Best Direct Sports 101 Podcasts (2024)

1
Episode 104 | Outdoor Industry Hiring + Bennett Fisher (Jolly Gear) 1:33:47

4h ago1:33:47

1:33:47

In Episode 104 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Lloyd interview Jolly Gear founder Bennett Fisher, chat about what is in their day packs, and share their perspectives on recruiting and hiring employees for their companies. To view the shownotes for this episode of the backpackinglight podcast click here.…

1
Designing the Right Go-to-Market Strategy for Your Book 46:30

42m ago46:30

46:30

In this episode, Lauren & Matt dive into what makes a successful go-to-market strategy for your book. Learn how to pick the right launch date and products, choose the best sales and distribution platforms, and craft effective pre-launch and post-launch sales strategies. Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weir…

1
Hooking New Readers With a Compelling Book Description 54:34

39m ago54:34

54:34

In this episode, Lauren attempts to convince Matt (and the listeners) of the power of a well-written book description. Listen in to learn how to craft a compelling book description that will help you hook new readers. Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Lauren like to meander through? Ema…

1
Books You Can Create Using Your Existing Content 44:20

7d ago44:20

44:20

In this episode, Lauren & Matt share ideas for repurposing your existing content. Hint: it's by turning that content into a book. We share ideas for both nonfiction and fiction book projects, including options that require little to no new writing. Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Laur…

1
5 Things to Know Before You Start Publishing 43:41

14d ago43:41

43:41

In this episode, Matt & Lauren review five things you’ll need to know before you start on your publishing journey! We share insights about knowing your content, knowing your goals, knowing your limits, knowing your audience, and knowing your publisher. Also featuring a meandering detour into graphic novels and an ongoing discussion about crying (no…

1
Your 7-Step Guide to Building an Online Bookstore 52:34

26d ago52:34

52:34

In this episode Lauren & Matt talk through the 7 essential steps to building your own online bookstore. From choosing the right platform to launching your site, we’ll cover everything you need to know to sell your self-published books directly to your readers. Dive Deeper 💡 Step 1: Shopify Learn More About Selling Your Book With Shopify and Lulu Di…

1
Finding Your Place in Author & Reader Communities 45:44

28d ago45:44

45:44

In this episode, Matt & Lauren debate the distinctions between author and reader communities, discuss the value of participating in either, and share some suggestions for how to bridge the gap between them. Dive Deeper 💡 Check Out These Online Communities Enter the Luluniverse Meet the Nonfiction Authors Association Learn More About Novelists, Inc.…

1
Episode 103 | Cottage Industry Trends 1:00:05

1M ago1:00:05

1:00:05

Episode 103 of the Backpacking Light Podcast is a collaboration between Backpacking Light and Garage Grown Gear, home to more than 200 small, startup, and cottage gear brands, and your hub for all things ultralight. Visit them online at garagegrowngear.com. To read the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here.…

1
3 Steps to Prep for an Author Event (and What to Do When You’re There) 48:44

1M ago48:44

48:44

In this episode, Lauren & Matt share their insights from attending dozens of author events to set you up for success. Hear tips for preparing sales strategies and inventory, promoting the event to your fans, and maximizing your presence at the event. Dive Deeper 💡 Learn More About These Events CEX Author Nation NINC 💡 Read These Blog Posts How to P…

1
In the Studio with Author Nation’s Joe Solari 35:17

1M ago35:17

35:17

In this episode, Lauren is joined by Joe Solari, Managing Director of Author Nation, for our first-ever Publish & Prosper interview! Get excited for the Author Nation event coming to Las Vegas this November, take an inside look at CEX 2024, and hear Joe’s thoughts on the future of indie publishing. Dive Deeper 💡 Learn more about Author Nation 💡 Lis…

1
Episode 102 | Polartec Alpha Direct 26:37

2M ago26:37

26:37

In episode 102 of the Backpacking Light podcast you're going to learn about the origin, evolution, and use of Polartec Alpha Direct in modern ultralight layering systems. To read the shownotes for this podcast, click here.By Bac

1
Determining the Right Retail Price for Your Book 40:55

2M ago40:55

40:55

There’s a fine line to balance when you’re setting the retail price for your book! Too high, and you might discourage potential new readers. Too low, and readers might question the value of your content - or worse, you wind up losing money on every sale. In this episode Matt & Lauren discuss how to determine the optimal list price for your book and…

1
Do Book Reviews Help You Sell More Books? 44:20

2M ago44:20

44:20

As authors, writers, and creative types, it’s easy to get caught up in the perceived importance of customer reviews. But do those reviews actually help you sell more books? In this episode, Lauren & Matt debate the value of book reviews for increasing your sales, boosting your book’s discoverability, and providing social proof for new readers. Dive…

1
Author Branding 101: Building a Brand Beyond Your Books 47:02

2M ago47:02

47:02

In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore author brands. Listen now to discover the power of your author identity, why it is so important, and how to create and maintain a brand for your long-term marketing and sales success. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts What Is an Author Brand and Why Does It Matter? Complete Book Marketing Plan for Creators a…

1
How to Turn Your Casual Fans into Super Fans 44:26

2M ago44:26

44:26

Super fans! We know them, we love them, we want them for our own. But how do you turn your casual fans into loyal, dedicated super fans? In this episode, Lauren & Matt discuss strategies like diversifying your products, demonstrating the value of your content, and creating a community for your fans. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts 5 Ways You Ca…

1
How to Survive (and Thrive) at Conferences and Events 41:54

3M ago41:54

41:54

In this episode, Matt & Lauren share their favorite survival tips for attending author and creator conferences! From packing essential supplies to putting your health first, hear our team’s must-haves and must-dos for anyone trying to maximize their time at a conference. Dive Deeper 💡 Read more about Why Creator Events Are a Must for Creators & Ent…

1
Using Customer Data to Grow Your Business 44:28

3M ago44:28

44:28

In this episode, Matt & Lauren discuss the most valuable tool in any creator’s arsenal: customer data. Whether you’re tracking book sales and behavioral data, collecting customer information through direct sales, or reviewing your key social media and email marketing metrics, understanding your customer data is essential for long-term brand success…

1
Cover to Cover: Getting Your Book Design Right 49:49

3M ago49:49

49:49

In this episode, Lauren & Matt take a look at best practices for book design. We’ll review key design elements that often get overlooked on book covers, what to include inside your book, and whether or not we think it’s worth the cost to pay for book cover and interior design. Dive Deeper 💡 Download Lulu’s Free Guides & Templates 💡 Check Out the Pr…

1
Do You Need to Hire Professional Editors for Your Book? 46:32

3M ago46:32

46:32

In this episode Matt & Lauren take a look at the different types of editing your manuscript might need, debate which ones they think are most valuable, and share a few of their tips for making sure your book editing is done right. Dive Deeper 💡 Find Freelance Editors and Hybrid Publishers on Lulu’s Hire A Pro Page 💡 Browse Fiverr for Freelance Edit…

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Episode 101 | Take Less, Do More, With Glen Van Peski 1:08:14

4M ago1:08:14

1:08:14

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk to Glen Van Peski about the life lessons we can learn from ultralight backpacking. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.By Backpacking Light

1
Life Episode 3: Japanese "Wa" 42:25

4M ago42:25

42:25

In Japanese "wa" means harmony and is a huge part of Japan and Japanese culture. After living in Japan for 4 years and recently visiting again I still soak in the "wa" and wish we could bring it more to the USA where I live now. In today's life episode we'll discuss "wa" and dive into culture in general. Having an openness to other cultures and tak…

1
Crowdfunding Your Self-Published Book With Kickstarter 38:58

4M ago38:58

38:58

In this episode Lauren & Matt discuss the whys and hows of using Kickstarter to crowdfund your book. Learn why we think Kickstarter is a great option for self-published authors, what you need to know to get your campaign started, and how successful authors are crushing it with crowdfunding. Dive Deeper 💡 Learn More About Kickstarter 💡 Check Out Som…

1
Girl Stuff 42:05

4M ago42:05

42:05

Girls and women alike have a few extra things to consider when adding running into their lives. Some of these issues were a little challenging to discuss and I surprised myself as I reflected on some of the intense issues with body changes from girls to women, managing the annoying but very important menstral cycle, body image and taking care of ou…

1
How Writers Can Harness the Power of AI 44:05

4M ago44:05

44:05

In this episode, Matt & Lauren take another look at generative AI and how it can be a powerful tool to help authors and content creators. Hear some of our favorite tips for using ChatGPT as a sounding board, a hammer against writer’s block, and an expert ally on your writing journey. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts Think Outside The Bot: How AI…

1
Episode 100 | Celebrating our Listeners and Gear for Hiking in the Sun 53:53

4M ago53:53

53:53

In Episode 100 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're going to celebrate sunshine and the one hundredth episode of the backpacking light podcast featuring stories from our listeners and more. To view the show notes for this podcast, including a listing of some of our listener's favorite podcasts from the first 100, check out the shownotes.…

1
Making time for running (or anything else)… 32:36

4M ago32:36

32:36

"I don't have time". I fear these words. This is one of the biggest reasons given when someone doesn't have regular exercise habits. To this I say...don't have time? Make time! The truth is, we all have the same 24 hours a day and our days either fill up with meaningless who knows what or we take control of our time and make things happen in our li…

1
An Inside Look at London Book Fair 2024 42:23

4M ago42:23

42:23

Matt & Lauren recap their time at London Book Fair 2024, one of the biggest publishing conferences in the world. Get the lowdown on hot topics from the conference, an insider's look at the event, and a special peek into what it’s like to travel with Team Lulu. Dive Deeper 💡 Learn how (and why) Lulu is a Certified B Corp 💡 Watch this video on 5 Thin…

1
The Indie Author’s Guide to Thriving Without Amazon 47:08

4M ago47:08

47:08

In this episode, Matt & Lauren explain why indie authors need to stop relying on Amazon as their primary sales channel. Listen now to hear why we feel so strongly about it, what alternatives we suggest, and how to get your readers on the same page. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts The Independent Author’s Guide to Thriving Without Amazon How To …

1
Episode 99 | How to Hide Your Food from Bears 34:29

5M ago34:29

34:29

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how bears smell, and what you can do to hide your food from the nose of a bear. To view the show notes for this episode, click here.By Backpacking Light

1
Running Tourism 43:51

5M ago43:51

43:51

Greetings from Japan! I've been traveling the last couple of weeks and want to share with you a way I've found to make the most of vacations - running of course. Running tourism is a great way to see the sights whether it be staycation mode or vacation mode. Come learn all about one of the most enjoyable forms of running I've found, no not hills, s…

1
Can You Really Support Your Business With Just 1,000 True Fans? 43:26

4M ago43:26

43:26

In this episode Lauren and Matt discuss Kevin Kelly’s 1,000 True Fans theory, what it means to be a true fan (or super fan), and a few unique ways small business owners and content creators have turned casual buyers into true fans. Dive Deeper 💡 Read the Kevin Kelly’s 1,000 True Fans essay 💡 Read The 1,000 True Fan Theory: Sustainable Income for Cr…

1
What is S.A.D.? (Life Topic #2) 37:08

5M ago37:08

37:08

S.A.D. is a really sad and appropriate acronym for Seasonal Affective Disorder. S.A.D. has a lot in common with and can turn into depression, but it also has some distinct differences. Hi, I'm Dawn, and I struggle with S.A.D. Join me today as we learn more about this mental health issue, things that help, when to be concerned, and much more. I'm ex…

1
An Introduction to Paid Book Promotion 48:23

5M ago48:23

48:23

In this episode Matt & Lauren explore paid book promotion. We review our favorite sponsorship opportunities, take a brief look at different types of book promo ads and paid social media ads, and debate the value of influencer marketing. Dive Deeper 💡 Check out Written Word Media 💡 Check out BookFunnel 💡 Learn how to set up BookBub Ads 💡 Read Social…

1
Thriving with Power Statements 27:49

5M ago27:49

27:49

Mindset, mindset, mindset. I'm reminded again and again how important mindset is, both in running, and in everything we do. Recording this episode I came off a pretty hard day and an equally hard week and just talking about having a better mindset put a spring in my step and helped me realize that yet again, "I've got this". Today's mindset techniq…

1
Earning Free Publicity for Your Book 48:26

5M ago48:26

48:26

In this episode, Matt & Lauren debate earned promotion, PR and publicity efforts, and creator collaborations. Learn how to promote your book with earned media opportunities, book signings, public speaking, and collaboration with fellow creators. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts The Complete Book Marketing Plan for Authors and Creators How to Pit…

1
Episode 98 | Canister Stoves in the Winter 21:49

5M ago21:49

21:49

In episode 98 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to get the most out of your ultralight canister stove for winter backpacking. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here.By Backpacking Light

1
Half Marathon - Stories 44:44

5M ago44:44

44:44

Have you ever run a half-marathon? I have...quite a few I realized as I was recording. Some I hold with fond memories, others I've almost forgotten or would be better off having forgotten. Any way about it, I love this distance. Join me for half marathon story time, with a climax of what happened when I accompanied my young teenage son on his first…

1
Social Media Marketing for Authors & Creators 55:03

5M ago55:03

55:03

In this episode, Lauren & Matt talk about using valuable and authentic social media engagement to find new readers, ideas for promoting your books, and a few of their favorite social media dos and biggest don’ts. Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts Check out our Social Media 101 for Authors series Learn how to Promote Your Book on Social Media Get …

1
Intro to Taper 37:05

6M ago37:05

37:05

Tapering. That glorious and yet dreaded time when you get to cut the miles, clean up the loose ends, and prepare for race day...by not doing much. It's a weird thing mentally. Where in most things in life you cram at the end preparing for our most important races are just the opposite. Come along and we discuss the critical role that tapering has i…

1
Email Marketing for Authors & Creators 53:31

5M ago53:31

53:31

In this episode, Matt & Lauren discuss one of the most successful marketing strategies, share ideas and tips for building your email list, and review best practices for keeping those subscribers engaged. Dive Deeper 💡 Check Out These Reports Lulu & The Tilt’s Creator Insights Report Email marketing stats from HubSpot’s State of Marketing in 2024 re…

1
Episode 97 | Backpacking with Dogs 1:07:34

6M ago1:07:34

1:07:34

In episode 97 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn what it's like to hike with your dog in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this episode, click here.By Backpacking Light

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Season 2 Episode 1: Making a Home Your Home (Life Topic #1) 40:41

6M ago40:41

40:41

Welcome to season 2! Once a month we'll have life topics. The rest of the episodes are all about good old running. Today join me on my journey through my hate (with occasional love) relationship with housework and the things I've learned over the years to make keeping a home manageable, realistic, and yes, sometimes, even enjoyable. Don't forget to…

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