Best Book Marketing Success Podcast Podcasts (2024)

1
The Power of Indie Bookstores: How to Collaborate and Get on Shelves 19:02

29m ago19:02

19:02

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of indie bookstores. These hidden gems are more than just places to buy books—they're vibrant communities that can play a crucial role in your book's success. We'll explore why indie bookstores matter, how to build relationships with them, and actionable steps to get your book onto…

1
Top Book Marketing Strategies Every Author Should Embrace 37:52

11h ago37:52

37:52

Join us in this exciting episode as we bring one of our most popular blog posts to life! We're unpacking the best book marketing strategies that every author should have in their toolkit. Whether you're looking to spark new ideas or re-evaluate your current approach, we've got you covered. We talk about the tactics that work, expose those that don'…

1
Crafting the Perfect Reader Profile: Know Your Audience, Boost Your Success 30:45

25m ago30:45

30:45

In this episode we delve into the power of a well-crafted reader profile. Understanding who you’re writing for can transform your marketing strategy and elevate your writing to the next level. We'll explore the essential elements that make up a comprehensive reader profile—demographics, interests, reading habits, and more. Plus, you'll learn action…

1
Vetting Publishers: The Critical Marketing Questions to Ask 29:12

4d ago29:12

29:12

We're often asked, "How can I find the best publisher for my book?" And we've done publisher episodes before, but now we're focused on critical marketing questions to ask before making your decision. Publishers are appealing to some authors because they promise to ease a lot of the production work, but more often than not the marketing piece is ove…

1
How to Get Accepted to the Goodreads Author Program 14:46

11d ago14:46

14:46

Today we're exploring the confounding new security features around Goodreads author profiles that have left many authors frustrated and puzzled. Join us as we discuss practical workarounds and provide step-by-step guidance on how to easily claim and manage your Goodreads author profile despite the new security hurdles and how your Amazon Author Cen…

1
Debut Authors Success: Separating Fact from Fiction 29:45

1M ago29:45

29:45

Despite all the information that's out there, it never fails to surprise us how many folks get it absolutely wrong when it comes to what it takes to succeed, and what are outdated guidelines, ideas, and mindsets. In this episode we comb through a recent article from Esquire magazine that sheds light on the struggles debut authors face in today's li…

1
Myths, Truths and Realities of the Amazon Bestseller Flag 19:22

2M ago19:22

19:22

In this episode of we take a serious look at the Amazon Bestseller flag and unravel the myths behind this iconic orange banner. Many authors dream of that coveted orange "bestseller" banner gracing their book covers, but how do you actually get it? And more importantly, is it always a guaranteed indicator of success? Join us as we delve into the tr…

1
RWA Files for Bankruptcy: What This Means for Authors 9:28

2M ago9:28

9:28

A few weeks ago you may have heard about Romance Writers of America (RWA) filing for bankruptcy - they aren't going away, per se, just reorganizing. And you may have thought this doesn't matter to you - but it does. This single development that holds significant implications for the entire writing community, so we're talking about the vital role or…

1
Most Downloaded Episode: How to Market Your Book without Social Media 19:46

2M ago19:46

19:46

This is our third most downloaded episode of all time! Why do we think it's popular? Because being an author can be exhausting, and most of us don't have time to waste on marketing efforts that don't produce results. And social media is typically at the top of the list of time-wasters, at least when it comes to moving the needle on sales and review…

1
The End of an Era: Costco Stops Selling Books and Why You Should Care 19:19

2M ago19:19

19:19

In this episode we break down the recent announcement that Costco will no longer be carrying books in their warehouses—a decision with significant implications for authors. You may have heard this and thought it doesn't matter to you, but it does, and we'll unpack why. We’ll also explore the discouraging trend of shrinking shelf space and delve int…

1
Smart Strategies to Recoup Your Book Investment 26:49

2M ago26:49

26:49

In this episode we tackle the challenging yet essential topic of recouping your book creation and marketing investment. Many authors face the harsh reality of under-planning and overspending during production, only to find themselves without the funds needed for aggressive marketing in an extremely competitive market. With 11,000 books being publis…

1
Beyond the Bookstore: Creative Marketing Strategies for Consistent Sales 33:50

3M ago33:50

33:50

In this exciting episode we're breaking away from traditional book marketing methods and exploring innovative, fun, and often easy-to-implement strategies to boost your book sales. If you're looking to make a splash in the literary world, don't miss this! We’ll delve into unique venues for book events and sales that go beyond the bookstore, discuss…

1
Amazon Update: Critical Changes to Book Descriptions 10:14

3M ago10:14

10:14

In this eye-opening episode we dive into Amazon’s latest updates that are shaking up the way book descriptions are managed on the platform. For authors who use Author Central, these changes are crucial to understand if you want to keep your book pages in top form. Join us as we discuss how these updates can impact your book’s visibility and sales, …

1
Choosing an Author Name Format: Critical Mistakes to Avoid 9:46

3M ago9:46

9:46

Welcome to a pivotal episode of our show where we shine a spotlight on a crucial aspect of the publishing process: how your name appears on Amazon. Join us as we dissect the intricacies that can make or break an author's visibility and success on the world's largest online retail marketplace. From the complexities of incorporating titles like PhD t…

1
Buyers v. Readers And Why They May Be Different People 15:35

3M ago15:35

15:35

Are you marketing to the wrong audience? As authors, we often find ourselves inadvertently targeting the wrong demographic, because while the reader may be obvious, they're not always the individuals buying or recommending (or gifting) your book. Join us as we unravel the complexities of audience targeting, uncover common pitfalls and offer practic…

1
Getting Book Endorsements: Everything You Need to Know 23:00

4M ago23:00

23:00

In this episode we're talking about book endorsements, getting them, timing them, and what to do with them once they start coming in. Whether you're a seasoned author or a newbie, you're going to want our tips and advice! We'll explore the strategies and tactics for identifying the ideal personalities to lend their credibility to your work and outl…

1
Mastering Nonfiction Book Descriptions: A Guide to Turning Browsers into Buyers 23:15

4M ago23:15

23:15

In this week's episode, we're unpacking the crucial role of Nonfiction Amazon retail pages. Join us for an in-depth exploration of the pitfalls and common mistakes that can hinder your success in the competitive world of online retail. From lackluster descriptions to uninspiring visuals, we'll highlight the key areas you need to focus on to ensure …

1
Behind the Curtain: Unveiling the Secrets of Success in Publishing 37:50

4M ago37:50

37:50

In this episode Penny and Amy, the dynamic duo behind a successful book marketing and PR firm, invite listeners to join them for an intimate peek behind the curtain of their collaborative journey. While their chemistry is often praised, it's their ability to navigate different visions for growth that has been a cornerstone of their success. In this…

1
Cracking the Code: Reaching the Unreachable Reader 17:56

4M ago17:56

17:56

In this week's episode, we chat about connecting with the elusive reader who seems to dwell beyond the realms of mainstream social media platforms. Even though the digital age is dominating how a lot of us consume content, not every reader can be found scrolling through Instagram reels or TikTok videos. So how do they find the books they buy, and h…

1
Book Sales: Why and How Self-Published Authors Are Taking the Lead 28:52

5M ago28:52

28:52

Not everyone talks about it, but all authors want to sell books. And we know a lot of you secretly (or not so secretly) would love to make enough to be a full-time author. But is achieving significant sales still a possibility? The surprising answer lies in the realm of self-publishing, where a lot of successful authors are find their footing. Join…

1
Listener Request: Navigating Amazon's Book Review Minefield 15:25

5M ago15:25

15:25

This is another listener request and we're talking about trigger words that could potentially result in your hard-earned reviews being pulled from your retail page. We chat about the fine line between what reviewers should say to maintain authenticity and what words they should tactfully avoid to ensure their reviews don't get flagged or worse, the…

1
The #1 Strategy to Get More Amazon Reviews 13:20

5M ago13:20

13:20

Have you ever wondered why some books seem to effortlessly rack up Amazon reviews while others struggle to even get noticed? This week we're unveiling a secret strategy that savvy authors have been using to bolster their review numbers. We chat about the art of prompting reviews from your readers in a way that feels natural and seamless. It's a gen…

1
Navigating the Literary Agent Landscape 28:21

5M ago28:21

28:21

This week we're talking about literary agents. Who they are, what they do, and whether you really need one. We'll explore the ins and outs of literary representation, breaking down the roles and responsibilities of literary agents, and shedding light on the services they provide for authors. We'll also discuss the darker side of the industry, inclu…

1
Amazon's Virtual Voice: Redefining Audiobooks with AI 18:56

6M ago18:56

18:56

Join us in this week's episode as we chat about the latest innovation from Amazon: the Virtual Voice. Imagine a world where authors can transform their written words into audiobooks using artificial intelligence. FOR FREE. It's a game-changer for indie authors, but what does it mean for the future of storytelling and the traditional audiobook indus…

1
Navigating the Climb: Pitfalls for Authors Eyeing the Summit 37:36

6M ago37:36

37:36

In this episode, we take a peek behind the curtain and dive into the sometimes harsh realities of the publishing world, shedding light on the obstacles that can slow an author's rise to the top – and sharing insights on how to avoid them. While we love authors who dream big, keeping expectations in check is essential. Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a …

1
Navigating the Media Landscape and How to Get Your Book the Attention it Deserves 34:47

6M ago34:47

34:47

In this episode, Penny and Amy decode the intricate world of big media outlets and help you understand what they're looking for and whether or not you’re right for a big media outlet. We kick off by addressing a common misconception – that success in media equals instant fame or a bestselling book. We’ll discuss the importance of finding your niche…

1
Memoir vs. Self-Help: Choosing the Right Genre for Your Book 20:07

6M ago20:07

20:07

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on a common dilemma many memoir authors face: determining whether their book can be classified as self-help. While storytelling and imparting wisdom often go hand in hand, understanding the nuances between these genres is essential for maximizing the impact and success of your book. Too often, authors find…

1
Navigating the Unexpected: What Authors Need to Prepare For 39:56

6M ago39:56

39:56

Join us for a candid discussion as we shine a light on the often-overlooked aspects of the author journey. In this episode, we tackle the things that many authors aren't adequately prepared for but are crucial to their success. From the seemingly mundane task of reading contracts to the sobering realization that publishing is indeed a business, we …

1
The Power of Author Education: Why it can Save you Money and Help You Succeed 26:11

7M ago26:11

26:11

In this episode, we delve into a crucial but often overlooked aspect of being an author: education in publishing. And we get it, it’s another thing to learn. But it’s crucial to your success and we’ll unpack why. But don't worry, you don't need a PhD in publishing to thrive. Join us as we explore why understanding the ins and outs of the industry c…

1
Screenplay Scams Exposed: Important Warning for Authors 23:21

7M ago23:21

23:21

Whether you're a seasoned author navigating the industry or an aspiring writer with dreams of seeing your work on the screen, this episode is a must-listen. Join us in uncovering the hidden dangers, understanding the deceptive tactics, and learning how to safeguard your literary creations from potential exploitation. Don't let the allure of TV and …

1
Amazon Update: International Readers Getting Cut Out of the Equation 24:33

7M ago24:33

24:33

We're delving into the recent changes that Amazon has implemented for international book buyers. The notable shift is the disallowance of gifting copies of books internationally, a move that carries significant implications for authors. Why the continued tightening of the reins? We have our theories, so tune in! Send us your feedback! Buy Penny's n…

1
Decoding the Jargon: Publicity, Marketing, Advertising, and Branding 17:41

7M ago17:41

17:41

We're chatting about the often misunderstood differences between publicity, marketing, advertising, and branding. Why? Because knowing the differences can save you a lot of time and money in terms of what kind of support you need to achieve your goals. If you're looking to hire a team, or you're trying to develop a self-promotion plan, this episode…

1
Cracking the Code: Here's Why Your Amazon Ads Stopped Working 19:55

8M ago19:55

19:55

Have your Amazon Ads suddenly stopped working? Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind why your carefully crafted ads may have taken a nose dive. We break down the complexities of Amazon advertising, and how oftentimes the elements that need some TLC aren't on the ad dashboard at all! Send us your feedback! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Autho…

1
Crafting the Perfect Book Title and Subtitle Combo 27:06

8M ago27:06

27:06

Beyond the cover, your book's title is its first impression. Dive into the discussion on why the right title, paired with a captivating subtitle, can be the key to converting more shoppers to buyers. - Discover what that make a book title memorable, intriguing, and reflective of its essence. - Explore the subtle art of crafting subtitles that add d…

1
How and Why Readers Buy Books: Understanding the Reader Journey 23:34

8M ago23:34

23:34

Your book is priced well and the cover is great – so why isn’t it flying off the shelves? In this eye-opening episode, we demystify the confusion surrounding book sales. We’ll dig into the reader journey and explore why books, despite their relatively modest price tag, aren't impulse buys. Discover why books aren't just commodities but investments …

1
It's a Big Announcement! 7:15

8M ago7:15

7:15

Drumroll, please! Tune in for a big announcement about Penny's latest book that just hit Amazon! This book is bigger and better than any previous Amazon title and you definitely want to tune in to find out why. We're also going to be running a lot of special promos so keep an eye out on all Penny's social media channels to win special swag and grea…

1
Most Downloaded Episode: Why "Good Enough" and "Everyone Loves It" are Dangerous 6:11

8M ago6:11

6:11

This is our second most downloaded episode of all time! Why do we think it's popular? Well, as an author you want people to love your work, we get it. You also put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into getting your book made and it's normal to have moments of, "it's good enough" because you just want to move on to the next thing. But good enough and…

1
Most Downloaded Episode: How We Really Feel About Advertising 12:10

9M ago12:10

12:10

This is our most downloaded episode of all time! Why? Well, because display advertising has been a part of marketing and promotion forever. It's also tempting to be able to run display ads to take some of the pressure off of coordinating other kinds of marketing that require a lot more hands on work. But does display advertising stack up in terms o…

1
The Secrets to Pricing Your Book for Success 30:33

9M ago30:33

30:33

Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast where we will deep dive into all things book pricing, a vital yet often overlooked facet of your book marketing journey. Pricing is your silent powerhouse. Is a discounted price a boon or a bane? How do you know if you've hit the pricing bullseye for your market? Learn from the missteps of others…

1
Unlock the Secrets to Bestselling Success in 2024 27:18

9M ago27:18

27:18

Ever wished you had a crystal ball to foresee your book's success? Say no more! Penny and Amy are decoding the mysteries of effective book marketing, empowering you to plan your 2024 without the daily struggle of figuring out your next move. Tune in to discover pre-planned strategies that not only ensure consistency but also guarantee more attentio…

1
Tossing Outdated Tactics and Refocusing in 2024 48:31

9M ago48:31

48:31

Calling all aspiring and seasoned authors! It's a great time of year to reassess what's working and what isn't! In this episode, we share insights on how to distinguish game-changing strategies from outdated ones. Learn how to amplify your author brand, captivate your audience, and find more readers, and what that sometimes means doing less of some…

1
The Game-Changing Author Mindset 26:51

9M ago26:51

26:51

Join us as we unravel the secrets of the author success mindset. This isn't your typical "stay positive" pep talk; we're dissecting the distinct mental strategies that set go-getter authors apart from the rest. Learn how to navigate challenges with resilience, and witness firsthand the extraordinary impact a refined mindset can have on your writing…

1
How to Break Into Trade Magazines 14:51

10M ago14:51

14:51

In this episode we're talking about another hidden gem in book marketing - trade magazines! What exactly are trade magazines? They're not just ordinary periodicals that you're almost guaranteed to see at the grocery store check out. They're your gateway to dedicated topic, hobby, lifestyle, and industry fans. Discover how to research and find these…

1
Tips for Developing a Captivating Book Cover & Penny's Latest Odyssey 22:38

10M ago22:38

22:38

Hear about Penny's trials and tribulations through the process of book cover design while we unveil the secrets, struggles, and triumphs of book design done right. We'll equip you with invaluable tips and tricks to streamline your own book cover creation, saving you time, energy, countless headaches and even more critically - giving up and settling…

1
Smart & Simple Strategies for Holiday Book Marketing 37:17

10M ago37:17

37:17

This is a holiday edition of our podcast, where we unveil some helpful tips to ramp up your book sales during the festive season! Picture this: twinkling lights, cozy evenings, and a festive bump in revenue! In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on our most coveted strategies and easy-to-follow action items to make your holiday season tru…

1
Secrets and Tips for Landing on a Bestseller List 24:39

10M ago24:39

24:39

Ah, Bestseller lists - they are shrouded in mystery but are often at the top of every author's team board! Our goal for this episode is to cover what it really takes to hit a bestseller list (and what doesn't work), and tips for all the things you need to make sure you're doing right to earn one of those coveted slots. Send us your feedback! Buy Pe…

1
How to Avoid Adding Your Book to an Amazon Dead End Category 14:32

11M ago14:32

14:32

We're back for another Amazon update! Recently it's been discovered that if you're only choosing categories from the KDP dashboard you might end up with a category that doesn't even exist. What?! Our goal for this episode is to educate ya'll on how this potentially affects your shot at a bestseller, and how to double-check your work and avoid this …

1
Listener Request: When to Prep Elements of Your Author Platform 24:11

11M ago24:11

24:11

Our goal for this episode is to break down when you should start working on key elements of your platform, including everything from your website, to social, to Amazon, to Goodreads and BookBub. Plus we've included tips for saving time and ensuring you've got all the details covered. Send us your feedback! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Fo…

1
How to Craft a Great Book Pitch 22:40

11M ago22:40

22:40

Our goal for this episode is to break down the elements of a really great book pitch: one that generates responses and opens doors. So whether you've pitched your book in the past and were underwhelmed, or you have a release coming up that you want to be really prepared for, this episode is a must-listen. Send us your feedback! Buy Penny's new book…

1
The Amazon Sales Rank Demystified 12:44

11M ago12:44

12:44

Our goal for this episode is to break down what your Amazon sales rank really means - and spoiler alert - it's more than just book sales. We're firm believers that the more the author community understands about the Amazon machine, the more successful we'll all be, so get busy educating yourself! Send us your feedback! Buy Penny's new book, The Ama…

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