Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast

Send us a Text Message. Despite all the information that's out there, it never fails to surprise us how many folks get it absolutely wrong when it comes to what it takes to succeed, and what are outdated guidelines, ideas, and mindsets. In this episode we comb through a recent article from Esquire magazine that sheds light on the struggles debut authors face in today's literary world. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the industry's landscape and equip yourself with knowledge that could make all the difference in your author journey. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of we take a serious look at the Amazon Bestseller flag and unravel the myths behind this iconic orange banner. Many authors dream of that coveted orange "bestseller" banner gracing their book covers, but how do you actually get it? And more importantly, is it always a guaranteed indicator of success? Join us as we delve into the truths and misconceptions surrounding the Amazon bestseller status. We'll discuss the criteria, the challenges, and the realities of achieving this elusive flag. We'll also reveal why you should be wary of anyone promising a guaranteed bestseller title. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. A few weeks ago you may have heard about Romance Writers of America (RWA) filing for bankruptcy - they aren't going away, per se, just reorganizing. And you may have thought this doesn't matter to you - but it does. This single development that holds significant implications for the entire writing community, so we're talking about the vital role organizations like RWA play in the literary world, from advocacy and support to networking and learning opportunities. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. This is our third most downloaded episode of all time! Why do we think it's popular? Because being an author can be exhausting, and most of us don't have time to waste on marketing efforts that don't produce results. And social media is typically at the top of the list of time-wasters, at least when it comes to moving the needle on sales and reviews. If you're ready to say goodbye to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, let's learn how to forge your success off of the social media hamster wheel! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode we break down the recent announcement that Costco will no longer be carrying books in their warehouses—a decision with significant implications for authors. You may have heard this and thought it doesn't matter to you, but it does, and we'll unpack why. We’ll also explore the discouraging trend of shrinking shelf space and delve into the reasons behind the dwindling presence of books in big box stores. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode we tackle the challenging yet essential topic of recouping your book creation and marketing investment. Many authors face the harsh reality of under-planning and overspending during production, only to find themselves without the funds needed for aggressive marketing in an extremely competitive market. With 11,000 books being published every day, making a serious go at this requires a strategic approach. Join us as we dive into the major issues that prevent authors from recovering their investments. We'll cover what you need to be aware of, how to prepare effectively, and highlight some expensive pitfalls to avoid. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this exciting episode we're breaking away from traditional book marketing methods and exploring innovative, fun, and often easy-to-implement strategies to boost your book sales. If you're looking to make a splash in the literary world, don't miss this! We’ll delve into unique venues for book events and sales that go beyond the bookstore, discuss the benefits and tactics of selling books in bulk, and reveal a host of other creative ideas that can help you reach new audiences. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this eye-opening episode we dive into Amazon’s latest updates that are shaking up the way book descriptions are managed on the platform. For authors who use Author Central, these changes are crucial to understand if you want to keep your book pages in top form. Join us as we discuss how these updates can impact your book’s visibility and sales, and provide actionable tips to navigate the new system effectively. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is must-know information to help you stay ahead in the competitive world of publishing. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to a pivotal episode of our show where we shine a spotlight on a crucial aspect of the publishing process: how your name appears on Amazon. Join us as we dissect the intricacies that can make or break an author's visibility and success on the world's largest online retail marketplace. From the complexities of incorporating titles like PhD to the impact of middle initials and even spacing, we explore how seemingly small details can have significant repercussions on your book's discoverability and sales potential. Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned pro, this episode is essential listening for anyone looking to maximize their success in the competitive world of book publishing. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. Are you marketing to the wrong audience? As authors, we often find ourselves inadvertently targeting the wrong demographic, because while the reader may be obvious, they're not always the individuals buying or recommending (or gifting) your book. Join us as we unravel the complexities of audience targeting, uncover common pitfalls and offer practical strategies to ensure you're reaching the right audience for your work. From identifying your true buyers to navigating less obvious markets, we provide actionable insights to help you refine your marketing approach and connect with those who matter most. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode we're talking about book endorsements, getting them, timing them, and what to do with them once they start coming in. Whether you're a seasoned author or a newbie, you're going to want our tips and advice! We'll explore the strategies and tactics for identifying the ideal personalities to lend their credibility to your work and outline the dos and don'ts of making your pitch. We'll also tackle the pros and cons of delaying your book release in pursuit of coveted endorsements. Is patience truly a virtue, or is there merit in striking while the iron is hot? Let's make your book the talk of the town – one endorsement at a time! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this week's episode, we're unpacking the crucial role of Nonfiction Amazon retail pages. Join us for an in-depth exploration of the pitfalls and common mistakes that can hinder your success in the competitive world of online retail. From lackluster descriptions to uninspiring visuals, we'll highlight the key areas you need to focus on to ensure your Amazon page stands out from the crowd. Plus, we'll share our top five must-do strategies for crafting a compelling Amazon retail page that transforms casual browsers into eager buyers. Whether you're a seasoned author or new to the publishing game, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you maximize your book's potential on the world's largest online marketplace. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode Penny and Amy, the dynamic duo behind a successful book marketing and PR firm, invite listeners to join them for an intimate peek behind the curtain of their collaborative journey. While their chemistry is often praised, it's their ability to navigate different visions for growth that has been a cornerstone of their success. In this revealing episode, Penny and Amy share both triumphs and pitfalls with unfiltered, humorous honesty. But this isn't just a recounting of past experiences—it's a treasure trove of lessons learned. Penny and Amy delve into the invaluable insights gained from their shared challenges, offering practical wisdom authors can resonate with as well. Through candid anecdotes they showcase the power of assessing any new business building or marketing endeavor from multiple angles. This episode promises to leave you entertained and informed, whether you're a new author fresh out of the gate, or a veteran with a dozen books already published, you'll gain insight, wisdom and inspiration to inspire your success! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this week's episode, we chat about connecting with the elusive reader who seems to dwell beyond the realms of mainstream social media platforms. Even though the digital age is dominating how a lot of us consume content, not every reader can be found scrolling through Instagram reels or TikTok videos. So how do they find the books they buy, and how can authors tap into a market demographic that tends to read prolifically and has disposable income? From unconventional platforms to grassroots efforts, we uncover where readers congregate away from the glare of social media. Whether you're an aspiring author seeking to establish your readership or a seasoned vet navigating the ever-shifting currents of the publishing world, this episode is your guide to unlocking the untapped potential of the hard-to-reach reader. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. Not everyone talks about it, but all authors want to sell books. And we know a lot of you secretly (or not so secretly) would love to make enough to be a full-time author. But is achieving significant sales still a possibility? The surprising answer lies in the realm of self-publishing, where a lot of successful authors are find their footing. Join us as we go through some suprising statistics and dissect the advantages that heavily favor self-published authors in today's dynamic market. From increased creative control to streamlined publishing processes, discover why this avenue has become a beacon of opportunity for aspiring bestselling authors. Plus we've got some solid "rags to riches" examples to remind you anything is possible if you know how to write a great book and you put in the work! Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. This is another listener request and we're talking about trigger words that could potentially result in your hard-earned reviews being pulled from your retail page. We chat about the fine line between what reviewers should say to maintain authenticity and what words they should tactfully avoid to ensure their reviews don't get flagged or worse, their accounts blacklisted. And what's your role as an author? You must lead this charge! It's your responsibility to stay on top of industry standards so your readers feel confident supporting your brand. We'll share tips on effectively communicating with your readers and potential reviewers, and fostering genuine engagement while steering clear of any violations of Amazon's terms of service. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. Have you ever wondered why some books seem to effortlessly rack up Amazon reviews while others struggle to even get noticed? This week we're unveiling a secret strategy that savvy authors have been using to bolster their review numbers. We chat about the art of prompting reviews from your readers in a way that feels natural and seamless. It's a genius tactic that surprisingly few authors employ, but the results speak for themselves. From crafting the perfect call-to-action to timing it just right, we'll guide you through the basics of this simple and FREE strategy. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. This week we're talking about literary agents. Who they are, what they do, and whether you really need one. We'll explore the ins and outs of literary representation, breaking down the roles and responsibilities of literary agents, and shedding light on the services they provide for authors. We'll also discuss the darker side of the industry, including common scams to avoid and red flags to watch out for when seeking representation. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. Join us in this week's episode as we chat about the latest innovation from Amazon: the Virtual Voice. Imagine a world where authors can transform their written words into audiobooks using artificial intelligence. FOR FREE. It's a game-changer for indie authors, but what does it mean for the future of storytelling and the traditional audiobook industry? Is this advancement a boon for indie authors seeking accessibility and affordability in audiobook production, or does it signal a threat to the livelihood of professional narrators? Maybe it's a little of both. Join us as we weigh the pros and cons, and offer insights into the evolving landscape of audiobook production and consumption. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, we take a peek behind the curtain and dive into the sometimes harsh realities of the publishing world, shedding light on the obstacles that can slow an author's rise to the top – and sharing insights on how to avoid them. While we love authors who dream big, keeping expectations in check is essential. Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a bummer episode but rather a discussion of actionable things authors can do to avoid wasting precious time and resources on futile pursuits. From the allure of quick-fix marketing campaigns to the importance of reader reviews and social proof, we dissect the common traps authors fall into when seeking book success and we offer ideas for the right steps to take. Ultimately, this episode serves as a reality check for aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and strategic thinking in navigating the treacherous path to literary success. So, if you're an author with big dreams of hitting the big leagues, tune in to learn how to avoid the pitfalls and keep climbing toward your goals. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team at www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast