Novel Marketing Episode Archive
What does ChatGPT Actually Know About Your Book?
Do the most popular AI tools know about your book? Do they know enough to recommend it to readers? Discover how to find out if they do.
How to Create Sales Optimized Book Pages for Your Author Website
Discover why a website book page is vital for authors and how to design an effective page that captivates and helps readers and AI alike.
TikTok, Iran, and AI: What Authors Need to Know Now
Welcome to the Summer Solstice edition of Author Update, where co-hosts Thomas Umstattd, Jr. and Jonathan Shuerger unpack the headlines that matter to authors—from global conflicts to algorithm updates. In this jam-packed episode, they dig into the TikTok ban, the war...
Amazon, AI, and Author Strategy Shifts: What You Need to Know Now
Welcome to this week’s Author Update, where we break down what’s happening in the world of publishing, AI, and tech—so you can write better, market smarter, and keep ahead of the curve. In this episode, we covered sweeping changes at Amazon, unexpected shifts in how...
Are We in an AI Bubble? Plus Audiobook Strategy, Vellum Upgrades & Loving Your Readers
The tech world was shaken recently when British AI firm Builder.ai filed for bankruptcy—after it was revealed their “AI” was really 700 Indian engineers behind the curtain. It’s the Mechanical Turk all over again. In 1770, a man named Wolfgang von Kempelen built what...
Is Your Traditional Publisher Going Bankrupt? 8 Warning Signs to Look Out For
Understand the signs and implications of a publisher going bankrupt and what authors can do if their traditional publisher closes.
Adapting a Podcast to YouTube
Discover the keys to adapting a podcast to YouTube. Understand what works best to grow your channel effectively.
How to Publish a Novel in 2025
Learn how to successfully publish a novel with my six-step roadmap. Avoid common mistakes and start at the right place for strong sales.
Author Update: Is This the END of Google (for Authors)???
Major Shifts in Search and SEO for Authors Google's Market Share Slips Below 90% For the first time since 2015, Google's search market share has fallen below 90%, marking a potentially historic shift in how people find information online. This decline signals what...
An Introduction to Author Ecosystems with Russell Nohelty
Explore the concept of author ecosystems and discover marketing strategies tailored to your unique approach and audience.
Do 45% of Authors *Already* Use AI?! | Author Update
Thomas: Welcome to Author Update. I'm Thomas Umstead, Jr. And sometimes on this show, we don't talk about AI even a little bit. And today is not one of those days. What's our first story, Jonathan? Jonathan: And I'm Jonathan Scherger. This is not one of those shows....
AI Optimization for Authors
Transform your approach to book marketing with AI optimization for authors. Find out how AI can help readers discover your book.
KDP Royalty Changes & Invasion of the AI Audiobooks
https://youtube.com/live/GysHpqdThoQ Introduction (00:01.851) Thomas: KDP royalty changes and invasion of the AI audiobooks. This is Author Update. I'm Thomas Umstatt, Jr. Jonathan: I'm Jonathan Shuerger, and we're just gonna jump right into it today. Spotify and...
Your Author Toolbox: Time-Saving Tools for Busy Authors
Discover this suite of innovative writing tools for authors designed to streamline your writing, marketing, email list, and sales efforts.
Author Update: Skype Dies, Romantasy Surges, and Mr. Beast Writes a Book
Introduction Thomas: Skype dies, Romantasy surges, and Mr. Beast starts writing the bestest, best-selling book ever. Or does he? Find out in this episode of Author Update. I'm Thomas Umstead, Jr. with Jonathan Sugar, and we have a lot of really surprisingly good news...
Genius Link: A Guide for Authors
Explore the benefits of universal book links for authors. Drive sales by linking to your book across multiple platforms worldwide.
Book Bans, Copyright Trolls Target Authors, and is Social Media Mostly Bots? | Author Update
Welcome to Author Update, your go-to source for the latest publishing industry news, marketing strategies, and author advice! In this episode, we dive into crucial developments affecting authors and their publishing journeys. Episode Highlights: 🔍 Social media AI bots...
How to PROFITABLY Advertise a Solo Book on Amazon
Learn how to profitably advertise a solo book on Amazon with expert tips on optimizing Amazon ads, targeting, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Does Facebook Think Your Book is Worthless, Author Certification & AI Gets Religion
https://youtube.com/live/IBKXbqEVvRo Introduction Thomas: Hello and welcome to Author Update. I'm Thomas Amstat Jr. In this episode we're going to talk about Meta defending its LLM training by saying novels are worthless, AIs finding religion, OpenAI's CEO claiming...
Introducing Author Update
Learn about our new podcast and YouTube show called Author Update, where you can stay up-to-date on all the latest publishing headlines.
2025 Laptop Buying Guide for Authors
Find the ideal laptop for authors and avoid overspending on unnecessary features that do not enhance your writing experience.
Tariffs Up & NaNoWiMo Closing Down | Author Update
Discover how rising tariffs and NaNoWriMo's closure impact authors in this Author Media update. Get insights and strategies to navigate these challenges and thrive as a writer. https://youtube.com/live/g2ip3Dm3vMY Thomas: Welcome to Author Update! I'm Thomas Umstattd...
How to Grow Your Email List Fast With Giveaways
Need more subscribers? Explore the Kingsumo book giveaway technique that helped one author gain thousands of new emails.
Invasion of the AI Images | Author Update
Explore the rise of AI-generated images and their impact on authors in this Author Update. Learn strategies to adapt and leverage AI tools for your writing success. https://youtube.com/live/BlyEOTCl0-I Outline Amazon Ads Expansion Amazon has recently expanded its...
Escaping the Procrastination Prison: A Guide for Tired Authors
Ten practical steps to help authors overcome procrastination, reclaim focus, and start writing and promoting books with confidence.
Did Meta Steal Your Book? | Author Update
Did Meta steal your book? This Author Media update investigates claims of content misuse, offering authors insights and steps to protect their work in the digital age. https://www.youtube.com/live/2HJYldahSqU?si=hf_NhVsMpBI-l9Kl Links: Novel Marketing Patreon How to...
How to Craft a Cancel Proof Marketing Strategy
Discover how author cancel culture has changed and learn about its impact on book sales and public perception.
Author Website Review: Christian Historical Romance
Explore strengths and weaknesses in website design and functionality for several bestselling historical Christian romance authors.
Book Promotion in 2025: How AI Gives Authors More Time to Write
Learn how authors can use AI to generate book marketing ideas, audience descriptions, and images so they can reclaim their time for writing.
The Sci-Fi Zeitgeist Has Shifted: What Authors Need to Know
Dive into the essentials of writing a sci-fi novel amidst evolving themes like population collapse and AI advancements.
Indie Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
Indie or traditional publishing? Hear from one author who experienced both and made a surprising decision.
Stop Writing Book Series!
Uncover the truth about writing a book series. Learn why it can be a risky endeavor for new authors.
How to Sell Books From a Table
Maximize your book sales at in-person events with these expert tips. Learn to effectively sell books and avoid common mistakes.
Read This Before Your Next Podcast Guest Interview
Learn how to sound like a pro during your podcast interview. Get tips on achieving good podcast sound without breaking the bank.
A Storytelling Revolution: Inside the World of Serialized Fiction
Learn how platforms like Royal Road and Ream Stories are revolutionizing serialized fiction and offering a path to building an audience.
Is Traditional Publishing Dying? Surprising Trends Authors Can’t Ignore in 2025
Explore the trends that will shape the industry and how they will impact authors.
Networking for Authors: How to Build Relationships Without Being Awkward
Many authors feel stuck. They're toiling away in obscurity, and none of their promotion efforts seem to go anywhere. Success in publishing is as much about who you know as what you know. And sometimes, the lack of knowing the right people keeps you from finding...
Project Management for Authors
Discover how project management techniques can help authors tackle the overwhelming task of writing, publishing, and marketing their books.
Cyber Monday Deals for Authors
Every Cyber Weekend (Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday, Black Friday), I do my best to find the best deals for authors. Part of that means putting my own courses on sale. This post has a list of the top deals. You can find even more deals at...
How to Build a Rejection-Proof Platform in 2025
To build an author platform, you need a method that works long term. Discover one method and five steps that will give you a solid author platform to stand on.
Contact Page Dos & Don’ts for Authors
Learn how to create a successful author contact page and form that helps readers and influencers find you and makes spammers leave you alone.
How to Worldbuild Your Book into a Bestseller
Discover the power of story worldbuilding to captivate readers and boost book sales. Create immersive settings that leave a lasting impact.
How to Run a Local Book Festival
If you’ve wished for an in-person venue to sell books and connect with readers and authors, find out how starting a book festival can help.
How to Write Stories Readers Will Love by Knowing the Zeitgeist
If it takes you two years to write a book, you owe it to yourself to ask the question, "What kinds of books will be popular in two years?" Reader preferences change over time, but sometimes they change rapidly. If you don't keep up, you can get stuck writing a book...
How to Use Reverse Coupons
Discover how you can do a kindness for your readers, help them take action, and sell more books at a higher price with a reverse coupon.
How to Write Enduring Bestsellers with the Two-Act Chiastic Structure
Struggling to write your three-act story? Discover another story structure from ancient history that will satisfy your readers and help you finish your book.
101 Book Marketing Ideas That Will Change Your Life
We’ve compiled a list of book marketing ideas that will connect you to readers, build your brand, and sell your book. If you feel stuck with your book, this guide has the idea that will get you unstuck. The goal of this guide is to help get your creative juices...
The Strategy Behind Reader Super Magnets
Find out how to make your reader magnet super magnetic to attract your perfect target reader.
What to do When Book Sales Start Slipping
If you want to increase book sales after they’ve started to fall, check out this list of mistakes to avoid and strategies to try.
Marketing a Book Series with Kristina Stanley
Writing a series gives you marketing advantages if you do it right. Find out how to structure your series to maximize your marketing efforts.
Announcing the 2025 Novel Marketing Conference
Learn the details of the 2025 Novel Marketing Conference, how it will differ from last year’s conference, and what makes it unique.
How to Write Novels Men Want to Read
Explore the reasons why men may not be reading novels published by big publishers. Find out how this product-market mismatch affects male readership.
How to Deliver Your Book Baby
What to expect when you’re publishing a book and what your “book baby” needs for a healthy gestation, birth, and life.
How to Use Research to Market Your Novel
Wondering what to include in your newsletter, blog, or podcast? Find out how to repurpose your research and thrill your readers.
How to Create an Online Course
Learn how to transform your book into an engaging online course. Discover what types of content work best and how to maximize your course’s success.
How to Write Better Short Stories With Steve Diamond
Discover all the benefits of writing short stories and find out how to write a great one that will impact readers and prompt them to buy your books.
Web Hosting for Frugal Authors
To build an author website, you first need web hosting. Discover which type of web hosting is best for your author website and which to avoid.
How to Avoid Book-Marketing Overwhelm
If book marketing feels overwhelming, you may be facing these 10 stressors. Learn how to deal with each one and reduce your marketing stress.
The Savvy Author’s Guide to Passwords
Avoid four common password mistakes authors make and find out how you can never again forget or lose your passwords.
How Connor Boyack Sold Millions of Books Directly to Readers Without Using Amazon
Learn a reproducible strategy for getting to know your readers, selling to them directly, and avoiding Amazon’s ecosystem.
Are Pen Names Going Away?
There are several great reasons (and several bad ones) to use an author pen name. Find out which reasons still make sense in the age of AI authors and bots.
Why Your Book is Still Unfinished (Hint: It’s Your Phone’s Fault)
10 tips for using your smartphone to increase your productivity and limiting its ability to keep you from writing your book.
Printing the Future: Print-on-Demand with Offset-Quality by Bookvault
Learn how you can print high-quality hardbacks, outsource fulfillment, and sell directly from your author website, without using Amazon.
The Powerful Nonfiction Pitching Recipe That Works for Both Fiction and Nonfiction
Learning the formula for creating a compelling pitch that resonates with readers is key to selling your book. Learn four formats that can work for your nonfiction pitch.
From Tech Timid to Tech Savvy: How to Master Any Technology
Fear of technology keeps many authors from moving forward. Learn how to master technology and have fewer tech headaches.
The Thriving Author: How to Market Books When You Have Money to Invest
If you have a big budget for book marketing, opportunities abound. Find out which marketing expenses will yield the best return on your investment.
Speak, Engage, and Inspire: Secrets of Entertaining & Educational Webinars that Sell
Hosting a webinar can help you get to know your “Timothy” and grow your email list. Discover 12 tips for hosting a successful author webinar.
2024 Laptop Buying Guide for Authors
Authors can get overwhelmed by the process of choosing and buying a laptop computer. Find out what you need (or don’t need) and what works best.
How to Sell More Books With Amazon Ads
Learn six steps to quickly create your first ad to help you sell more books with Amazon ads, and discover how it can benefit your brand.
AI for Authors – The Good, Bad, and Ugly
Discover the evolution of writing technologies and find out how AI for authors in 2024 can increase your productivity and improve your skill.
Pros and Cons of Pre-Orders
Find out whether you should set up a preorder for your book (some authors shouldn’t), and discover tips to maximize preorder sales.
Marketing 101: Place
Selling your book in the right place is important for maximizing sales. Consider these three case studies and learn 12 online places and 24 offline places where you can sell your book.
How to use Reedsy to Independently Publish Your Book
Find out how Reedsy can help indie and traditional authors create beautiful, compelling, and marketable books.
Book Launch Secrets
Registration for the final cohort of the Book Launch Blueprint course is now open. Check out these book launch secrets and register for the course while you still can.
How to Publish on a Budget: Your First Five Years as an Author
Becoming a professional author will cost you. Find out how much and when an author should budget for their writing career.
How to Write Emails That Readers Want to Read
Discover the three elements that make readers open your emails, which element is least important, and how to write good emails readers want.
How to Build a Tribe Online And Form a Community of Readers
Find out how authors can build a community or readers, how that tribe differs from a platform, and how to keep them engaged without giving up all your free time.
The Starving Author: How to Market Books When You Have No Money
You have two options if you don’t have money to market your book. Find out how an “expensive option” can be the “budget option” and where to invest your time when you don’t have the money.
When to Quit Writing
Since few writers die at the keyboard, nearly all writers quit at some point, but how do you know when to quit writing? Answer these 5 questions to gain clarity.
From Page to Screen: How to Adapt Your Novel Into a Screenplay
Discover the important differences between writing for the page and the screen and find out how to turn your novel into a screenplay
Chrome Extensions Every Author Needs in 2024
Find out which Chrome extensions can make you more productive, improve your writing, and give you more time to write in 2024.
Publishing Industry Secrets Revealed at the Penguin Random House Trial
These secrets of the publishing industry offer important points for all authors to consider as they choose a publishing path.
Why Most Authors Don’t Need Social Media in 2025
Social media changes so quickly. Find out which platforms and strategies work for selling books in 2022.
How to Write for American Readers – An Author’s Guide to America’s Regional Cultures
To write for American readers, you must understand which American readers you’re targeting. Learn how American culture differs by region so you can write what resonates.
Seven Plugins Every Author Website Needs in 2024
There are 60,000 WordPress plugins available to you, but most authors only need a handful. Learn which plugins every author website needs in 2024.
How to Publish Your Book as an Audiobook With Scott Sigler
The booming audiobook market is prompting many authors to consider publishing their own audiobooks. Discover how to get your book on audio and increase your sales.
Time-Saving Tools for Authors
If you’re losing time or simply want to fine-tune your writing systems, check out these time-saving tools for authors.
How to Successfully Self Publish Your Book with James Blatch
Learn the seven critical steps to successfully self-publishing your book, and find out how to excel at each step of the process.
Black Friday Book Promotion Tips for Authors
Eight tips and three warnings to help you make the most of your Black Friday book promotion and marketing plan.
How to Protect Your Writing From Reputation Theft
Learn how to protect your writing from copyright infringement and which legal tools help you deal with AI-generated fraudulent versions of your books.
Book Marketing 101: Price
Learn how book pricing impacts sales and discover 14 strategies for finding the optimum price for your new or backlist books.
How Larry Correia Became a Mega-Bestseller by Writing for Overlooked Readers
Find out how to be an authentic author, sell more books, and expand your writing career by finding and writing for a specific group of readers.
How to Sell Books Directly to Readers with Joanna Penn
With the explosion of AI and a slew of paperbacks and ebooks for sale online, how can you make your book stand out and earn more per sale? Joanna Penn tells us how.
How to Win Friends and Pitch Your Book
Discover 6 steps to crafting a short pitch for your book and yourself before you attend your next conference or cocktail party.
The Most Important Lessons from 10 Years of Novel Marketing
Discover our list of the most important episodes we’ve recorded in the past ten years of podcasting about book marketing.
How Karyne Norton Successfully Kickstarted Her Book in 1 Hour
Find out how running a Kickstarter campaign for your book can solve one of the biggest challenge indie authors face.
Announcing the 2024 Novel Marketing Conference
Find out how the 2024 Novel Marketing Conference will help you apply your book-marketing knowledge and facilitate in-person connections.
Workshops, Retreats, and Pitches: How to pick the best writers conference for you
Learn what types of events are available and discover how to pick the best writers conference for your stage in the publishing journey.
Book Marketing 101: Product
If your book isn’t a good product, marketing gets harder. Find out whose opinion counts and learn to create a good book readers want to buy and read.
How to Run an Independent Publishing Company
Learn how running your own independent publishing company compares with publishing with a small house and how you can start your own company.
How to Get Book Clubs to Pick YOUR Book
Authors dream of having a book club pick their book to read and discuss. Find out how to make your book book-club-friendly.
From Book Blurb to Bestseller: How to Craft Compelling Amazon Pages With Dave Chesson
Learn how a free tool can help improve your book description, increase your sales, and improve the effectiveness of your Amazon sales page.
How the Hollywood Strikes Will Help (& Hurt!) Authors
Find out how the actors and screenwriters strikes will affect authors and provide some unprecedented opportunities.
Substack for Authors: An Exciting Opportunity or Just Hype?
Find out the advantages and limitations of Substack for authors with various platform-building strategies.
How to Make Money as an Author Assistant
If your publishing journey is sapping your bank account, learn how working as an author assistant will help you earn and learn simultaneously.
The Tortoise Release Method: Why Slow and Steady Beats Rapid Release
Avoid author burn out by establishing a sustainable publishing pace for the next 20 years. Learn how and when to plan your publishing tasks.
How to Extend Your Book’s Life With Effective Marketing
Find out how to market your book in the four stages of its lifecycle and how to extend book sales on older books.
Trim to Win: Why Saying ‘No’ is Crucial for Publishing Success: A Pruning Story
I have crepe myrtle trees in my front yard that have grown out of control. A neighbor noticed and gave me some tips on how to prune them to a manageable size. I took her advice and pruned the trees aggressively, but soon they were out of control again. Again, my...
Good Brands Vs. Big Brands
Find out if it’s better to create an author brand that is good or big. Discover the difference between the two and which should come first.
How to Hook Readers in the First 50 Pages
Learn how to optimize that tiny window to grab your reader within the first 50 pages and convince them to finish your book.
The Amazing Power of Reader Surveys
Find out why and how creating a reader survey can improve and transform your writing and relationship with readers.
How to Get Good Website Stats
Two important tools will help you see your website’s stats clearly. Find out which tools you need and what they tell you.
How to Turn a Podcast Episode into a Blog Post
Learn how turning your podcast content into a blog post can benefit you, your readers, and your website, and discover tools to help you get it done.
How to Thrive as an Author in Your Twilight Years
Learn how to clarify your writing goals, avoid damaging shortcuts, and write a book in retirement. You’re never too old to start writing.
How to Find Your Timothy
One person’s opinion about your book is more important than anyone else’s. Discover who it is and how to find them before you publish.
How to Create an Email Drip Marketing Campaign
Find out what to write in your first emails to new subscribers so they’re thrilled to read your emails and reluctant to unsubscribe.
How to Convince Readers to Read *Your* Book Next
Learn five steps to creating a compelling pitch that will pique the interest of publishers, agents, editors and readers.
How to Nail a Hostile Media Interview
Don’t shy away from a potentially hostile interview. Instead, follow these tips to give the journalist what you want them to publish.
The Psychological Reasons Readers Read Books
You have a major advantage over AI writing tools like GPT-4 and ChatGPT. Learn how to discover and leveraging your edge in your genre.
How to Prepare for Your First Webinar
Grow your email list, get to know your audience, and boost your income potential by learning how to host an author webinar.
The 2023 Book Launch Blueprint
Registration for our annual course is now open. Find out what you’ll learn, what’s been updated, and if it’s the right course for you.
Why Many People Are Afraid to Buy Books (Marketing Psychology)
Find out how a powerful marketing tool of loss aversion can be an ally for authors and not an enemy of sales.
How to Successfully Market a Children’s Book
Learn the innovative and old-fashioned ways successful authors market a children’s book to kids, parents, teachers, and librarians.
How a War Between China and Taiwan Would Change Reading, Writing, and Publishing
Learn how geopolitics affect supply chain issues for authors and how to continue writing amid political or economic disruptions.
AI Book Covers & ChatGPT
Find out how authors use ChatGPT, Midjourney, and other AI tools to create book covers, characters, and plot ideas for their books.
How to Look and Sound Professional on Zoom, Webinars, and Podcasts
Give yourself an edge over most authors by following these tips to look and sound professional on webinars, Zoom calls, and podcasts.
How to Get More Book Reviews With Derek Doepker
Bestselling author and marketing strategist Derek Doepker shares tips to help you get more book reviews before, during, or after your launch.
Brandon Sanderson’s Crop Rotation Method for Restful Rapid Writing
If writing seems harder than it used to or you feel burnt out, consider this four-step method of rotation to revive your writing career.
How to Build Hype for a Debut Novel
Learn which book launching techniques a debut YA author used to successfully crowdfund and launch her first novel.
Whisper and the World Whispers Back
When readers can’t hear about your book, they can’t read it, even if it’s really good. Learn three reasons your book promotion may fall flat.
Trolls, Haters, and Critics Oh My – How to Handle Negative Feedback as an Author
The cold reality of being a writer is that some people will hate you and your writing. What do you do about those people?
20 Ways to Promote Your Book During the Holiday Season
If you want to maximize your holiday book promotion, implement some or all of these 20 strategies to boost your book sales this Christmas.
How to Grow your Platform Without Social Media – with Sandy Cooper
Can you leave social media and still grow a platform from which to launch your books? Sandy Cooper has the answer in this interview.
How to Save Money as an Author
There's an old saying that the way to make a small fortune in publishing is to start with a large fortune. While the early days of publishing favored independently wealthy authors, things have changed. Publishing may be cheaper than it once was, but it’s not free....
How to Hire a Good Editor
Every successful author needs a professional editor. Learn three simple steps for finding a good editor who will improve your book.
How BookFunnel Can Help you Grow Your Email List
BookFunnel offers amazing and useful tools for authors looking to give their readers the fastest, easiest and most enjoyable e-reading experience.
Obscure No More Course Overview
Obscure No More is your one-stop shop for learning to build a platform and market your book. Find out how to access these 12 critical lessons.
Do novelists need a college writing degree?
Young novelists (and their parents) will learn how to evaluate the usefulness of a college writing degree and examine viable alternatives.
How to Use QR Codes to Boost Book Sales & Grow Your Email List
Learn six ways authors can use book QR codes to connect with readers and promote their books online and offline.
How to Find a Good Literary Agent – with Mary DeMuth
To be published by a traditional publisher, you must find a good literary agent. Mary DeMuth shares tips on finding and retaining an agent.
How to Supercharge Ebook Sales
If your ebook sales are lagging, these 7 strategies will teach you how to market your ebook effectively with tactics specific to ebooks.
How to Turn a Podcast into a Bestselling Novel – with Scott Sigler
Learn how podcasting a novel launched Scott Sigler’s books to the NYT bestseller list, and how he’s sustained his podcast for over a decade.
Marketing Lessons from Bestselling Author James Patterson
Learn how James Patterson got his start as a writer, how he maintains success, and how you can implement his methods in your writing.
How to Work with an AI Writing Assistant
Learn how this AI tool can help you overcome writer’s block by generating ideas and suggestions to spur your imagination and get you unstuck.
Affiliate Marketing for Authors
Find out how authors who take advantage of affiliate marketing opportunities can earn income even before their books are published.
How to Become an Amazon Affiliate
A step-by-step guide for setting up your Amazon Associate account so you can earn money through affiliate links on your author website.
How to Market Your Book in a Recession (Preview)
Find out what you’re missing in our patrons-only episodes and learn how to get access to tools, agents, and significant discounts.
AI Tools for Authors
When you use artificial intelligence tools for writing, you can improve your craft and create books faster. Find out which AI tools will benefit you most.
How to Find the Perfect Narrator for Your Audiobook – with James L. Rubart
Learn how to find and work with a narrator to produce your audiobook.
How to Become a Big Name Author (Marketing Psychology: Authority)
Learn three ways authors can leverage marketing psychology to develop credibility with their readers and become big-name authors.
How to Crowdfund Your Book
Learn how to solve your cash flow problem with these tips for crowdfunding your book before it’s published.
How to Diversify Your Income as an Author
Few authors make a living on book sales alone. Learn how Joanna Penn generates income from over 120 writing-related sources.
How to Get Better at Public Speaking with Jane Jenkins Herlong
Tips and advice for securing your first speaking engagement, nailing your presentation, selling books, and getting invited back.
Hybrid Publishing
Is working with a hybrid publisher the right decision for you? Learn the pros and cons of hybrid publishing and how to explore your options.
How to Promote Your Book Using AuthorsXP.com with Amy Vansant
I love introducing authors to tools that can make their writing lives easier. Some tools help you write better, publish more easily, grow your email list, and increase your readership. Different tools work for different authors, so I'm not dogmatic about which tools...
Write Bestselling Pitches by Avoiding These 10 Copywriting Mistakes
If you want to write bestselling pitches for your book, be sure to avoid these 10 copywriting mistakes!
How to Record Your Own Audiobook Using Hindenburg Narrator
According to The NPD Group, ebook sales for traditionally published books went down in the first half of 2021. Meanwhile, the most recent data for audiobooks states that sales are up by 12%. Do I need an audio version of my book? The data is clear. You...
7 Business Mistakes That Ruin Author Careers
Having an author business plan can save you time and money. Learn the most common business mistakes authors make and how you can avoid them.
How to Conduct Your Own Media Tour (without hiring a PR Firm) With Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith shares pro tips for getting booked on podcasts, radio, and TV by scheduling your own author media tour.
How to Grow Your Email List Using Delicious Reader Magnets with Tammi Labrecque
Learn how to create a reader magnet (or lead magnet), what to do with it, and how to deliver it to grow your email list.
How to Get the Most Out of Scrivener
Scrivener is a popular writing software for authors. Learn about some of its best features in our interview with David Lee Martin.
Why do good books fail to sell while poorly written books fly off the shelves?
Learn the 3 reasons some average books are perennial bestsellers while other well-written books aren’t.
Innovative Indie Marketing with S.D. Smith
Independent authors need marketing tools and skills to be successful. Learn how one indie author reduced his reliance on gatekeepers and sold books directly to his readers.
10 Reasons to Delay Your Book Launch
Find out why you should delay your book launch, how long you should wait, and what to do in the meantime to improve your book’s chances of success.
How to Use Goodreads to Promote Your Book
Goodreads is one of the most effective social networks for authors. Learn how to use Goodreads to connect with readers and sell more books.
Effective Book Cover Design
A bad book cover can ruin all your marketing efforts. Learn what makes a good book cover in this interview with a top cover designer.
How to Get a Professional Email Address
Your email address might be the first thing an agent or editor sees. Learn how to make a good first impression with your email address.
Facebook Advertising for Authors
Facebook can be useful for authors if you use it in the right way. Find out how you can use Facebook to help you sell more books.
How to Launch Your Book on a Budget
Is your book launch budget filled with expenses or investments? Learn how and where to spend your time and money to get the greatest return.
How to Launch Your Book in 2022
Your book deserves a well-planned, effective book launch. Learn how to maximize sales in those all-important first 30 days after release.
How to Build an Author Brand with David Loy
Learn how to create an author brand that communicates your message and your reputation in this interview with digital marketing expert David Loy.
How to Speed Up Your Author Website
If your author website doesn’t show in Google’s search results, make sure you’ve removed these website speed bumps.
Everything Authors Need to Know About Writing in Atticus
Authors typically use different software tools for everything from plotting to typesetting. But now authors can use one efficient multitool from start to finish.
How to Write More Productively
If you need a plan and process for writing books, learn the secret to writing multiple books every year in this interview with author Angela Hunt.
How to Write Short Stories with James Scott Bell
Learn to write short stories that readers crave. One of the best authors in the world, bestselling author James Scott Bell, teaches us how.
7 Things Santa Can Teach Authors About Book Marketing
Seven book marketing lessons from Santa for Authors
What Every Author Needs to Know About Cyber Security
Every author needs cyber security. Discover which of your vectors are most vulnerable to attack and how you can protect them.
Tools To Make Publishing Easier
We are in the process of replacing the dirt and rocks in our backyard with grass for the children to play in. At first, things went well using the shovel but then when we got to the final rocks, the shovel just did not work well. Then we tried a rake, and boom!...
How to Run a Kickstarter Campaign for Your Second Book with Jonathan Shuerger
Learn how to raise money from future readers, pay for your book before you publish it, and reward your supporters for contributing.
How to Create an Author Press Kit with Susan Neal
If you want to secure media interviews about your book, learn why you need an author press kit, what you should include, and where to place it on your website.
What Every Author Needs to Know About Copyright Law with James Scott Bell
Find out who should register the copyright for a book, why it may be important, and when is the best time to do it.
How to Grow Your Podcast Audience – with David Hooper
Learn how to increase your podcast’s impact by connecting with other podcasters, authors, and audiences who are interested in your book.
Is Your Author “About Me” Page Boring Your Readers To Death?
Most author About Me pages are as fascinating as Mr. Rogers’ sweater choices. Here’s how to craft a killer About page.
How to Write Faster and Better with Chris Fox
Chris Fox shares a method authors can use to increase writing output and improve craft. Implement these habits to write faster and better.
Author Media: The Behind-the-Scenes Story
Peek behind the scenes to find out how Author Media came to serve authors like you and how we’ll serve you in the coming years.
How Jack Ellem Went from Unpublished to Bestselling Indie Author
Find out how Jack Ellem became a bestselling indie author in two foreign countries while living in Australia and learn how his strategies can work for you.
How to Use Price Pulsing to Supercharge Your Backlist Sales
Discover three ways to revive your backlist and increase sales with price pulsing.
How to Get Endorsements for Your Book
The right endorsement for your book can make a huge impact on sales. Follow these five steps to get effective endorsements.
Yes, YOU Can Make a Living as a Writer, Here’s How
There are four different ways authors can earn a living through writing. Find out which one you can leverage to make an income.
How to Sell Your Book In Person (and make way more money per copy)
Author make the most profit when they sell books in person. Take these five steps to sell more books and increase your revenue.
Everything Authors Need to Know About K-Lytics
Find out how k-lytics can help you discover what readers are currently buying so you can increase your chances of success.
How to Write Book Reviews Readers Will Want to Read
Five tips to help you write useful book reviews that will build credibility and connection with your readers.
An Author’s Guide to StoryOrigin
Learn how you can grow your author email list with the help of StoryOrigin’s author community and list-building tools.
How Author Websites Irritate Readers (and what to do about it)
Have you ever been irritated by a website? Did you know that readers may be having that exact same experience when they visit your website? Ticking off your website visitors is a bad way to get more readers. Here are seven ways author websites annoy visitors and what to do about it.
How to Spend LESS Time Marketing Your Book
Learn how to get stellar book sales while spending LESS time on marketing. If book promotion stresses you out, these steps are for you.
The 10 Commandments of Book Marketing
If you want to succeed in publishing, heed these book marketing commandments.
The Author’s Guide to LLCs
Learn when and why you should form an LLC for your author business. Discover who can help you get it done and how much it will cost.
How to Find Your Readers
Follow these five steps to find out what your readers like and want in a book. Their preferences might surprise you and lead you to success.
Niche Marketing: A Coaching Session
Writing to a small niche has its advantages. In this coaching session, an author asks how to market to a very small segment of readers.
How to Get a Reader’s Attention by Shocking Broca
Learn how natural brain function can help you get your reader’s attention so you can introduce them to your book.
7 Kinds of Indie Authors
Find out which kind of indie author you are and which sales strategies and promotional tools will work best for you.
Two Quick Announcements
While you wait for the next episode, check out these two resources for authors.
How to Pitch Your Novel
Learn how and when to craft a compelling pitch that make agents, readers, and publishers curious about your novel.
A New Social Network for Authors
Learn how to avoid social media distractions, connect with qualified authors, and write better books with our new social network for authors.
How Jason Porterfield Grew His Email List from 0 to 6,000 in One Year
Learn which Facebook ads work best for connecting with interested readers, growing your author email list, and ultimately selling books.
How to Overcome the Fear of Book Promotion
Learn how to find your readers, write the book they want, and overcome the fear of promoting your book to them.
How to Create Press Releases
Eight strategies to help you create a compelling news release.
How to Get Strangers to Want to Buy Your Book Using Reciprocity (Marketing Psychology)
Learn how three principles of reciprocity will help you show kindness to your readers and sell more books.
How to Connect with Teen Readers: A Coaching Session With a Pre-Published YA Novelist
Learn how authors writing YA books can connect with teen readers.
How to Publish Your Book Independently
A step-by-step guide to help you publish your book independently.
10 Decisions Every Indie Author Needs to Make
Expert advice for the 10 critical decisions of indie publishing.
How to Get More 5-Star Reviews With Beta Readers, Editors, and Launch Teams
Connect with three groups of people who will help you write a book that makes readers want to write raving reviews.
The 2021 Book Launch Blueprint is Here!
Develop a comprehensive strategy to maximize your book sales in the first 30 days after release with the Book Launch Blueprint Course.
How to Improve Your Author Website with Carla Hoch
Learn how to create an author website your readers want to visit. Carla Hoch shares her success story.
A Short History of Facebook Marketing for Authors
Facebook is about to change. Authors need to know what’s coming and how to survive the digital upheaval.
10 Classic Branding Blunders Authors Make (and how to avoid them)
Authors with weak brands get ignored by publishers and readers alike. Learn how to avoid the 10 most common author branding mistakes.
How to Market Books to Homeschool Families with Tricia Goyer
Tricia Goyer explains how authors can connect with an enormous market of faithful readers in the homeschool community.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Author Websites
Learn how to improve your website’s SEO so readers can easily find you and buy your books.
How to Promote Literary Fiction With Jane Friedman
Marketing literary fiction is different than marketing genre fiction. Standard marketing practices don’t always work. In this article you’ll learn what does.
Amazon Advertising
Amazon continually tests and changes their ads platform, and authors must stay up to date. Bryan Cohen reports on what’s changed this year.
How to Prevent Writing Burnout
Follow these four crucial principles to avoid author burnout and maintain a healthy writing career.
How to Pick a Strong Book Title
Your book’s title should accomplish four goals with only a few words. Learn how to create a memorable title that is easy to find and recommend.
Parler, MeWe, and How to Navigate Social Media Splintering as an Author
Should authors establish a presence on Parler and MeWe? Learn about the new social media platforms, and find out if you can connect with your readers there.
How to Find and Work With a Virtual Assistant
Learn how to make more time for writing by hiring an assistant. It may cost less than you think, and it will free you up to focus on your writing.
How to Develop an Author Tagline
You can develop a focused author tagline and build your brand by answering these questions about yourself and your message.
The 5 Baby-Step Platform Building Process
New authors can implement these important baby steps to strengthen their career development right now. Learn to walk before you run.
How to Build a Rejection-Proof Platform Q&A
15 answers to your questions about building an author platform.
How to Start Building a Rejection Proof Platform
No matter how you publish, you’ll need a sturdy platform. Learn which techniques successful authors use to build reliable platforms.
How to Advertise Your Book on Podcasts
Podcast advertising is one of the most effective advertising venues for authors with audiobooks. Heather Osgood offers seven steps to great podcast advertising.
Why Rapid Release is a Risky Book Launch Strategy
Is rapid release a shortcut to success? Or is it a trap that could destroy your author career? Learn when and why it does and doesn’t work.
How to Get Published with a Traditional Publishing House
Before you sign a book contract with a traditional publisher, you need to know these seven important steps.
How to Create an Email Onboarding Drip Campaign
Six steps to creating an email sequence that will help your subscribers get to know, like, and trust you.
How to Market Your Audiobook
These seven strategies will help you form a close connection with your audience, create a high-quality audio experience, and sell more audiobooks.
How to Make Money From Your Platform
You can earn money with your platform before your book releases. Dave Jackson shows us how.
How to Pick the Right Email Marketing Service for You
Find out which email service provider is right for you and your platform.
Episode 250: The Story of Thomas Umstattd Jr.
Learn how the Novel Marketing evolved and how growth has been sustained for 250 episodes.
Software Guide for Authors
Authors and writers can work smarter, not harder, with these hardware and software tools that will increase your productivity and lead you to success.
How to Survive Cancel Culture as a Writer
Learn three strategies that will protect your writing career from cancel culture.
Publishing Myths That Will Waste Your Time and Money
Don’t fall for these nine publishing myths that spread like a virus. Keep your publishing career healthy and learn what to do instead of falling for viral myths.
Lessons from Blogging a Book
For years I’ve had Thomas Umstattd’s voice in my head telling me to blog my book. “Test out your ideas,” he said. “Start building your audience,” he said. “It’ll be easy,” he said. Well, maybe he didn’t say it would be easy. Blogging my book was, in fact, one of...
How to Build an Author Website in a Day
You don’t need to hire a company to build you a website, you can do it yourself and it is easier than you think. You can learn how to build your very own professional author website.
8 Tools to Help Authors Get More Email Subscribers
Grow your author email list with these 8 powerful tools.
How to Price Your Book Using Marketing Psychology
How you price your book will impact your sales. Every price-point has a profitable strategy. Find out which one is right for your book.
Where Negative Book Reviews Come From And How to Make Them Go Away
Not all bad reviews are bad for sales. Learn how to get fewer bad reviews and how to respond to the ones you have.
Painful Book Launch Lessons You Don’t Want to Learn the Hard Way
Don’t make these four painful book launch mistakes.
COVID-19 Kindle Stats: Genre Winners and Losers
How has COVID-19 impacted the Kindle ebook market? Alex Newton answers based on the data.
How to Launch a Book in 2020
Launch your book with the help of professional coaching and a customized plan.
How to Use Metadata to Sell More Books
Joshua Tallent teaches authors how to create quality metadata to increase book sales.
Readers Are Changing What They Read (and what to do about it)
What will the future hold for authors and readers? If you pay attention, you can predict what readers will be looking for in the future.
How to Launch a Book: A Coaching Session With Krystal Proffitt
Learn how to create a plan and timeline to build your platform and successfully launch your book.
11 Places to Get Free and Legal Photos for Your Blog
If you can’t afford to buy a photo, you can’t afford the fines (or time!) that comes from stealing one. Here are 11 free & legal photo sites.
How to Start an Author Podcast
Podcasting is one of the hottest marketing techniques for authors right now and for good reason. In this episode you will learn how to start your own podcast.
How to Quiet Your Inner Editor (so you can write faster)
James L. Rubart shares ten tips to quiet your inner editor.
How to Build Your Platform During Your Social Distancing
10 ways to progress as a writer while everything else is on hold.
7 Blogs Every Author Should Follow
One of the best way to improve your writing is to learn from the best. Here are seven blogs that not only are good examples of excellent blogging but will also help you hone your craft and sell your books.
How to Get More Book Reviews with Jim Kukral
The more reviews you have, the more books you sell. And the more books you sell, the more reviews you get.
Kickstarter Tips and Tricks With Chris Fox
Learn how to run a successful crowdfunding campaign with Chris Fox.
What Indie Authors Need to Know About Kindle Unlimited with Lacy Williams
Kindle Unlimited (Affiliate Link), also called KU, is the “Netflix of ebooks.” It costs readers $9.99 per month to get unlimited access to over one million ebooks. So, is it a good idea for your book to be in Kindle Unlimited?
How to Make Your Book More Popular (Marketing Psychology: Social Proof)
The better you know what motivates readers, the better you can motivate them to read your book. This is the heart of marketing. Please use it for good.
State of the Kindle 2020
Learn about Kindle ebook trends in 2020 with Alex Newton of K-lytics.
How to Work With Fellow Authors To Sell More Books
You are not in this alone! Authors who work together sell more books than lone ranger writers.
How to Rank in Amazon Search Results with Dave Chesson
Learn Amazon SEO tips and tricks with guest Dave Chesson.
How to Use Scarcity & Ubiquity to Make Your Book Irresistible (Marketing Psychology)
Scarcity makes your book valuable, Ubiquity makes it profitable. Learn how your book can be both for maximum results.
How Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Grew Her Email List by 23k Using a Reader Quiz
Learn how Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith used an online quiz to add 23,000 new email addresses to her list in one year without spending money on advertising.
How to Create Urgency to Buy Your Book (Marketing Psychology)
The better you know what motivates readers, the better you can motivate them to read your book. This is the heart of marketing. Please use social triggers like urgency for good.
How to Optimize Your Amazon Listing with Bryan Cohen
A bad Amazon book page can hamper all your marketing efforts. Bryan Cohen tells authors how an optimized book page can drastically improve your sales.
Productivity Tips for Authors With Joanna Penn
Joanna Penn shares how to be productive in the new year.
The Enclave Files
Get a behind-the-scenes look at what a traditional publisher’s marketing director does. Find out which strategies work and which don’t.
Marketing 101: How Readers Make Buying Decisions at Physical Bookstores
The better you understand your reader’s customer journey, the more books you can sell.
Where to Find Mentorship for Your Publishing Career
Do you ever feel alone in the writing journey? Or perhaps you are not sure what to do next. You don’t need to! In this episode Thomas talks about10 different places to find mentorship and the pros and cons of each.
Literary Universe Marketing
Learn how connecting your books in a shared literary universe can help boost sales.
Print On Demand vs Offset Printing for Indie Books
Find out which printing method makes the best business sense for your book’s genre and your author career.
How to Combine 2 Different Websites Without Losing Search Rankings
Learn about the advantages of combining websites. Simplify your web maintenance and improve your online visibility the right way.
Why Demographics are Mostly Useless And Why You Should Use Psychographics Instead
In this episode we talk about why demographics are mostly useless and why you should use psychographics instead.
How to Use Marketing Data To Sell More Books
You’ve collected data from your website, social media campaigns, and previous sales, but how does that data help your future book sales?
Public Speaking for the Introverted Writer with Joanna Penn
Joanna Penn gives introverted writers tips and courage for overcoming fear of public speaking.
Bookstagramming on Instagram With Nadine Brandes
Bookstagraming on Instagram With Nadine Brandes
How to Get Booked for Guest Podcast Interviews Overview
Sell more books with these tips to becoming a sought-after podcast guest.
How to Run a Podcast Tour (With Guest Mary DeMuth)
Uncover the power of a podcast tour in reaching new audiences. Learn from veteran author Mary DeMuth about effective podcast strategies.
90% of Top USA Today Bestselling Authors Have a Podcast Presence
Literary Agent Steve Laube recently released a blog post showing that 100% of ECPA Bestselling authors had a podcast presence as either hosts or guests. 60% were both hosts and guests! We were curious to see how many authors on the USA Today Bestseller List had a...
Where to Spend Your Marketing Dollars
Where to Spend Your Marketing Dollars
How to Go From 10 to 10,000 Readers in Five Years
How to Go From 10 to 10,000 Readers in Five Years
How to Pick a Social Network as an Author (Infographic)
How to Pick Which Social Network Is Best For You
Focus, Pruning and Why Novel Marketing is About to Change
Cutting activities from your life and business might be the most important move you’ll ever make to increase your growth.
Book Marketing Milestones
Book Marketing Milestones
How to Create a Landing Page
Eight tips and tools for creating effective landing pages that will build your email list and your connection to your readers.
Book Marketing 101: How to Price Your Ebook
Book Marketing 101: How to Price Your Ebook
200th Episode Celebration
Celebration
How to Create a Design Brief for Your Book Cover
Help your cover designer create the best possible book cover by providing a design brief document. Learn what to include and avoid.
How to Protect Yourself from Counterfeiting and Other Amazon Attacks
Learn how to protect yourself from counterfeiting and other attacks on Amazon.
How To Sell A Ton More Books With Public Speaking
Public speaking is a skill authors can learn and improve. Here are six tips for connecting with your readers by becoming a better speaker.
How to Add a Hyperlink in WordPress
There are two ways to add a hyperlink to a Wordpress post. I’ll teach you both.
Plagiarism, Copyright and Is Piracy Really a Problem for Authors?
Plagiarism, Copyright and Is Piracy Really a Problem for Authors? Find out what you can do if your book is pirated.
How to Work With Brick and Mortar Bookstores
How to Work With Bookstores
What to Do When Your Book is Not Selling
If your book isn’t selling well, Thomas and Jim will help you discover the problem and then show you how to fix it.
How to Create Powerful Ads for Authors Who Hate Math! with Chris Fox
Before you advertise your book online, find out which parts of your ad are most important and which ad platform will work best for your book.
Marketing 101: Ten Advertising Terms You Need to Know
Your advertising will be more efficient and effective when you understand these ten advertising terms for authors.
How to Track Your Book Promotion
Learn how to measure the results of your book marketing efforts with these online tools and dashboards.
How to Navigate the Mailchimp Explosion!
How to Navigate the Mailchimp Explosion!
How to Use Bookbub to Sell More Books with David Gaughran
Learn how BookBub can help you as a reader and how BookBub ads can help any author sell more books.
How to Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch for Your Book
Learn how to talk about your book in a concise, compelling way that will interest publishing professionals and make readers want to buy.
How One Author Used Her Shelved Manuscript to Get a 3 Book Deal
How One Author Used Her Shelved Manuscript to Get a 3 Book Deal
How to Get A Publishing Board To Buy Your Book
If you want to be traditionally published, you need to know these 6 decision-makers and which part of your proposal matters to each.
The 5 Best Free WordPress Plugins for Authors
Make your author website easier for readers to find and more fun to visit by using the 5 best free plugins for WordPress websites.
How To Keep Writing When You’re Scared About What Others Will Think
How To Keep Writing When You’re Scared About What Others Will Think
How to Work with Editors: Insights from One of the Best in the Business
Discover valuable tips on how to work with an editor and build a thriving author-editor relationship for better writing.
Author Taglines With Brandilyn Collins
Author Taglines With Brandilyn Collins
How to Use Your Book’s Back Matter to Sell More Books
Learn how to use your book’s back matter to sell more books and grow your email list.
How to Sell More Books Using Bookmarks and Business Cards
Learn how to make the best use of two important printed marketing tools.
How to Find and Work with Beta Readers
Find out why you need beta readers and how to assemble a team to provide feedback that will improve your book.
Marketing 101: Twelve Marketing Terms Every Author Must Understand
Marketing 101: Twelve Marketing Terms Every Author Must Understand
How to Get Your First Speaking Gigs
One of the best ways to sell books is to speak in person at live events. Here are three steps to booking your first speaking gigs.
How to Grow Your Email List With Book Sweeps
Authors learn how to build an email list without breaking the bank, and how to build a relationship with their new subscribers.
How David Rawlings Broke Into the US Market Despite Living Overseas (Case Study)
Australian novelist David Rawlings secured an American agent and publisher from 7,500 miles away. In this article, he shares his best tips for new authors.
How You Can Create Massive PR for Yourself, Even If You’re A Complete Novice
Unlock the secrets of author PR and publicity. Learn effective strategies that even novices can implement without breaking the bank.
How to Create a Written Book Launch Plan
One critical element of a successful book launch is your written book launch plan. Find out what your plan should include and when to schedule your tasks.
Bonus Book Launch Q&A
In this special bonus episode of Novel Marketing, we answer YOUR book launch and book marketing questions. You can watch a video version of the Q&A below.
Marketing 101: How to Create a Value Proposition for Your Book
How to Create a Value Proposition for Your Book (Marketing 101)
How To Split Test Your Book Title Ideas With Facebook Ads
Learn how to use reliable scientific data to help you choose the best title, cover, or blurb for your book.
How to Maintain Your Platform In-Between Books
How to Maintain Your Platform In-Between Books
Your Best Year Yet With Susan May Warren
Plan your year by planning your days. Susan May Warren share her strategies with authors struggling to get it all done.
Highlights from 2018
Highlights from 2018
How James L. Rubart Went From Rejected and Unpublished to Bestselling Author
How James L. Rubart Went From Rejected and Unpublished to Bestselling Author
How to Use Facebook To Promote Your Book
In this episode we are going to talk about the right way to use Facebook to sell more books! Last week we talked about why Facebook is overrated for book marketing, but we didn’t say it’s completely useless, so today we’re going to talk about the ways Facebook CAN...
Why Facebook is Overrated for Book Marketing
Why Facebook is Overrated for Book Marketing
How to Sound Great As a Podcast Guest
Are you scheduled to come on a podcast as a guest? If you want to be invited back, or appear on any other podcast interviews for that matter, you need to have good audio. Many authors make the mistake of using their laptop's microphone and speakers. This will...
Ghostwriting 101 with Arlene Gale
How Ghostwriting Works, and How it Can Make you Money
How to Get 10,000 Readers and then Keep Them Happy
Learn the keys to keeping your email subscribers happy and entertained in this interview with bestselling author Susan May Warren.
Snowflake Method With Randy Ingermanson
Learn how to use the Snowflake Method to write a novel as well as enhance your storytelling and improve your marketing strategies.
How to Take Charge of Your Author Career
Find out what you need to know before you pursue a publishing path and how to be a productive writer once you begin.
Amazon Book Ads – Everything You Need to Know with Brian Berni
Amazon Book Ads – Everything You Need to Know – Date
How to Create an Online Author Press Kit
Find out why authors need a press kit and what to include in yours.
Six Things Readers are Looking for on Your Website
Seven Things Readers are Looking for on Your Website
How to Boost Book Sales With Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs)
In this episode we are going to talk about the best things you can do with your Advanced Reader Copies of your book …
How Fiverr Freelancers Can Help You Sell More Books
In this episode, we are going to talk about how you as an author can use Fiverr to sell more books and improve the quality of your books.
How to Host a Facebook Live For Your Book
In this episode, we talk about how to host a live video on Facebook to promote your next book launch. It is easy to look and sound amazing on Facebook Live!
How to Write 5000 Words an Hour with Chris Fox
Writing more books helps you make more money. But most authors write slow! Chris Fox shares 5 steps to faster and better writing.
How to Write to Market With Chris Fox
In this episode, we talk about how to write to market with Chris Fox an incredibly successful indie author of both fiction and nonfiction.
The Launch Your Book Blueprint
Your book is finished. Polished. Ready for the world to read. But then the questions enter your mind, yes, those questions … how do I launch my novel in the most impactful way possible? How do I do it without feeling overwhelmed? And where do I find the time? We get...
150 – A Blueprint on How to Launch Your Book
In this episode, we talk about a new course we’ve released that will help you launch your book in a way that will rocket it to success.
How To Set up Pre-Orders for Your Indie Book
When should indie authors offer a preorder on Amazon, and when is it a bad idea? An indie author answers and shares how to set up a preorder.
148 – How to Get Libraries to Buy Your Indie Book, with Lacy Williams
In this episode, we talk with Lacy Williams about how to get libraries to buy your indie books using services like Overdrive and Draft2Digital.
What We Can Learn from The Greatest Book on Marketing Ever Written
Announcements: We’re $4 away from hitting our next Patreon goal. With this level we will start providing full transcripts for each episode. We just need one person to back at the $5 level to push us over the edge. Just as a reminder, $5 Patrons receive: Warm feelings,...
How to Spot a Publishing Scam
In this Novel Marketing Podcast episode, we are going to talk about publishing scams and how to avoid them. Don’t get bamboozled by a charlatan!
How to Create a Reader (Lead) Magnet
A reader magnet is a prize your readers get in exchange for giving you their email. They can dramatically improve how fast your email list grows.
144 – How to Build an Amazing Author Website for $459.20
You know you need a website, but you don't have one yet. We received an email from Mary Hamilton, a listener of the Novel Marketing podcast, who said dealing with her website was her writing pet peeve. "My biggest peeve is my website. I'm not techy enough to...
Book Marketing 101: Author Advertising
Learn four advertising fundamentals that apply when buying ads on Facebook, Amazon, Goodreads, and anywhere you buy advertising.
Marketing 101: How to Develop Book Marketing Assets
Learn how to reduce book marketing liabilities and develop assets. The more assets you have, the easier it is to sell books.
141 – Amazon Books and the Future of Brick and Mortar Retail
In this episode, we talk about Amazon’s brick and mortar bookstores, the future of paper books, and how they affect you as an author.
139 – How to Think Like a Business, Stay Motivated, And Write With Joy w/ Chad Allen
In this episode, talk about ways you can be more effective in your marketing, in your approach to the business of publishing and how to stay motivated when you feel like giving up, with special guest, Chad Allen.
Why American Authors Don’t Need to Worry About GDPR
Learn what GDPR is, why Americans don’t need to worry about it, and why you may want to follow it anyway. TL;DR: The EU is not the government of the world and it can’t force Americans to do anything. But you should follow some of the regulations anyway.
136 – How to Use K-lytics To Sell More Kindle eBooks
The more you understand how readers find, and how and why they buy books on Amazon, the more books you’re going to sell. And to help us dive deep into the subject is today’s guest, Alex Newton, the CEO and Founder of K-Lytics.com
New Podcast: Creative Funding Show
We are launching a new podcast! The Creative Funding Show is a podcast where Author Media CEO, Thomas Umstattd interview Authors, YouTubers, and Podcasters who are funding their creativity using platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter. You will also...
How to Start a Local Writers Group
Joining a writers group will take your writing to a new level faster. Learn how to start one in your area.
How to Relaunch a Book With Chris Fox
How to use the relaunch strategy to revive sales on your old novels.
How to Find and Work with an Editor
A great book needs a great editor. Learn how to find and work with an exceptional editor with special guest Karen Ball.
How to Increase Your Email Delivery
Email is the most powerful tool for selling books. But it only works if your emails arrive in reader’s inboxes successfully.
130 – Myths Authors Believe
In this episode, we are going to talk about a few of the myths and lies writers are prone to believe which can derail us or send us in wrong directions or keep us from going in the direction we should be headed.
How to Build an Email List Before Your First Book Comes Out Using Short Stories
Are you putting the cart before the horse? Learn how to build your email list before your book comes out by writing short stories.
How to Blog Your Book
Learn how to blog your nonfiction book and what traps and pitfalls to avoid. Here’s what you need to turn your posts into an amazing book.
128 – Taking Novel Marketing to the Next Level
Show Outline Introduction: Episode 1 was on Oct 7, 2013 A lot has happened over the last four and a half years. Jim has won half a dozen book awards Thomas spent time as the marketing director for a publishing company. We went a couple of years only posting every...
What’s New in MyBookTable 3.1
MyBookTable, the most popular bookstore plugin on WordPress, just got better. MyBookTable 3.1 comes with several new features, including some that were previously available only in the paid Pro and Dev versions. Here's what's new. Added Universal Buy Button to...
How to Connect with Anyone in the World
In this episode, we talk about connecting with anyone in the world that you want to. In the last two episodes, we talked about why Word of Mouth is not working and How to Make Word of Mouth Work for You by connecting with Mavens, Connectors, and Salespeople. But HOW do you meet these people?
How to Make Word of Mouth Work for You
In this episode, we talk about how you can make Word of Mouth work for you. Spoiler Alert: some people are more important to spreading your idea than others. Find out who those people are and how to reach them.
125 – Why Word of Mouth Isn’t Working for Your Book
v In this episode of the Novel Marketing podcast, we’re going to talk about what has been consistently cited as the number one way to sell books … Word of Mouth. You’ve heard that, yes? Studies have shown that Word of Mouth sells more books than any other marketing...
124 – How to be a Healthy Writer with Joanna Penn
Bestselling author Joanna Penn shares how you can reduce your pain, improve your health, and build a writing career for the long term.
123 – What the New Facebook Changes Mean for Authors
The 2018 changes to Facebook are changing what works and what doesn’t work for authors and books. Listen to this episode to learn how to make Facebook work for your writing.
122 – How the 2018 Tax Changes Affect Authors
In this episode, we talk with an author-friendly CPA about the impact of the new 2018 tax plan on authors. This is the biggest change to the tax code since the 1980s. Come April 15 you will be glad you listened to this episode!
Email Marketing for Humans with Bryan Cohen
Email Marketing is the #1 tool for driving book sales. In this episode we talk with Bryan Cohan about how to craft the kinds of emails that readers want to see.
What Facebook’s 2018 Change Means for Authors
On January 11th, 2018 Facebook announced massive changes to what content people will see. Here is a detailed analysis of the new Facebook changes and what they mean for authors
How to Get to Know Your Readers
Knowing your readers allows you to connect with them through your writing and marketing. These 5 tools will help you understand your readers.
119 Working with Beta Readers, Crowdfunding, and More with Curt Iles
In this episode, we’re not going to be talking theory, but real-world examples of an author using the principles we talk about on Novel Marketing.
Book Marketing 101: Marketing Funnels
When you don’t have good book sales, evaluate your marketing funnel. Learn how to create a process that converts.
117 – How to Plan a Successful New Year with Tracy Higley
A strategic plan is crucial for your success as an author. Learn how to assess your resources and find motivation to achieve your writing dream.
116 Important Changes GoodReads Giveaways
GoodReads giveaways, one of the most cost-effective book promotion tactics, are changing. Here’s everything you need to know about giving away books on GoodReads.
115 – Why Traditional Authors should NEVER pay for marketing
Publishers pressure novelists to build a platform. Many authors see spending money on book marketing as part of the job. Here’s why that’s a mistake.
114 – Five Kinds of Author Homepages
Different kinds of authors need different things from their home pages. Make sure you have the right kind of homepage for your author website.
113 – Content Marketing With Joanna Penn
New York Times Bestselling Indie Author Joanna Penn talks about how novelists can use content marketing to promote your book.
Where to Build Your Platform As an Unpublished Novelist
Now is the best time to start building your platform. Learn what to work on and what not to waste your time on.
How to Write Bestselling Back Cover Copy
Your book’s front cover may get someone’s attention, but the back cover copy gets their money. That copy can make or break your marketing efforts. Learn how to write amazing copy.
110 – 11 Ways Proven to Draw Readers to Your Novel’s Website
In this podcast episode, we tell you what will thrill your readers on your author website and make them want to come back.
12 Chrome Extensions Every Author Needs
If you’re using regular Chrome you are missing out. In this episode, we talk about 12 extensions to help make you a more productive, better writer.
How Free Pulsing Can Help You Sell More Books with Jamie Foley
Free pulsing is a special way to make your book free for one day that can dramatically boost book sales. But only if you do it correctly.
Book Cover Mistakes That Sabotage Sales
Any one of these 11 book cover mistakes could ruin all your other book marketing efforts. Learn how to avoid them.
10 Things Every Book Cover Needs
Your book cover is your biggest marketing asset. It can make or break your book. In this episode, we discuss the necessary elements for a successful cover.
105 – How to Sell More Books With Amazon Ads
In this episode, we a talk with best-selling author Lacy William about how she uses Amazon Advertisements to sell more books.
104 – How to Independently Publish Your Book
Here is a step by step overview of how to take your book from idea to reality.
10 Common Author Homepage Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Author’s make a lot of mistakes with their homepages. Here is how to avoid them and create a homepage that works.
Why Mastermind Groups Give Bestselling Authors an Edge and How to Start One
The right author mastermind group will accelerate your education, craft, and career. Find out how to start and run an effective mastermind group.
Episode 100 LIVE Extravaganza
Q Evelyn Williamson is going to kick us off with three questions. She says, “I’m working on my first novel and would like to know how much money I need once I publish … to promote my book. Also, she’ like to know what kinds of things are acceptable expenses to write...
099 – Three Marketing Mindsets We Suggest You Adopt For the Rest of the Year
Just a little over halfway through the year, it’s that time where many of us do an inventory check … and look at what we need to adjust for the rest of the year. We’re not going to call these second half resolutions, because these are not have tos … so you don't get...
7 Tips for Best Selling Author Portraits
Seven tips to help you create an author portrait that captures your authentic self and communicates your brand.
097 – Major Mistakes You Might Be Making With Your Author Name
Learn how to choose a good author name. James L. Rubart shares the mistakes he made with his author name so you can avoid make them yourself.
096 – How to Turn Your Book Into An Audiobook
Learn about tools and options for turning your book into an audiobook.
7 Reasons Why Your Book Should Also Be An Audiobook
Most books don’t end up as audiobooks and I think this is a huge marketing mistake for the following reasons.
094 – How to Use the Ancient Power of Discipline to Accomplish Your Goals
Ten tips to help writers you stay disciplined throughout the year so you can meet your writing goals.
093 – What Authors Can Learn from Bad Super Bowl Ads
Intro Paragraph: Expensive, but the REACH is unparalleled. 1967 the cost was $42,000 for a 30. Today 5 million Spending that kind of money means you have to create a great ad Talking Points: Seahawks One of the biggest TV shows in the world If you...
The 5-Year Plan To Become A Bestselling Novelist
Do you have “the dream”? If you love writing fiction, you don’t need to tell me “the dream” is to get published and hit the bestseller list. I know that’s it; I get it. I’ve been there.
092 – The Guaranteed Way to Become A Bestselling Novelist
There are no shortcuts to becoming a bestselling author, but there is a road map. Discover the route to publication that will keep you on track.
What The Election Can Teach Us About Copywriting for Your Book
So don't worry. This post isn't going to be about the insanity we all just went through. Yeah, I know ... whew. But the campaign season that just ended can teach us a salient point about our own copywriting. What works, what doesn't. Trump didn't win the election,...
090 – Q&A Extravaganza #7
Q Cadel Sterling says, “I found a local, self-published author, with a really cool sounding book premise, and I bought his e-book and told him I'd review it. It stinks. Just awful. Painful to read. So, what do I do now? Hide and pretend I never read it, or honestly...
089 – How To Use the Power of Video to Engage More Readers
Intro Paragraph: In case you haven’t noticed, using videos as part of marketing is exploding. USA Today, everywhere else as well. So how do we as authors get on this train and use it to engage readers more deeply? Talking Points: 1. Why Video? YouTube-the greatest...
13 Ways to Scare Readers Away from Your Book’s Website
Few things scare readers more than bad author website design. Here are 13 proven ways to scare people away from your book website.
How to Pick Your Genre
If you’re trying to pick a genre or considering writing in several, this episode will help you determine which path is best for you.
085 – How to Sell More Books with MyBookTable 3
What is MyBookTable? WordPress Plugin Sell More Books New Features in the Free version MyBookTable 3 Updated Look MyBookTable book pages have been redesigned to be prettier, more mobile-friendly, and conversion-optimized. If you prefer the classic look, don’t worry--...
MyBookTable 3 is Here
The #1 WordPress Bookstore Plugin is about to get even better with Kindle Instant Preview, International Mode and Landing Page Mode.
084 – How to Create A Breakthrough Author Brand Step 4 – Look in Your Reader’s Mirror
Most authors never reach the fourth level of building a brand. Find out what makes fourth-tier branding possible for authors.
How to Get an Agent With Rachelle Gardner
Find out what literary agents are looking for in new authors and how you can increase your chances of signing with an agent.
082 – How to Get an Agent
Find out how to get an agent and leverage their expertise in the publishing industry. Learn how a great agent can boost your career.
7 Website Visitors Every Author Needs to Thrill
Instead of discussing what you need to do for your website, we will profile the seven different kinds of readers who visit and how you can thrill them. If you can thrill them, they'll leave your website happy and may even purchase a copy of your book. Each visitor I...
080 – Q & A Extravaganza
Intro Paragraph: (Thomas) Our first question comes from Runescape Gold dot com. No, that’s not his name but he or she didn’t give one. But I love this question. Do I have the guts to quit my job? Dave Smale I know it's never a good idea to get a friend (or a...
MyBookProgress 1.0 is Here!
I have a confession to make. Most author websites irritate me. I read a lot of books and the primary reason I visit an author's website is to check on the progress of their current Work In Progress. Not a single author website (other than Brandon Sanderson's) had a...
How to Write a Crazy Cool Author Bio
Ten tips to help you write a bio that your audience will enjoy and remember.
078 – How To Become a Career Writer Part 4: How to Make Money With Your Knowledge & Celebrity
Explore ways for authors to monetize their expertise. Discover creative methods to boost your earnings in the writing industry.
077 – How To Become a Career Writer Part 3: Make Maximum Money with Your Writing Skills
Discover various ways to make money by writing beyond just publishing books. Learn to monetize your writing skills effectively.
076 – How To Become a Career Writer Part 2: Make Maximum Money on Your Book
Dismantle the myth of the starving artist and discover how to maximize profit on book sales with practical strategies.
075 – How To Become a Career Writer Part 1: Think Like a Business
Maximize your efficiency and your profits by thinking of yourself as a business and delegating necessary tasks.
When Your Writing Career is Re-Storied
I had big dreams a decade ago. On the cusp of moving overseas to start a church in France, I landed two publishing contracts. Part of my worry of moving over there involved the very real fear that my publishing career would tank before it even started. Thankfully,...
How to Double Book Profits Through Affiliate Revenue
Find out which online retailers have affiliate programs and which help you earn the best commission rate on book sales.
MyBookTable 2.2 is Here! Now with Updated B&N Affiliate Support, iTunes, AISN and more
We are excited to announce MyBookTable 2.2, which comes with the following features. Barnes & Noble CJ Affiliate Support & Migration Barnes and Noble has changed from Linkshare to Commission Junction (also known as CJ Affiliates). All the old affiliate links...
Barnes & Noble Has Ended its Affiliate Program (and what to do about it)
Barnes & Noble has announced that it has ended its affiliate relationship with Rakuten Linkshare and is moving to Commission Junction Affiliates by Conversant. Unlike Amazon and iTunes, Barnes & Noble outsources its affiliate program to a 3rd party. So, this...
How To Set Realistic Writing Goals For 2016
Want to write a book in 2016? Great! But it will never happen unless you are realistic. Here’s how to set realistic writing goals for 2016.
How to Grow Your Email List from 0 to 10,000
If you offer readers something they want for free, they’ll be happy to sign up for your email list. Learn 9 ways to invite them to sign up.
071 – How To Find a Good Editor
The importance of good editing can’t be overstated. Find out what kind of editor you need and where to find one.
Cyber Monday Deals from Author Media
We are excited to announce the following Cyber Monday deals: MyBookProgress: $5 FREE We are offering the base version of MyBookProgress for free for Black Friday. More Info | Download | Buy Upgrade MyBookTable: 50% off A WordPress plugin to boost your book...
070 — Q&A Lightning Round
Denica McCall, author of Flowers in the Darkness Question: While I do write novels, I have just put out a poetry book(my first published book). The book is partly being used to raise funds for a local organization fighting human trafficking. What I'm wondering is,...
069 – How to Stand Out When Your Name Fits In
Tips for choosing an author name that stands out and finding a matching domain name.
068 – Where to Spend Your Marketing Money
Episode 068 – Where to Spend Your Marketing Money (3790) We often discuss what not to spend your money on, and we feature free marketing techniques. In this article, we'll answer a question from Erica Borgerson, author of The Lazy Girl Guide to Healthy...