller status.
00:02:00 - Should You Pay for Bestseller Status? Robbie shares insights on the value of bestseller status and the pitfalls of paying for it.
00:03:45 - The Reality of Bestseller Metrics Understanding the difference between bestseller status and actual book success.
00:04:57 - The Importance of Reviews Why reviews matter for book sales and credibility.
00:05:28 - Launch Day vs. Publication Day Clarifying the difference between launch day and publication day.
00:09:10 - The Soft Launch Concept Explaining the soft launch period and its significance in the book launch process.
00:10:56 - Building Your Launch Team How to effectively create and manage a launch team for your book.
00:12:07 - The Role of Reviews in Marketing The impact of reviews on marketing and sales strategies.
00:19:10 - Managing Your Launch Team Best practices for engaging and managing your launch team throughout the process.
00:26:50 - Book Recommendation Robbie shares a book recommendation: "Entrepreneurial You" by Dori Clark.
00:28:30 - Closing Thoughts Final remarks and resources for aspiring authors.
Keywords:
book launch strategy, Amazon reviews, bestseller status myths, publication day vs. launch day, author credibility, book marketing for business owners, launch team management, pipeline building with books, verified reviews, entrepreneurial book publishing, biz book PubHub, book launch brainstorm
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup Launch Your Book: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Reviews That Drive Revenue by Robbie Samuels Smallest Big Results: Launch a Successful Offer No Matter the Size of Your Email List by Robbie Samuels Biz Book PubHub (Robbie’s community hub with resources, experts, virtual networking, and Kindle campaigns) Exactly What to Say by Phil M. Jones Entrepreneurial You by Dorie Clark
About Our Guest:
Today's guest is an award-winning author with three books, 650+ Amazon reviews, and 30 #1 Best Seller ribbons across four countries.
Entrepreneurs use his “Don’t Just Hit Publish; LAUNCH Your Book!” strategies to get 50+ Amazon reviews and build a revenue pipeline.
He founded the Biz Book Pub Hub to connect entrepreneurs with experts who will help them become successful authors. He also hosts the Hub podcast, free virtual networking events, and Kindle Cross-Promotion Campaigns.
Please join me in welcoming… all the way from his home in the Philadelphia suburbs – a TEDx speaker and HBR contributor – Robbie Samuels.
LINKS:
https://www.robbiesamuels.com
http://www.BizBookPubHub.com
Complimentary 30-minute book launch brainstorming session: http://www.BookLaunchBrainstorm.com
Podcast (400+ episodes!): http://www.robbiesamuels.com/HubPodcast
Books: http://www.CroissantsvsBagels.com
http://www.SmallListBigResults.com
http://www.BreakOutofBoredom.com
Other notable links:
http://www.robbiesamuels.com/NPR
http://www.robbiesamuels.com/TEDx
http://www.robbiesamuels.com/HBR
http://www.robbiesamuels.com/news
Social media:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/robbiesamuels
http://www.facebook.com/robbiesamuels
http://www.instagram.com/robbiesamuels
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bB1pgLYT7dqgK_OG0nzUXnarBb2DL1wKMI_pxSfGByU/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down three major areas where business owners often misdirect their energy when it comes to writing, publishing, and marketing their books. From stressing over page count to chasing Amazon bestseller status to going all-in on launch week alone, Jodi shares what to focus on instead—and how shifting your attention can lead to long-term visibility, credibility, and business growth.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome + overview of the episode
01:20 – Why traditional book marketing advice doesn’t always apply to business owners
02:35 – Focus #1: Word count and message > Page count
06:40 – Focus #2: Amazon bestseller status is a vanity metric
10:00 – The importance of choosing the right book categories
12:30 – Focus #3: Stop putting all your energy into launch week
15:25 – Think of your book as a launch pad, not a finish line
18:10 – Recap: Three key focus areas to redirect your energy
19:45 – Closing thoughts + encouragement to play the long game
Keywords:
book marketing strategy, business book publishing, Amazon bestseller myth, page count vs. word count, long-term book marketing, book launch week advice, author visibility, business growth with books, book success metrics,book publishing for entrepreneurs
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
📘 Launch Your Book by Robbie Samuels: https://amzn.to/4eYkuUZ
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hbv03PTls08xuCyhImRUlHod4wIrojjiAH8M52HxTq0/edit?usp=sharing
Think writing your book is the hard part? Think again. In this episode, Jodi busts five of the most common myths that trip up business owners navigating the book writing, publishing, and marketing world.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Welcome and episode introduction
01:25 – Myth #1: You need to cast a wide net
03:10 – Reality: Go narrow and deep with your target audience
04:18 – Myth #2: If you write it, readers will find it
06:05 – Reality: Strategic marketing is key to visibility
07:55 – Myth #3: No platform means no point in publishing
10:00 – Reality: Followers ≠ readers or buyers
12:15 – Myth #4: The work is done after writing
14:00 – Reality: Marketing is an ongoing, long-term effort
15:45 – Myth #5: There's a right and wrong way to publish
18:00 – Reality: The “right way” depends on your goals and business model
20:00 – Final thoughts and encouragement
Keywords:
book marketing myths, business book publishing, author platform, self-publishing vs traditional publishing, book launch strategy, book as a business asset, target audience for authors, entrepreneur book writing, long-term book marketing, book success planning
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TOucDCuvLXoe4QQYG-p7_EzZzKVCOm-mG46FDK6sItM/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi shares a progress update on the relaunch process for the third edition of Write.Publish.Market. She discusses self-editing, beta reader feedback, working with her copy editor, and how she's using strategic pockets of time to prepare sales pages and other launch materials/plans. Jodi emphasizes the importance of ongoing book marketing rather than focusing solely on launch day and invites listeners to join her email list for exclusive updates as the release approaches.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Manuscript progress and beta feedback 04:06 Publishing process and book marketing prep
Keywords: business book marketing, book publishing, self editing, manuscript revision, beta readers, beta feedback, Google form feedback, book production process, copy editor, sales page, pre order setup, email list, book wait list, book updates, editorial content strategy, book launch, bonus resources, workbook exercises, edit letter, edit memo, copy edit style sheet, typesetting, shopping cart, upsells, downsells, order bumps, tripwires, sales multipliers, Amazon bestseller status, long term book marketing, book visibility
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DqHEQQAfRXsnWgK1b0lAgt1Jp6moS27o5FkFbmFWHSo/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi welcomes podcast coach Kim Stewart to discuss how nonfiction authors can use podcast hosting and guesting as powerful, long-term book marketing strategies. Kim shares insights about the evolving podcast landscape, tips for simplifying the process of starting a podcast, and creative ways to repurpose podcast content to support both book writing and business growth.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Podcast strategies for book marketing 03:32 Guesting grows your podcast audience 06:38 Podcast hosts' networking advantage 09:59 Using podcasts for business leads 14:00 Embracing breaks and authenticity 16:51 Social media and content strategy insights 19:54 Revision process / linking content resources 22:57 Podcast gratitude
Keywords: podcasting, podcast host, podcast guesting, book marketing, nonfiction authors, business owners, book publishing, long-form content, content creation, content repurposing, author platform, marketing strategy, book launch, collaboration, email list, audience growth, podcast collaborations, capsule podcast, private podcast, lead generation, content pillar, social media, behind the scenes, attention span, podcast length, solo episodes, guest interviews, editorial calendar, revision process, content hub
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite Jenna Kutcher’s Capsule Podcast (on building your email list) John Lee Dumas’s Capsule Podcast (on starting a podcast)
About Our Guest:
Kim Stewart is a podcast coach for authors and host of the Book Marketing Mania podcast. She helps nonfiction authors reach more readers as a podcast host and guest. When she’s not strategizing with clients, you’ll find her in Dallas enjoying time with her family, and indulging in coffee, caramel and Friends reruns.
Website: https://kimstewartmarketing.com
Book Marketing Mania podcast: https://kimstewartmarketing.com/podcast/
Instagram/Threads: https://instagram.com/kimstewinspired
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimstewartmarketing/
Start Your Author Podcast checklist: https://kimstewartmarketing.com/checklist
Book a Strategy Session with Kim: https://kimstewartmarketing.com/coaching/
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/135hQ3GfcecPXS8F1ElNa3LASVqMotqTkMK1tjfsmtIY/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi interviews writer, speaker, and content strategist Rebecca Stanisic about the power and strategy behind long-form content for business owners. Jodi and Rebecca discuss how blogs, newsletters, and podcasts can serve as anchor content, helping entrepreneurs create intentional messaging and reduce stress while maximizing content value. Rebecca also shares practical tips for building authority—like leveraging a media page—and highlights the importance of human connection and strategic planning in today’s content-driven world.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Long-form content as anchor
03:24 Long-form content: efficiency anchor
08:59 Embracing unique journeys
09:42 Anchor Marketing Insights episode
13:04 Balancing personal expertise and AI
17:44 Media page tips
19:39 Rebecca’s media platforms
22:55 Developing content strategy for thought leaders
27:38 AI advice vs. personal intuition
28:56 Increased fiction reading enjoyment
Keywords: long form content, content strategy, business owners, solopreneurs, intentional content, messaging, goals, content planning, stress reduction, blogs, newsletters, podcasts, social media, anchor content, content repurposing, SEO, omni-channel marketing, thought leadership, authority building, positioning, human connection, generative AI, media page, speaker page, expertise, brand messaging, content creation, content amplification, time management, content batching
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Rebecca Stanisic is a writer, speaker and content strategist. She helps busy small business owners and solopreneurs create intentional content by focusing on clear messaging, goals and planning, with less stress. She's been writing on her parenting blog, A Little Bit of Momsense, since 2009. She's the proud mom of two and is fuelled by fiction and coffee.
https://rebeccastanisic.com/
https://rebeccastanisic.thrivecart.com/intentional-content/
https://rebeccastanisic.kit.com/smmistakeswebinar
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pjZbfC4Lef2GLO7TWXaquTO-mtdFBSwZ7kTTU9cZPWA/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks with sales copywriter and author Nicole Kepic about her book journey with Don't Ask Me to Be the Introverted Girl's Guide to Online Business. Nicole shares her journey of writing and marketing her book as an introverted business owner and offers insights on how introverts can thrive in the online business world without having to be loud or bold. The conversation covers the writing process, the importance of storytelling, and practical strategies for using a book to build credibility and serve as a powerful marketing asset.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Interview with Nicole Kepic
04:41 Connecting copywriting and introverts
06:30 Maintaining tone consistency
11:03 Introvert’s corporate struggle
14:31 Overcome beliefs and write consistently
16:48 Email-driven book promotion
19:22 Podcast close and book suggestion
Keywords: writing a business book, book marketing, introverted entrepreneurs, copywriting for business, online business strategies, book publishing, self-publishing, book as marketing asset, female coaches, creatives in business, brand storytelling, personal branding, client attraction, confidence for introverts, visibility for introverts, book launch strategies, marketing for introverts, email marketing, building an email list, social media marketing, leveraging personal stories, overcoming limiting beliefs, writing habits, book writing process, accountability in writing, editing process, outlining a book, podcast guesting, using books as portfolio pieces, building know-like-trust factor
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Nicole Kepic is a sales copywriter with over 20 years of marketing and copywriting experience. She helps female coaches and creatives stand out from the crowd, attract their ideal clients, and sell out their signature offers with fun, feel-good copy.
Nicole is also the author of “Don’t Ask Me to Be Loud: The Introverted Girl’s Guide to Online Business.” In this lighthearted and relatable book, she shows you how you DON’T need to be the loudest or boldest person on the internet to run a thriving, joyful, and in-demand business.
When she’s not on her laptop, Nicole is usually spending time with her family or staying up way past her bedtime to devour a suspense novel. You can learn more about her at nicolekepic.com or hang out with her on social media (where you WON’T see her dancing).
Website - https://www.nicolekepic.com
Book: https://www.nicolekepic.com/book
Free Sales Page Copy Training: www.nicolekepic.com/freebie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nkcopywriting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolekepic/
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k2LJDcLAfRVP8o-x6iXD6LWGvI1-oHKdNwlwd478Hfo/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi is joined by business scaling strategist AnnMarie Rose. AnnMarie shares her insights around refining business models for growth without overwhelming business owners and leaders. AnnMarie explains the benefits of using books and paid workshops as strategic tools for scaling, creating trust, and attracting high-quality leads. Jodi and AnnMarie also explore the benefits of repurposing content and testing book ideas through workshops.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Considering business overhaul: key signs
04:58 Paid workshops as a sales strategy
08:52 Optimizing business models with books
12:19 choosing topics: specific vs. broad
14:15 Workshop tweaking and pitch strategies
18:11 Workshop pricing recommendations
21:29 Audiobook recommendation
Keywords: book publishing, business owners, marketing asset, Write Publish Market podcast, Jodi Brandon, book publishing strategist, entrepreneurs, writing, publishing, marketing, business growth, AnnMarie Rose, business scaling strategist, coaches, consultants, service providers, scaling businesses, zone of genius, business model, offer suite, marketing and sales systems, overwhelm and burnout, paid workshops, thought leadership, group program, ideal client, audience growth, engagement, price point, email marketing
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama Workshop Toolkit [see below] Workshop Game Plan Generator [see below]
About Our Guest:
AnnMarie Rose is an Life-Proof Business Scaling Strategist with nearly a decade of experience helping coaches, consultants and service providers leverage their zone of genius to scale their businesses with clarity, confidence and strategic intention.
She and her team have helped hundreds of business owners navigate growth mode with ease by aligning their business model to their vision, refining their offer suite and positioning, streamlining their marketing and sales systems, and dialing in an a-player team so they can elevate their impact and income without overwhelm, chaos or burnout.
AnnMarie’s Website: annmarierose.comAnnMarie’s Instagram: instagram.com/askannmarierose/ AnnMarie’s Everything Page: www.annmarierose.com/everything Workshop Game Plan Generator: annmarierose.com/highimpactworkshop Sold-Out Workshop Toolkit: annmarierose.com/soldoutworkshoptoolkit [use code WPMTOOLKIT for 50% off!]
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1U0A5dW9oA79yB1rjHR5vYO_B3wiZGL-Zr9yxRg_hbq8/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi shares an update on the third edition of Write.Publish.Market., set to launch in October 2025. Jodi talks about using her Master Book Project Planner to stay organized with timelines, budgeting, and team coordination. Jodi also revisdits the idea for a companion workbook and begins to share her potential marketing and publicity strategies.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Book editing and planning process
06:09 Pockets of time in publishing schedules
08:11 Holiday season book publishing tips
Keywords: book publishing, marketing asset, business owners, writing retreat, book draft, publishing strategy, book team, self editing, copy editor, beta readers, book revision, production schedule, book launch, book coaching, master book project planner, google doc, book planning intensives, typesetter, cover artist, proofreader, indexer, marketing help, publicity, launch plan, pre-order plans, website preparation, manuscript, productivity books, gift giving season, business growth
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HP2WiFJz1IegjIsH42mhC4lt6kz9PvyzySQxpTFlHSQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi chats with Teddy Smith about Amazon ads for authors. Teddy walks listeners through Amazon as a search engine and underscores the importance of relevancy and purchase history in ad success. He also shares strategies for setting up effective ad campaigns, the role of ads in book relaunches, and the balance between manual and automated ad management.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Write Publish Market Podcast intro
05:51 Amazon as a search engine
09:30 start ads immediately and seek reviews
12:05 Amazon automatic ads: pros and cons
15:44 optimizing free promotion with ads
19:20 AI-driven keyword optimization
21:36 AI-driven Amazon ad management
24:16 business growth through book publishing
Keywords: book marketing, amazon ads, book publishing, PPC, nonfiction books, children's book, amazon search engine, book sales, book visibility, relevancy, keywords, search ranking, traffic, reviews, reputation, ad campaign, manual campaigns, automatic ads, amazon flywheel, free promotion, lead magnet, Facebook ads, Google ads, meta ads, mail list, ARC team, e Comm Manager, Bestseller Summit, Low Content Summit, Freedom Navigator Summit
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie Publishing Performance (AI-driven Amazon ad account manager) Free Booksy by Written Word Media Pubby Book Blaze
ChatGPT
About Our Guest:
Teddy Smith is the Partnership Manager of Publishing Performance, and the host of The Publishing Performance Show, a podcast that helps authors sell more books and build profitable publishing businesses.
As a book consultant, Teddy specializes in Amazon PPC and book marketing, helping authors maximize visibility and sales.
He also writes for industry publications like The Ecomm Manager and speaks at events including Bestseller Summit, Low Content Summit, Freedom Navigator Summit.
https://teddyagsmith.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-publishing-performance-show/id1763218068
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CrruE1MfVwzYCbYWBZ03SBVITBriuGFW7ND6PZA8UiI/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi is joined by business strategist Diane Mayer, who offers a grounded perspective on the importance of assessing the right timing for writing a book, particularly when considering its impact on business growth. The conversation underscores the significance of evaluating financial readiness, time management, and strategic planning before taking on book writing. Diane also shares her unique approach to writing a book in real-time through an email series.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Welcome to Write Publish Market podcast
04:16 Business books: credibility and strategy
09:15 Books as business marketing tools
10:02 Business books: timing and impact
13:54 Defining your financial comfort zone
17:12 Balancing business and book writing
20:05 Balancing delivery and marketing strategy
24:31 Ignoring personal questions and reflexivity
26:59 Simplify to avoid chaos in business
29:29 Book success: converting readers to clients
34:30 Finding daily writing time
38:11 Exploring various freedoms series
40:20 Writing insights and discoveries
Keywords: book marketing, business growth, book writing, creative projects, business owners, publishing industry, ceo strategies, operations management, scaling business, time management, work-life balance, strategic planning, marketing asset, emotional attachment, fractional coo, financial freedom, entrepreneurship, authority building, business revenue, high-ticket clients, business chaos, team management, long-term strategy, overcomplicating, slide deck presentations, book credibility, book structure, book framework, book ecosystem, solopreneur challenges
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite Shoe Dog by Phil Knight Never Enough: From Barista to Billionaire by Andrew Wilkinson
About Our Guest:
Diane Mayor is the queen of turning overcomplicated operations into streamlined systems that actually stick, all while keeping your creative spirit alive and kicking. So if you’re wearing all the hats and ready to see some wins, Diane’s practical wisdom and infectious energy are exactly what you need to turn that ever-growing to-do list into a done-and-dusted success story.
https://dianemayor.com
https://dianemayor.com/diagnostic
https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-mayor/
https://instagram.com/diane_mayor
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MiUos48Mlx3T9P37rAsfxd75NtIFAEpAy5NOF5Kna5E/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi discusses the potential synergy between books and podcasts, revealing how business owners can leverage both to amplify their message and engage their audience. Jodi shares practical strategies for using the content from one medium to benefit the other, such as creating podcasts based on book chapters or referencing podcasts in book content. She also highlights real-world examples from business owners who have successfully integrated their books and podcasts, offering listeners fresh ideas for maximizing their impact and business growth. The strategies Jodi mentions can be applied to podcast guesting as well.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Maximize engagement: book-podcast synergy 06:13 Promoting books with trending reels| 08:28 Repurposing podcast content for books
Keywords: book marketing, podcast guesting, business owner, publishing strategist, writing a book, marketing asset, podcast tour, maximize impact, book and speaking, consistent messaging, business growth, book chapter, podcast episode, show notes, book club, book ROI, content repurposing, podcast transcript, author, business ecosystem, listener engagement, book launch, editorial calendar, book resources, transformation, salesy, content, podcast host, podcasting ecosystem, read with me book club
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set WritChallenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Write Publish Market Episode 157: Transform Your Book Marketing Strategy with Podcast Tours with Michelle Glogovac
Annie Franceschi’s Establish Yourself podcast episode on book ROI
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tFP8Q_PR4Yfn6mRXoAEf9qYACF5i6ovomrBeJ2drnrM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks with Louise Brogan about her journey as a LinkedIn expert and her experience writing her new book on LinkedIn. Louise shares her love of writing, the challenges she faced during the publishing process, and how her book is enhancing her business strategy.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Book marketing for business growth
04:26 Becoming a paid writer
07:53 Remote work challenges and motivation
11:00 Questionable editing offer
14:02 LinkedIn branding restrictions impact business
18:13 Unplanned book launch challenge
22:57 LinkedIn logo usage restriction
26:40 LinkedIn video guide promotion"
29:59 Bruce Springsteen and royal encounters
36:01 Original idea
38:15 Interactive book reading structure
39:45 Collaborative editing and book recommendations
Keywords: Wrigte Publish Market podcast, business owner, book marketing asset, book publishing strategist, business growth, writing, publishing, marketing a book, louise brogan, solopreneurs, coaches, consultants, linkedin expert, brand building, online results, visibility on linkedin, youtuber, silver play button, content creation, book origin story, book cover design, networking, business book club, international speaking gigs, Social Media Examiner, editorial collaboration, trademark approval, book launch, business card, Social Media Marketing World
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
About Our Guest:
Beyond her passion for helping solopreneurs, coaches, and consultants through workshops and 1-2-1 training, Louise Brogan also works with larger organizations like BT, BBC, the Chartered Institute of Accountants England & Wales, and the Law Society. Whether you’re a small business or a larger company, Louise is dedicated to helping you build your brand and drive results online.
www.raiseyourvisibilityonline.com
www.louisebrogan.com/workwithme
www.youtube.com/@raiseyourvisiblityonline
www.linkedin.com/in/louisebrogan
https://leveluplinkedin.teachable.com/courses
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s5dwDLFPy64VDkKPIlPgvOhvDxH49vMPMbwSSUKRfcQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi shares a progress update for the third edition of Write.Publish.Market. Jodi discusses her strategic approach to revising her work, ensuring she's delivering valuable content without overwhelming readers. She also talks about the timing of her book's release in October, aligning with business planning for the upcoming year.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Streamlining content for a workbook
04:53 Overcoming analysis paralysis in writing
07:05 October: prime time for business books
10:12 Progress update & next steps
Keywords: business owner, book marketing, book publishing strategist, writing a book, publishing industry, mindset, fears and roadblocks, annotated outline, table of contents, writing schedule, self editing, macro level, micro level, author mindset, book copy, book messaging, paragraph level, reader journey, business growth, personal development, business book, book revision, book launch, fall release, marketing asset, self publishing, book resources, book funnel, book brainstorm, writing phase
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/19ymU_yoA6hTyWMveh_TtF4glqEIdnmZEfLfc7vfoRL0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks with Sage Rountree, a multi-book author and expert in yoga for athletes, to explore her diverse book publishing journey. Sage shares insights from her experiences with both traditional and self-publishing, highlighting her collaboration with multiple publishers and the value of having a literary agent. The conversation includes how Sage determines which ideas become books versus courses or some other offering, her method for efficient drafting, and the essential role her books play in strengthening her niche yoga business.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Sage Rountree
03:13 Cinderella Story: Yoga Book Proposal
08:17 Niche Yoga Teaching Specialization
10:15 Embracing All Aspects of Writing
14:28 Dual Careers: Athlete & Yoga Coach
16:29 Book Publishing as Lead Magnet
20:08 Seamless Creative Partnership
23:12 Sage Rountree’s Diverse Offerings
Keywords: book marketing asset, business growth, Jodi Brandon, book publishing strategist, book publishing industry, Sage Rountree, multiple book author, yoga for athletes, yoga teacher trainer, Teaching Yoga Beyond the Poses, Professional Yoga Teacher's Handbook, Art of Yoga Sequencing, Yoga Teacher Confidential podcast, Carrboro Yoga Co., virtual studio, comfortzoneyoga.com, sageroundtree.com, academic publishing, Velopress publisher, book proposal, literary agent, North Atlantic Books, self-published book, Racing Wisely, book origin, book audience, book drafting, professional yoga teacher, book publishing advice, self publishing
Resources Mentioned: Teaching Yoga to Athletes (Sage's signature online course)comfortzoneyoga.com (Sage Rountree's virtual studio focused on teacher development) Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite The Princess of Las Vegas by Chris Bojalian
About Our Guest:
Sage Rountree is a pioneer in yoga for athletes and a yoga teacher trainer whose twelve books include Teaching Yoga Beyond the Poses, The Professional Yoga Teacher’s Handbook, and The Art of Yoga Sequencing. Sage hosts the Yoga Teacher Confidential podcast and co-owns the Carrboro Yoga Company, where she has taught the same Monday night class for over 20 years. Her virtual studio focused on teacher development is at comfortzoneyoga.com, and her website is sagerountree.com, with no letter d.
sagerountree.com
Yoga Teacher Confidential podcast
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UHKdM0_NTI9GPcUSPxjsGBaksYmWqmb7KcWtlVu13Pw/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi presents three easy tips/strategies for staying on track with your book writing project as a busy business owner: setting deadlines, establishing progress goals, and scheduling consistent “book time” to effectively manage and complete the project.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Publishing Timeline and Productivity Tips
04:39 "Realistic Goals: Scheduling for Success"
06:56 "Take the First Step"
Keywords: book writing, business owner, publishing, marketing asset, book publishing strategist, writing project, book production schedule, book launch plans, manuscript, calendar, writing schedule, goal setting, deadlines, progress goals, supported CEO, realistic goals, writing time, revise, research phase, self editing, book marketing, copy editor, typesetter, cover designer, non negotiables, schedule, industry experts, writing tips, imposter syndrome, mindset, book revision
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Write Publish Market episode 181: Revising Write.Publish.Market. in 2025 (Part 3)
Write Publlish Market episode 152: The Role of Capacity for Business Owners Writing Books with Ginny Krauss and Elli Runkles
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qLBxVsi-WOQNSXzxxZmAfrL1GuqOVqWIHoO7pAwzlHU/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi and guest Isabelle Knight discuss author branding as well as the importance of understanding your ideal readers and creating a compelling author brand story. Isabelle shares her journey from being a publicist in film and television to helping authors leverage PR and brand-building strategies to connect with their audiences. They explore the challenges of book marketing for business owners and how authentic engagement can transform book marketing from a task to an opportunity.
Time Stamps:
[00:00 Launching Indie Publishing Support Business
04:16 Defining Author Brand Essentials
08:12 Rethinking Author Bios
11:16 Author Branding through Personal Storytelling
14:02 Reframing Book Promotion Positively
18:05 Narrow Your Audience for Growth
21:51 "Reflecting on Book's Purpose"
25:35 "Podcast Appreciation and Sharing"
Keywords: book publishing, marketing asset, business owners, entrepreneurs, writing a book, publishing industry, Jodi Brandon, Isabel Knight, Build Your Author Brand, author brand, indie authors, self-publishing, traditional publishing, author bio, book marketing, ideal reader, book sales, book cover design, business growth, speaking engagements, publicist, mindset shift, connection piece, writing process, author story, book release, reader engagement, brand story, publicist expertise, client relationships, book marketing challenges
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Build Your Author Brand podcast I'm Sorry You Feel That Way by Rebecca Waite The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest
About Our Guest:
With a career spanning over two decades as a top-tier publicist, Isabelle Knight has worked alongside industry titans in film, television, and publishing, including the likes of JK Rowling and the BBC.
Isabelle runs the online consultancy, Build Your Author Brand—working with Authors of both fiction and non-fiction, to teach the crucial tools and strategies to raise their profile, grow a readership, and increase their overall success.
www.buildyourauthorbrand.co.uk
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1314qXZTTH6s3AQzu7RnTaw-Z1hnmnTmo6CpHmvOQC2Q/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi updates listeners on her current book revision project, focusing on the unexpectedly detailed process of revising the working table of contents and organizing new material into chapters. Jodi shares her strategy aroumnd deciding to self-publish once again, discusses plans to incorporate a pre-order option, and talks about considerations for assembling her book team..
Time Stamps: 00:00 Revising Third Edition Contents
03:14 Endless Research vs. Writing Transition
06:23 "Managing Writing Projects Effectively
Keywords:
book publishing, marketing asset, business owner, Jodi Brandon, book revision, writing phase, table of contents, self publishing, Amazon, hybrid publisher, writing schedule, book team, pre order, copy editor, book launch, business development, organizational productivity, holiday season, manuscript, writing schedule, mini projects, book revision process, business growth, industry experts, business experiences, client gifts, holiday season gifts, writing material, book strategy, book market, business strategy
Resources Mentioned:
Coffee + Commas signup: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ADsqexmBITVMTwvegggACw_UyauEi2IGcMkUNTXvvqc/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi interviews Nailah Harvey for a conversation about the impact of book writing on professional growth. Nailah reflects on her journey from traditional teaching in South Korea to coaching clients on book writing and influence-building. They discuss the challenges of maintaining a daily writing habit, the importance of a supportive network, and the parallels between teaching and book coaching. Nailah also outlines her doctoral focus on writing literacy for Black high school students and shares insights on creating a robust framework within nonfiction books. Jodi and Naiah conclude their conversation by emphasizing the need for external feedback, continuous learning, and leveraging a book for new opportunities.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Discussing memorable book title and influence.
03:22 Wrote book using journal to answer questions.
06:49 Researching comma use led to book writing.
12:43 Writing a book is simple, not easy.
13:21 Love editing; struggle removing unnecessary parts.
19:45 Develop a framework for effective content leverage.
22:35 New York Times mention boosted business success.
24:03 Writing a book is just the beginning.
27:13 Connect via website nharv.com, social media, YouTube
Keywords: college roommate, daily writing habit, re-engaging with projects, career path, traditional teaching, book writing, increasing influence, passion for education, creative projects, stepping out of comfort zone, supportive network, teaching, book coaching, strategy, writing literacy, Black high school students, educational outcomes, dissertation topic, literacy and writing, writing a book, professional editing, self-editing, external feedback, podcast, social media hashtag, storytelling elements, project evolution, thought leadership, coaching programs, speaking engagements, New York Times mention
Resources Mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Nailah Harvey is a 10x-published author, book coach, and book editor—mentioned in The New York Times—with a goal to teach educators and leaders how to organize their subject-matter knowledge into a thought leadership book. With over 10 years of dedicated writing and teaching experience (in America and South Korea), Nailah has secured her position within a niche not often occupied by women of color and she seeks to share with the world her superpower—the ability to write one’s expertise with clarity.
Amazon link to “Book-fluence: How to Write a Book to Position Yourself as a Leader in Your Industry”: https://amzn.to/3DhEZ0r
Subscribe to Nailah’s YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@nharvdotcom?si=MIacLmoVSJOBprAh
Follow Nailah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nharvdotcom/
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/12Hn2rIwO8qxbBO2Pc9n7JXSwIgbX0H0_9UN_3Mv2DWs/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi breaks down the complexities of book marketing for business owners writing books, emphasizing that while writing may seem challenging, the true test lies in the sustained, strategic efforts required for long-term visibility and success. Jodi discusses how to prioritize marketing activities, avoid burnout, and play the “long game” by focusing on efforts that align with your business goals rather than short-term and/or vanity metrics. Listeners will gain valuable insights into developing a personalized and effective book marketing strategy that evolves over time.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Prioritize sustained effort for successful book marketing.
00:01 Why marketing, not writing, is the hard part
00:46 Prioritizing marketing activities for long-term success
03:25 Strategies for different book life stages
05:24 Practical tips and avoiding burnout
05:55 Writing isn't the hard part; strategic marketing is.
07:13 Plan strategically for successful long-term book marketing.
Keywords: book marketing, book sales, business book, book publishing, book publishing strategy, writing a book, marketing a book, book launch, pre-launch activities, launch week, post-launch strategies, book marketing strategies, sustained marketing, long-term visibility, vanity metrics, converting sales, social media marketing, brand development, visibility, business owners, CEOs, entrepreneurs, marketing channels, time management, budget management, book signings, bookstore events, speaking opportunities, leads, client acquisition, cash injection, marketing plan
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
[here]
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JfSfb1uOH5G0KIiyBjK5-9we6a6AuSX6tMSZ-XB-bMA/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi speaks with Ashley Shepherd, an author and book marketing strategist, about the often-overlooked but powerful strategy of leveraging preorders for self-published books. Ashley breaks down the distinction between preorders and presales, the benefits for self-published authors, and her preferred method of hosting preorders on websites to maximize profit and control. The conversation highlights timeline considerations and best practices for business owners writing books.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Ashley: Author, consultant, helps authors market books.
03:53 Self-publishing: Control, profit through preorders, financial relief.
07:48 Host own preorders to enhance profitability, experience.
13:25 Complete illustrations before launching children's book preorder.
16:24 Extend launch period; appreciate pre-order customers.
18:10 Real-time insights aid group process, gather feedback.
22:58 Business insights and motivational affirmations from friends.
24:47 Using algorithms to easily reach audiences online.
Keywords: Write Publish Market podcast, business owners, CEOs, authors, book marketing, self publishing, pre orders, pre sales, book launch, developmental editing, preorder period, book launch experience, Amazon KDP, self published authors, traditionally published authors, direct sales, Stripe payment processor, crowdfunding, shipping errors, handwritten cards, private podcast, upsells, down sells, trip wires, SEO, customer data, business model, affirmations, motivation, imposter syndrome, social media
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Uncloned Marketing by Audrey Richmond
A Bunch of Dope Affirmations for My Homies by Alex Nemo Hands
About Our Guest:
Ashley Shepard is a self-publishing consultant and book marketing strategist based in the metro Atlanta, GA area. As the owner of Shep Publishing House, Ashley helps self-published authors get from the page to the people™with efficient and effective marketing strategies.
Client wins include selling 100 books sold in a week, $10,000 made in presale revenue, speaking gigs secured, book launch parties sold out, and much more. Shep Publishing House focuses on helping authors connect with their audience to publish profitably.
With a background in literacy, teacher coaching, and staff development, Ashley is able to explain complex marketing and publishing ideas in simple terms to help authors and entrepreneurs reach their goals. Unlike most book marketers and publishers, Ashley has the unique quality of being a best selling author herself. This insight helps her to make realistic suggestions and effective options to support client needs.
LINKS:
Book Site: www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com
Main Site: Www.ShepPublishingHouse.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ShepPublishing
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ShepPublishing
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/ShepPublishing
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CbBIufwLht6YA16q615jc4jeNFCi4XuhvTHgeXqoIRQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi updates listeners on the status of the Write.Publish.Market. Book revision. Jodi is in the preparatory stage and went through her course Book Prep Bootcamp to reorient her mindset from business owner to writer, and organized her notes and ideas using sticky notes on the wall. Jodi also discussed her plan moving forward, preparing listeners for detailed explorations of the writing, publishing, and marketing phases in upcoming episodes.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Mindset-focused book preparation for aspiring writers.
04:11 Maintaining an extensive, organized task list efficiently.
08:19 Updating book edition; changes and new strategies.
Keywords: writing a book, book publishing, book marketing, business owners, entrepreneurs, CEOs, book revision, book prep, mindset for writing, overcoming mental roadblocks, book coaching, book strategy, client testimonials, writing schedule, book exercises, book worksheets, blogging for business, publishing tips, marketing strategies, book manuscript, book planning, writing process, updating a book, revising a book, author mindset, office supplies for planning, visual organization, Asana for project management, writing goals, writing motivation, book project management
Resources Mentioned:
Book Prep Bootcamp course
Asana
Coffee + Commas newsletter: https://bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oiSEmh-ZITY-4a1i7WAItaeCnrfXtrSLJNWzGy9UbC0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi chats with self-publishing expert Monique Mensah about how business owners writing books and other self-publishing authors can achieve traditional publishing quality. They discuss essential steps like hiring genre-specific professional cover designers, understanding the various editing types available in the marketplace, and leveraging platforms beyond Amazon to maximize control and profit. Monique also shares practical tips on building an author's brand, maintaining design consistency, and the significance of owning your ISBN for true publishing independence.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Self-publishing doesn't mean doing everything yourself.
05:39 ISBN gives authors publishing rights and control.
08:41 Professional editing is essential for quality books.
10:03 Professional editor essential for high-quality manuscript.
15:10 Lack of developmental editing undermines memoir structure.
17:40 Subscribe to Coffee and Commas newsletter.
20:25 Use published books as benchmark for quality.
24:01 Book cover duplicated; not a custom design.
25:58 Interior design requires expertise and understanding.
30:16 Sell books via platform with profit-sharing costs.
35:32 Drive traffic to your site, not Amazon.
37:41 Define goals for writing or marketing books.
39:36 Sign up for Monique's list for insights.
42:38 Connect via my website for self-publishing insights.
Keywords: self-publishing, traditional publishing, book quality, book benchmarks, genre alignment, DIY design platforms, professional cover designers, template covers, unique book design, professional typesetting, book interiors, developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, proofreading, editing misconceptions, book cover design, professional editing, Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, ISBN ownership, print-on-demand distribution, direct book sales, strategic marketing, building author brand, self-publishing pitfalls, customer data control, professional publishing assistance, high-quality self-publishing, authorpreneurs, Monique Mensah
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Mastery of Self by Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.
The Last Party by A.R. Torre
About Our Guest:
Monique Mensah is a Personal Self-Publishing Assistant, who helps authors in all genres--fiction to nonfiction--take their books from Manuscript to Masterpiece. Through her signature done-for-you self-publishing service, Monique guides independent authors in producing professional, premium-quality books that don't look self-published and can stand out in a crowded market. Known for her straightforward, no-nonsense approach and deep understanding of the publishing process, Monique ensures authors maintain full ownership and control of their work so they can transform into Savvy Saelf-Publishers. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, and now living in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, she brings passion and strategic insight to every project, making self-publishing both achievable and rewarding for authors who are serious about success.
Website: www.moniquemensah.com
Free Self-Publishing Guide: www.moniquemensah.com/free-guide
Book a Free Strategy Call: www.moniquemensah.com/book-a-call
Instagram: instagram.com/theminiquemensah
TikTok: tiktok.com/themoniquemensah
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qG4utCiUNSY98O12Pc051ZeSKhBS8Ja_2DcHWSy-4cQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi discusses the importance of comparative titles (AKA comp titles) no matter how business owners writing books plan to publish their books. She explains how understanding and leveraging comp titles can significantly improve book positioning, messaging, and audience targeting. She also shares practical tips and resources, including utilizing AI and browsing bookstores, to effectively research and utilize comp titles for successful book marketing.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Identify book's market position using comp titles.
03:12 Ask readers about book similarities for messaging.
08:48 Understand marketplace for effective book marketing strategy.
10:19 Grateful for your time; share if enjoyed.
Keywords: comparative titles, comp titles, book publishing, traditional book publishing, book proposal, positioning, book marketing, framing your book, book marketplace, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, messaging, pitch for book, Amazon genre classification, bookstore research, AI for comp titles, ChatGPT prompts, fiction books, nonfiction books, book set in New York, drug use in books, literary novel, AI-generated book titles, bestseller lists, public library research, table of contents analysis, market expectations, publishing professionals, book marketing strategy, pre-sales, post-launch marketing
Resources Mentioned:
- Write Publish Market Season 5 Episode 21: Position Yourself for Book Success with Your Messaging
- Write Publish Market Episode 163: Nonfiction Book Messaging Myths for Business Owners
- Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
- Coffee + Commas newsletter signup: bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mtX9FmcpU3sHZD44d7f01wLEtxtkkUGg6cn2M_rPEH4/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks with Renee Hribar, seasoned sales coach and TEDx speaker, about harnessing the power of a book to connect with the right audience and build a brand as well as community. Renee shares her book journey of transforming email content into a robust book and discusses innovative marketing strategies like using Airbnbs to reach readers in self-care settings. Jodi and Renee’s conversation explores overcoming mental blocks, the value of foundational work, and the role of community in the writing process. They also touch on the importance of authenticity in business and why book success goes well beyond sales numbers. This episode is filled with practical advice and inspiring stories for business owners considering writing a book as a marketing asset.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Renee Rebar's sales journey and new book.
05:35 Overcoming fear of sharing via community support.
08:29 A practical guide for life-changing moments.
10:03 Recording everything to transcribe for summaries.
14:50 Start with what you have; you've begun.
16:07 Plan: Distribute books through Amazon and Airbnbs.
21:01 Relating to long-awaited Cobb salad experience.
22:42 Girlfriend overwhelmed by peanut butter variety.
26:47 Entrepreneurship legacy: reputation through treating people
Keywords: book marketing, reaching the right audience, Renee Hribar, foundational understanding, Jodi Brandon, reading recommendations, Barbara Stani, "Overcoming Underearning", "The Nordstrom Way", "Built to Sell", business insights, reneerebar.com, reputation in business, writing books, gratitude for listeners, #WritePublishedMarket, modern tools in business, Zoom transition, foundational work value, email content, live events promotion, Airbnb book distribution, self-care retreats, personal connection, authenticity in marketing, Facebook group engagement, business owner advice, unique perspective in writing, cultural differences in grocery stores, branding and audience engagement, audiobook creation
Resources Mentioned:
Write Publish Market Episode 164: Sales Strategies for Business Owners Writing Books
Overcoming Underearning by Barbara Stani The Nordstrom Way by Robert Spector
Built to Sell by John Warrollow
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Renee Hribar has been a sales professional since 1994 in New York. Making her first million before she was 25 years old, she has gone on to sell millions of dollars in products and services and train thousands to sell for the first time. She is known in her industry as a fun, energetic sales coach who leads with heart. A TEDx speaker who offers training sessions at global conferences, on-demand courses and virtual workshops, she skillfully breaks down her decades of sales expertise. With her one-of-a-kind "laugh & learn" teaching style, you will certainly gain a new view of the "softer side of sales".
My best advice: No matter what your business sells is to grab my quick and easy FREE sales mini-course: https://www.reneehribar.co/training
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nbaUUF6UzhUaVC-qq8Jh5PB-jgK6IV-XdByTDjx2ajQ/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi kicks off a special series by announcing the upcoming revision of Write.Publish.Market., scheduled for early 2025. This third edition addresses significant industry changes since the second edition was released in 2019. Jodi discusses the rise of AI in publishing, advanced print-on-demand options, and evolving standards for self and hybrid publishing. Throughout this series, Jodi will offer a behind-the-scenes look at her revision process, inviting listeners to join the journey while emphasizing the importance of keeping business books updated to remain effective marketing assets.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Launching Write Published Market podcast for 2025.
03:33 Print-on-demand and hybrid publishing options improved.
06:17 Share podcast episode using #WritePublishMarket hashtag.
Keywords: self-publishing, hybrid publishing, traditional publishing, book publishing world, business owners, book as a marketing asset, control factor, content control, timeline control, revised book edition, AI in book publishing, AI-generated work, ethical book publishing, Amazon distribution, print-on-demand options, paper quality, multiple trim sizes, industry attitude, big players in distribution, IBPA standards, independent book producers association, professional book appearance, marketing asset, indistinguishable books, behind the scenes, book revision process, Q1 2025 project, revised information, interactive process, book project preparation
Resources Mentioned:
- Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
- Write Publish Market Episode 126: AI and Book Writing
- Write Publish Market Episode 168: Using AI Effectively in Nonfiction Book Writing, Publishing, and Marketing
- Write Publish Market Episode 113: Hybrid Book Publishing Is NOT Vanity Publishing
- Write Publish Market Episode 150: Hybrid Publishing: Bridging the Gap between Traditional and Self-Publishing
- Coffee + Commas newsletter signup: bit.ly/coffeeandcommassignup
- IBPA standards for self publishing and hybrid publishing: https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/standardschecklist and https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/hybridpublisher
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/122sT3y4txJSkveK93bNgiVlnhjQm1fMVzaPlYP0YHbY/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi interviews Ruthie Sterrett of The Consistency Corner. Ruthie offers Write Publish Market listeners practical advice on creating Instagram 9-grids and 3-grids to streamline content and messaging for busy entrepreneurs and business owners. Jodi and Ruthie both emphasize the importance of integrating mission, vision, and values into marketing efforts for business owners, particularly those writing books. The episode wraps up with tips on maintaining effective marketing strategies for book launches.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Podcast: Writing, publishing, marketing books for entrepreneurs.
03:24 "Marketing isn't limited to social media."
08:55 Instagram 9-grid: Profile design for strategic storytelling.
11:22 Nine grids are not ideal for everyone.
13:52 Develop a writing routine with Ready Set Write.
19:10 Created 9-grid; added 3-grid for promotion.
19:44 Updating Instagram is easier than websites.
25:01 Ensure human touch in AI-driven content creation.
28:17 Great explainer, calm demeanor, similar to teacher.
Keywords: Ruthie Starrett, The Small and the Mighty, Jodi Brandon, Bowling Alone documentary, civic engagement, social media strategy, Instagram 9 grid, Author Entrepreneurs Lab, Write Publish Market Podcast, book publishing industry, marketing agency, Consistency Corner, working moms support, social media algorithms, email marketing strategies, AI content creation, mission vision and values, content exploration, personal branding, business profiles, foundational business elements, book recommendations, Sharon McMahon, email list promotion, social media engagement, 3 grid strategy, Instagram pinned posts, writing routine, Ready Set Write challenge, book launch strategies, quarterly 9 grid review
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon
About Our Guest:
Ruthie Sterrett is the Founder and CEO of The Consistency Corner, a full service marketing agency that provides CMO level strategy and done-for-you implementation for CEOs ready to take off the marketing hat. With 15+ years of experience and wins like taking a $20M retail brand to $100M, Ruthie is uniquely qualified to help CEOs leverage marketing differently, and get back to leading their company and serving their clients. She is known for her optimistic and upbeat personality paired with a solution finding growth mindset. In her spare time, Ruthie loves cheering on the Purdue Boilermakers while raising her family in sunny Florida.
Website: https://www.theconsistencycorner.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsistencycorner/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthie-sterrett/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-consistency-corner-instagram-alone-is-not/id1573435207
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iI4D8AbiownLORQXF4rCuJWB777Skrv-DidbClGy6fE/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi uses the analogy of a "choose your own adventure" as it relates to self-publishing. Jodi highlights the numerous options and decisions business owners writing books face at each stage of the book process (writing, publishing, and marketing), emphasizing the importance of defining personal success and tailoring the process accordingly. She also offers practical advice on tasks that can be outsourced and encourages business owners to embrace the flexibility and control that self-publishing provides.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Invest in resources for your book's success.
03:37 Consider hiring help or manage book project.
07:30 Self-publishing offers control and personalization for authors.
Keywords: writing a book, book publishing, self publishing, hybrid publishing, traditional publishing, publishing options, book marketing, writing phase, publishing phase, marketing phase, cover creation, copy editing, book typesetting, book indexing, conscious language edit, book marketing firm, launch specialist, project manager, virtual assistant, book writing routine, writing productivity, beta feedback, Grammarly, business owners, entrepreneur books, North Star of success, book republishing, revised edition, self publishing control, book trends, author entrepreneurs
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eurD8_eLS9DK1_JwHepER5NXW9l1sSdxYdNIE9ssOTs/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi explores the concept of sales multipliers and how they can significantly boost the effectiveness of your book within your business ecosystem. She explains various strategies such as upsells, downsells, order bumps, and tripwires, all aimed at increasing the overall value of each transaction and ensuring your book serves its role in growing your business. Jodi also provides practical examples and insights to help business owners integrate these techniques to maximize both customer loyalty and revenue.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Enhance book sales with strategic upsells and order bumps.
03:15 Add-ons, gamification, tiered pricing, book club programs.
06:50 Use sales multipliers to boost loyalty, spend.
Keywords: book publishing, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, sales multipliers, book distribution, upsells, downsells, tripwires, order bumps, book marketing, business ecosystem, book sales, value transaction, customer journey, product add-ons, service add-ons, gamification, tiered pricing, VIP level, book club program, client-only groups, membership programs, curriculum for group programs, value ladder, complementary products, customer loyalty, repurposing content, masterclass training, author strategies, customer retention, business growth strategies
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Km0elh78zBVoqHfIADpkLbvBByQhbZKfqor6Py4SFqE/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi interviews Chantelle Andercastle about her book journey. Chantelle shares her insights on making aligned decisions and the importance of hiring out tasks outside of one's expertise. Jodi and Chantelle discuss Chantelle’s unique approach to creating a print-only, visually engaging book series intended to serve as a practical “business binder” for entrepreneurs. They also discuss the benefits of handwriting notes for deeper cognitive engagement and provide tips for navigating the self-publishing process, particularly noting the value of clear documentation and thoughtful design.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing, publishing, marketing books.
03:19 Going deeper led me to write book.
08:40 Series of books create a comprehensive business binder.
12:32 Balancing visual creativity with informative content creation.
14:07 Visuals engage differently; aesthetics motivate writing.
17:44 Self-publishing struggles without adequate support and budget.
22:25 Book aids in business calls, enhancing strategy discussions.
25:40 Offer simplified services, not whole design packages.
27:02 Align decisions with your values, despite popularity.
29:36 Recursiveness in business improves through clear documentation.
33:15 Book on brain memory processes, slightly complex.
Keywords:
Hiring out non-strength tasks, Aligned decision-making, Print-only book, Business binder, Decision overwhelm, ISBN publishing logistics, Handwriting vs. typing, Business strategy documentation, Visual book design, Engaging educational content, One-on-one reader interaction, Book series for business owners, Personal values in business, Brand voice development, Time boxing techniques, Memory improvement books, Reading habits, Book review importance, Self-publishing challenges, Traditional vs. self-publishing, Productivity in writing, Author Entrepreneurs Lab membership, Interactive learning, Practical business strategies, Publishing logistics support, Coffee table book design, Marketing self-published books, Personal writing process, Physically interactive books, Business content creation
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron Freaks Gleeks of Dawson Creek In the Palaces of Memory Time Boxing by Mark Zao Sanders Margo's Got Money Troubles by Ruby Thorpe
About Our Guest:
Chantelle Andercastle works with solo entrepreneurs to create their own personal Business Binder—an evolving reference point that leads to more aligned and deliberate decisions. Beyond Brand Voice, the first title in her Aligned Action book series, offers entrepreneurs practical strategies and insightful exercises to define, refine, and consistently communicate their brand identity in a way that aligns with their values and goals. At Clear Quartz Creative, Chantelle offers hands-on help and engaging workshops for business owners who want to be more thoughtful decision-makers.
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Brand-Voice-Copywriting-Entrepreneurs/dp/1738063003
Website: https://www.clearquartzcreative.co/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/aligned-action-podcast/id1567842542
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EBNeH80941y1-Pdzv1-a8p3d5lSZ9aCjkTr1LIVbDsM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi explores the role of AI in the book publishing processand notes its utility for research, self-editing, marketing, and more – in other words, during the writing, publishing, and marketing phases – while cautioning against using it to actually write your book. The episode provides practical examples of how business owners can leverage AI tools to enhance their writing efficiency, improve their book structure, and streamline their marketing efforts. Jodi also notes the current copyright limitations regarding AI-generated content.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Use AI for research, not book writing.
04:04 AI helps rephrase, remove jargon for clarity.
07:40 Check out Author Entrepreneurs Lab for support
Keywords:
book publishing, AI in publishing, entrepreneur authors, writing routine, book research, table of contents, book positioning study, self-editing, rephrasing text, removing jargon, sales copy, ad copy, social media planning, social media captions, interview questions, media kit, podcast tour, book blurb, author bio, book description, sales page copy, AI-generated content, copyright protection, writing efficiency, book market analysis, identifying keywords, author entrepreneurs Lab, mentorship membership, co-writing times, book world education
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1y8_Z5fDOv7lxIIucC5-VkL9s21Mw-GxwW8RFTDo0JLM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks about the inevitability of errors in published books, discussing why even meticulously edited and proofread books are not immune to typos and mistakes, and highlighting a 95% “acceptable” error rate in the publishing industry. The episode explains the roles of human and AI editors, the importance of multiple editing passes, and the potential pitfalls that sometimes come during the self-publishing process. Jodi emphasizes the significance of building time for self-editing and revisions into the production schedule and offers insights on different editorial styles and their impact on the final book.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Rushed drafts contain more errors, require revisions.
04:42 Join "Ready Set Write" challenge to improve productivity.
10:07 Book creation is difficult; join my mentorship program.
Keywords:
book publishing, entrepreneurs, book writing, traditional publishing, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, typo, copy editing, proofreading, human error, editing process, manuscript, editing test, production schedule, self-editing, revision, Microsoft Word, Google Docs, track changes, suggested edits, typesetter, Amazon, IngramSpark, Lulu, unrealistic schedule, style guides, Chicago Manual of Style, AP style, grammar mechanics, casual language, clarity of message, book team
Resources Mentioned:
Write Publish Market episode 156: http://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/156
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Zy4fZYPC5CedUXcBdPm01eWZWoN5vXK9ZStS3w2CPSM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi chats with Irena Miller, an empathic intuitive and spiritual life guide, about her book journey in writing and self-publishing a planner and journal designed to help empaths harness lunar energy. Irena shares insights into her self-publishing process, emphasizing the importance of having knowledgeable support and sticking to one’s vision, even when faced with logistical challenges. The discussion also highlights how Irena integrates her book into her Moon Club, offering both personal and business applications for the teachings within.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Empowering empathic people to embrace their sensitivity.
04:29 Encouragement to publish book, aesthetic importance highlighted.
10:09 Writing as a channel for personal empowerment.
13:03 Writing routine: key to efficient book writing.
16:36 Editing a book with a marketing agency.
18:10 Design mishap leads to incorrect book layout.
22:00 Find someone to light your pathway, take action.
25:02 "Thanks for listening. Join my author mentorship."
Keywords:
write publish market podcast, entrepreneur, writing a book, business growth, book publishing industry, empathic intuitive, spiritual life guide, gut instincts, moon impact, energy levels, manifesting abilities, decision science major, astrologer, meditation teacher, yoga teacher, crystal healer, medium, tarot reader, energy healer, sacred arts, limitless potential, life transformation, self publishing, hybrid publisher, Lulu, Vervante, book aesthetics, moon club, intuition, energy recipes, content creation, indesign challenges
Resources Mentioned:
Vervante: www.vervante.com
The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
The Power of Writing it Down by Alex Fallon
Books by Ruth Ware
Books by Kate Quinn
Happy Place by Emily Henry
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Irena Miller has been an empathic intuitive since birth. Over the last 2 decades as a Spiritual Life Guide, she has been guiding curious seekers and visionary empaths on how to take rewarding action on their gut instincts. And how the Moon can impact their daily routines, energy levels, and manifesting abilities. With her logical background as a Decision Science major and her intuitive side as an Astrologer, Sekhem-Seichim-Reiki Master, Meditation Teacher, Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified Crystal Healer, Medium, Tarot Reader, and Energy Healer she offers a unique down to earth perspective to learn the sacred arts that unlock the mysteries, hunches, and unexplainable. With her guidance discover your limitless potential and step into the life you were born to live!
https://www.irenamiller.co/journal -> InSight of the Moon
https://www.irenamiller.co/stars -> personalized Reading
https://www.irenamiller.com -> website
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yxvzejg0LSKqIUvgZQUITfZSigoL5mKWJdx6wxU1v5Q/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi interviews Jenn Zellers, co-founder of Virtual Summit Search and Visibility Ecosystem, about building sustainable marketing systems for business owners. Jodi and Jenn talk about strategies for leveraging collaborations and speaking opportunities, particularly through podcast tours, to promote one's book and enhance business visibility without burning out. The episode also includes practical tips for introverted authors and the benefits of having a cohesive strategy to effectively use their book in business marketing.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing, publishing market.
03:43 Promote book and expertise through podcasts and summits.
08:47 Imagination is limitless, help with focus.
12:32 Create diverse presentations from book content creatively.
16:06 Plan podcast pitches 3-6 months in advance.
17:28 Podcast host supports call to action change.
20:24 Redirect waitlist URL for effective launch impact.
23:24 Busy business owners, check out author mentorship.
Keywords:
book publishing, writing a book, marketing a book, business growth, book marketing, visibility ecosystem, sustainable marketing, collaboration opportunities, online service providers, digital product creators, coaches, authors, speaking engagements, podcast tour, burnout prevention, repurposing content, marketing strategy, virtual summits, group programs, podcast interviews, audience engagement, sleaze-free sales, expert positioning, book snippets, content creation, presentation tips, introverted authors, public speaking, business ecosystem, book launch
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
https://visibilityecosystem.com/audio - free audio training that you can take on the go - in your favorite podcast player! - to learn more about Visibility Ecosystem and how you can use your own Ecosystem in your business
About Our Guest:
Jenn Zellers and the Visibility Ecosystem team equip online service providers, digital product creators, coaches, and authors with everything they need to establish a sustainable marketing system that grows your business, generates sleaze-free sales, and establishes you as a thought leader through speaking and collaborations.
https://visibilityecosystem.com/
https://instagram.com/visibilityecosystem/
https://linkedin.com/in/jenn-zellers
https://visibilityecosystem.com/planting-seeds - our group program to give you everything you need to create a thriving Visibility Ecosystem, including live quarterly Podcast Tour Sprints, our complete Visibility Ecosystem Hub, and our suite of done-for-you tools that do everything from creating presentation outlines and podcast interview questions, to writing podcast pitch emails for you, and more!
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UV-ptfaKZAvoJw-B7VTDPrE6p86jhS4EKbfGfDlTdJ0/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi talks sales with Renee Hribar. They discuss strategies for entrepreneurs looking to write and market their own books. Drawing from her extensive experience in sales and coaching, Renee shares invaluable insights on tailoring sales processes, maintaining a positive mindset, fostering genuine relationships, and the importance of simplicity in business practices. Renee also offers practical advice on follow-up methods and finding comfortable sales approaches.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing and publishing.
03:42 Navigating expertise delivery and emotional aspects concurrently.
06:55 Connecting through email, LinkedIn, and personal interactions.
11:22 Requiring key skills, categorizing relationships, building community.
13:27 Casual and welcoming way makes people comfortable.
17:29 Easily create group chats across social platforms.
22:00 Continuously ask questions to engage and connect.
25:00 Offering free chapter to promote book sales.
28:50 Experienced book publisher, writer, and lawyer's success.
32:22 Author leverages book to connect with earners.
35:00 Listen to today's episode, join the lab
Keywords:
entrepreneurs, writing a book, business growth, Jodi Brandon, book publishing industry, entrepreneur experiences, publishing books, marketing books, Renee Hribar, sales professional, women entrepreneurs, sales and marketing, sales mindset, streamlined sales process, potential clients, sales connectors, sales collaborators, asking questions in sales, simple business practices, Barbara Stani, Secrets of Six Figure Earners, six-figure earners, connecting with clients, Facebook group, Author Entrepreneurs Lab, open loops in sales, sales follow-up methods, automated emails, conversational sales, relationship building in sales, marketing books strategy
Resources Mentioned:
Secrets of Six Figure Earners by Barbara Stani Entrepreneurial Connections Movement (Renee’s Facebook community): https://www.facebook.com/groups/485712388288047 Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Renee Hribar has been a sales professional since 1994 in New York. Making her first million before she was 25 years old, she has gone on to sell millions of dollars in products and services and train thousands to sell for the first time. She is known in her industry as a fun, energetic sales coach who leads with heart. A TEDx speaker who offers training sessions at global conferences, on-demand courses and virtual workshops, she skillfully breaks down her decades of sales expertise. With her one-of-a-kind "laugh & learn" teaching style, you will certainly gain a new view of the "softer side of sales".
My best advice - no matter what your business sells is to grab my quick and easy FREE sales mini-course: https://www.reneehribar.co/training
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rXBXfeh8XrR58TTc7gwnWhrGdOO71HufqO0DgyeVbaw/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi welcomes book marketing consultant and author coach Aryn Van Dyke. Aryn shares her extensive experience from working at HarperCollins to founding Book Rockstar in 2019. Together, they delve into the importance of book messaging for nonfiction authors, breaking it down into four key elements: what, who, why, and how. Aryn offers actionable insights and real-world examples for how business owners writing books can create compelling messaging that connects with their target audience, ensuring their book stands out. Tune in for invaluable tips on positioning your book effectively in the marketplace and transforming your marketing strategy.
Time Stamps:
00:00 "Write, publish, market podcast for entrepreneur authors."
04:54 Authors should communicate book content effectively.
09:12 Consider reader's demographics and felt needs. Connect.
12:32 Understanding the author's motivation for writing.
15:53 Crafting impactful messaging to meet readers' needs.
19:38 Sharing method for achieving success in life.
21:05 Plan, create, and repurpose content for promotion.
26:07 Memoir written with a fiction-like narrative.
27:33 Grateful for listening, check out author mentorship.
Keywords:
book publishing, book marketing, entrepreneurs writing a book, book marketing consultant, author coach, nonfiction genres, book marketing strategy, book messaging, target reader, reader avatar, social media marketing, email marketing, book description, book launches, independent authors, personal stories, publishing industry, HarperCollins, Book Rockstar, reader connection, emotional connection, book promotion, Amazon a plus content, business book, book positioning, content creation, writing tips, memoir writing, marketing myths, book recommendations
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Win When They Say You Won’t by Daphne Jones
The Cormoran Strike Series by J.K. Rowling (writing under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith)
A Court of Thorn and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas
Donald Miller’s books
Lisa Turkhurst’s books
About Our Guest:
Aryn Van Dyke is a book marketing consultant and author coach. She has worked on hundreds of book launches, including multiple New York Times bestsellers, spanning across multiple nonfiction genres. After getting her start at HarperCollins, Aryn founded Book Rockstar in 2019 to make book marketing strategy more accessible to all authors.
www.bookrockstar.com
instagram.com/thebookmarketer
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/191kuUdCkjKVn9p_bvK4RQzDwOQ-g8OY1zKYhqGpmKXE/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi is joined by literary agent and book author Lucinda Halpern. As they discuss Lucinda’s book, Get Signed, Jodi and Lucinda discuss critical elements of book launching, including emphasizing the supremacy of an email list over social media for marketing impact. They also talk about the merits of traditional versus self-publishing, the necessity of providing practical value in business books, and the essential mindset work involved in writing. Lucinda shares her journey from intending to self-publish to securing a traditional book deal, underlining the importance of networking, strategic planning, and evolving one’s career for long-term success.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Transitioned from marketing to successful literary agent.
03:47 Growing company, female CEO diversifies during pandemic.
09:00 Challenges of writing a book and business.
10:29 Shift to higher gear with traditional publishing.
15:18 Don't self-publish if you have potential.
18:34 Evolution of career through empathy and success.
22:15 Email list crucial for successful book launch.
24:01 Immediate incentives key for selling books online.
27:04 Book about getting published, being your own advocate.
31:10 Seek unique, reader-facing content for standing out.
35:25 Recommend "Buy Back Your Time" and time management.
38:43 Explore book publishing with the Author Entrepreneurs Lab.
Keywords:
email list for book launch, book marketing strategies, pre-order incentives, frustrations in publishing industry, eliminating gatekeeping for authors, pitching a book, reader perspective for book writers, practical value in business books, traditional publishing vs self-publishing, importance of book distribution, evolution of book projects, writing mindset, vulnerability in book writing, perennial bestsellers, streamlining business processes, delegation for business owners, time auditing, right amount of people in business, self-promotion challenges, understanding traditional publishing, pivoting in publishing process, personal stories in books, end reader value, standing out in the book market, author website and social media, seeking expert help for authors, timing for writing a book, agent and editor interest, time management for entrepreneurs, entrepreneur book writing benefits, Lucinda Halpern literary agent
Resources Mentioned:
Company of One by Paul Jarvis
Free Time by Jenny Blake Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Lucinda Halpern is a literary agent with over 15 years experience, and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York. Prior to founding her agency, she worked in the Publicity division of HarperCollins, where she assisted on the media campaign for Freakonomics among other New York Times bestsellers. She later worked as a marketing consultant for Gretchen Rubin (The Happiness Project), before launching her career as an agent. She has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, and currently represents New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of business, personal growth, psychology, narrative nonfiction, and upmarket fiction. Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House/Penguin Random House; February 2024). Learn more at getsignedbook.com or lucindaliterary.com and follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram and Twitter.
Free gift for the listeners!
GET SIGNED Free Book Bonuses Link: https://www.getsignedbook.com/bonuses/
Instagram: @ lucindaliterary and/or @ lucindahalpern
Twitter: @ lucindaliterary and/or @ LucindaBlu
Facebook: Lucinda Literary
LinkedIn: Lucinda Literary and/or Lucinda Halpern #GetSignedBook
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/14viB3W7vHgKMckjbse3Z1gByzXNKarW22Y92eE_DPAw/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of Write Publish Market, Jodi speaks with Pauline Wiles, an author turned website designer, about the role a strategically designed website plays in promoting abusiness owner’s book and business. Pauline emphasizes the importance of integrating the book into the main business website, refreshing the site during the book launch phase, and effectively using the website to support the book launch team. The conversarion highlights common mistakes business owner authors make, strategies to avoid them, and time-saving features to streamline the process.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing, publishing books.
04:43 Emphasize consistent branding and marketing techniques.
07:43 Incentivize book launch with secret website rewards.
12:13 Writing routine important for efficient book writing.
14:35 Leverage book page to drive business opportunities.
18:13 Create concise contact page for better interactions.
19:48 Pauline, thanks for the helpful website tips.
22:32 Listen to my podcast, join my mentorship.
Keywords: book publishing, book marketing, author websites, book launch strategies, book launch team, website design for authors, solopreneur websites, book promotion, business growth, entrepreneur authors, book title domain, website traffic, branding consistency, email list sign-up, book sales, author bio, business tools, book reviews, author photos, book cover design, missed opportunities, SEO for authors, launch team rewards, reader feedback, website optimization, time-saving features, appointment scheduling, FAQs, content strategy, marketing asset
Resources Mentioned:
Are We Old Yet? by Gary Cole
Reach: Create the Biggest Possible Audience for Your Message, Book, or Cause by Becky Robinson
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Pauline Wiles (pronouns: she/her) is an author turned website designer, who helps authors and solopreneurs with books create modern websites for strong business results. Her strategic approach delivers a powerful marketing asset that builds authority, grows your audience, and sells your services and programs. British by birth, Pauline is now a contented resident of California, although she admits to an occasional yearning for afternoon tea and historic homes.
Website: https://www.paulinewiles.com/
Free training: 21 Ways I Spot Your DIY Website: https://www.paulinewiles.com/free
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rc6cpba12bqwulI21Zo-RYY76Z6HgSdqkUp_vn4qwP4/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi welcomes business strategist and author Amy Traugh to explore Amy’s book journey with The CEO Method. Amy shares insights on leveraging a launch team, the importance of human connections in marketing, and how her book has bolstered her business credibility. Amy also shares about unexpected tech issues with Amazon and the powerful impact of strategic networking.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing and publishing.
04:18 Easy for me, existing content, find support.
08:50 Writing a book adds authority and credibility.
10:13 Preparing for book launch involves backend work.
14:03 Develop a productive writing routine with guidance.
15:44 Tracking states reached through book distribution visually.
19:24 Reaching event hosts for swag provides ROI.
23:08 Expand reach, engage with book launch team.
27:17 Thanks for listening.
Keywords:
client acquisition strategy, vanity metrics, business intent, accountability, book launch team, engagement generation, asking for help, public sharing, Amazon woes, mutually beneficial relationships, business networking, What's In It for Them book, Joe Polish, Write Publish Market podcast, entrepreneur book writing, Amy Traugh, business strategist, CEO method, sales plateau, bestseller book, data-driven decisions, profitable business, Big Idea to Bestseller, Jay Kheper, credibility establishment, warm client introductions, referral power, book launch challenges, marketing tool, lead magnet
Resources Mentioned:
What’s in it for Them? by Joe Polish Big Idea to Bestseller by Jake Kelfer
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Amy Traugh is a business strategist, author, and the host of the top 2.5% ranked podcast, The Motivated CEO.
She helps service providers, generate the consistent sales they want so that they can create the impact they desire, without sacrificing their two most valuable assets, time and energy through her signature CEO Framework.
www.amytraugh.com
Grab a FREE copy of The CEO Method: An Entrepreneur's Guide to Business Success at https://amytraugh.com/freebook
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HFQV-pw2O42YSrtUQeBVXEy-vMlOou-el1ge5_39WGc/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of the Write Publish Market podcast, host Jodi Brandon interviews Leah Paulos, founder of Press Shop PR and Book Publicity School, about the evolving landscape of book publicity in 2024. Leah shares valuable insights on the differences between marketing and publicity, strategies for effectively promoting a book, and the importance of being both strategic and adaptable in today's media environment. Listeners will gain practical advice for cutting through the noise and successfully launching their nonfiction books, regardless of their publishing path.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Entrepreneur-focused podcast, featuring writing and publishing tips.
04:53 Strategic targeting, avoiding overwhelm, focusing on bandwidth.
06:45 Traditional publishing requires authors to be active.
12:37 Adapting to diverse formats to reach readers.
15:53 Study recent successful books for strategic guidance.
18:18 Clear goal alignment essential for successful campaigns.
21:59 Crafting concise, compelling pitches for books.
26:08 Grateful for listening.
Keywords:
book publicity, book marketing, publishing industry, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, traditional publishing, PR campaigns, media attention, book sales, audience engagement, book promotion, author branding, social media marketing, book launch strategies, author promotion, media coverage, book distribution, publishing timeline, book events, author platforms, book sales goals, publishing goals, author experiences, publicity strategies, nonfiction writers, promotional work, audience demographics, book reviewers, podcast interviews, book advertising
Resources Mentioned:
Foreign Agents by Casey Michel
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Leah Paulos, the Founder of Press Shop PR and Book Publicity School, has worked at the intersection of books and media for over 20 years. Twice named a top PR firm by the Observer, Press Shop has worked on a wide range of titles, including MARCH by Rep. John Lewis, ON TYRANNY by Timothy Snyder, and on books by Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Neil deGrasse Tyson, James Kirchick, and Pulitzer-finalists Samuel Freedman and Louise Aronson. Leah began her career as a magazine editor at Condé Nast, then worked as a freelance writer for dozens of national magazines before moving into book publicity in 2006 and launching Press Shop in 2012. She graduated from Cornell University in 1998, and lives in Brooklyn with her husband and 2 boys.
Press Shop PR: https://www.pressshoppr.com/
Book Publicity School: https://www.bookpublicityschool.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/press-shop-pr/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PressShopPR
and: https://www.facebook.com/people/Book-Publicity-School/100090936998502/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PressShopPR
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1f3Rmb0yC8mC4YUIY8_3fb-nXNZCFg7GMfkdCA8CyPuM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of Write Publish Market, host Jodi Brandon is joined by Heidi Yarger, founder of Spitfire Girl, to dive deep into the nuances of book marketing and building a personal brand. They discuss the strategic importance of starting the marketing journey early (ideally six months before a book launch), incorporating an author’s personal stories, and establishing thought leadership to engage the audience effectively. Additionally, they discuss the use of artificial intelligence in enhancing content creation and marketing strategies for authors.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Clients should start planning six months ahead.
05:23 Utilize speaking engagements to support business growth.
06:32 Brand yourself and your book strategically.
11:39 Author discusses editing book framework for more appeal.
14:00 Navigating book promotion requires strategic persistence and resilience.
17:26 Maya finds using chat GPT for quotes smart.
20:21 Use paid GPT for targeted DIY prompts.
25:03 Listen to the podcast and join membership.
Keywords:
artificial intelligence in publishing, content pillars, DIY authors, social media content creation, book marketing strategies, Likable Badass book, Permission to Speak book, book launch strategy, author's writing process, press features, speaking engagements, book promotion ads, complex nonfiction promotion, Write Publish Market Podcast, Heidi Yarger, Spitfire Girl agency, personal brand marketing, nonfiction book marketing, author thought leadership, women authors, social media communication for authors, writing routine challenge, AJ Harper, Write a Must Read book, nonfiction writing, book framework design, engaging social media topics, vulnerability in writing
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite Write a Must Read by AJ Harper
Likable Badass by Alison Frigale
Permission to Speak by Samara Bay
About Our Guest:
Heidi Yarger is founder & creative director of Spitfiregirl, an award-winning agency for visionaries, leaders and doers ready to take the next step. Using brand strategy and thoughtful design, Heidi & her team help authors go beyond traditional book marketing to help them show up and show out online - creating a personal brand that will serve you before, and long after your book launch.
Website: https://spitfiregirldesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespitfiregirl
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiyarger/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thespitfiregirl/
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IlOBkT4M-TDJzy-Gxhf8vuulzsI4oE9XAAsDBopvsJE/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, host Jodi Brandon and guest Ellen Polk detail the intricacies of choosing the right editor for your book, emphasizing the importance of communication, compatibility, and editorial processes. They discuss different types of editors/editing services and how authors can tailor their questions to find the best match for their particular project's needs. The episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for entrepreneurs looking to refine their manuscripts and enhance their impact through effective collaboration with the right editorial partner.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Ellen Polk helps women write impactful books.
04:57 Editors consider sentence relevance, value, and proofreading.
09:05 Guide created based on author concerns and experience.
11:46 Connecting with authors cultivates successful author-editor relationships.
13:09 Communicate book's goal to editor for alignment.
17:28 Editors collaborate with authors to improve manuscripts.
22:19 Qualifications and experience are crucial for editors.
26:29 Communication style and compatibility in working relationship.
29:52 Comprehensive guide offers valuable insight for writers.
31:27 Fan of author impressed by writing skills.
34:01 Show notes, see you inside the lab.
Keywords:
vulnerability, trust, mindset, power imbalances, industry expert, partnership, safe space, writing routine, ready set write challenge, business owners, editors, editing process, revisions phase, developmental editing, coaching, writing, publishing, marketing books, entrepreneurs, Jodi Brandon, Ellen Polk, nonfiction books, line editing, stylistic editing, copy editing, proofreading, communication style, feedback, mentorship, Author Entrepreneurs Lab
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Tough Titties by Laura Belgrave
About Our Guest:
Ellen Polk is the founder of Sage House Editorial, a business dedicated to helping ambitious, mission-driven women transform their expertise, experience, and insights into powerful nonfiction books that allow them to amplify their impact, inspire action, grow their businesses, create new opportunities, and position themselves as a go-to in their industry.
Through end-to-end editorial support and 1:1 creative consulting, Ellen is committed to helping women take their big ideas from bucket list to bookshelf and become modern authors.
Website: www.sagehouseeditorial.com
Instagram: @sagehouseeditorial
LinkedIn: Ellen Marker-Polk
Author's Guide to Hiring an Editor: www.sagehouseeditorial.com/hire-an-editor
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SZWFXJVGPWbDrqth4ALBgvU03Fv41cAj9nX8f6tkDhc/edit?usp=sharing
In Episode 155, host Jodi Brandon chats with guest Angel Myers, a licensed marriage and family therapist and seasoned author. They delve into Angel's journey of writing her book, Every Day I Do: How to Rewrite Your Vows After an Affair, discussing the inspirations behind it and the challenges she faced, including her initial hesitancy about entering the publishing world. The conversation also explores how Angel uses her book in her professional practice and her unexpected passion for writing fiction, revealing her ongoing projects and future aspirations in romance writing.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Angel Myers: Therapist, author, trainer, and parent.
03:30 Author considers writing a book to help clients.
08:39 Readers found relatability in following one couple.
11:46 Resource for families and couples in various settings.
15:19 Delegate to experts, utilize editing software early. Period.
18:34 Self-help book by entertainment journalist is inspiring.
21:16 Join my mentorship membership for book publishers.
Keywords:
book publishing, entrepreneur, writing a book, marriage therapy, podcast, self-help books, relationship advice, affair recovery, fiction writing, book marketing, author experience, writing process, editing a book, book launch, reader feedback, therapy practices, romance fiction, relationship counseling, publishing strategies, business growth, editorial advice, market research, storytelling, creative writing, educational resources, couple therapy, authorship, book sales, personal development, audience engagement
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Dear Alpha Female: How to Attract the Love You Deserve by Crystal Jordan
About Our Guest:
Angel Myers is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years experience in behavioral health care with a record of service excellence in helping numerous couples resolve the areas of distress in their marriage and relationship. She is the author of Everyday I Do: How to Rewrite Your Vows after an Affair, which is an affair recovery book with an accompanying journal and also lead trainer for the Every Day I Do program serving other practices and organizations which help couples. She's also a fiction writer currently working on a romance/ women's fiction called The Wedding Therapist due in early Spring. Where she's not writing and training she is behind the scenes parenting her two beloved children 16 and 14 Vivian and Uriah. Lastly, with the remaining hours of her week she finds any opportunity to engage in self-care with her favorite hobbies including ballroom dancing.
www.everydayido.com
www.angelmarriageandfamily.com
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gZtXo85-MSaDyBFKzm30neTQgCXQ-A8CHmwkTM8zt9c/edit?usp=sharing
Time Stamps:
00:00 Embracing your own voice, overcoming self-consciousness.
06:13 Writing style, narration, and marketing your book.
08:09 Authors should narrate their own books for interpretation.
12:02 Essential factors for effective audiobook narration.
14:19 Need to stop rushing, remove guesswork. Appreciate it.
17:02 Include program info, stay in your lane.
20:41 Differentiate marketing strategies for book distribution wisely.
23:43 Personalized coaching brings out the best narration.
27:11 Including audiobooks allows for more inclusive learning.
29:56 Compelling story, author can be a narrator.
Keywords:
write publish market podcast, Robert Lane, audio post-editing, audiobooks production, revenue for book formats, consuming audiobooks, audiobook narration, nonfiction authors, Your Book Your Voice, publishing on Audible, author brand, mindset exercises, hiring professional narrators, AI narration, audio file uploading service, book sales on Amazon, audiobook distribution strategy, recording quality, brand identity, human voice narration, technical narration aspects, equipment setup guidance, editing services for audiobooks
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Robert A. Lane is an Audiobook Coach & Producer as well as an inspirational speaker. He spent 30+ years working in the entertainment industry in various facets including on & off camera, post production and corporate management. Fourteen of those years were spent at 20th Century Fox, working on the studio lot in L.A. as their Feature Project Manager. He also has over 20 years of experience as a re-recording mixer, sound designer and music composer for many films, tv shows and industrial videos.
After leaving the entertainment world in 2020, Robert founded Robert Lane Coaching and created the “Your Book Your Voice” audiobook coaching program, which helps published nonfiction authors record, narrate and publish their audiobook on Audible, Amazon & Apple Books in six-weeks.
Robert is also a best-selling author with his book “Lights Action You!” as well as an award-winning filmmaker. He resides in Sedona, Arizona.
Website - https://www.robertlanecoaching.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/robertlanecoaching
YouTube - https://bit.ly/RobertLaneCoachingYouTube
Your Book Your Voice Podcast (live) - https://bit.ly/yourbookyourvoicepodcast
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-a-lane
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/robertlanecoaching
“Lights, Action, YOU!” (Book on Amazon) - https://amzn.to/3Ly833t
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LGxAHe9kRjV7elEf6Rtbd48HEABRwebV0zhMCrSafos/edit?usp=sharing
Today Jodi is joined by Latasha Doyle, the virtuoso behind Uncanny Content and Uncanny Unedited. They discuss the world of email marketing, funnels, and how they can effortlessly integrate with the lifecycle of your book.
Latasha is a seasoned copywriter and marketing strategist, and she explains how your book is an extensive marketing tool that works both top and bottom of the funnel. Jodi and Latasha explore how email marketing can substantially increase your odds of conversion, and why owning your email list is paramount in the ever-changing landscape of social media.
Latasha also shares her insights on the evolution of book marketing in the face of an increasingly digital and self-publishing environment, including tapping into book influencer culture, maintaining brand alignment between your business and your author persona, and the critical realization and understanding that your book is a continual part of your product suite.
Time Stamps:
03:18 Use book or chapter to attract customers.
09:02 Leverage networks for effective book promotion.
13:44 Podcast offers writing challenge for productive business owners.
22:40 Leverage book in marketing and advertising effectively.
23:52 Author wants control over time and promotion.
Keywords:
Entrepreneur, Writing a Book, Book Publishing, Podcast, Marketing, Content and Copy Agency, Romance Books, Paranormal Fantasy, Email Marketing, Marketing Strategies, Self-Published Works, Fiction Writers, Book Marketing Partner, Marketing Strategist, Content Marketing, Business Growth, Nonfiction Authors, Book Launch, Speaking Engagements, Consulting, Traditional Publishing, Self-Publishing, Hybrid Publishing, Intellectual Property, Book Tours, Advanced Reader Copies, Social Media, Influencer Marketing, Bookstagram, Book Talk
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Latasha Doyle owns Uncanny Content, a full-service content and copy agency. She and her team bonded over a love of books — mostly romance and paranormal fantasy — that led them to create a new branch of the business: Uncanny Unedited. Today, Uncanny Unedited serves fiction writers with marketing strategies that help them stand out, sell more of their self-published works, and build a following of rabid fans.
uncannycontent.co
uncannycontent.co/strategy-intensives
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/14pwZSqf22JHwe46NO4PO-ymPXWqg6AAYU_rBSJ9nQ8A/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi, with guests Ginny Krauss and Elli Runkles of Supported CEO, explore the concept of capacity for business owners, particularly when it comes to book writing. Jodi, Ginny, and Elli discuss what it really means to manage your time, energy, and headspace while running a business. Ginny and Elli get real about bouncing back from burnout and share how to tell if you're taking on too much (and what to do about it).
Time Stamps: 00:00 Closed businesses, discovered selves, now helping others 05:29 No time doesn't just mean lack of time 07:32 Entrepreneurship led to burnout, balance is crucial 11:59 Balancing work life and personal priorities 14:11 Prioritize tasks, identify energy drains, and re-evaluate 18:14 Recommend prioritizing and organizing tasks intentionally 19:44 Review obligations, adjust expectations, make space intentionally 25:25 Rest, recharge, and prioritize self-care in small moments 29:25 Reevaluating priorities and facing fear for growth 31:14 Normalize conversation about support for writing projects 34:50 Book for entrepreneurs and creatives, with exercises
36:56 Discover more on book publishing - join!
Keywords: podcast, entrepreneurs, burnout, Supported CEO, Ginny Krauss, Elli Runkles, capacity planning, energy levels, support systems, brain dump, acknowledgment sections, personal well-being, business goals, "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone", Lori Gottlieb, "You the Story", Ruta Sepetys, mentorship, Author Entrepreneurs Lab, societal pressure, rest, intentional tasks, self-trust, personal stories, writing routine, ready, set, write challenge, making space, obligations, creative support, increasing capacity
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb You: The Story by Ruda Sepetys
About Our Guests:
Ginny Krauss & Elli Runkles are marketers turned alignment coaches and Co-Founders of Supported CEO. Their mission is to help busy entrepreneurs thrive in both life and business without burning out, by becoming more supported versions of themselves. Ginny & Elli have 15+ years of entrepreneurial experience both having previous businesses prior to coming together to co-found Supported CEO in 2023. They are both Americans who have had the unique experience of living abroad for over a decade, Ginny lives in Germany and Elli lives in Portugal. They also are the hosts of the Supported CEO podcast!
Learn how to 2x your capacity with our 20 minute free training: www.supportedceo.com/capacity
Listen to the Supported CEO podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/supported-ceo-podcast/id1696108460
Connect with us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/supported_ceo
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VCEDj0AXgFuch7EYjW8xsfdx79zaF3kfVTzy0U36JfM/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of the Write Publish Market podcast, host Jodi Brandon sits down with guest Sharon Leger to discuss her book journey. Sharon, a former teacher turned life coach for busy moms, shares her experience of writing, publishing, and marketing a book to help moms create lives they are obsessed with. She talks about the evolution of her book project, the challenges she faced during the process, and how she's using her book to engage with her audience and inspire other moms. Sharon also gives valuable advice to business owners considering writing a book and shares some reading recommendations. Join us as we delve into Sharon's insightful journey and learn from her experience in the book publishing world.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Coaching moms, saw need, wanted to write 03:32 Empowering moms through accessible information and coaching 06:51 Wish I knew about buffer time 11:37 Author struggles with book's target audience 15:08 Pausing coaching to focus on book launch 17:46 Commit to writing process, achieve book completion 20:10 The Gap and the Game 23:37 Grateful for listening, explore book publishing mentorship
Keywords: book publishing, writing a book, entrepreneurs, business growth, marketing a book, coaching, motherhood, self-publishing, book cover, writing process, revision process, publishing process, marketing process, actionable steps, reading recommendation, audiobooks, nonfiction books, fiction books, busy moms, personal growth, goal-setting, success stories, example for other moms, business owner, nonfiction recommendations, fiction recommendations, self-improvement, feedback, inspiration
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Sharon Leger is a former elementary school teacher who ditched the chaos of the classroom to become a life coach for busy moms. Her ultimate goal is to help moms create lives they are obsessed with.
Website: https://sharonlegercoaching.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonlegercoaching/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/How-Design-Your-Life-Creating/dp/B0CRLGKJB6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=IZ26G7JOI4HG&keywords=how+to+design+your+life+sharon+leger&qid=1706745763&sprefix=how+to+design+your+life%2Caps%2C208&sr=8-1
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s7VO1ZVU4mmGnt1tLLIRMJUu97SSB6mIM4zKZP28HfY/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of Write Publish Market, host Jodi Brandon sits down with Katie Zeliger, founder of Marakee Press, a hybrid publishing company. Katie shares her inspiring journey of supporting first-time authors in getting their books from the first draft to distribution. She talks about her experience working as a mental health advocate and counselor, and how it has influenced the high-touch services her company provides to authors. Katie also sheds light on the world of hybrid publishing, distinguishing it from vanity publishing and highlighting its benefits for authors who may not fit into traditional publishing and are overwhelmed by self-publishing options. Jodi and Katie discuss the importance of researching and finding the right fit in hybrid publishing, and Katie gives valuable advice for local and regional authors looking to build relationships with their community and local stores. Finally, Katie shares a book recommendation, offering a glimpse into her current read. Tune in to this insightful episode to gain a deeper understanding of hybrid publishing and its potential for authors seeking to bring their books to life.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Participant dreams of publishing book, surprises counselor. 04:22 Empowered man with basic English writes WWII story. 08:19 Develop writing routine with ready set write challenge. 11:14 IBPA emphasizes transparency, negotiable contracts, quality standards. 16:05 Choosing a publisher depends on personality. Research options. 20:10 Katie, thanks for the clear and concise advice. 21:55 Grateful for listening, explore author Entrepreneurs Lab.
Keywords:
book publishing, entrepreneur, writing, author, publishing industry, hybrid publisher, Meraki Press, first-time authors, traditional publishing, self-publishing, self-publishing options, predatory press, vanity publishing, hybrid standards, IBPA, Independent Book Publishing Association, book creation, ghostwriting, developmental edits, marketing strategies, local authors, regional authors, bookstore relationships, local stores, distribution, quality publishing, genre, traditional publishing contract
Resources Mentioned:
IBPA Hybrid Publisher Criteria: https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/hybridpublisher
IBPA Industry Standards Checklist: https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/standardschecklist
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
About Our Guest:
Katie Zeliger (zel-eh-ger) is a hybrid publisher in central western Pennsylvania. She began Meraki Press three years ago as a means to support first time authors on their journey from first draft to distribution. Katie has a background as a humanitarian aid worker and mental health advocate and counselor, which she uses to better serve their authors, allowing them a uniquely high-touch service. Katie is recently married and loves spending her days sipping lattes, reading and writing.
website: www.merakipress.org
instagram: @merakipress_design
free ebook "A Quick Guide to Publishing" www.merakipress.org/freebie
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/12fNXDhlDXxyFD4S68hIIJcXGULq48UYQP_JU4JxIKnU/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode of Write Publish Market, host Jodi Brandon busts common myths about book publishing, debunking misconceptions and setting the record straight. From traditional publishing deals to bestseller lists and ghostwriting, listeners gain valuable insights into the reality of the publishing world. With Jodi's expertise and straightforward approach, this episode offers invaluable guidance for entrepreneurs navigating the book publishing journey.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Book sales don't make money for businesses.
05:29 Consider launch timing around relevant awareness months.
09:26 Valuing time and effort, creating without cheating.
10:45 Book publishing podcast, join author entrepreneurs lab.
Keywords:
entrepreneur, writing a book, book publishing, marketing, myths, traditional publishing, book marketing, publicity, media opportunities, author, hybrid publishing, self-publishing, royalty checks, lead generation, speaking fee, book sales, launch timing, book launch, business plan, organization, holiday promo, financial literacy, bestseller lists, vanity metrics, ghostwriter, repurposed content, YouTube transcripts, podcast transcripts, email marketing, path to publication, business owners writing books, CEOs writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, book writing for entrepreneurs, book writing for business owners, book writing for CEOs, Ready Set Write challenge
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iYvCsOwplIwZtM7hde-Lk5vZhmZl0SIE0qL-Z7v3Tk8/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, host Jodi Brandon and email marketing expert Bev Feldman dive into the nuances of crafting effective email marketing strategies for book writers and entrepreneurs. They stress the importance of regular reviews, personalized funnels, and the pitfalls of "set it and forget it" email sequences, sharing insights to enhance engagement and avoid overwhelming subscribers. The episode wraps up with Jodi promoting her mentorship membership and Bev's book recommendations, highlighting their personal reading habits and adjustments to make room for reading in their busy lives.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Bev Feldman: Jewelry designer turned tech consultant.
04:50 Balancing focus between business and book marketing.
07:53 Advise clients allowing email opt-outs for marketing.
10:41 Segment people based on purchase behaviors for marketing.
13:28 Filter out automated sequence for newsletter segment.
17:55 Recommend welcome onboarding sequence to build rapport.
21:05 Advice on email management and business strategy.
25:55 Reading three books, including new library books.
28:10 Reworked morning routine for reading, coffee, kids.
Keywords:
Bev Feldman, Jodi Brandon, email marketing, reading habits, open rates, click through rates, email engagement, email sequences, business planning, email performance analysis, desktop and mobile testing, overwhelmed funnels, follow-up emails, email marketing sequence, automated welcome sequence, autoresponders, book updates, book publishing, ConvertKit consulting, email automation, book launch marketing, email segmentation, client status, newsletter deliverability, business owners writing books, CEOs writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, book writing for business owners, book writing for CEOs, book writing for entrepreneurs
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Rouge by Mona Awad He, She, They by Skylar Baylar Doppelganger: A Trip into the Mirror World by Naomi Klein
About Our Guest:
Bev Feldman is a jewelry designer turned tech nerd at Your Personal Tech Fairy. As an email marketing consultant specializing in ConvertKit, Bev provides personalized strategies for established coaches, consultants, and service providers who want to automate their email marketing but are feeling done with one-size-fits-all advice that doesn't take into account your business model, your list size, what you sell, and how you want to show up. Bev's expertise lies in thinking big while paying attention to the tiny details - with a dash of magic - that allow you to send the right emails to the right subscribers. When she's not playing around in ConvertKit, Bev's either playing the piano, wrangling her two kids, or reading a book or two of the analog variety.
https://yourpersonaltechfairy.com/publish
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pkBUH28QeUFr99uBvdC6wbrl6n8qhhr1WBgNAKRisKk/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, host Jodi Brandon takes us through the importance of seeing your book as an investment in your business, not just a creative endeavor or a bucket list item. She emphasizes the significant time and financial investment required for self-publishing or hybrid publishing and the need to consider both tangible and intangible ways to earn back that investment. Jodi also discusses the myths around traditional book publishing deals and the importance of defining your metric for success and aligning your goals with your book's role in your business. Tune in to gain valuable insights into treating your book as an investment and positioning it to best serve your business.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs: writing, publishing, marketing books.
03:44 Establish writing routine to enhance productivity. Visit jodybrandeneeditorial.com/readyset.
07:13 Podcast episode gratitude and author entrepreneurs Lab
Keywords:
book publishing, entrepreneur, writing, business growth, investment, creative endeavor, bucket list, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, service providers, editing, royalties, advance, traditional publishing, marketing plan, bestseller, vanity metrics, readers, courses, coaching, masterminds, tools, programs, mentorship, membership, author entrepreneurs Lab, education, resources, co-writing, book world, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, CEOs writing books, book writing for entrepreneurs, book writing for business owners, book writing for CEOs
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1izTQKrr2mjhr9ppOhYc3wxBEBHFlWWZnXwIjKgZjZ2Q/edit?usp=sharing
Episode 146 The 4Cs of Consistent Writing
In episode 146, host Jodi Brandon welcomes YA author and life coach Isabel Sterling to explore the four Cs of consistent writing (create a realistic writing plan, commit to believing your plan is good enough, cultivate excitement for your writing session, and celebrate every single win), providing listeners with a blueprint for establishing and maintaining a realistic and rewarding writing routine. They delve into adjusting writing plans to fit personal circumstances, overcoming creative blocks, and the psychological benefits of celebrating small victories.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Consistent writing schedule varies for different people.
04:09 Many people procrastinate despite making elaborate plans.
09:26 Planning time wisely is key for productivity.
13:07 Identify creative blocks to improve your writing.
15:40 Develop a writing routine for efficient book writing.
19:43 Teach brain by appealing to its motivators.
22:38 Track and celebrate progress in writing sessions.
24:54 Tracking data reveals realistic writing time expectations.
29:12 Join Author-Entrepreneurs Lab mentorship program for book publishing support.
Keywords:
Jodi Brandon, Isabel Sterling, publishing process, author burnout, writing consistency, realistic writing plan, writing schedule, non-negotiable commitments, benefits of reading YA, book writing mentorship, writing time comparison, writing mindset, productive writing increments, setting writing goals, emotional impact on writing, overcoming writing insecurities, creative process obstacles, creative blocks, self-kindness in writing, journaling for writers, tangible writing goals, celebrating writing milestones, rewiring brain for writing, tracking writing progress, four C's of consistent writing, Ready Set Write challenge, book writing for business owners, business owners writing books, CEOs writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, book writing for entrepreneurs, book writing for CEOs
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELABThe Luminaries by Susan Dennard The Hunting Moon
About Our Guest:
Isabel Sterling is a master coach, foster mom, and author of These Witches Don’t Burn, This Coven Won’t Break, and The Coldest Touch. She lives with her spouse, foster kiddo, and fur-babies in Central New York, where the winters are frigid, the summers are too hot, and autumn is perfect.
www.IsabelSterling.com
www.instagram.com/isa_sterling
www.IsabelSterling.com/courses (this has my Write Consistently course, which teaches the 4 Cs in more detail)
LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HV2kYcrSeRU-AymsYPDP3JJ9njqA9kUFPBFVy-dBPWY/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jodi explains the various paths to book publication available to entrepreneurs this year. Jodi discusses the evolution of traditional publishing, the rise of self-publishing, and the emergence of hybrid publishing, and e emphasizes the importance of understanding your goals, timeline, and business needs to determine the best publishing path for you. Join us as we explore the pros and cons of each route and the crucial factors to consider when deciding the right path for your book and business. Tune in to gain valuable insights to help propel your book writing, publishing, and marketing success in 2024 and beyond!
Time Stamps: 00:00 Choose self-publishing for faster time to market. 04:02 Consider goals, timeline, and publishing paths. 07:51 Perception, planning, and investment in business books. 11:20 Listen to today's book publishing podcast episode.
Keywords: book publishing, traditional publishing, self publishing, hybrid publishing, author subsidized model, literary agent, business owner, commercial success, timeline, investment, perception, professional publishing standards, editorial, typesetting, covers, distribution, royalties, traditional book publishing deal, bestseller status, investment in business, business coaching, paid mastermind, courses, education memberships, marketing, mentorship membership, author entrepreneur's Lab, book writing, book marketing, book publishing industry, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, book writing for business owners
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
LINK TO FULL EPISODE RAW TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DwyoiSJgG9oPWAygCiuudXKwpV9iWJUBk5TlT02lguw/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi is joined by guest Brit Bozik, a content specialist, to explore the powerful world of content repurposing. They discuss the misconceptions around content creation and repurposing, and how to effectively reach and engage your audience. Brit shares her repurposing formula and practical tips for turning one piece of content into multiple touch points across different platforms. Jodi and Brit delve into how book authors can leverage content repurposing to amplify their book's message and engage with their audience. The episode ends with a reading recommendation, providing valuable insights into content repurposing and engaging book marketing strategies.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Introducing Brit Bozick: expert in content repurposing.
05:24 Content repurposing maximizes reach, engagement, and consistency.
09:30 Content strategy involves creation, audience, and repurposing.
11:02 Repurposing formula: break, themes, content types, socials.
16:05 Business owners have an advantage writing books.
16:52 YouTube blooper video still resonates with fans.
22:07 Subscribe to author entrepreneurs lab for more
Keywords: Brit Bozik, Jodi Brandon, book publishing, entrepreneur, business, writing, publishing, marketing, content specialist, podcasters, speakers, authors, coaches, content creation, content repurposing, strategy, creativity, design, authority, niche, business growth, social media, engagement, messaging, brand messaging, book authors, content strategy, value, promotion, social content, book recommendation, Taylor Jenkins Reid, one true love, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Content Repurposing Formula: https://thatcreativegirl.myflodesk.com/repurpose-formula
Venn diagram graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TW7eCcehTCj1Oamgo1IbFgUiSMphrKU9/view?usp=drive_link
About Our Guest:
Brit Bozik, a content specialist supporting podcasters, speakers, authors and coaches who feel stuck and overwhelmed with content creation. Unlike traditional content managers, my expertise lies in repurposing your existing content to amplify your message, strengthen your leadership, and elevate your online brand.
With my Content Power Up signature offer and Repurposing Formula, I combine strategy, creativity, and design to help you establish authority within your niche and accelerate your business growth.
https://www.thatcreativegirl.com/ig-links/
https://www.instagram.com/thatcreativegirl.brit
Freebie - https://thatcreativegirl.myflodesk.com/repurpose-formula
LINK TO FULL RAW EPISODE TRANSCRIPT: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1REtuo5QXZUHzUZgYUjAutj-nKMxNZS-8-nRaNuBOU6U/edit?usp=drive_link
In this episode, Jodi explores the long-term strategies for marketing your book beyond the launch day. Jodi shares important insights on how to integrate your book into your business ecosystem, emphasizing serving over selling. Learn how to position your book as an evergreen marketing tool and discover the key phases of book marketing. Join us and gain valuable tips to ensure your book's long-term success. Keep writing, keep marketing, and think beyond the launch.
Keywords:book publishing, writing, marketing, entrepreneur, business, long term marketing, book launch, traditional book publishing, bestseller status, vanity metrics, marketing tool, visibility, evergreen concept, business ecosystem, marketing strategy, author, success metrics, commercial author, business owner, book marketing, prelaunch, post launch, commercial success, marketing plan, launch event, book revision, industry changes, success strategy, mentorship membership, Author-Entrepreneurs Lab
Resources Mentioned:The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
LINK TO FULL RAW EPIOSDE TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DdiwVZ7y5THplRr6-TZi_7H5T3XVdkX7M7h4bi9X32c/edit?usp=drive_link
On this episode of Write Publish Market, Jodi dives into the world of LinkedIn with special guest Cara Steinmann, the founder of Ravel Collective. Cara is a networking expert who helps purpose-driven women entrepreneurs build strategic networks that lead to referrals, collaboration, visibility, and fun. In this insightful conversation, Jodi and Cara explore how to leverage LinkedIn for business growth, including tips for building authentic relationships, strategies for effective networking, and advice for promoting a book on the platform. Cara also shares her non-icky LinkedIn networking playbook, offering valuable scripts and strategies for making genuine connections. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights into using LinkedIn to expand your business network and promote your book in an authentic, effective way.
Time Stamps: 00:00 Podcast for entrepreneurs on writing and publishing. 05:21 Building relationships based on support and respect. 07:48 Significant point about LinkedIn connections and growth. 11:01 Connect with podcasters on social media strategically. 15:44 Optimize profile to gain visibility and engagement. 18:56 Practicing what I preach and engaging with comments. 19:59 Understanding personality types through various systems and saying "yes" 23:13 Grateful for listening, join author entrepreneurs lab.
Keywords:book publishing, writing a book, entrepreneur, business growth, networking, LinkedIn, social media, algorithm, membership community, female founders, referrals, collaboration, visibility, authenticity, content saturation, podcasting, podcast promotions, human design, reciprocity, vulnerability, connection strategy, groups, comments, author, content creation, scripts, top of mind, non-icky, Naomi Wolf, beauty myth, business owners writing books, Cara Steinmann
Resources Mentioned:
Non-Ick LinkedIn Networking Playbook: ravelcollective.com/networking-guide
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
About Our Guest:
Cara Steinmann, founder of the Ravel Collective and host of Ravel Radio podcast, helps purpose-driven women service entrepreneurs build strategic networks that lead to referrals, collaboration, visibility and fun. She works with female founders to connect and grow through authentic connection strategies and private membership communities.
Episode 141
Applying Creativity and Science to Book Writing
In this episode of the Write Publish Market podcast, Jodi discusses the importance of a writing routine and the science behind creative flow. She emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to establish a writing routine that works for them, considering factors such as time of day, setting, and background noise. Brandon highlights the benefits of testing different routines and using data to determine what works best. She also recommends two sources for further reading: "Story Genius" by Lisa Cron and "The Psychology of Writing" by Robert T. Kellogg. The episode explores the concept of training the brain for creativity and emphasizes the value of a dedicated working environment. Brandon concludes by encouraging entrepreneurs to use the information provided to become part of the 1% who successfully write and complete their books.
Time Stamps:
[00:00:05] - Welcome to the Write Publish Market podcast
[00:00:38] - Importance of a writing routine
[00:01:07] - Recap of the previous episode on writing routine
[00:01:21] - Pitfalls of not having a routine
[00:02:02] - The only right routine is the one that works for you
[00:02:30] - Importance of gathering data to determine the right routine
[00:03:16] - Using routine to build the writing habit
[00:04:09] - Training the brain for creativity
[00:04:55] - Book recommendation: "Story Genius" by Lisa Cron
[00:05:55] - Book recommendation: "The Psychology of Writing" by Robert T. Kellogg
[00:06:59] - Background noise and its impact on writing
[00:08:04] - Knowing when to take breaks during writing sessions
[00:08:50] - Importance of a dedicated working environment
[00:11:56] - The science behind training the brain for creativity
[00:12:47] - Combining routine and brain training for success
[00:13:10] - Conclusion and invitation to share takeaways
Keywords:
write publish market podcast, entrepreneur, writing a book, book publishing partner, book publishing industry, writing routine, science of creative flow, brains, science behind creativity, writing sessions, momentum, routine, research, time of day, setting, background noise, environment, pitfalls, data, writing space, habits, writing habit, train your brain, fiction authors, nonfiction professional development writer, Story Genius, Lisa Cron, Psychology of Writing, Robert T. Kellogg, background noise, flow, performance, anxiety, boredom, memory retrieval, state of flow, break, dedicated working environment, flexible routine, coupling knowledge, inspiration, consistent writer
Resources Mentioned:
Story Genius by Lisa Cron
“The Psychology of Writing” by Robert T. Kellogg
FULL TRANSCRIPT CAN BE ACCESSED HERE:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1579rAbMCo_DQo_jaZ3wZYP7AJGqEzPMqMt0UHUUpmWU/edit?usp=drive_link
Write Publish Market Episode 138 (writing routines)
Episode 139
Use Your Book to Collab as a Summit Host or Contributor
In this episode of the Write Publish Market podcast, Jodi welcomes guest Krista Miller, who has seen massive success hosting online summits. Krista shares her journey of how she turned a disappointing mini summit into a thriving, revenue-generating event. By doubling down on her target audience and setting clear goals ranging from list growth to promoting a book, Krista has been able to tailor her summits into full-funnel strategies and now teaches other business owners how to do the same. If you've ever considered using a book as a promotional tool during a summit, whether as a host or contributor, this episode is for you. Jodi and Krista explore efficient strategies to get your book into the hands of more people all while growing your business. Krista also shares about the power of order bumps, using books as prizes, and even pre-sales strategies.
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:30 Krista Miller talks about her first experience hosting a summit
00:05:15 Looking at audience targeting and refining the summit strategy
00:08:45 The role of goals in planning a summit
00:12:00 Approaching potential speakers for the summit
00:19:00 Importance of genuine excitement for a summit
00:23:20 The use of a book as a promotional tool in a summit
00:26:30 Getting a book in the hands of attendees
00:29:40 How her first summit was a game-changer for her business
00:33:00 Jodi and Krista discuss the strategy for subsequent summits
00:38:00 Closure of the episode and thanking the guest
00:39:30 Krista’s tips for order bumps and book prizes during summit
00:41:45 Discussion about pre-sales during a summit session
00:44:20 Differences in pre-orders between traditional publishing and self-publishing
00:46:00 Krista's book recommendation
00:48:00 Wrap up and goodbyes
Keywords:
Krista Miller, mini summit, summit hosting, list of affiliates, target audience, revenue increase, summit strategy, all-access pass, business goals, funnel strategy, speaker promotion, booking services, promoting a book, speaking engagements, meeting deadlines, summit attendees, promotional tool, business growth, virtual summits, tripling email list, ongoing results, mentorship membership, Author Entrepreneurs Lab, book marketing, book publishing, order bumps, pre-sales, Amazon pre-order, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books, book publishing services
Resources Mentioned:
The Author-Entrepreneurs Lab: https://bit.ly/A-ELAB
Summit in a Box, Krista's program teaching others how to host summits (link below)
Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
About Our Guest:
At Summit in a Box®, Krista Miller helps you replace slow-growth and costly marketing strategies with a high-converting virtual summit that will multiply your revenue and lead to your biggest course, membership, or group program launch yet.
Her method incorporates highly-targeted positioning and feel-good, engagement based strategies that lead to higher than average conversion rates, true connections, and making a difference through your summit in a way that creates ongoing benefits for months after the event wraps up.
https://www.summitinabox.co/series
https://www.instagram.com/summitinabox/
LINK TO EPISODE RAW TRANSCRIPT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Jz0nA5aZkWthu_nWOjklscTPkxEmimzgBTpjcCloamI/edit?usp=drive_link
Welcome to Episode 139 of the Write Publish Market podcast! In today's episode, we have a special guest, Jessie Cunniffe, a professional blurb writer and book blurb coach. Jessie is here to guide us through the world of book blurbs. Jodi and Jessie start with Book Blurb 101, covering what exactly a book blurb is and the different meanings it can have. Jessie then walks us through a proven formula for crafting effective book blurbs, including the essential elements and tips for hooking readers. She also shares how to revise and experiment with your blurb to maximize its impact. And, as always, we wrap up with a reading recommendation from Jessie. Stay tuned for an informative and inspiring episode that will help you master the art of book blurbs to boost your book's visibility and sales. Let's dive in!
The full episode raw transcript can be found here.
Time Stamps:
00:00:05: Introduction to the Write Publish Market podcast and the host, Jodi Brandon
00:00:39: Introduction of guest, Jessie Cunniffe, a professional blurb writer and book blurb coach
00:01:28: Discussion on book blurbs and their different meanings in the publishing world
00:03:26: Explanation of the essential elements of a book blurb and the importance of a good hook
00:04:48: Overview of the paragraph sections in a nonfiction blurb: setup, qualifier, and bullet points
00:09:28: Importance of using bullet points to highlight the main benefits of the book
00:11:59: Summing up the blurb with a strong concluding sentence and a call to action
00:13:32: Using the same copy on Amazon and the back cover of the book
00:14:28: Utilizing the blurb in other marketing materials and platforms
00:16:30: The possibility of revising the blurb based on sales performance and changing trends
00:18:29: Importance of testing and experimentation with the blurb for better results
00:21:27: Details on the discount code provided by Jessie for her services
00:23:35: Appreciation for the clever names of Jessie's services and her quick delivery of "book blurb"
00:24:47: Book recommendation
00:25:59: Conclusion and gratitude for listening to the podcast
Keywords:
Jessie Cunniffe, Jodi Brandon, Publish Market podcast, entrepreneur, book, business, writing, publishing, marketing, author community, blurb writer, book blurb coach, Sydney, Australia, indie author, blurb writing, custom blurb services, Book Blurb Magic, Spicy Blurb Playbook, journaling, ocean pools, guitar, arts pages, highly respected newspaper, book description, book endorsement, traditional publishing, sales copy, Amazon, book publishing industry, fiction, nonfiction, hook, setup, qualifier, bullet points, call to action, marketing copy, testing, experimentation, business owners writing books, entrepreneurs writing books
Resources Mentioned:
AnatomyofABookBlurb.com: Jessie's free cheat sheet for book blurbs (link below)
A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway
How I Found Freedom in an Unfree World by Harry Browne
About Our Guest:
Jessie Cunniffe is a professional blurb writer and book blurb coach from Sydney, Australia. A passionate advocate of the indie author community, Jessie has dedicated herself to taking the pain out of blurb-writing with her custom blurb services and two signature courses: Book Blurb Magic and The Spicy Blurb Playbook. When she’s not writing or dreaming up the next BBM product, Jessie can be found journaling, exploring new ocean pools, and playing her guitar. She has been a contributor to the arts pages of one of Australia’s most highly respected newspapers for the past decade. On the occasion that Jessie manages to snatch some reading time, she’s probably buried in P. G. Wodehouse or Agatha Christie.
Website: www.bookblurbmagic.com
Instagram: @bookblurbmagic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookblurbmagic
FREE blurb cheatsheet: anatomyofabookblurb.com
Jessie’s Services:
Custom Book Blurb Service
1:1 Blurb AuditCODE FOR 10% OFF: JODI
Episode 138
Writing Routines for Business Owners Writing Books
Welcome to Episode 138 of the Write Publish Market podcast! In today's episode, Jodi dives into the topic of writing routines. Whether you're an entrepreneur considering writing a book or already in the process, having a solid writing routine is crucial for success. Jodi shares insights on the importance of developing a writing routine, from creating realistic schedules to tracking data points. Discover how to find the routine that works best for you and why it is essential for efficient book writing. Tune in now and get ready to enhance your writing journey!
The full episode raw trancsript can be found here.
Time Stamps:
[00:00:05] Jodi Brandon introduces the podcast and herself as the host.
[00:00:25] Jodi Brandon mentions that the podcast features interviews with entrepreneurs and discusses the importance of writing routines.
[00:01:09] Jodi Brandon explains that having a writing routine is crucial for making progress and creating realistic schedules.
[00:02:02] Jodi Brandon discusses the importance of collecting data about your writing sessions to determine your most productive time, word count, and ideal setting.
[00:03:09] Jodi Brandon emphasizes that the right writing routine is the one that works for you, and encourages listeners to experiment with different routines.
[00:04:06] Jodi Brandon suggests considering different writing environments, such as coffee shops, libraries, or home offices, based on personal productivity preferences.
[00:05:06] Jodi Brandon talks about the relationship between discipline, motivation, and sticking to a writing routine.
[00:06:45] Jodi Brandon mentions the concept of "deciding once" to build a habit and shares Stephen King's writing routine as an example.
[00:09:02] Jodi Brandon explains the benefits of having a writing routine, including consistent production and easier prioritization of writing.
[00:10:42] Jodi Brandon emphasizes the importance of tracking data about your writing sessions to create realistic schedules and production plans.
[00:11:27] Jodi Brandon teases an upcoming episode about the science of creativity.
[00:11:52] Jodi Brandon reiterates that the most important thing is to find a writing routine that works for you.
[00:12:17] Jodi Brandon concludes the episode and thanks listeners for tuning in.
Keywords:
write publish market podcast, entrepreneur, writing a book, book publishing partner, book publishing industry, book production schedule, writing routine, writing habit, writing session, business owners writing books, discipline, writing motivation, muse, creativity
Resources Mentioned:
Ready Set Write challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite
Tune in and discover how you can leverage the different platforms and the rhythm of marketing to establish and grow your own author brand with Liz Charlotte Grant. Learn to cultivate loyalty and trust among your audience and seamlessly integrate your strategies into your workflow. To effectively sell your book, you have to find your specific and targeted audience and establish genuine human connections by providing value.
Full show notes, links mentioned and raw transcript can be found here.
Your book is now written, edited, and already published. Congratulations! You have made it. Such an outstanding achievement deserves a celebration. But wait. Do people know about the book? Do they know your great ideas and solutions to their problems are documented in a book that you wrote? After investing your effort, ensuring your book reaches the right audience and gains attention is crucial for business owners writing books. This is where the importance of book publicity shines.
Join Jodi in this episode as she discusses DIY publicity for your nonfiction book. She shares three tips and a BONUS TIP you can do if you are not in a position to or are interested in outsourcing book PR and publicity.
Full transcript and show notes can be found here.
Book writing and publishing is always a coveted achievement by any author. However, a good book that serves its intended purpose has great untold stories of dedication, sacrifice, and commitment behind the scenes. Amanda, a return guest in the show, talks about her book-writing journey and whether the book serves the original goal intended.
Full show notes can be found here.
Join me in this episode as we dig deeper into how you can achieve your NaNoWriMo goal. Get insights on building and nurturing your writing consistency and habits. With the right mindset and tools, you can get more done within a month than you can ever imagine. Sound interesting?
Tune in!
Full shownotes and raw transcript can be found here.
A successful book writing and publishing is one of the greatest achievements of any author. Seeing all the great ideas documented and sharing your expertise with the world is very satisfying. Nikki joins us in this episode to share some insights into her journey of writing three books. There is no doubt that her story will inspire you.
Grab the full transcript and links here.
There are many ways of promoting a business, ranging from hiring salespeople, advertising, and using social media. Writing a book is one of the untapped ways to market your business. Join this conversation with Maddy and learn how her book, Writing for Humans and Robots: The New Rules of Content Style, has been a game changer in her business.
Find the raw transcript and full show notes here.
In this episode, Mariah Magazine shares her proven and market-tested strategies that you can implement today in your book landing pages to get you found on Google. Her strategies are simple. Tune in and head to the show notes learn more.
In this episode, Tracy Crump shares her book-writing journey and how to use your book in your business and establish yourself as an authority in a creative way that only you can. Your book is a potent tool for enhancing your brand presence and expanding your reach.
Full show notes and raw transcript found here.
Join me in this episode as we dig deeper into book disclaimers, what they are, why you need one, and where they go. A book disclaimer is a vital tool in maintaining clarity, setting expectations, and promoting responsible reading practices with your audience.
Find the full show notes here.
A writing coach can provide guidance, support, and accountability, helping you establish and maintain a writing routine. They can assist in setting manageable expectations and offer strategies to enhance your productivity and creativity. Join this conversation with Dallas Woodburn, and let’s talk more about that.
Meet our guest and find all links mentioned here.
Do you have a rough draft of your dream book but are unsure about the steps to turn it into a published masterpiece? Don't worry! Graphic designer Susi Clark is here to help. Susi has all the tips you need, from choosing the right book cover dimensions and colours to finding the perfect font. Join us as we discuss the journey of designing your book, from its early stages to becoming a bestseller.
Tune in!
Meet our guest and view full shownotes here.
Join me in this episode as we dig into four of the most common Artificial intelligence (AI) questions from a Q&A section I run on Instagram and LinkedIn. Listen and learn more about AI and book writing, traditional book publishers and AI, the difference between AI-generated and AI-assisted and how you can leverage AI as a helping tool in your writing journey.
Tune in!
Full shownotes and RAW transcript can be found here.
As entrepreneurs, we love to be in control, which keeps us in business. However, when it comes to book writing, the journey can be lonely, difficult, and uncomfortable when we don't have the know-how. The fact that we have to ask for help writing our book can make us nervous and ultimately withdraw from the process or take more time than intended. Writing a book is an experience that should be enjoyed, not dreaded. We have to step back from the process and realize that writing a book is a journey. One that doesn't always go as planned and requires support to bring to fruition.
Join the conversation with Nicole Lance as she shares her book-writing journey and how being intentional, asking for help, and walking with like-minded people can help you feel more empowered in the process.
Full show notes, links mentioned, and our guest bio can all be found here!
Book design is one of the under-appreciated elements of the book publishing process, yet it is the first thing everyone notices when they get a hold of your book. Since it all starts from the cover page, is your book cover appealing and attractive to the eyes of the reader? Have you structured your book to encourage a person to keep reading? Join this conversation with Ines Monnet and learn what authors need to know about the book design process.
Tune in!
Full transcript, links mentioned, and guest bio found here.
In the episode, Elizabeth Foil shares more about AI, authenticity, credibility, and the importance of the scene and storytelling in your book talks. Elizabeth is a social media strategist and ad expert. Her love of reading and storytelling quickly took her into the book sphere of social media, where she uses strategy to help authors and entrepreneurs with their book and marketing goals.
Tune in!
Full show notes, key highlights, raw transcript and links metioned can all be found here.
Your book is a tool to help you grow. If you don’t leverage it, it will not do anything for your business. Learn how to get reviews and use them to take your business to the next level!
Tune in!
Head to the show notes for key highlights, full show notes and the raw transcript.
Writing and publishing a book is a long game, and it’s easy to turn over our dream and goals to others and let them deter us from accomplishing what is most important to us. Figuring out what is right for you and what works for you will help you determine your success path. Being open to new bylines and opportunities and partnering with others will allow you to invest in yourself and your book and leverage other people's expertise to bring your dream to fruition. In the episode, Shanna Hockings shares her journey writing, publishing, and pitching her book, the importance of one bold move a day, and celebrating little wins to make a ripple effect.
Full show notes and guest links here.
Writing a book can be daunting, but with proper planning, you can get through it and complete your book in the best possible way. To help you organize your ideas, there are two popular book-planning approaches: Plotters and Pantsers. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, but they can be used effectively to plan a successful book-writing process.
No matter the approach you choose, having a plan and accountability for your book writing is essential for successful completion. Both Plotters and Pantsers offer different benefits and can be used together depending on your needs as an author.
Full show notes and key points found here.
As an author, the power of publicity can make or break your book. With the right public relations strategy in place, you can get your book in front of thousands of potential readers. The same holds true for businesses. The right PR plan can help you build a reputation and increase visibility to open up new opportunities and growth. Publicity is a powerful tool that can take authors and businesses to new heights when used effectively. Join this conversation and learn more with our publicity expert, Christine Lenkowski.
Meet our guest, find the key points and links mentioned, and download the raw transcript at the full show notes.
Choosing the right title and subtitle for your book can be one of your most important writing decisions. It's the first thing potential readers will see, and it's what will draw them in. A good title and subtitle should succinctly summarize the content of your book, making it easy for potential readers to identify what your book is about. With the right title and subtitle, you can set yourself up for success before you even start writing.
Simply put, a title should be shorter, punchier, and more memorable. On the other hand, a subtitle is where you describe what the book is about, the promise you are making, and the delivery or outcome that the reader can expect. Join this conversation and get enlightened. Be the best in the market with your book title!
Tune in!
Key points and full transcript can be found in the show notes here.
As a writer, it is always important to leverage your community. This means connecting with like-minded people and working together to make something happen. In this episode with Kimberly, we explore how authors can harness the power of their community as a resource for ideas and content. Being an author, do not let your business process swallow you. Share it with others and collaborate. Leverage your community, ask many questions, and keep building that network. The communities include book designers, editors, publishers, distributors, etc.
Meet our guests and find links to resources mentioned here!
In this episode, learn why you will want to breathe new life into your existing book and how you can effectively implement it. Your book is a tool to help you grow your business. However, it will only be useful when you are maximumly leveraging it.
Full shownotes and raw transcript can be found here.
Many people struggle in their book-writing process but discovering their personality can be a game changer. The Enneagram Personality test can help uncover the unique gifts and challenges associated with each individual personality type, allowing writers to unlock their creative potential and make their writing more joyful, expressive, and meaningful. Understanding your personality number in this test allows you to easily leverage your strengths and complete your book without stress and burnout. In this conversation with Mary Adkins, you will know how your personality affects the writing outcomes.
Meet our guest and download the Raw transcript here.
Book distribution is the logistics of getting your book into the reader’s hands through various sales channels that exist out there. Join this conversation with your host, Jodi, as she explains this concept in the simplest way for you to understand. Learn why book distribution is a key factor in the success of your book and the practical ways to adapt your skills. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Full show notes and RAW transcript available here.
The IBPA revised its hybrid publisher criteria, and it is important for you to be acquainted with the updates. IBPA is a trade organization in the book publishing industry. It’s a fantastic resource for independent authors, small publishers, hybrid publishers, and anybody looking to educate themselves and get informed about the book publishing industry. It’s important to talk about these criteria because many people are still misrepresenting and not quite understanding what hybrid publishing is. They are confusing it and comparing it with vanity publishing.
Join me as I review the hybrid criteria and explain why hybrid publishing is a true path to book publication, whereas vanity presses are not. Vanity publishing is a total scam and you should avoid them.
Head to the show notes for the RAW transcript and key takeaways!
From Prep To Print Series Part 4: Launch And Market Join me in the fourth and final episode in the series, From Prep To Print, a series of micro-episodes all about the four stages of the author entrepreneur journey. In this episode, I break down the ‘Launch and market’ stage to give you insight into what happens in this phase and how you can set yourself up for success. ‘Produce and publish’ is a phase where you review the data you have, collect the data you don’t have for your newly launched book, and figure out what your ongoing marketing sustained plan will be.
Tune in!
Find full show notes and the transript here.
From Prep To Print Series Part 3: Produce And Publish Join me in the third episode in the series, From Prep To Print, a series of micro-episodes all about the four stages of the author entrepreneur journey. In this episode, I break down the ‘produce and publish’ stage to give you insight into what happens in this phase and how you can set yourself up for success. ‘Produce and publish’ is a fun time where you get the first copy of your book, and it’s what you have been waiting for all along.
Tune in!
Find the full transcript here.
FROM PREP TO PRINT SERIES Part 1: Commit And Prep Join me in the second episode in the series, From Prep To Print, a series of micro-episodes all about the four stages of the author entrepreneur journey. In this episode, I break down the ‘Draft and Revise’ stage to give you insight into what happens in this phase and how you can set yourself up for success. ‘Drafting and revising’ demands more focus, and when done right, it makes the process easier for you, financially advantageous and sets you up for the next phase.
Visit the full shownotes to download RAW transcript and links.
Join me in the first episode in the series, From Prep To Print, a series of micro-episodes all about the four stages of the author entrepreneur journey. In this episode, I break down the ‘commit and prep’ stage to give you insight into what happens in this phase and how you can set yourself up for success. You don’t have to see the whole staircase when you are writing a book. You just need to see the next step or two in front of you to set up the rest of the stages.
Visit the show notes for the RAW transcript and links mentioned.
Join me in the first episode in the series, From Prep To Print, a series of micro-episodes all about the four stages of the author entrepreneur journey. In this episode, I break down the ‘commit and prep’ stage to give you insight into what happens in this phase and how you can set yourself up for success. You don’t have to see the whole staircase when you are writing a book. You just need to see the next step or two in front of you to set up the rest of the stages.
Visit the show notes for the RAW transcript and links mentioned.
Publishing a book is an ambitious and worthwhile undertaking. Turning it into a business can be easy, but it's not without some considerations. You need to consider the different levels of distribution, contracts, and what type of budget you have set aside for this endeavor. One may also need to clearly understand their target market, the launch plans, and what marketing strategies they will use to get media attention.
Knowing these costs of getting your book out there and understanding how much money you could make at each distribution level can help guide you in the right direction. Join me as I explain the considerations when it comes to costs and expenses in your book publishing.
Tune in!
Head to the shownotes for the highlights and RAW transcript.
Publishing a book is an ambitious and worthwhile undertaking. Turning it into a business can be easy, but it's not without some considerations. You need to consider the different levels of distribution, contracts, and what type of budget you have set aside for this endeavor. One may also need to clearly understand their target market, the launch plans, and what marketing strategies they will use to get media attention.
Knowing these costs of getting your book out there and understanding how much money you could make at each distribution level can help guide you in the right direction. Join me as I explain the considerations when it comes to costs and expenses in your book publishing.
Tune in!
Head to the shownotes for the highlights and RAW transcript.
Readers of your book need a conversation with you, the author. They need to know that you are in it with them, that you care about their questions and frustrations, and they want to know what would be the best solution for their situation. They need an understanding that the content is for them. One that makes them want to spend time reading and learning from it.
Join me as I explain how to structure your writing with a conversational style. Readers want to be talked to. They are busy doing important things in life, and lecturing them won't give you their attention. Check your writing tone; keep it conversational but an expert. Always remember a scene of you with a friend over a cup of coffee and how you will explain to them. That will help you not to use jargon and technical terms and clearly define and explain terms that need to be clarified.
Tune in!
Head to the show notes to grab the highlights and the RAW transcript.
When it comes to our books, we are often in a state of perpetual chaos. We have to juggle our time between writing, editing, and promoting our books. When we get too busy, we easily lose motivation and feel overwhelmed. It can be difficult to find the time and energy to write on a regular basis. And this is all just the book part of our business lives. We’re still running our business and living our life while trying to write, publish, and market our book. Hiring a virtual assistant can be a game changer for your productivity and success. A virtual assistant can help you manage your workload, save time, and make more money. Join this conversation with Lorna Bailey and learn the best practices when hiring a VA for your business and writing journey.
Head to the show notes to meet our guests, grab the RAW transcript and find all the links mentioned!
Authors who want their work to reach its maximum potential must stay true to their designed vision. This is especially important when people start making suggestions, and there are too many voices in the mix. No matter what happens, an author's vision is key to their writing success. Join this conversation with Kate Rosenow and get some of these authoring nuggets and systems you can employ.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest and find all the links mentioned
Writers have high expectations from themselves and sometimes feel like they are not fulfilling them. They may also feel a sudden surge of stress and burnout, which can cause their work to suffer. Coaching is a perfect way to curb that, especially when you’re ready to grow but want to figure out how. A coach is also needed when you’re committed to what’s next and want support in getting there, even when you feel stuck and don’t know how to determine what’s next for you. If you’re a leader who’s done being stuck in survival mode and know you’re meant for more, this episode with Tarah is for you.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, find all of the links we mentioned, and show highlights!
Writers have high expectations from themselves and sometimes feel like they are not fulfilling them. They may also feel a sudden surge of stress and burnout, which can cause their work to suffer. Coaching is a perfect way to curb that, especially when you’re ready to grow but want to figure out how. A coach is also needed when you’re committed to what’s next and want support in getting there, even when you feel stuck and don’t know how to determine what’s next for you. If you’re a leader who’s done being stuck in survival mode and know you’re meant for more, this episode with Tarah is for you.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, find all of the links we mentioned, and show highlights!
Writing is an act of communication, that is, the transmission of a message. If we want our writing to be read by others and understood, we must have clarity. Like any other task, the writing battle is won in mind. You should have a clear picture of your message and audience. A good book will open unimaginable doors without much work to popularize it. You can use it as a marketing funnel, create even more income streams, and achieve freedom and fulfilment in life. Join this conversation with Annie Franceschi and learn these tips.
Head to the show notes for links to all we mentioned, to view the highlights and meet our guest!
Writing is an act of communication, that is, the transmission of a message. If we want our writing to be read by others and understood, we must have clarity. Like any other task, the writing battle is won in mind. You should have a clear picture of your message and audience. A good book will open unimaginable doors without much work to popularize it. You can use it as a marketing funnel, create even more income streams, and achieve freedom and fulfilment in life. Join this conversation with Annie Franceschi and learn these tips.
Head to the show notes for links to all we mentioned, to view the highlights and meet our guest!
Publishing a book is a fantastic accomplishment and can greatly impact the author's career. Whether your book is fiction, non-fiction, or some other genre, it offers opportunities for personal and professional growth that are often overlooked. Join this catch-up conversation with Parijat Deshpande and learn how her book has opened doors she never imagined as an entrepreneur. You will also learn her marketing secrets and the reasons for her success as an author.
Parijat Deshpande is a trauma-informed health strategist, high-risk pregnancy specialist, somatic trauma professional, bestselling author, speaker, and advocate for women who have been through second or third-trimester loss and preterm delivery, neonatal loss, and birth trauma and are preparing for a high-risk pregnancy. She is the owner of a global boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications, improving maternal and fetal outcomes, and ending preterm birth.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, view the highlights and find all the links we mentioned in today's show.
Publishing a book is a fantastic accomplishment and can greatly impact the author's career. Whether your book is fiction, non-fiction, or some other genre, it offers opportunities for personal and professional growth that are often overlooked. Join this catch-up conversation with Parijat Deshpande and learn how her book has opened doors she never imagined as an entrepreneur. You will also learn her marketing secrets and the reasons for her success as an author.
Parijat Deshpande is a trauma-informed health strategist, high-risk pregnancy specialist, somatic trauma professional, bestselling author, speaker, and advocate for women who have been through second or third-trimester loss and preterm delivery, neonatal loss, and birth trauma and are preparing for a high-risk pregnancy. She is the owner of a global boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications, improving maternal and fetal outcomes, and ending preterm birth.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, view the highlights and find all the links we mentioned in today's show.
Why should you use video to market and advertise your next book?
One of the best methods to promote a book is by implementing a video marketing strategy. This includes showing people quick, bite-sized videos that explain what the book is about. Video as a marketing technique can increase trust and connection even without having face to face communication.
Today's guest is video marketing strategist, Victoria Levitan. She is really passionate about assisting entrepreneurs in creating engaging videos that convert. Victoria discusses why she chose to use video as a marketing approach, as well as how video can be used in writing, publishing, and marketing.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, read the highlights, find the links we mentioned, and download the full transcript.
Why should you use video to market and advertise your next book?
One of the best methods to promote a book is by implementing a video marketing strategy. This includes showing people quick, bite-sized videos that explain what the book is about. Video as a marketing technique can increase trust and connection even without having face to face communication.
Today's guest is video marketing strategist, Victoria Levitan. She is really passionate about assisting entrepreneurs in creating engaging videos that convert. Victoria discusses why she chose to use video as a marketing approach, as well as how video can be used in writing, publishing, and marketing.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, read the highlights, find the links we mentioned, and download the full transcript.
Today we’re celebrating 100 episodes of the podcast!! Jodi is recapping how the podcast started, sharing her favorite type of episodes, and walking down memory lane. Let us know which episode is your favorite!!
Join Jodi wherever you listen to podcasts (and leave her a review as a celebration ~ from her team).
Download the full transcript here.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work with a ghostwriter on your book? You’re in luck, because Jodi interviews Laura Gale in this episode of the Write.Publish.Market. podcast about just this thing!
Laura shares how she works with clients to get their voice and their story onto the pages of their book. It is a lengthy process, but can be worth it if you’re looking for help with your book while running your business. Here are a few key things Laura says you need in order to work with a ghostwriter:
- You need to have a reason for writing this book. How will it serve your clients and your business. She works with her clients on just this thing.
- You need to be far enough along in your business that you’ve got systems and processes in place to properly manage all the potential new clients you’ll get.
- Vulnerability is a must. You can’t have someone telling your story if you’re holding back.
Head to the show notes to meet our guest, grab her links, and download the full transcript!
On this episode, Jodi is chatting with Angie Trueblood about how to pitch yourself to podcasts as a marketing piece for your book. Podcasting is such a hot industry right now and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. It can be a great tool to use to get in front of your ideal audience. Angie shares tips and tricks for getting your podcast pitches accepted. She also walks through how to change your mindset when you get a no. Which we think is equally important.
If you’re looking to get featured on podcasts to help promote your book, you don’t want to miss this episode!
Head to the show notes to meet our guest and grab her free download!
Before we even get started, we have to say…this episode is one you don’t want to miss! Jodi’s guest, Danait, Berghe shares such great information on positioning your self and your book, so grab a notebook and be ready to really dive right in!
Danait has a few questions you need to ask yourself about your book before you work on your messaging. First, What is the purpose of your book? Is it more about your mission or more about helping people achieve very specific results? After you determine your answer to those questions, Danait want you to focus on your audience. She (and Jodi) isn’t a huge fan of an “avatar” for your audience but to ask these questions:
- What are their values (they should align with yours)?
- What are their knowledge and skill gaps in regards to what it is that you do?
- What is their current perspective on the problem that they have?
Once you answer these, you’re ready to start the messaging part of marketing your book! Danait shares so much more in the episode, don't wait to hit play!
Meet our guest and dowloand the full transcript here.
Jodi chats with Jessica Rasdall all about how to use your book in partnership with your goals to become a speaker. But before you get to that point Jessica suggests asking these questions about your book, especially if it’s a more personal book:
- Who is this book for?
- Who do I want to speak to?
- How does that fit into my business?
And Jessica believes that if those are not all in alignment, then they probably they don't have to go together - your personal story and your business, and that’s okay!
They also talk about by already having a book, you’ve got a leg up on getting speaking gigs. Jessica shares tons of tips on applying to be a speaker, navigating speaker budgets, gifting your book to the audience, knowing your audience and so much more. If you’re wanting to start speaking and get your story out there, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Meet our guest and download the full transcript here.
On this episode, Jodi is chatting with Sonia Awan all about book publicity! The quick and easy breakdown is that marketing is where you’re telling people about yourself and your book, whereas publicity is when other people are talking about it. Sonia shares some tips on how to use your marketing as the basis of content that can be shared as PR. Here are 3 ways Sonia says you can start with your marketing that will lead to PR:
- Build your online persona / brand
- Connect to people in your industry, to give them something and get a review back
- Podcast Tours
They also chat about media training and how that adds value to your brand and reputation. Sonia works with her clients on making sure they’re not only talking about their book or product, but also sharing their story and putting their best face forward.
Head to the Show Notes to meet our guest and download the full transcript!
This episode of the Wrte.Publish.Market. Podcast is here to help you realize you may just have your book almost already written! Jodi talks with Braden Drake about how he got started with his book and it just so happened to be based on blogs and courses he’d already written. They chat about his process for taking that pre-written content and editing it for his book. If you’re looking for inspiration on getting started with your first or next book don’t miss this episode!
Braden also shares some key information on what’s actually in his book (LLCs, DBAs, taxes, and more) that is beneficial for any entrepreneur.
Check out the full show notes for links mentioned and our guest's bio!
Jodi is chatting with Lauren Ranalli all about your Author website and using an email list to serve your book. Lauren shares seven main things that you need for an author website
- About the Author page
- Book Reviews
- A free download or giveaway
- An email list sign up
- Media links
- Images of you in action
- Contact Me Page
They also deep dive into how you can really use your email list to talk about your book during launch mode and after. Lauren has several offers for you to check out in our show notes below. This episode is full of ideas to help you get stared so don’t miss it!
Full Transcript and Show Notes
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast Jodi is sharing with you a few questions you need to ask when planning your book writing process. You’ll need different types of people to join your team to get your book out there into the world, and since you’ll be working closely with them, you want to make sure you’ve got the right people on your team! Here are the questions you need to be asking:
- What is the process like to work with you?
- What is the cost investment to work with you?
- Can you provide a sample of work you’ve worked on previously?
- Have you worked on a book in my niche?
- What style guide do you use?
Jodi walks you through each of these questions and some smaller points to help you pick the right members for your book editing team.
Head to the shownotes for the full transcripts and other resources!
This episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast is a fun one! Well, we think they all are actually. Jodi is chatting with Risa Weaver-Enion, a wedding planner in California. Risa realized two key facts about her business that led her to writing a book: she couldn’t serve everyone and she needed a better way to prepare clients in one of her packages. This led her to writing a book that guides couples in every step of the planning process. For couples who can’t work with her directly, they receive her processes, and for those that hire her for her management package also get all the steps to planning their wedding.
This is such a great way to become an expert in your field and give your clients a true roadmap to working with you. Risa’s vendor friends also use it because she covers their parts of the wedding industry too. She shares how her husband helped set up an affiliate program for these vendors and how it all works. This is definitely a different way of priming your audience, but it works and we love it!
They also chat about what else is on the horizon for Risa, and you don’t want to miss that either! Tune in to hear all the details.
Meet our guests and find all the links we mentioned in the full shownotes here.
This episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast is short but hits on a topic that is crucial for you when writing your book. Jodi wants her listeners to know and note that author-entrepreneurs and professional writers are not the same and those differences are ones you need to be aware of. She’s talking about your
- goals
- your writing schedule / purpose of writing
- your job description
You’ll have to listen in to hear all of the details!
Download the full transcript here
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast Jodi is chatting with Jenelle Jack about how to use your book content on social media. There’s no point in reinventing the wheel, right? Using the content you’ve already written in creative ways (reels, polls, etc) allows you to talk about your book without trying to straight sell your book. It educates and engages your audience while also giving you feedback on how your topic resonates with your audience, which is a win-win!
One example they talk about is basing each week or month on one chapter of your book, depending on how many chapters and how many times a week you want to post. This is a great way to structure your social media content and tease your book at the same time. Listen to the full episode to hear all of their tips!
Head to the show notes for all the links mentioned and to meet our guest!
This episode of the Write.Publish. Market Podcast is all about publishing, specifically hybrid publishing. If you haven’t heard of it, or don’t know much about hybrid publishing, Jodi is spilling all of the details in this episode. The other types of publishing are self publishing and traditional publishing, and hybrid publishing is just that - a mix of both. Jodi dives why you should be considering this type of publishing especially if you’re an author-entrepreneur. Whether you’re just starting out or finishing your book, this is an episode that you don’t want to miss.
Download the full transcript and find blog links Jodi mentioned here.
Today’s podcast episode is all about self-editing. We know you might be thinking “why the heck am I doing self-editing, if I'm going to be paying an editor to edit my book?” And Jodi is answering that question in depth today. The main reason that you should self-edit, according to Jodi, is that it will make it easier for your editor to edit the content, and not spend time editing your grammar. Jodi suggests to self edit after every revision. You should be looking for grammatical issues, missing words, repeated phrases and concepts.
Here are Jodi’s 3 tips for starting your self edits:
- Take a break between writing and editing (even a week or two).
- Read your manuscript out loud (read it slowly, word-for-word).
- Do this in stages (chapter by chapter, revision by revision).
Check out this episode for all of Jodi’s tips for self editing your book.
Download the full transcript here.
This episode of the Write.Publish.Market. Podcast is all about your daily writing habit (which you could guess from the title). Jodi is sharing why you need one, how to have one, how to track one, how it helps you all of the things around a daily writing habit. There are three things having a daily writing habit is useful for:
- It helps you create a writing calendar for your book.
- It is achievable.
- It is going to be something that you can sustain, because you know that it works for you.
Jodi knows that practice makes perfect. Right now your writing is never going to be perfect. But your writing will definitely get cleaner, and improve, the more you write. Not only will this help benefit your book, but other areas of your business to, for example writing your emails, social media, captions, newsletter, copy, sales, page, copy all of those things.
Download the full transcript here.
On this episode, Jodi Is talking with Erin Ollila about a very important part of your author platform - your author website. They discuss the options of having a designated website or just page for your book and how to make it work best for you and your followers.
They also chat about your SEO. This one seems daunting, but you’re already steps ahead because you have a whole book to use as your basis. Erin and Jodi encourage you to take the words you’ve already written and compare them to what people might be searching for online when looking for a book like yours. Their secret weapon? Amazon! (you’ll have to listen in to learn more).
Erin breaks down how to use your website page as a storefront in comparison to actual storefronts. She talks about your
- SEO vs. Copy
- About Page
- Home Page
- Book Page
- Media Page
She also shares her top 3 tips for creating messaging around the message you have to share.
This episode is so helpful and is a major part of your book launching process, so tune in and don’t skip it!
Meet our guest and download the full transcript here.
You can’t deny it; (almost) all business owners need to be on social media. And if you’re writing a book as part of your business strategy, then a social media strategy for your book is something you need to have more than you might think. But we all know social media in general can be overwhelming and if you’ve been working on a project like a book, you may not have the energy to get on social media and talk about your book. On today’s podcast Jodi asks her guest Andréa “How do we figure out where to be so that we can then manage our time and energy effectively?”
Andréa talks about
- Breaking it into smaller chunks
- Focusing on the social platforms and types of posts you already do and feel comfortable with (now is not the time to start something new!)
- Approaching it from the thought of, “there is someone out there who really wants this book, how do I let them know that it's available?”
- Thinking about where that book falls within your entire marketing plan; this will help you understand how to approach that on social media.
- Remembering this book that you created can / should be an ongoing piece of your marketing.
- Determining exactly what your marketing plan is and why.
- Engaging and connecting with others on social media (aka staying social!)
And whether you’re launching a book or just a business owner looking to take back control of your social media, this episode is a MUST!
Meet our guest and all the links mentioned in the show notes.
Access Andréa's free Social Media Rockstar Framework
Jodi is sharing her secret weapon for your book writing and production toolbox: a heading hierarchy. This is a document that ideally you create during the writing process, and you can even use your brain dump and working table of contents exercise. If you’re way past those stages, don’t worry, Jodi walks you through how you can still create a heading hierarchy.
Having a heading hierarchy is something that you need to do not just for yourself, but for others involved in your book creation process - your editor, designer, proofreader and even the actual reader in the long term. It's a document that basically lays out the structure of the book without the nitty-gritty text. As you shepherd your book through editing, design, and format, through to publishing, it's going to make the process so much smoother if you have this document ready to go and for others to use.
Basically, the purpose of this document is what makes it so magical, because it gets everyone on your book team on the same page. The goal — the purpose — of this document is to ensure that your book is read and consumed in the way that you are intending as the author, because you're obviously not going to be there every time someone's reading the book.
Head to the full show notes for the transcript.
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market. podcast, Jodi interviews Tracey Warren. Tracey shares with us the process she used to not only write her book, but how she reignited curiosity in her book after the book launch. Can you guess the number one reason Tracey discovered as to why her sales were declining? She stopped talking about it as much as she had during launch. We all know it can feel like we’re doing nothing but talking about our product or service or business, but in reality, people aren’t seeing it as much as we think they are. Jodi and Tracey talk about key ways to talk about your book without talking about your book, so definitely tune in for those tips!
They also chat about getting started with your book and areas you may be stuck on. Sometimes it looks like a new method or environment, and sometimes it is purely about making the time. Tracey shares that she had to get away for a weekend and brain dump her whole book before she could get started. Jodi calls this a “working living document” and highly encourages all of her clients to have one of these as they get started with their books. And you can too! Head to the link below for the full transcript and to meet our guest.
Show Notes
Today on the Write.Publish.Market Podcast, Jodi is chatting with Alexa Bigwarfe all about understanding and using your book metrics and data. There is so much information to be gained about your target and even secondary audiences from looking at your analytics. You may want to look into outsourcing your data tracking, like Alexa did, and have someone build you an analytics dashboard. Alexa and Jodi walk through several different areas to look at:
- Facebook Ads
- Email Open Rates and Link Clicks
- Google and Amazon Searches
- Overall Sale Purchases
This episode is chalked full of helpful information for you. It may all seem a little overwhelming, but take it one area at a time. You may need to listen to it a few times and make sure to take notes!
Head to the episode show notes to meet our guest and check out all the links we mentioned.
Was 2021 going to be the year of the book for you? Maybe you started and moved forward with your book, but you haven’t quite finished it. In this episode of the Write.Publish.Market. Podcast, Jodi is sharing her 4 tips for recommitting to your book for 2022 so you can get it off your to-do list and into the world! Here are the four tips Jodi is diving into in this episode.
- Re-examine your why.
- Recommit with a new plan
- Recommit to treating your book project like a job for the short term.
- Find accountability
Find the full transcript here.
We also mentioned: Season 4, Episode 14
On today’s episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast, Jodi is chatting with A.J. O’Connell who is an author of multiple fiction and non-fiction books! While A.J. shares the story of her latest book, The Perfect Facebook Life, she dives into repurposing content and how to grow your platform locally and online. If you’re looking to break out of your current writing circle and reach new readers, A.J. is sharing her best tips for doing so, and growing those connections might not happen how you think!
One of our favorite lines A.J. said is “It's important just to talk about your work.” We know it can feel awkward at times, or like you’re always selling, but you have to talk about your work. You never know what connections are out there
Jodi and A.J. also chat about her day job and how she switches her brain between writing for clients, writing for fun, and writing for fiction. A.J. shares her love of the writing process, working with editing and PR teams. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Download this episode's full transcript and find our guest's links here.
Welcome to another “book publishing glossary” micro-episode, author-entrepreneurs. Today we're talking about metadata, which is a term that you have maybe heard before, but maybe not. It's definitely a book publishing industry term. According to Merriam Webster, metadata is defined as a data that provides information about other data. Metadata is hugely, hugely important, because metadata is not only is it telling readers what your book is about — how to classify it — but maybe even more importantly than that, it's telling book buyers and librarians where your book goes in their bookstore or library, which, of course, is important to you, if you plan to sell your book in those places.
So what do we mean by metadata? What kind of data about data are we talking about? We're talking about things that you know about and care about; we're just calling them by their technical name today. This is going to be a sampling of things that are included in metadata.
- Title & Subtitle
- Author’s Name
- Your Book Description
- Keywords
- Format
- Price of Your Book,
- ISBN
- Publish Date
- Book Category
This is an episode you don’t want to miss. So listen below or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Links Mentioned: BISAC codes
Dr. Jen O’Ryan is Jodi’s guest for this episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast. Dr. Jen is a Diversity, Inclusion and Equity strategist and that is the topic of this episode. She also wrote her book to be an addition to her business, so she’s a perfect guest for our podcast.
Jodi and Dr. Jen walk through how diversity is viewed generationally and how this can impact your readers. Knowing your target audience will help determine how you address it in your books. A few key things that Dr. Jen points out are:
- “Make sure everyone is on the same playing field”
- “Have somebody else who doesn't have the same life experience or who doesn't look like you read your book, and give feedback.”
- “It's not about political correctness. . . It's about being respectful and opening it up to a larger body of people who'll be able to consume your story and relate to it and benefit from it.”
She relates these to not only your writing work, but inside your business and even personal life. Jodi and Dr. Jen talk about remembering to focus on the fact that everyone is a human and ways to make it easier to include everyone in your work.
Meet Dr. Ryan and download the full transcript here.
Whether you have not started writing, whether you are in the midst of writing, whether you're revising, whether you're in the production phase, working with an editor and or designer, whether your book is out in the world, and you're in the launch phase, or long-term marketing phase, wherever you are — take a breath. Jodi knows that this time of year can be hectic for everyone, but she doesn’t want you to lose the momentum that you’ve got going for your book.
In order to do this during a busy time, it's simple, and it's certainly doable if you take a step back and just follow a few simple steps. In this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast Jodi is sharing these steps with you:
-
Remember your goals
-
Remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint
-
Remember it’s a working production
-
Remember all you’ve already accomplished.
Listen in as Jodi dives into each of these steps and let’s keep that momentum going!
Download the full transcript here.
We are finally winding down the year and if you’re like Jodi, you may be reviewing what goals you did and didn’t complete this year and looking towards goals for 2022. Jodi’s calendar is booking up with Book Brainstorming sessions because people are putting “write a book” on their 2022 goal list. However, a lot of the time “write a book” moves from year to year so in this episode of Write.Publish.Market, Jodi is sharing the following three tips to ensure that you can make it happen in the coming year for you:
Tip #1: prepare well.
Tip #2: building out your calendar.
Tip #3: plan for the long term.
Listen in below or wherever you listen to podcast as Jodi expounds on these three tips!
Visit the Show Notes to download your Brain Dump freebie today!
Download the full transcript here.
Book a Brainstorming Session with Jodi.
So, Author-entrepreneur, you’ve done the hard part — you’ve written your book! Now it’s time to release it into the wild…errr, the world. And you may be wondering how do you pick your release date? The good news? It doesn’t really matter when (unless you’ve got a lot of other things releasing with it).
Jodi does share a nugget in this episode that traditional books are published on Tuesdays. There’s no real answer for why that is, so you can choose any day of any month you’d like, but just don’t pick a weekend (or during the summer).
Throughout this Write.Publish.Market episode, Jodi discusses the two schools of thought on when to share the release date (before the book is written or after).
Her most important tip? Well, you’ll need to listen to the episode for that!
Download the full transcript here
Today, Jodi is talking about the role of your book in your business. You obviously have a plan in your business for what your goals are, what your vision is, and what your mission is. You need to do something similar for your book: figure out how the book fits into that overall business plan. Because the book should not be a standalone tool, it should be part of your business ecosystem.
Jodi shares different ways you can plug your book into your overall business plan. It could be the top level part of your funnel, part of a bigger course, or the end part of your funnel.
Check out this episode for tips of how you can fit your book into your business plan.
Download the full transcript here.
One thing you will encounter often during your book writing and publishing process is a contract, and probably more than one. In this Write.Publish.Market. podcast, Jodi is walking you through all the different types of contracts you’ll encounter and what boilerplate language to be on the look out for.
It doesn’t matter if you’re going the traditional publishing route or self-publishing, you’ll still receive contracts from different people you work with. If you’re going down the self-publishing path, you may run into people who don’t have a contract, so you’ll want to push for one. Jodi warns that whoever creates the contract is generally the one that the contract favors. You’ll want to read through it all very carefully to see if you agree with all or some of it. In many cases it is concrete in certain areas, but there may also be room for negotiations.
Listen in to find out what all should be included in the contracts and how you can best prepare to receive them while writing your book!
Download the full transcript here.
In this episode, Jodi is talking about book research. As a business owner, you are writing a nonfiction book, and therefore you probably have some research to do. Now, don't panic: Jodi is not talking about a 20-page research paper, like you wrote in college, or a dissertation, or anything like that. But you do probably want to do a little bit of research to support the points you're making throughout your book as the expert.
There are two key points when it comes to book research that Jodi advises her one-on-one book coaching clients so that they don't get tripped up.
- Remember you’re the expert
- You want the research to support your points, not the other way around.
Tune in as Jodi dives into these two key points. She also gets into some of the actual how-to, tactical pieces of the research element.
Download the full transcript of this episode online.
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast, Jodi is interviewing one of her very favorite people, and very favorite publishing colleagues: Alexa Bigwarfe. Alexa is a USA Today best-selling author, speaker, and publishing partner. They are talking about book marketing and book launching and how that plays into other parts of your business marketing plan.
Jodi and Alexa also chat about what that looks like in the current world pandemic and how a book fits into your larger business ecosystem. Before you start writing your book, you need to think about what the goal is for your book in and for your business.
Alexa also talks about how not all of your audience or following is the right audience for each book. She wants you to really consider your current audience versus your target audience to see if what you’re about to put out matches with either or neither. This is also part of your marketing plan and you don’t want it to be futile.
Meet our guest and grab all the links in the full show notes.
Every now and then, Jodi is going to break down a term in the book publishing world for you in a mini-episode. Today’s term is subsidiary rights (“sub rights”). Jodi shares that this means parts of your book that can be licensed to someone else and how they profit from it (this includes movie rights, new cover art, excerpts, and maybe even ebooks and audiobooks). If you’re working with a traditional publishing house, they may have a whole department that focuses just on your sub rights , which is a benefit. Jodi explains the cons as well. You’ll want to listen in and take time to consider the pros and cons for your specific book and goals.
Download the full transcript here.
A question that is discussed often, especially in today’s author-entrepreneur world, is how much of yourself should you include in your book? And Jodi is sharing her thoughts on this topic in this episode!
There are a few things Jodi wants you to consider when answering this question about your book specifically
- Your goal (as the author and for the reader)
- Your book category
Jodi dives into these two questions and explains why they’re so important for your book. She also reminds you that you’re the X factor for your book and your audience definitely needs what you have to offer!
Download the full transcript here.
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast Jodi is talking about your book’s secondary audiences. Now you might be thinking, “What the heck is a secondary audience?” and Jodi is sharing what it is and why you need to be thinking about them. For your book, when it comes to your book marketing, your goal, of course, is to reach that primary audience (the audience that you have defined when you've done all of your market research).
When it comes to reaching that primary audience, you need to think about secondary audiences for your book. And what Jodi means by that are those people who are a bridge between you and that primary audience that you've set. Jodi is giving you some examples in this episode of who those secondary audiences might be AND how you can bridge the gap from your secondary to your primary audience.
Head here for the full transcript.
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast, Jodi is talking about something that’s becoming more and more popular in the author-entrepreneur world: how to use client stories and interviews (podcasts specifically) in your book.
When it comes to sharing a client story or sharing a quote from a podcast the copyright owner of the material is not always clear. There are instances where you’re sharing a client case study or a client's success when you’re maybe not even naming them. So you don’t obtain their permission to use that as an example. But when it comes to putting something in a book, sometimes it gets a little bit dicey here. Jodi is talking you through a couple of these examples so you can get a sense for what you should and should not be doing as far as best practices when you’re putting a book together and you want to use other people’s stories, words, etc.
Download the full transcript here.
Jodi is having a conversation with Amanda Warfield on this episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast. While their conversation is directed at those writing a book, any entrepreneur will find key takeaways in this episode! They chat about how we all need some type of structure and how it doesn’t have to be a rigid system but can be held loosely for each person to allow for creativity and freedom, while also ensuring all of your must-do tasks get completed.
Amanda also dives into batching work and why that is so important for creatives and entrepreneurs a like. There are certain tasks everyone does that can be batched together to take less time and creativity overall. She goes on to explain that although every business and entrepreneur is different, everyone can work off this one statement: “focus on one thing at a time”.
Head here to meet Amanda and grab the full transcript.
Today we’re talking about book backmatter. This is the bookend episode to last week, where we talked about book frontmatter. Just to give you the big-picture view, as we discussed last week, these are the bookends for your book. Your book is basically three sections: the frontmatter, the text itself (the body of the book), and the backmatter. The backmatter is all related to the book, whereas some of the frontmatter can be lifted out without the text/body of the book being affected. That’s not as much the case with backmatter.
When Jodi is talking about backmatter, she is talking about things at the back of the book. That’s how backmatter got its name — not too complex of a concept there. We’re talking about all of those things that follow after the text itself. Your backmatter might include indexes, appendices, endnotes, a bibliography, additional resources for your readers. Now, your book might have some of these. Your book might not have some, or you might have a combination of these things.
Listen in to today’s episode to learn more about your book’s backmatter!
Download the full transcript here.
Today Jodi is talking about your book frontmatter. What that is frontmatter? Frontmatter is pretty commonplace terminology today. And it's basically everything before the main body of the text. A book is structured similarly to the three parts of a story (introduction, body and conclusion). You have the frontmatter, the text, and the backmatter. It's not that the front matter is necessarily setting up the text, although in a way some pieces of it do, but it's really just everything that comes before the text itself — that is, the body of the book.
Frontmatter may contain a half-title page, a copyright page, a table of contents, preface, introduction, a foreward. Jodi dives into which of these are necessary and which are more optional. Listen in to hear more about your book’s frontmatter and determine what is best for your book!
The next episode will cover backmatter, so stay tuned for that information as well.
Today’s episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast is going to be a little bit different than what you’re used to, if you are a regular listener. Instead of digging in deep to one aspect of the book writing/book publishing/book marketing world, Jodi going to peel back the curtain a little bit on the Author-Entrepreneurs Lab, her mentorship-membership program for business owners who want to write a book to serve their business.
And the reason for this is because one, she gets a lot of questions about it, and two, she knows that everybody learns a little bit differently. Some people don't want to go to the website and read the sales page. They’d rather just hear a little bit about it. Jodi’s schedule doesn’t allow for that many one on one calls, so she thought, “Why not do a dedicated episode of the podcast to talk about the membership and dig in a little bit about what it is, how it came to be, what kinds of things happen in the Lab, and all that good stuff?”
So if that is something that interests you, you are in the right place, and Jodi’s hope is that you will sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and come on this journey with her.
Grab the full transcript here.
Learn More about the Author-Entrepreneur Lab here.
Today on the Write.Publish.Market Podcast Jodi is joined by Jyotsna Ramachandran. Not only is Jyotsna a best-selling author and book publisher, she has worked with people all over the world build their business through an author funnel and their books.
They chat about positioning your self and your book for the public eye. Jyotsna shares her 3 ingredient recipe for becoming a TEDx speaker and they are steps you can use for any aspect of getting your name and book into your dream universe.
She also walks you through her 4 step author funnel. This funnel will connect you with your readers on a deeper level and allow you to also make money past the initial book sale. Without a funnel, Jyotsna says “there is the book and there is the business, but there is no connection.”
For the full episode transcript head to http://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/310
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Meet Jyotsna Jyotsna is a best-selling author, book publisher, TEDx speaker, and international author success coach who helps coaches, trainers, speakers, and experts build a super-profitable author funnel with the help of their book. She founded Happy Self Publishing to help overwhelmed yet purpose-driven authors experience a transformative journey of self-discovery through the process of publishing their book and amplifying their message. So far, Jyotsna has helped over 400 authors from 35 countries through her global publishing agency, Happy Self Publishing. When she isn't working, this mom of two kids also loves to dance, run, plan her next solo trip, and is a passionate advocate for educational rights.
Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIN
On today’s episode of the Write.Publish.Market. podcast, Jodi is talking all about editorial feedback. If you’re not quite sure what that is it is the feedback that comes with your manuscript after the editor is finished working on it. As an author and an editor herself, Jodi doesn’t want you to be scared or intimidated.
The editorial letter is going to give you more of the big-picture feedback. So it's not the nitty-gritty, line-by-line feedback that typically means more work for you. It's the big picture overall feedback: structurally where the book is. Hopefully, your editor has talked to you about your goals for the book, and their job, then, is to make sure that you're addressing that goal.
Before you dive into this episode, keep in the back of your mind the collaborative nature of the editor-author relationship, especially as you are working through all of that feedback.
Grab the full transcript here.
Jodi is interviewing Hailey Dale on today’s episode of the Write.Publish.Market. Podcast. Hailey is a best-selling author and founder of Your Content Empire, where she partners with small business owners who are over the shoulds and ready to build their content empires — their way.
Today, Hailey is talking with Jodi about her book writing process, the parts she loved, the parts she found stressful and what it was like launching a book during uncertain times. As a content creator, Hailey knows first hand how important a content plan is for a launch and how to treat it as a separate part of the book process.
Tune in to hear all of her thoughts and how she launched her book into the world.
Get the full transcript here.
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Meet Hailey Hailey Dale, MA is a best-selling author and founder of Your Content Empire, where she partners with small business owners who are over the shoulds and ready to build their content empires – their way. Through her programs, agency and tell-all blog, she’s helped thousands of entrepreneurs create smarter content on a consistent basis that delights them and their customers while growing their bottom lines.
Facebook | Instagram | Youtube | Pinterest
Today on the Write.Publish.Market. Podcast, Jodi is talking about marketing your book in a way that feels right for you. These aren’t marketing techniques or specific marketing strategies, necessarily. However, they are to help you be consistent with your book marketing.
Book marketing is a long game. It's a marathon, not a sprint. So you need to be consistent. And the way to do that is to lean into the things that make the most sense for you. And that's going to be different from author A to author B.
So you need to sit back and think, “Okay, what is my personality type? What is my enneagram type? What are my enneagram wings—all of those kinds of things? Am I an introvert or extrovert?”
You need to lean into what feels right to you, what comes naturally to you, and what feels fun to you. So let’s dive into that today!
Grab the full transcript here.
On today’s Write.Publish.Market Podcast, Jodi is interviewing Kelsey Baldwin, an author, designer, and entrepreneur. They chat about all of the things that go into designing your book. This includes the size of your pages, the front and back cover design, the book spine, and so much more.
Whether self-publishing or going the traditional route, there are a few steps that will make designing your book so much easier. Kelsey shares her thoughts on design revisions, pre-made templates, and why the design of the book should allow the reader to follow along almost without noticing the design.
For the full show transcript, click here.
To connect with Kelsey, check out her links
Website | InDesign Workshop | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter
On this episode of the Write.Publish.Market Podcast, Jodi is interviewing Jacqueline Fisch, the author of Unfussy Life: An Intuitive Approach to Navigating Change. They are talking about the building blocks for her first book, what’s she’s expecting when it officially launches, and what is next for her (hint: it just might be more books!)
She's also a writing coach and leader of the Write Like a MOFO community. She helps writers make progress on their passion projects and creative business owners sound more human in their writing.
Before launching her writing and coaching business, Jacq spent 13 years working in corporate communications and management-consulting for clients including Fortune 500 companies and the US government. As a freelance copywriter, she’s helped dozens of clients – tech startups, life and business coaches, creatives, and more – learn how to communicate more authentically and stand out in a busy online world.
Find the transcript here.
Check Jac out here:
Website | Instagram
In this episode of the Write.Publish.Market podcast, Jodi is talking about book giveaways and how they can help launch your book. She’s covering the difference between a giveaway, a contest, a lottery, and a sweepstakes.
Jodi touches on the legal side of giveaways for authors, but reminds you that she in not a lawyer, so definitely consult one if you have more questions!
You want to have fun with a giveaway, but you want to make sure that you’re having fun while being legally compliant. This needs to be much more than just deciding, “Oh, I’m going to put a post on Instagram or on my Facebook page” and then winging it. You want to make sure that you have a plan in place before your giveaway so that you can keep it legal and use it as a book marketing tactic for you.
So listen here or wherever you like to listen to podcasts!
Head to www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/34 for the full transcript.
Today on the Write. Publish. Market. Podcast, Jodi is talking about copyright pages. If you’ve started this part of your writing and publishing process, you’ll notice that copyright pages look very similar from book to book, but not quite exactly the same. And you might be wondering why that is. Let’s break that down. There are some elements that are required for a copyright page, and there are some elements that are not required. And then there are things that you might want to include, depending on your kind of your kind of books. So let’s dig in.
To view the full transcripts, click here.
Today Jodi is giving you insight to whether you need or should think about starting your own publishing imprint and what that looks like versus “just” self-publishing a book. This is something that comes up every once in a while, especially when someone reaches out about wanting to write multiple books.
They come to the table knowing that this is not a one-time thing. What makes the most sense for them to set themselves up for success — long-term, not just for that one book or that first book? This was something just covered in The Auther-Entrepreneurs Lab, because several members are starting publishing imprints, which is super exciting.
So if you’re interested in a publishing imprint, or wondering what in the world Jodi is talking about, this is for you!
For more info:
Show Notes & Transcript
Blog Post
Julie helps owners and trainers around the world overcome separation anxiety in dogs. She does this with a membership club for owners, a certification program for trainers, a dog training app, and of course her book. Previously, Julie was a partner in a global management consulting firm. Julie loved the work, but felt she needed to make a difference. Her career 2.0 is most definitely helping her do this.
Our conversation today is all about how she started writing her book, her process (spoiler alert: she didn’t love it) and all about how she got amazing reviews that helped her launch this self-published book. I can’t wait for you to listen in!
You can find her here:
www.subthresholdtraining.com
facebook.com/subthresholdtraining
https://www.facebook.com/groups/separationanxietydogsupport
Mary is a digital experience strategist and founder of Gearmark, helping companies create memorable customer experiences, online and offline, for over 20 years. From apps to content strategy to lead gen programs, she has helped companies achieve results that contribute to the bottom line. But achieving great results takes a great team that works well together. Her work extends into team dynamics and internal processes. She believes that the internal employee experience of a company is just as important as the customer experience it creates. And that experience helps build successful business relationships that contributes to business success. She attended MIT, graduated from Simmons College and IE University in Madrid.
In this episode, Mary shares the origin story of her book, why she enjoyed the entire process of writing and publishing her book, the part of the process she found to be the most difficult, why it’s important to remember your first book doesn’t have to be your last and that you can always release new editions, how she turned her book into a variety of other things like masterclasses and workbooks, why she made the conscious decision to have a separate online presence for her book apart from her business and personal brand, her top tips for those thinking of writing a book for their business, what she’s currently reading, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Let’s talk about your calendar for a minute. As an entrepreneur, you’re likely familiar with the concept of planning your program or product launches out on your calendar to make sure you stay on track. Writing your book is no different.
In this episode, I share why I believe creating your calendar for your writing time is a sacred thing, the first thing you need to consider and block out time for on your writing calendar before you do anything else, the one thing I personally put on my calendar that always takes priority over writing, what I mean when I say you need to let your calendar breathe, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
As we approach the holiday season, I wanted to talk specifically about selling your book during the holidays because, while it’s the perfect time to promote your book in fun ways you wouldn’t during the rest of the year, it does take some thought and planning.
In this episode, I share why it’s never too early to start your holiday promotions, why you should be thinking about utilizing gift guides, why you need to have a game plan for what you want to do or offer during the Black Friday through Giving Tuesday weekend, how I personally position my book during the holidays, examples of how you can position your book to “middlemen” during the holidays, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Libraries are often forgotten when it comes to marketing and distributing a self-published book.
Is it necessary to have your book carried by libraries? Absolutely not.
But, why not have your book in libraries?
In this episode, I share why I believe it’s worth try to you get your book in libraries, the first step you should take when trying to get your book into a library, the two things you need to have in place before you contact a library and pitch your book to them, how to present your book to a library in a way that makes it easy to get a yes, the materials you should have ready for the library to review during your pitch, ideas for events you can offer to host at their location if they decide to carry your book, a trade secret that is simple in execution and will help the library realize there is a need for your book, why you shouldn’t worry about losing out on book sales if your book is carried in libraries, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Kim Dawson is a lifelong entrepreneur who has started multiple businesses in her 20+ year entrepreneurial journey until becoming a business strategist in 2015. Kim helps service-based solopreneurs and small business owners increase revenue, maximize profitability, grow their team, and scale their business. She serves as a strategist, consultant, advisor, mentor, and coach.
Kim is the host of “The Sassy Strategist Podcast” and the author of “Passion to Profits: Your Guide to Building a Successful Business You Love.” Kim has been a featured speaker at several business conferences and events, including Massachusetts Conference for Women, MetroWest Conference for Women, Boston Business Women Innovation Conference, and BostonSpeaks, among others.
Through her podcast, speaking engagements, book, and consulting work, Kim has helped thousands of entrepreneurs take their business to the next level.
When she isn’t working, she can be found reading, writing, traveling, binge-watching her favorite comedies, discussing Star Wars with her children, listening to live jazz, or foxtrotting to Frank Sinatra.
In this episode, Kim shares the process of how she decided to write her book instead of turning the content into a course or program, why she feels a book is a perfect way to both educate and inspire your audience, why her favorite part of the process was when the writing portion was finished, why her least favorite part of the process was actually getting the book published, the multiple ways her book has helped her business, why believes everyone writing a book to serve their business should bring on a support team from the very begin of the process, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Braden Drake is a California licensed attorney and tax professional. His tagline is, “Your gay best friend here to help you get your legal and tax shit legit.” Braden works primarily with service-based, creative small business owners through his membership and course where he educates on contracts, business entities, cash flow, and taxes.
In this episode, Braden shares why he decided as a child that he wanted to write a book one day, the event that happened at an Airbnb we were staying in together that led to him finally writing that book, his and least favorite parts of the writing process, how he started the writing process with half of his book already written, the two main goals he hopes to accomplish with publishing his book, how his book helps business owners get their head out of the sand when it comes to the legal and tax aspects of their business, when he learned it was important to write like a real person and not a lawyer, how his love for Harry Potter dictates how he spends all his free time every October, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
This week, we’re digging into your book planning framework and breaking down the book writing building blocks for business owners.
In this solo episode, I share how the traditional story-building elements of who, what, when, where, why, and how factor into your book planning framework, why you should always start with the why component, the goal-setting method I recommend utilizing when coming up with your book planning framework, who a secondary audience is comprised of and why you can’t ignore them, how having a list of non-negotiables will help you create a timeline for writing your book, why you need to be wary of perfect set-up syndrome, how doing a book brain dump will help you figure out exactly how you’re going to write your book, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Aleece McKnight is the attorney you find when you know it’s time to legally protect your business, secure your brand, and protect your creative assets.
Impassioned by the desire to ensure the legal protection of creatives and entrepreneurs, Aleece launched the virtual Law Office of Aleece McKnight where she employs her subject matter expertise in helping individuals leverage legal protections so they can start and scale their businesses. With years of experience in trademark law, copyrights, and entertainment law, Aleece partners with entrepreneurs and creatives to secure every creative asset they own from the very beginning.
In this episode, Aleece and I discuss the difference between common-law copyright ownership and registered copyright ownership, the major drawback of not having registered copyright ownership, the current rates for a copyright registration application, the recent change in the application process that can potentially save you thousands of dollars, how you can avoid accidentally infringing on someone else’s copyright, the myth that Fair Use will protect you from being sued for copyright infringement, why giving credit to another creative when using their work is not enough to legally protect you from copyright infringement violation claims, why it’s critical to read the licenses on stock photo websites before using one of their images, what you should do if you’re going to be writing about other people or including them in your story, why you can’t trademark a single book title but you can trademark a book series, the importance of establishing who has author ownership over a collaborative project, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Lauren Ranalli is a public health professional, award-winning children's book writer, and marketing coach for aspiring and published authors. Her latest book, Let's Meet on the Moon, has just been released and she is also the founder of the Think Beyond the Book membership community for self-published authors.
In this episode, Lauren shares the role author branding played in her journey of publishing her first book in 2018 to now being a coach for other authors (while still writing books of her own), she she did that helped her generate $10,000 in sales and book about 30 promotional events within three months of self-publishing her first book, why self-publishing is a good option for people who have entrepreneurial spirits or who like to be in control, how an entrepreneur can decide if their business brand and author brand should be the same, what she looks for when she performs a branding assessment for her clients, what you shouldn’t do as you’re trying to build an audience for your brand and book, the best time to start thinking about your author brand and whether or not there’s a point where it’s just too late, and more!
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Laura Gale started her career in the traditional publishing world and now offers a boutique service that specializes in writing, publishing, and marketing powerful, profitable books that transform her clients’ businesses.
I’m incredibly excited to bring you this conversation with Laura because her specialty is in ghostwriting, and that’s a topic I know many of you are interested in. She takes the words, experiences, and ideas in her clients’ heads and translates them into a compelling story that shows their readers why they’re the best in the business.
In this episode, we discuss what led Laura to a career in ghostwriting, her process for getting into a client’s voice, why she prefers to only work with one client at a time, what every business owner should consider when deciding whether or not to hire a ghostwriter, her process for working with a client on ghostwriting their book, why she believes a ghostwriter should be an advocate for the reader, what a business owner can do to help ensure the ghostwriting process goes as smoothly as possible, why she likes to ensure the revision process is collaborative, her main piece of advice for business owners wanting to work with a ghostwriter on their book, and more.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Today on the show Jodi breaks down the phrase “writing a book” into the five stages of nonfiction book writing. Writing a book is a big task that encompasses a lot of steps and it’s important to know, as an author-entrepreneur, where you are in the process so you can stay on track, stay motivated, and finish your book. The five stages are: * Prewriting * Drafting * Revising * Editing * Publishing
Prewriting This is the prep phase. It involves doing a brain dump to create a working contents for the book, doing research, conducting interviews, and finding existing content to repurpose in the book. Drafting This stage involves writing — and just writing. The result of this stage is what the publishing industry refers to as a “shitty first draft.” Revising This is where the book is put together, like a puzzle, in its final form. Beta feedback is received and incorporated, text (at the sentence level up to the chapter level) is moved around, and material is added and deleted. At the end of this stage, a manuscript is considered complete, aside from polishing. Editing This stage involves polishing the manuscript. I recommend hiring a professional copy editor. Publishing At this stage the manuscript becomes a book. This stage includes interior and cover design and publication. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Today on the show Jodi examines what author-entrepreneurs need to know about audio books. The number-one reason author-entrepreneurs should consider recording an audio book is that audio books make up the fastest-growing market in the book publishing industry. People love audio books. They love the freedom of being able to listen in the car on a walk, or wherever. More and more authors have noticed and are producing audio books to accompany, or sometimes even in place of, a print book. Think of an audio book as its own asset for your business, not just a type/format of your book. If somebody buys a print book, for example, you could give them the audio book as a “free” bonus. Or maybe you give the audio book, just the MP3, as a bonus for signing up for your newsletter. So many readers buy and consume more than one format of a book. Jodi is a big ebook reader, for example, but if it's an ebook she loves, she then purchases the print copy. Many readers feel similarly about audio books and print books. Many author-entrepreneurs are nervous about or even scared of the investment and the tech. Author-entrepreneurs certainly can book time at a recording studio. Depending on the length of the book, author-entrepreneurs typically require a one- to two-day investment in studio time, along with editing. Recording an audio book can also be DIY-ed. Jodi has many clients who have purchased a microphone and taken their computer into a quiet room while they’re home alone (pets included!). Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram. Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here. Want to connect further? Follow Jodi on Instagram. Audio Books: Yes or No? Audiobooks vs Physical Books
Today on the show Jodi discusses book trailers. A book trailer is essentially a one- to two-minute commercial for a book. Many author-entrepreneurs resist making one because they’re introverted. Book trailers can be a great tool in an author-entrepreneur’s book marketing toolbox. Though they are certainly optional, Jodi encourages author-entrepreneurs to think about making one for a couple reasons. First, the power of video is enormous. Video is compelling. It immediately establishes that one-on-one, know-like-trust factor with somebody watching the video, which can go a long way with a cold audience to convince them to buy your book. Second, you have the fact that the book market is so saturated. Anything author-entrepreneurs can do to stand out in that crowded market is a good thing. Jodi differentiates between a book trailer for a novel versus one for a nonfiction book, because a nonfiction book is really about the content of the book and you and your expertise as the author-entrepreneur. A book trailer for a nonfiction book features the author talking directly to the audience about the benefits of the book and the transformation people will undergo by reading the book. A fiction book trailer, on the other hand, involves doing things with character and setting and special effects. Regarding budget, like everything else book-marketing-related, there are ways to make one on a shoestring budget all the way up to spending tens of thousands of dollars. Many author-entrepreneurs set up your camera and record themselves, talking just like they do on Facebook Live or ITV or in a YouTube video. Perhaps they then send the materials out to an editor, to add some graphics or music. Booking time at a production studio is the opposite end of the spectrum and much more expensive.
If you decide a book trailer is right for you, here are a few quick tips:
- Write a script and stick to it. Don't try to wing it. This is especially if you are hiring professionals, because this can triple or quadruple the time it will take with restarts.
- Start with a hook. Grab your viewers’ attention quickly.
- End with a call to action. The call to action at the end of the book trailer should be to buy the book! Send viewers wherever you want people to purchase the book, whether that’s Amazon, your website, or somewhere else.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram. Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here. Want to connect further? Follow Jodi on Instagram.
Read: Book Trailers: Optional? Watch: Book Marketing Strategies: Why You Need a Book Trailer
Today on the show Jodi breaks down three basics about book reviews for author-entrepreneurs:
- Remember that book reviews are not just for your book launch. Author-entrepreneurs should continue to urge and encourage readers to leave a book review long after the actual launch has passed. When you can freshen up book reviews and and get an influx of new reviews, you can use them just like you do during a launch: in email sequences to newsletter subscribers and social media posts, for example. Don’t think that once the book is launched, you can stop asking for book reviews. Just like every other aspect of book marketing, book reviews are a long game.
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Understand the two different types of book reviews. There are, of course, customer reviews on Amazon. That’s the first type. There are also professional book reviews, more commonly known as editorial book reviews, which are written by book critics. Sometimes these are paid (by the author-entrepreneur); sometimes they're not. These reviews are written by experienced reviewers in your genre, whatever that may be. The reason author-entrepreneurs might pursue this second type of reviews is because booksellers and librarians love them. These reviews are good for book marketing materials, just as customer reviews are, but for booksellers and librarians offer a little more credibility than the average Joe or Jane who purchased your book on Amazon, loved it, and left a review.
- Jodi does not suggest running out and soliciting/paying for a professional review without a plan to do something with it.
- Remember that book reviews help your get book get seen. While the Amazon algorithm is unknown, lots of reviews do seem to help books get seen. So if for no other reason than to have your book appear more often in Amazon searches and help it get found by a cold audience, gathering more book reviews is a good goal for any author-entrepreneur.
Let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram.
Have a book idea for your business but aren’t sure where to start? Check out my Jump-Start Guide here.
Want to connect further? Follow Jodi on Instagram.
Today on the show Jodi gives author-entrepreneurs three tips to get their self-published book into bookstores. Shelf space is at a premium in bookstores, particularly in smaller stores. If you follow these three tips, you make it easier for bookstore owners and book buyers to say yes. * Produce a professional product. Bookstore owners (and readers!) should be able to hold your book in one hand and a traditionally published book in the other and not feel or see a difference. This means things like having the bar code in the right place on the back cover, including the right material on the spine, and have the right paper weight and color. * Make it easy to both purchase and return your book. Bookstores enjoy a generous return policy with traditional book publishers. The easier you make it for them to purchase your book as well as return it, the easier it is to say yes to carrying your book in the store. * Build a relationship with your local bookstores and with store owners and managers. Show them that you are a part of their community and a patron of their store. If they know you, it’s easier for them see the value in carrying your book and hosting an event for your book marketing. These become a win-win for the store and for you.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Also, check out these resources
To Pre-Sell or Not to Pre-Sell Your Book 3 Tips to Get Your Book into Bookstores
Today on the show Jodi interviews Angie Trueblood about using podcasts as part of a book marketing strategy. Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Angie talked about podcast guesting being a great tool in an author-entrepreneur’s toolkit always, but especially during the COVID-19 crisis when travel is not an option for speaking events and the like. Angie noted that podcast guesting and even starting a podcast have become options people are utilizing more frequently. * Angie explained that podcasting and podcast guesting offers author-entrepreneurs a “one-two punch” to showcase their own story as well as their expertise as a business owner. This allows author-entrepreneurs to warm up an audience to their book while also allowing them to get to know the author-entrepreneur better than they could by, say, reading something because of the way personalities can come out on podcasts. This enables an audience to go from meeting you to hiring you more quickly than they might otherwise. * To find podcasts to pitch to help market a book, Angie recommended the strategy of figuring out what their audience is listening to as a starting point. * Angie noted that the power of story is so important to connect with audiences, and story and expertise are intertwined. This makes it especially easy for author-entrepreneurs of hybrid memoir/self-development books to showcase themselves. * One of the biggest “do’s” in podcast guest pitching, Angie noted, is to identify hosts/podcasts with an audience similar to yours. Pitching is not a one-way street, but rather becomes a way to serve one another’s audiences * Jodi and Angie explored the makings of good pitches, and Angie explained that a great podcast pitch shows you’ve done your homework as a potential guest. She also emphasized that there is no such thing as a perfect pitch template (and explained the difference between a template used for efficiency and a canned email pitch). * Angie recommended being specific in the topic being pitched. Specific is better than general here. She noted that pitching one topic but also sending a one sheet with other topics can be a great way to open a dialogue with podcast hosts. * Angie has paused from reading business books but recently started Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. * Angie generously shared her roadmap for podcast pitching success. Grab it here: www.angietrueblood.com/WPM !
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Screenshot this episode and tag me in Instagram (@jodibrandoneditorial). Find Angie here: www.angietrueblood.com/WPM www.angietrueblood.com/podcast www.instagram.com/angie_trueblood www.facebook.com/angietruebloodconnects About Angie: As a podcast visibility expert and host of the Go Pitch Yourself podcast, Angie Trueblood knows that the only 'perfect pitch' is the one that leads with value and focuses on building a genuine connection. Whether she is teaching entrepreneurs how to pitch themselves or working behind the scenes to secure opportunities for others, Angie leverages her super-connector powers to grow businesses and build long-lasting relationships. When she's not working with her clients or being active in her local community, she loves exploring Richmond, Virginia's parks and playgrounds with her two kiddos, checking out new restaurants with her hubs, and laughing about motherhood over cocktails with friends.
Today on the show Jodi interviews Lindsay Bryan-Povin, author of The Financial Anxiety Solution (Ulysses Press, 2020). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Lindsay discussed the origin of her book. Lindsay was a creative kid but did not necessarily see herself book writing as an adult. As an expert voice in the world of finances for couples, Lindsay looked at authorship as a way to stand out in a flooded field when she was approached by a publisher to write this book. * Because Lindsay’s book was published traditionally, she didn’t have total control over the schedule. Once she had a deadline for manuscript submission, she treated writing like academic work and shifted her schedule to make room for book writing. Once she changed to schedule to allow for a full day of writing, Lindsay was able to get into a groove and it made a huge difference in productivity. * One of the parts of the process that required a learning curve for Lindsay was writing long-form nonfiction, for readers who need repetition. The tendency to see something as repetitive when it was actually necessary within the manuscript took Lindsay some time to get used to. * Lindsay has been strategic about marketing, and she began to pitch podcasts and publications two to three months before the book’s publication in late February 2020. When in-person events were canceled beginning in March 2020, Lindsay doubled down on podcast interviews, which has created a lot of opportunities she hadn’t originally anticipated. The topic of her book — financial anxiety — is certainly timely, but it’s important to Lindsay to not appear opportunistic and keep the focus on serving readers. * Lindsay shared two pieces of advice for aspiring author-entrepreneurs: First, on down days, allow yourself to feel the “woe is me” but then remember all the earlier effort you’ve put in, and don’t let that effort go to waste. And second, put your limiting beliefs aside and stay out of your own way. Lindsay noted that she doesn’t love social media, yet Instagram has brought lots of opportunities to her. * Lindsay and Jodi discussed how there seem to be two types of people in the world right now, mid-coronavirus pandemic: those who are doing “all the things” and those who can’t seem to focus, let alone read, write, learn a new hobby, etc. Both Jodi and Lindsay are in the latter camp, but Lindsay shared that she has Untamed by Glennon Doyle in her to-read stack when some normalcy returns.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Disclaimer: This interview was recorded in March 2020. Find Lindsay here:
https://www.mindmoneybalanc.com/podcast www.youtube.com/lindsaybryanpovin www.instagram.com/mindmoneybalance https://www.amazon.com/Financial-Anxiety-Solution-Step-Step-ebook/dp/B07ZZJ49CQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=financial+anxiety+solution&qid=1588270027&sr=8-1
Today on the show Jodi explains how author-entrepreneurs can use a brain dump to create a working table of contents for their book. The word outline feels constrictive to many entrepreneurs, particularly creative entrepreneurs (think event planners, photographers, bloggers, etc.). A brain dump gets people to the same result — but without feeling like a middle-school assignment. The traditional brain dump that we’ve all learned involves a timer, a blank piece of paper, and something to write with. (Yes, you can do this on the computer by typing in list format, but the creativity that comes with freewriting seems to benefit this process greatly. This initial brain dump is a macro-level brainstorm. What comes next is to dig deeper — with micro brain dumps. Take a topic from the initial brain dump and brainstorm on just that topic/concept. When Jodi did a brain dump for her book Write.Publish.Market., one of the main topics from the macro brain dump was book writing. When she then did a micro brain dump, concepts including writing mindset, fears, roadblocks, writing routine, and writing schedule came up. Each of those ended up appearing in the “Section 1: Write” section of Write.Publish.Market. As you explore the topics you begin to see concepts that are similar and/or can be combined (like fears and roadblocks in Jodi’s example). Eventually, an outline of sorts takes shape, which becomes a working table of contents. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Other Resources You Might Like
https://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/blog/brain-dumping-table-of-contents
Today on the show Jodi explores why Amazon should be a piece of every author-entrepreneur’s marketing and distribution plan, but not the entire puzzle. Author-entrepreneurs should absolutely list their book on Amazon and take advantage of what Amazon offers to authors as far as keywords and author pages but also remember that Amazon cares about its bottom line, not theirs. (Case in point: Right now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Amazon is not prioritizing book shipments — rightfully so. But that’s obviously not ideal from a book marketing standpoint.) Amazon doesn’t supply authors with customer information, so author-entrepreneurs have no way to track, research, and retarget book buyers. Author-entrepreneurs must decide whether to handle distribution themselves or hire a distributor. Considerations include how many bulk orders you receive, sales tax, shipping processes, and storage solutions. With print-on-demand, author-entrepreneurs don’t need to worry about cases of books in their garages and attics (like in the old days of self-publishing!). On the other hand, self-distribution (selling and shipping from our own sites) offers author-entrepreneurs options. They can package the book with a training or another product as a bundle purchase. They can offer a tripwire post-purchase. Marketing possibilities abound when author-entrepreneurs remain in control of their book sales. Again, though, this is not to say that author-entrepreneurs should ignore Amazon. If books are positioned properly (using appropriate categories, keywords in titles and subtitles, and strong book descriptions, for example), the right readers will find and purchase them. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Melanie Deziel, author of The Content Fuel Framework (2020). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Melanie discussed the origin of her book. Melanie wanted to be able to share what she teaches on stage in a one-to-one format that’s accessible to anyone (i.e., not just those whose boss hires her to deliver a training or sends them to a conference). * Melanie described the writing and publishing process as a fun one with a big learning curve. The scale of a book is so different from what she (and most author-entrepreneurs) is used to writing, that when she was able to break it down into what felt familiar, it made a big difference. Thinking of chapters as articles made the word count seem less daunting. That long time line, coupled with no one seeing the manuscript for so long, was challenging for Melanie. * Melanie noted that she had actually started another book before The Content Fuel Framework, but that during the writing process she realized that The Content Fuel Framework is the book her audience needs now/first. * Because Melanie’s book release coincided with the coronavirus pandemic, most of her scheduled speaking and training engagements were canceled/moved to virtual events. Her plan is to package the book with workshops, allowing for bulk buying. * Melanie encouraged aspiring author-entrepreneurs to consider their approach when starting the process. If you don’t break “I want to write a book” into steps, it can get overwhelming quickly. She also noted the importance of having people you trust to talk to about the process. * Melanie shared that she recently read Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez and Giftology:The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Client Retention by John Ruhlin and is currently reading fiction, which is unusual for her: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Melanie here: Storyfuel.co http://contentfuelframework.com/
Instagram.com/meldeziel
https://twitter.com/mdeziel https://www.amazon.com/Content-Fuel-Framework-Unlimited-Marketers-ebook/dp/B0852ZX7KM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NBPYR597XGIE&dchild=1&keywords=content+fuel+framework&qid=1586357917&sprefix=content+fuel+%2Caps%2C152&sr=8-1
Today on the show Jodi breaks down some book design basics for author-entrepreneurs. * Book design is a specific skill set. Graphic design and web design are not the same. Your job as an author-entrepreneur is to hire someone who knows the ins and outs of professional book design. It’s tempting to use the designer you use in your business, but that’s typically a mistake. * As Jodi’s friend and colleague Lisa Von de Linde says, as a reader, if a book is designed well, you don’t even notice or think about the design. * Design is subjective, so while there are some “rules,” the design process is guided more by author preference and genre trends. * Books are judged by their cover, but the interior should offer continuity with a book’s cover design. * Author-entrepreneurs should be sure to ask about budget, time line, and process before hiring a book designer. * To find a book designer, ask the other book publishing professionals on your team (editor, publicist, etc.), if you’ve hired anyone yet. If not, organizations like the Association of Independent Publishing Professionals and the Editorial Freelancers Association are good places to start.
Resources from this episode: https://www.ibpa-online.org/general/custom.asp?page=standards-checklist-download www.lisavdesigns.com www.the-efa.org https://www.aipponline.org/ Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi breaks down five of the most common book marketing mistakes she sees author-entrepreneurs make. If you can avoid these mistakes, you’ll have a leg up in the book marketing game. Mistake #1: Starting too late The cliche is true: It’s never too early to start marketing your book. Even before the book is finalized, you have material to share: the title, the fact that you’re writing a book, your launch date, the cover, early reviews, and more. If you wait until your book is published to start marketing, you’ve waited too long. Mistake #2: Not focusing your efforts Just as you don’t market your business to everyone out there, it makes no sense to market your book to everyone. Hopefully before you ever started writing you identified your ideal readers. Focus your marketing efforts on those people, wherever they are. Mistake #3: Blowing off Amazon Uploading your book to Amazon and crossing your fingers isn’t a smart rule of thumb. Take advantage of what they offer as far as categories and keywords, and utilize your Author Central page, as a complement to your marketing efforts. Mistake #4: Not planning for all phases of the book launch Having a launch party is fun and a great idea, but book marketing is much more than a party on pub day. You need to think strategically and have activities for all phases of your book launch: pre-launch, launch, and post-launch. Pre-launch, you’re doing activities like sharing the book cover on social media, sending book updates to your email list, and building buzz. During the launch phase itself, you’re using your launch cheerleaders to help spread the word that the book is available. After the book has been available for a while, you’re in post-launch and your tasks include things like sharing positive reviews/testimonials with your audience and offering a holiday or anniversary discount or bonus. Mistake #5: Needing more reviews Book reviews don’t affect your rankings, but they CAN affect your sales and visibility. Book reviews are essentially the online version of word-of-mouth. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Other resources for you Don't make these 5 book marketing mistakes
Book Launch Phases - www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/write-publish-market-podcast/episode-27-book-launch-phases Hosting a Book Launch Party Hosting a Book Launch Party
Today on the show Jodi interviews Melissa Anzman, author of The Employee Experience Solution (2020). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Melissa talked about how Melissa had the idea for this book in her head for a long time and believed the message she wants to share belongs in a book. She previously published two other books that sell well at speaking engagements, so she realized having a book on the same topic that she speaks about would be smart. * Melissa calls herself a “pantster” (as in, someone who likes to write without an outline or plan), so she disliked the idea of outlining. She loved writing certain sections of the book and admitted that, while working from an outline sometimes made writing feel more like an obligation than a creative outlet, the end result was so much better. * Though she just released the book a couple weeks ago, Melissa shared that she’s excited about the networking and community the book has opened up for her already. She’s also leveraged a light upsell (a $97 product) and earned more speaking opportunities. * Melissa shared some advice for aspiring author-entrepreneurs from both a tactical and a strategic standpoint. Tactically, she advised to make a deadline and honor it, which often means finding someone (an editor, a writing partner, a friend) to hold you accountable. Strategically, Melissa encouraged others to be sure their book topic dovetails with what you want to be known for. A book is an easy way for people to learn about you and your ideas, so it should fit into your “business toolkit.” Melissa also encouraged other author-entrepreneurs to remember that a book is a long game when it comes to marketing. Also: She doesn’t recommend launching a book while traveling. * Because she co-owns a book review website, Melissa regularly reads six to eight books a week and can’t pick a favorite. For business, she rereads Essentialism by Greg McKeown every year.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Melissa here: www.betthr.com https://www.instagram.com/melissaanzman https://www.amazon.com/Employee-Experience-Solution-Transform-Engagement/
Today on the show Jodi breaks down the three phases of a book launch: pre-launch, launch, and post-launch. Author-entrepreneurs should remember that book marketing is a marathon, not a sprint. The pre-launch phase is for setting the foundation for later marketing activities. During this phase, several months before your book is released, your efforts should include things like: * Making social media connections (for engagement). * Sharing content (your book cover or a sample chapter) to build excitement. * Building your email list. * Recruiting launch ambassadors.
The launch phase is for your book release. During this phase, which encompasses your launch day and the immediate days/weeks, your efforts should include things like: * Sharing reviews on social media/email newsletter. * Talking up the book anywhere and everywhere — and having your launch ambassadors do the same thing * Celebrating with a virtual or real-life book launch party.
The post-launch phase accounts for your ongoing efforts once the book has been released. You need a plan to keep your book top of mind when your book topic comes up in conversation. You might decide to do one small book-related activity every day. Or you might decide to do something bigger once a quarter (such as a blog tour). Trial and error comes into play with all launch phases, but particularly post-launch. Every author-entrepreneur and every book are unique and require a custom marketing plan. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
You might also love - www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/blog/the-3-phases-of-your-book-launch
Today on the show Jodi interviews Jessica Freeman, author of The Type 1 Life (2018) and the forthcoming The Type 1 Life for Adults (2020). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Jess discussed the origin of her book. Jess shared that the idea had a tendency to “word vomit” information anytime she found out someone had been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Around the same time as a friend’s 4-year-old daughter was diagnosed, Jess was at a business retreat where she was asked, “If you could write a book about anything, what would it be?” * When Jess decided she wanted to educate parents dealing with a new diagnosis, she felt like an easily digestible book was a good format. No one would have the time for a course, but a quick, easy read was a tool that could impact them. * Jess noted that the writing was both her favorite and least favorite parts of the process. She used to blog a lot, so the writing came easily to her. She didn’t love organizing the writing and figuring out how much detail she needed in certain parts. * Jess shared a few cool things that have happened since publishing The Type 1 Life. Most important to her is the positive feedback and messages from people who’ve shared that the book helped them navigate their child’s diagnosis. The book is doing just what she hoped it would when she was writing! She’s gotten a few speaking opportunities, including an upcoming summit hosted by JDRF. A look at her account on Amazon revealed that she surpassed 1,000 book sales (which is AMAZING!). * Jess is active in a few online communities and has noticed more conversations around adults being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, so she’s written a second book to speak to that audience. There is some overlap between the two books, but the new book includes information about marriage, parenting, and the workplace. * Jess offered two pieces of advice for budding author-entrepreneurs: + Have a dedicated writing time (and honor it). + Don’t get caught up in how long you feel like your book “should” be and instead focus on your audience and what they need/want from your book. * Jess shared that she recently finished (and enjoyed) Company of One by Paul Jarvis.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Jess here: https://www.jesscreatives.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jesscreatives https://www.amazon.com/Type-Life-Children-Diagnosed-Diabetes-ebook/dp/B07BH1TC8L/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=jessica+freeman&qid=1581447160&sr=8-1
Today on the show Jodi talks about the right (and wrong) time to write a book to serve your business. While there is no one right time for every author-entrepreneur, there are some factors that can point to yes (or no): * A book offers a way to establish credibility and uplevel. A book offers a low price point for potential clients to get to know you, see your expertise, and decide if they might want to purchase a larger service/package. * You have a plan for how a book fits into your business model, and it has little to do with book sales. Book money typically comes on the back end rather than through book royalties. Author-entrepreneurs should think of a book as a marketing tool rather than an income stream (at least the beginning). * Your calendar (life and business) allow room for book writing. No business owner will find the time to write a book. You will instead need to make time.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
https://www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/blog/the-right-time-to-write-a-book
Today on the show Jodi interviews Jessica Rasdall, author of Shattered (2019). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Jessica discussed the origin of her book. Jessica shared that the idea had been brewing for 11 years before she finally wrote and published Shattered. Jessica couldn’t find the book she was looking for on the bookstore shelf, and her mother encouraged her to write it. * As a tip for other author-entrepreneurs, Jessica suggested taking off the pressure by remembering that this is not the only thing you’ll ever put out there. She also recommended getting someone to help navigate the publishing world. * Jessica noted that one of the difficult parts to navigate while writing the book was knowing what to share and what not to share. Knowing that the book would be a legacy piece of content put extra pressure to make it good. Once she received permission to not include everything, it was easier to commit to keep going. * One of the fun things that’s happened since publishing the book is that Jessica has been able to change the way she navigates speaker negotiations. She’s been able to add profit without increasing her time worked. * Jessica noted that she’s typically reading more than one book, and she’s currently reading The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks and re-reading Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Jessica here: https://www.jessicarasdall.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jessicarasdall/ https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Survival-Strength-Accepting-Surviving/dp/0692941010/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=shattered+jessica+randall&qid=1576010529&sr=8-1-fkmr0
Today on the show Jodi breaks down the process of revising your book. Revising is its own part of the writing process and should be done after you’ve written your book draft. A lot of author-entrepreneurs try to revise as they write. Because the two tasks use two different parts of the brain, it’s like multitasking and not doing either task well enough. (Will you make small tweaks here and there while writing? Of course. But the bulk of revision should be done after you’ve written a complete draft..)
Think of the revision stage as you putting together a puzzle. Of course it’s overwhelming to stare at a pile of 500 (or even 24 for the toddler crowd!) puzzle pieces. But when you get organized, it gets easier. First get all of the pieces spread out and face-up. Then search for the four corners, followed by any piece with an edge. Then you have a border to work with and can start working on specific sections within the puzzle.
As you work through the manuscript, ask yourself this: What do I want the reader to take away from each chapter, section, and even sentence? Be sure those takeaways all lead to the main takeaway they should have after finishing your book.
Because you’re so close to your work and have read it dozens of times (and so has your writing coach/developmental editor, if you’re working with one), it’s important to get your work in front of fresh eyes to help you identify weak spots in your narrative. This is where beta feedback enters the process. Revision and working with beta readers will help you identify areas within the text that are not clear, contain unnecessary or confusing words, need an example to strengthen your point, belong somewhere different within the book, and more.
After you have revised your manuscript, you have, essentially, a new draft. It’s entirely up to you as an author-entrepreneur, how many drafts, rounds of beta feedback, and rounds of revision are needed for your book. When you’re ready, though, hit “Send,” submit the manuscript to your editor, put up your feet, and treat yourself.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Also check out:
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Today on the show Jodi interviews Rebecca Undem, author of How Mommy Got Her Groove Back (2016). Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Rebecca discussed how Rebecca came to write a book. Rebecca has always been drawn to storytelling and had writing a book on her “dream list.” She started the book thinking it would be a collection of repurposed blog posts but it became something altogether different. She thought it would be a good tool to have to enhance her speaking career, which is her trade. * Rebecca noted that she had self-doubt about writing a memoir when she was in her mid-30s and had lived a life without a major trauma. However, she trusted the process and found the right audience for it. * Rebecca shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process was interviewing living family members to learn their memories and recollections. Rebecca and Jodi talked about how our reality is shaped by our perception. * When asked about her least favorite part of the process, Rebecca likened the writing process to a marathon. You start out energized but then there are sometimes long stretches before the next water station. Those stations are collaborations with a coach, editor, etc., and they provide just enough sustenance to keep going. * Rebecca noted that because the book shares so much of her story, it almost prequalifies her as a speaker. Her signature talk is called “Living Big in the Life You’re In,” and copies of the book are typically included in her speaking arrangement. * Rebecca offered this advice for other authors: Not everyone should write a book, but if you have that desire, just start. Be a good steward of that desire. With regard to a book and generally in business, serve people the way you think you can. Don’t have squirrel syndrome and/or try to do everything. Jodi and Rebecca noted their mutual friend Brit Kolo of marketingpersonalities.com[LINK], who often says, “If you don’t feel good, your audience won’t feel good.” * Rebecca shared that she’s currently reading mainly nonprofit management books, because she recently started a nonprofit, but that her favorite book this year was Educated by Tara Westover..
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Rebecca here: www.rebeccaundem.com https://www.amazon.com/How-Mommy-Got-Groove-Back-ebook/dp/B01LWSI6CL/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=rebecca+undem&qid=1575647957&sr=8-1
Today on the show Jodi talks about how author-entrepreneurs can learn about their competition and best position their book in the marketplace: by conducting a book market analysis (sometimes called a book positioning study). This is an important step of the publishing process no matter what path or paths to publication you’re considering. (In fact, if you’re publishing traditionally, Jodi guarantees this will be a required part of your submissions package.) This activity is most powerful when done in the early stages of the book-writing process, but even if you’ve already started writing or even have a complete draft, take the time to do it. However your book will be different from what’s in the marketplace, being able to identify that will help tremendously when you craft your launch and marketing plans. Why? Because you’ll know how to position the book for success. Spend some time on Amazon identifying 10 or so books in your genre. Study them as products, not as books. You’re looking here for patterns so you know what’s typical for your type of book, if anything. Are all of the page counts around the same number? Do all but one have a foreword written by an industry expert? Be sure to look at book reviews, which are often a gold mine. People not only write in reviews what they loved about a book but also what they didn’t love or felt was missing. All of this information is useful to you. Gather the information in a format so you can study and analyze it. Find the patterns that show you what readers of your kind of book love and want. This will help you construct a product (your book) to meet those needs and wants. If you do that, you’ll be able to meet your goals and your readers’ goals, thus serving your audience as well as your own business. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Also check out:
Today on the show Jodi breaks down the types of editing and why “I need an editor” can be a loaded statement. Editing is not a one-size-fits-all operation. Rather, there are three types to consider when looking for a book editor: * Developmental: looks at the big picture; sometimes called structural editing, manuscript evaluation, or book coaching * Copy: looks at the manuscript on a micro level; looks at grammar mechanics as well as tone and clarity; sometimes called line editing; what most people think of when using the word editor * Proofreading: looking for typos and design issues; a “last look” before a book is published
Where you are in the process as an author-entrepreneur can also play into what type of editor you need: Developmental editing occurs typically before or during the writing process. Copy editing occurs after a manuscript is complete. Proofreading occurs just before a book is printed/uploaded and after layout.
As an author-entrepreneur, the two factors you need to be most concerned with are: which level(s) of editing will best serve your manuscript to ultimately meet your goals, and what is your budget for editorial services?
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Emily Souder, author of Birth Story Brave (2017), Birth Story Held, Cultivating Amusement, and the upcoming Sparks. Here are some highlights of the conversation: * Jodi and Emily talked about the origin of Emily’s book writing. She noted that at the beginning, she wasn’t set on a book being the tool she created. She knew she wanted to create something needed but wasn’t sure if it would be a book or maybe a journal, but that she “found her way to a book.” Emily shared that it’s been easier each time to decide that a book is what she’s choosing to create since she’s so much more familiar with the process now. * Emily shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process is when the idea comes to life and she experiences the creativity of her ideas flowing through her and not from her. SO GOOD! * Emily offered that the non-creative parts of the writing/publishing process are her least favorite. She shared a story about DIY-ing book formatting on her first book. * Emily shared that she’s been pleasantly surprised by the reach of her books, particularly her first book (Birth Story Brave). She has regular and consistent sales from Amazon, and one of her reviewers noted that she purchased the book as part of someone’s baby registry. * Emily offered two pieces of advice for other author-entrepreneurs: (1) Don’t stress about what you’re writing at first. Just let it flow and get something down. (2) Hire people to help whom you trust and get excited about having them on your book team. * Like many Write Publish Market guests, Emily noted that she’s typically reading multiple books. Right now Emily is reading The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Stock Kranowitz and The Confidence Gap by Russ Harris.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Emily here: https://www.nestingspacellc.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Birth-Story-Brave-Reflecting-Childbirth-ebook/dp/B076QDGPBN/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512268281&sr=8-1&keywords=birth+story+brave
Today on the show Jodi interviews Mallika Malhotra, author of The Brand Photography Playbook (2017). Here are some highlights from their conversation: * Jodi and Mallika talked about the organic manner in which Mallika came to write a book to serve her business. Mallika was being asked the same questions over and over about brand photography and created a Google Doc from which she could copy and paste answers to the most common questions she received. Before she knew it, the doc was several pages long and she realized she had the seed of a book idea. She decided to explore that intersection of a resource to serve her market at the same time as serving her business. * Mallika shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process was receiving a copy of her book in the mail. Especially with a book that’s so visual (with lots of photographs and a beautiful, not-just-text layout), the difference between seeing it on a computer screen and seeing the actual book is huge. * Mallika explained that, whereas she’s an expert in brand and photography, she’s not a writing and publishing expert, so taking care of all of the miscellaneous book-related tasks (such as constructing a table of contents, purchasing an ISBN, crafting back cover copy) that she didn’t know about was her least favorite part of the process. * Mallika shared that the book has opened doors for her from a revenue perspective as well as as a brand photographer. Speaking opportunities have opened up, and because she’s added “author” to her other titles, she’s seen as an expert and has been able to raise her prices. Her book is a tool to reach more people, Mallika noted, and her book has been purchased all over the United States and globally in places including South Africa and Croatia. * Mallika encouraged aspiring author-entrepreneurs to be as specific as possible with book topic to help “cut through the noise” and set yourself apart in an often-saturated market. She used her own book as an example: Rather than writing a book about photography, Mallika chose to instead write a book about brand photography for women. * Mallika shared that she typically reads a fiction book and a business book at the same time. She’s currently rereading Essentialism by Greg McKeown for a local women’s book club she leads.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Mallika here: www.mikifoto.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/brandconfidential/ https://www.instagram.com/mikifotoco/ https://www.amazon.com/Brand-Photography-Playbook-Insiders-Stand-Out/dp/0692887938/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=brand+photography+playbook&qid=1579718291&sr=8-1
Today on the show Jodi answers the five most-common questions she hears about self-publishing a book to serve your business.
Why do entrepreneurs choose self-publishing?
Self-publishing is no longer “plan B.” Author-entrepreneurs especially choose self-publishing often for two reasons: creative control and time to market. As business owners, author-entrepreneurs are used to being the decision-maker for their business. A book is a tool to serve that business, so it makes sense that an author-entrepreneur wants to have final say over how the book looks, what it contains, and when it reaches customers. Traditional book publishing is notoriously slow (think 12-18 months before you have a finished book in your hands), and that simply doesn’t work for most author-entrepreneurs.
How much does it cost to self-publish?
Author-entrepreneurs understand that a book is an investment in their business and treat it as such. They are willing to spend money on a book because they see it as another business expense. Most author-entrepreneurs I’ve worked with spend somewhere between $3,000 and $5,000. Check out Episode 14 for more detail about this.
Every area in which money is spent on writing, publishing, and marketing a book should have a budget associated with it. Each area can be accomplished by spending zero dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on whether the author-entrepreneur has a shoestring budget or a “done for you”-type of budget. Hire professionals like editors, cover artists, and publicists based on their zone of genius and then let them do their job. Once you set a budget, stick to it as much as possible so there aren’t any surprises down the road. If you decide you need to spend more in a certain area, revisit your budget and adjust elsewhere.
Can I really make money by publishing a book?
Yep! But not typically from book royalties. We dived into this in Episode 11, but here’s the gist: Money earned from a book typically comes indirectly. In other words, income comes from readers who become clients (purchasers of one-on-one services or a membership offering) or from speaking engagements.
Do I need a literary agent?
Unless you’re publishing traditionally, nope. Literary agents are not pieces of the self-publishing puzzle.
Who do I need on my “book team”?
Your book team and your budget go hand-in-hand. Most author-entrepreneurs hire, at a minimum, a copy editor and designer (cover and interior). You might want or need more accountability and hire a book coach. You might decide to hire a ghostwriter so the book actually gets finished. You might hire a VA to handle project management and the tech piece of uploading to Amazon. One area that author-entrepreneurs don’t always need to budget and/or hire is marketing. As business owners, we’re used to marketing, so we “get” it!
As with anything book-related, everything starts with the writing. You can’t publish an unwritten book, nor can you market one. So, happy writing!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Kelsey Baldwin, author of Strong Girl, Brave Girl (2019). Here are some highlights of the conversation: * Jodi and Kelsey talked about how Kelsey came to write this book. Kelsey noted that she’s always liked to write and returned to it throughout her life. She shared that initially she thought she would wait until this part of her life was “finished” but after hearing a podcast interview one day, she decided not to wait and to publish the book even though the part of her life she shares was not yet “finished” or “over.” * Jodi and Kelsey discussed how the book really is for anyone going through a hard time, not necessarily just for single moms or divorced women. The theme of the “messy middle” applies to so many situations. * Kelsey shared that, for the most part, she loved the whole process of book writing/publishing because it was something she had always been fascinated by. As a designer, she of course enjoyed the design phase of production. Kelsey shared that used to design book interiors at an agency job. * Kelsey noted that she didn’t love the self-editing part of the process and that it was difficult to read the same manuscript “over and over and over.” (Jodi noted that most people don’t like that part unless they’re the editor!) Kelsey also shared that, the closer the launch got, the more anxious she became about sharing such a personal story. * Kelsey shared that she’s gotten some speaking events since publishing the book and that recently at an event she met Emily Ley and was able to give her a copy of Strong Girl, Brave Girl. Emily had heard of the book, which was fun and exciting! * Kelsey offered a piece of advice that considers obvious to potential authors and author-entrepreneurs: just start writing. Even without a purpose, Kelsey says, putting your butt in the chair and creating a writing habit will serve you in the long run. * Kelsey shared that she’s reading Happer at Home by Gretchen Rubin, recently finished When Less Becomes More by Emily Ley and the Magnolia Table cookbook. (Kelsey and Jodi both enjoy cookbooks that you can read like a traditional book rather than just one recipe after another.)
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Kelsey here: https://www.paperandoats.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Girl-Brave-reconciling-between-ebook/dp/B07JK7XN8Z/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=strong+girl+brave+girl&qid=1578584489&sr=8-3
Today on the show Jodi interviews Jessica Rasdall about books and speaking. Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Jessica talked about the importance of knowing your path in order to marry a book with a speaking platform. Jessica noted three questions to answer: + Who is the book for? + Who do I want to speak to? + How do these serve my business * Jessica noted that if you already have a book and want to start speaking, you have a “leg up” on others — and you should be speaking already! Because the barrier to entry in the business world is low (i.e., anyone can create a website and call themselves an expert), anything that can set you apart from others is a good tool. + Jessica recommended putting yourself in an event organizer’s shoes. When looking to fill events with speakers and looking at profile after profile, and application after application, a book can lend that credibility that sets you apart. * Jessica shared that she had been speaking to audiences for more than ten years but that once she had a book, it allowed her audience to keep transforming and to keep their connection going with her. * Jessica noted that she sees a spike in books purchases every time she has a speaking engagement.. * Jessica defined speaking to mean more than “just” speaking from a stage. Any time you share your story with an audience, whether it’s on a podcast, in a summit, at a conference, and more, that’s speaking. * Jessica shared a tip that reinforced her belief that you must always know your numbers when it comes to the book so that you can better negotiate with event organizers. She said that often her book is included in her speaking package (like a gift to the audience) rather than as part of a post-presentation sales funnel or back-of-the-room sales.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Jessica here: https://thepublicspeakingstrategist.com/ https://www.instagram.com/speaktoscalepodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/jessicarasdall/
Today on the show Jodi talks about the costs of self-publishing a book. Self-publishing grew 40% in 2018, according to Bowker. Author-entrepreneurs know the advantages of self-publishing, which we explored in Episode 6, particularly control, but they often have no idea what they should expect to pay to write, publish, and market a book to serve their business. Author-entrepreneurs understand that a book is an investment in their business and treat it as such. They are willing to spend money on a book because they see it as another business expense. Every area in which money is spent on writing, publishing, and marketing a book should have a budget associated with it. Each area can be accomplished by spending zero dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on whether the author-entrepreneur has a shoestring budget or a “done for you”-type of budget. Hire professionals like editors, cover artists, and publicists based on their zone of genius and then let them do their job. Once you set a budget, stick to it as much as possible so there aren’t any surprises down the road. If you decide you need to spend more in a certain area, revisit your budget and adjust elsewhere. Always remember this: As with anything book-related, everything starts with the writing. You can’t publish an unwritten book, nor can you market one. Happy writing! Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Episode 13: Sharing Your Story in a Book with Ashley Cox Today on the show Jodi interviews Ashley Cox, author of Transform Your Stories (2019). Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Ashley talked about the organic manner in which Ashley came to write a book to serve her business. She was struck by a line in a true crime podcast she was listening to one day and wrote a blog post about it. The feedback was so strong that Ashley felt like she could write more, and one blog post turned into a four-post series. After even more feedback, much of which included things like “I could read a whole book on this topic!” Ashley realized she had a book topic on her hands. Ashley wasn’t actively brainstorming topics, thinking that she was going to write a book. The process was natural and organic. * Ashley shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process was the esoteric experience of thinking about her readers. She thought about individual women holding the book and thinking about the impact her words would have on those people she may never meet or work with one-on-one. * Ashley reflected that the book writing process was experiential for her and natural because she’s walked the path her readers are walking or have walked. She’s the expert guiding the reader through the book but also walking alongside them as someone who’s struggled with toxic stories and how they’ve affected her leadership roles. * As someone who doesn’t love doing the nitty-gritty, detail/line-by-line work, Ashley’s least favorite part of the process was reading her own words over and over (and over and over). She noted that she doesn’t thrive doing that type of work but keeping her readers in mind helped her power through the revision stage as she finished her book. * In the six weeks or so (at the time of recording) since Ashley’s book launched, she shared that so many fun things have happened already: Holding the book in her hands was such a thrilling experience, and a future reader from New Zealand connected with her on Instagram and noted that she had purchased the book, and knowing that the book had gone international inspired Ashley. She’s also benefited from podcast and speaking opportunities, as well as events at local establishments in her community. Ashley noted that the book gives her “something to lead with” when introducing herself to people. * Ashley offered two pieces of advice for other author-entrepreneurs: Hire someone to help you (and the earlier the better), because the book writing and publishing process is so involved. And take advantage of the wonderful community of existing author-entrepreneurs. Reach out to them and ask for advice and feedback. * Ashley shared that she’s typically reading more than one book, and now is no exception. She’s currently reading two books, one personal development and one for leisure: A Happy Pocket Full of Money by David Cameron Gikandi and The Boiling Season by Christopher Hebert.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Ashley here: https://www.ashleycox.co/ https://www.instagram.com/ashleycox.co/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/0578553570/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=transform+your+stories+ashley+cox&qid=1568914312&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Today on the show Jodi interviews Annie Franceschi, author of Permission to Try (2018). Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Annie talked about how Annie came to write a book. Annie called herself the cliche young girl who always wanted to write a book. She was just unsure what the book would be about. Four years into her branding business, Annie felt the urge to write. She knew people would be expecting a branding book (that will be book #2!) but she felt like she needed to start with her story first. Annie knew she didn’t want a strict memoir and made it her mission to figure out how to make her story valuable to others. * Annie said that the beta reader feedback was her favorite part of the process because it helped with perspective. Annie wanted her book to do two things: exists and help someone. Feedback from beta readers validated that it did. * Annie noted that the actual writing was her least favorite part of the book writing and publishing process. As a strategic person she had a robust outline. She spent two days at a business retreat where she outlined and story-boarded the book, and then had the thought, “Oh crap. Now I have to write this.” She found herself procrastinating from the actual writing even though she knew what she wanted to say. (Annie employed speaking the text and found that that helped.) * Annie shared a few pieces of advice for other author-entrepreneurs. + Commit to the book publicly. This accountability matters because it’s harder to break a promise you’ve made to others. That’s powerful. + Choose to believe in the book. This is especially important, Annie notes, for those who don’t like to self-promote. + Don’t just have a launch team, but make it easy for them to support you. With what she calls “a small-ish audience and a successful business,” Annie and her launch team of about 60 people made her launch a success: ~10K impressions, 450 sales in the first three weeks, 45 reviews, and #1 Amazon best-seller status in four categories. She asked people to commit to one activity per week over four weeks leading up to the book launch, and she provided the launch team with a toolkit of images and copy. Most importantly, Annie says, she thanked them throughout the process as well as in a post-launch recap. * Annie shared that one of the best results of having published a book is that it’s shifted how people see her. A book is a tactile way to build the know, like, trust factor, which is so important to author-entrepreneurs. * Annie shared that she’s on a business book hiatus as she prepares for maternity leave. She’s reading The Joy of Cookies by Cookie Monster (a baby shower gift) as well as some baby-prep books. Annie is taking the hiatus in stride, though, as she plans to start book #2 in 2020 and doesn’t want to read anything in the genre she’ll be writing.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Annie here: www.greateststorycreative.com www.anniefranceschi.com
Today on the show Jodi talks about money. Author-entrepreneurs earn money from their books indirectly. In other words, not from book royalties but from readers who become clients. Luckily, money isn’t a primary direct goal for most author-entrepreneurs. Rather, their goals are intangibles like credibility, authority, and visibility. According to UNESCO, as of January 2019, 2.2 million books are published per year worldwide, 304,000 of which are published in the US. The book market is saturated, and it’s not Amazon’s job to help author-entrepreneurs become visible. Amazon is trending toward pay-to-play, and Amazon ads do matter if you’re looking for a cold audience. That’s typically not author-entrepreneurs, though. Any cold leads are great, of course, but do the math: Would you rather earn a $7 royalty from a book sale (and receive no information from Amazon about that buyer) or $5,000 from a new one-on-one client who was gifted your book at a conference? In Episode 10, Dannie Fountain talked about using her books in alignment with the speaking arm of her business. Books sold at events and conferences are typically provided by the author, so author-entrepreneurs keep the full proceeds rather than a portion (like royalty payouts from a traditional book publisher or from Amazon), and speakers are often given an opportunity to book mentoring sessions, consultations, and the like. The money is in the upsell! Align your book marketing strategy with your book goals, and you can’t go wrong. Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Dannie Lynn Fountain, author of four books: The Side Hustle Gal (2016), Big Plan for the Creative Mind (2017), The Bucketlist Babe (2017), and One Honest Woman (2018).
Dannie Lynn Fountain is a marketing strategist and whip-smart whiskey drinker currently working at Google. She has 10+ years of experience as an entrepreneur and strategist. Today, she works with creative entrepreneurs and corporations to strategize and implement marketing processes to increase their leads and sales. Her specialty is focusing on passionate storytelling, regardless of industry. Beyond strategy, Dannie is the author of four books and a regular speaker on marketing and entrepreneurship worldwide. She is also the founder of the #sidehustlegal movement. Her work has been recognized by Forbes, Bustle, Business Insider, Cosmopolitan, Digiday, Girlboss, PR News, and more.
Here are some highlights from the conversation: * Jodi and Dannie talked about how Dannie came to write her first book in 2016. Dannie said that she could see the writing on the wall that the course/membership market was going to get saturated quickly (and that realistically she didn’t have time to manage something like a membership community), but she knew she needed something to further her business in an outward way. Since that first book in 2016, Dannie has written and published three more books.
* Dannie started her own publishing imprint, which is its own LLC separate from her business, because she read a scary blog post about publishing on Amazon without owning your ISBN and how it can be difficult or impossible for other retailers to list your book or for publishers later on to work with you. (Note from a book pub professional: This is totally true!) When she bought her first ISBN for her first book, it was cheaper to buy in bulk, so she bought a pack of 10 to use when she’s ready. Four down, six to go!
* Dannie shared that her favorite part of the writing/publishing process is the writing. She likes that the process of writing helps her to clarify where her mind may have embellished a memory. During the writing of One Honest Woman, for example, Dannie basically had her grandmother fact-checking the book while she was writing it.
* Dannie’s least favorite part — and she recognizes the irony since she works as marketing strategist — is book marketing. Dannie talked about secretly printing a couple hundred copies of the book and placing them on park benches, bus stops, trains, and the like for people to find and spread the word organically.
* Dannie’s books serve her business in different ways. She likens her books to a membership community plus a course plus one-on-one work but in book form. Side Hustle Gal and Bucketlist Babe show her audience that a side hustle isn’t “less than” any other hustle. One Honest Woman is Dannie’s speaker circuit book. Big Plan for the Creative Mind, an anthology that she co-authored with Reina Pomeroy, gets a push from October to December each year when entrepreneurs are planning and goal-setting for the next year.
+ Dannie shared how she uses One Honest Woman with the speaking arm of her business, as a book is often required to be considered for speaking gigs. Sometimes a book gets your foot in the door, sometimes the book can be sold at the back of the room, and sometimes the book allows a speaker the opportunity to offer one-on-one sessions at a conference or event.
* Dannie shared this advice for other author-entrepreneurs: Be sure that you’re passionate enough about your topic to live and breathe it for the long haul. Be sure you love to talk about it. (Dannie is currently working toward her PhD and said that’s the same advice she offers when someone asks if they should pursue a doctorate.)
* Dannie had a “read 52 books challenge” in 2019 and just finished with American Royals by Katharine McGee.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Dannie here: https://www.danniefountain.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dannielynnfountain/ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074KNJVK4/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GKRBSW0/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0797XNPTZ/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06VTWJ8ZT/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i3
Today on the show Jodi breaks down the publishing process into its three main stages: writing, publishing, and marketing: * After being asked the same book writing, publishing, and marketing questions over and over, Jodi decided to practice what she preaches and write a book. That’s how Write.Publish.Market. originated. * Jodi notes that writing a book is really SO MUCH MORE than just writing. The three main phases are not necessarily done in chronological order, though there are some steps that need to precede some others. * The writing stage consists of steps including a brain dump, prewriting, a writing schedule, drafting, getting feedback, revising, and self-editing. * The publishing stage consists of editing, interior design, obtaining an ISBN, book cover creation, publishing on Amazon, and more. * The marketing stage should start early, and can include things like a launch team, hosting a pre-sale, obtaining advance reviews, a sales page or website dedicated to the book, and a book trailer. Author-entrepreneurs can market as little or as much as they choose, depending on budget, interests, and time. * Marketing might be more important than writing, even, because if no one knows the best-written book exists, does it matter? If no one can find it, they won’t buy it. Therefore, readers won’t be served (and in turn you as an author-entrepreneur won’t have your goals met).
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi discusses how to serve your business with a book, tactically speaking. A book is not a “Build it and they will come” proposition (or rather, “Write it and they will buy”). She discusses::
* Money author-entrepreneurs earn from a book comes from intangibles, not $book royalties (directly from book sales). These include credibility, authority, the know like trust factor, and authority. (If these sound familiar, it’s because at least some are likely similar to goals you’ve identified for your book.]
* A book allows you to go from serving one to serving many. Examples include turning the book into course or group program or using it as the basis for a membership.
* A book is often am entry point into your funnel for higher-level one-on-one clients, a group program, or speaking gigs. Allowing readers to know, like, and trust you enables them to grow their relationship with you by investing in you further.
* Having the book isn’t enough. Author-entrepreneurs must leverage it! This is far easier to do if the book serves the reader. If it serves readers, it will in turn serve you and your business
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Parijate Deshpande, author of Pregnancy Brain (2018). Here are some highlights: * Jodi and Pariajt talked about how Parijat came to write a book, beginning with a NICU nurse planting the seed after Parijat’s son was born. (He turns 7 next week!) After three people, who don’t know one another, all said the same thing in a 48-hour time span, Parijat took the hint and decided to write a book. * Parijat noted that the mindset struggles during the writing process were her least favorite part of the process, and holding her finished book in her hands for the first time was the best. All writers, professional or not, face imposter syndrome at some point during the writing process. * Parijat encouraged listeners to be intentional with book marketing. Jodi and Parijat talked about how strategic Parijat was in getting advance reviews. Parijat knew she wanted the backing of the medical community to help get Pregnancy Brain in the hands of people who most need the book, so she was strategic and intentional about making that happen. She also noted that she wishes she would have started marketing sooner! * Parijat shared a piece of advice for other author-entrepreneurs: Identify your champions (or superfans, as Pat Flynn would call them!), reach out to them, and ask. Figure out how far your reach extends to spread the word. One of the best moments in her book journey happened when someone she doesn’t know reached out to say they loved Pregnancy Brain, speaking to the grassroots effort she employed. * Now that Pregnancy Brain has been in the world for more than a year, Parijat says her marketing efforts are to go bigger and bolder, for a wider reach. * Parijat shared that she’s reading Oprah’s latest book, The Path Made Clear. (This book is easy to read in small pockets of time, which is perfect for an entrepreneur and mother of two small children!)
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Parijat here: www.parijatdeshpande.com https://parijatdeshpande.lpages.co/pregnancybrain/ https://www.instagram.com/healthy.highriskpregnancy/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCS-y3p6DfELaZd3Fp7nYtA/#website
Today on the show Jodi discusses the three paths to book publication:
* Tradition publishing via a publishing house,
* Self-publishing, and
* Hybrid publishing (in which authors assume some financial responsibility in exchange for services and a higher royalty).
Jodi noted that there is no one right path to publication, but there is a path that makes the most sense for each author-entrepreneur, based on your goals, budget, and skill set. Each path has pros and cons. The most common pro of self-publishing that author-entrepreneurs and business owners cite is control (over the process, the creative aspects of the book, and the time line)
The hybrid publishing model is emerging and there is no one set, universal model yet. Self-publishing is an accepted—and often the preferred—path to publication for many author-entrepreneurs, whereas a decade ago it was still emerging and often seen as a “backup plan” for those who could not get a traditional book deal.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi interviews Lee Chaix McDonough, author of ACT on Your Business (2019). Here are some highlights of the conversation: * Jodi and Pariajt talked about how Lee came to write this book. Lee recalled how she’s always wanted to write a book (and did so even at age 4!) and had tried many times over the years. She felt the time was right because she had something to say at the same time that she was looking to grow her platform and visibility. She realized a book could marry meeting that business goal while also fulfilling a personal goal at the same time. * Lee shared that one of her favorite parts of the process was her initial brainstorm and figuring out what she wanted the book to look like. She felt like there was a cohesiveness quickly about the two-part structure of the book. * Lee talked about the resistance she encountered after writing about 15,000 words. She identified her “messy middle” as a crisis of confidence rather than typical writer’s block. She said it helped to have a strong outline to return to and also that she wrote about it and ended up including the story in the book, so it did serve a purpose. * Lee mentioned that ACT on Your Business is serving her through visibility and credibility rather than through book royalties. She talked about the book as a springboard to other opportunities she’s taking advantage of, such as speaking at industry conferences and presenting webinars. She also offered this golden nugget of wisdom: Author-entrepreneurs should think of a book as in investment in your message that leads to other opportunities. * Lee shared that she’s reading Marie Forleos’s new book, Everything Is Figureoutable. She also noted that this book is a perfect example of nothing being a totally new concept. What’s “new” is your particular “take” on the material.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think! Find Lee here: www.coachwithclarity.com www.workyourinnerwisdom.com https://www.instagram.com/lcmcdonough/ https://actonyourbusiness.com/
Today on the show Jodi talks about the importance of mindset for author-entrepreneurs. She explains that all writers, whether professional or author-entrepreneur, ask themselves, “Who am I to write a book?” The fears and roadblocks that come up — namely fear of failure, perfectionism, analysis paralysis, imposter syndrome / creative lapse (writer’s block), self-doubt, burnout, self-sabotage (ugly inner critic) — affect both kinds of writers. Dealing with them is twofold: figuring out their source, and developing a mantra to combat them.
Jodi stresses the importance of author-entrepreneurs understanding that professional writers struggle with the same fears and roadblocks, as well as the importance of adopting the mindset of a professional writer for a temporary period. That means writing every day and taking book writing seriously (aka treating it like a job).
When to power through and when to stop writing for the day is a question that comes up often, and Jodi offers some tips as well as the relationship between writer’s block and mindset.
She closes the episode by reiterating the need to develop a writer’s mindset, if only for a time, and how it helps author-entrepreneurs successfully write their book.
Today on the show Jodi interviews Jess Freeman of Jess Creatives, about book covers. Here are some highlights:
* Jodi and Jess talked about the cover as the first impression of a book (and how books ARE judged by their covers!).
* Jess shared how she became interested in book design.
* Jess offered some resources for DIY-ing a book cover if a custom cover isn’t in the budget.
* Jess stressed the importance of the cover looking good/readable in thumbnail format.
* Jess shared a couple favorite book covers, both that she designed and that she didn’t.
* Jess let us know that she just finished Superfans by Pat Flynn and is starting The Decision Maker by Dennis Bakke.
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Find Jess here: www.jesscreatives.com www.instagram.com/jesscreatives www.jesscreatives.video
Today on the show Jodi introduces the podcast, talks about her publishing background, and outlines some goals for the podcast:
* To show behind the scenes of the book publishing world
* To familiarize future author-entrepreneurs with the process of book publishing.
* To showcase author-entrepreneurs who have successfully published a book to serve their business (case study style).
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!
Today on the show Jodi talks about how author-entrepreneurs discover the book within them. Some have a passion for a topic that they can’t resist writing about. For others, the idea comes from the questions they’re asked repeatedly to showcase their expertise, methodology, or framework. With that idea needs to come a plan, which consists of the structure of the book (determined through researching similar book titles) and the contents (outline). Where author-entrepeneurs get hung up is getting started, due to one of these fears: * Analysis paralysis * Fear of failure * Perfectionism * Imposter syndrome
Listen here or on your favorite podcast player, and let me know what you think!