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Join Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell for fun and frank discussions packed with clever ideas, easy-to-implement book marketing strategies, and critical publishing industry knowledge and insight! Designed to help self-published authors and traditionally published authors at any level, the Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast will definitely inspire you with new ideas for how to sell books, grow your platform, and make strategic business decisions as an author. Subscribe today and ta ...
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Book Promotion Podcast: Book Marketing Tips for Indie Authors and Book Publishers
Bob Baker, Full-time indie author and book publisher
Full-time author Bob Baker shares his best advice on book marketing and publishing, online book promotion and sales, social media optimization, and more. Visit FullTimeAuthor.com for more info.
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In this unabashedly honest episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the rookie mistakes that can make authors look like amateurs—and even open them up to being taken advantage of. From networking missteps to pitching for reviews or media consideration, we’re covering the blunders that cost time, money, and reputation. Everyone starts as a newbie,…
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It seems like now, more than ever, scammers and hacks are everywhere. Penny can't go a week without someone offering to "turn her book into a movie" and if you've listened for a while, you know how we feel about that! In today’s world of book publishing, scammers and inexperienced providers are everywhere, and knowing who to trust can be tough. In …
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Like Amazon, Goodreads is cracking down on spam and bot author accounts, many of which are producing subpar AI generated content — but protecting the platform means adding a stricter vetting process before authors get to network with readers. In this urgent episode, we dive deep into these changes with insights from Amy, our resident Goodreads expe…
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We thought we'd drop in with another urgent Amazon PSA! Amazon delays can be a nightmare for authors, especially when everything is set for a carefully planned launch day, and your book still hasn’t gone live. Recently, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform has been experiencing lengthy approval delays, sometimes taking weeks to process …
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Struggling to get media attention for your book? You’re not alone. In today’s ever-changing media landscape, landing interviews and features has become more difficult than ever. In this episode, we dig into the reasons why it’s so hard to get a “yes” and more importantly, what you can do to change that. We’ll reveal strategies for cutting through t…
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Audiobooks are all the rage, but are you truly ready to dive in? In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of the audiobook world, revealing why it’s not as simple as it seems. Yes, thanks to AI it’s easier (and cheaper) than ever to create an audiobook, and with its booming popularity, the revenue potential is tempting—but rushing in could be…
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In this episode we’re exploring a unique but underutilized strategy that even the biggest publishers swear by—having a backup book cover! Join us as we dive into why our very own author, Marlene Bell, is always prepared with a second cover, and why you should be, too. We'll share her experience and how her sleuthing around the strategies of major p…
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We’re dropping a special, urgent episode into your feed! Amazon is cracking down hard on claims like "100,000 books sold" and "Amazon bestseller" and even "Award-winning author." If you’ve used these statements on your cover, your book description or author bio - really anywhere on your retail page - this is a must-listen episode. We’re breaking do…
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Don’t let the wrong vendors hold you back! We're talking about finding the best service providers for your book project. From choosing the right cover and interior designers, to selecting the perfect website developer, we’re giving you all the inside knowledge to avoid the common (and costly) mistakes authors often make. We’ll discuss key questions…
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In this eye-opening episode, we’re tackling one of the most underrated tools in your book marketing arsenal: your Amazon author bio. Could this often-overlooked section be costing you book sales? Quite possibly! Many authors leave their bios as an afterthought, but it’s a vital piece of the puzzle that can either engage readers or turn them away. J…
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We're taking a deep dive into the world of publishers—what they can do for authors, and more importantly, what they can’t. We'll explore the benefits of working with a publisher, the potential drawbacks, and why choosing to work with one could either boost or hinder your success. Join us for a frank and honest conversation that will help you make i…
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We're tackling the Author Success Checklist—a crucial exercise that helps identify any issues preventing your book from reaching its full potential. And this isn’t your typical to-do list. Instead, it’s a thoughtful evaluation that ensures both your book and your author brand are as polished and market-ready as possible. Inspired by a call with an …
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In this episode, we're diving into the world of author tools—those must-have apps, time-saving shortcuts, and money-saving methods that can make a huge difference in your author journey. We'll share our favorite tools that every author should consider, highlighting why we love them and how they can boost your productivity. But it doesn't stop there…
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We're shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of indie bookstores. These hidden gems are more than just places to buy books—they're vibrant communities that can play a crucial role in your book's success. We'll explore why indie bookstores matter, how to build relationships with them, and actionable steps to get your book onto their shelv…
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Join us in this exciting episode as we bring one of our most popular blog posts to life! We're unpacking the best book marketing strategies that every author should have in their toolkit. Whether you're looking to spark new ideas or re-evaluate your current approach, we've got you covered. We talk about the tactics that work, expose those that don'…
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In this episode we delve into the power of a well-crafted reader profile. Understanding who you’re writing for can transform your marketing strategy and elevate your writing to the next level. We'll explore the essential elements that make up a comprehensive reader profile—demographics, interests, reading habits, and more. Plus, you'll learn action…
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We're often asked, "How can I find the best publisher for my book?" And we've done publisher episodes before, but now we're focused on critical marketing questions to ask before making your decision. Publishers are appealing to some authors because they promise to ease a lot of the production work, but more often than not the marketing piece is ove…
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Today we're exploring the confounding new security features around Goodreads author profiles that have left many authors frustrated and puzzled. Join us as we discuss practical workarounds and provide step-by-step guidance on how to easily claim and manage your Goodreads author profile despite the new security hurdles and how your Amazon Author Cen…
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Despite all the information that's out there, it never fails to surprise us how many folks get it absolutely wrong when it comes to what it takes to succeed, and what are outdated guidelines, ideas, and mindsets. In this episode we comb through a recent article from Esquire magazine that sheds light on the struggles debut authors face in today's li…
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In this episode of we take a serious look at the Amazon Bestseller flag and unravel the myths behind this iconic orange banner. Many authors dream of that coveted orange "bestseller" banner gracing their book covers, but how do you actually get it? And more importantly, is it always a guaranteed indicator of success? Join us as we delve into the tr…
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A few weeks ago you may have heard about Romance Writers of America (RWA) filing for bankruptcy - they aren't going away, per se, just reorganizing. And you may have thought this doesn't matter to you - but it does. This single development that holds significant implications for the entire writing community, so we're talking about the vital role or…
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This is our third most downloaded episode of all time! Why do we think it's popular? Because being an author can be exhausting, and most of us don't have time to waste on marketing efforts that don't produce results. And social media is typically at the top of the list of time-wasters, at least when it comes to moving the needle on sales and review…
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In this episode we break down the recent announcement that Costco will no longer be carrying books in their warehouses—a decision with significant implications for authors. You may have heard this and thought it doesn't matter to you, but it does, and we'll unpack why. We’ll also explore the discouraging trend of shrinking shelf space and delve int…
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In this episode we tackle the challenging yet essential topic of recouping your book creation and marketing investment. Many authors face the harsh reality of under-planning and overspending during production, only to find themselves without the funds needed for aggressive marketing in an extremely competitive market. With 11,000 books being publis…
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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…
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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, …
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Welcome to a pivotal episode of our show where we shine a spotlight on a crucial aspect of the publishing process: how your name appears on Amazon. Join us as we dissect the intricacies that can make or break an author's visibility and success on the world's largest online retail marketplace. From the complexities of incorporating titles like PhD t…
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Are you marketing to the wrong audience? As authors, we often find ourselves inadvertently targeting the wrong demographic, because while the reader may be obvious, they're not always the individuals buying or recommending (or gifting) your book. Join us as we unravel the complexities of audience targeting, uncover common pitfalls and offer practic…
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In this episode we're talking about book endorsements, getting them, timing them, and what to do with them once they start coming in. Whether you're a seasoned author or a newbie, you're going to want our tips and advice! We'll explore the strategies and tactics for identifying the ideal personalities to lend their credibility to your work and outl…
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In this week's episode we're talking about the crucial role book descriptions play in sales conversions - specifically for non-fiction titles. We'll share our top five must-do strategies for crafting a compelling description on Amazon that will transform casual browsers into eager buyers. And the top mistakes authors make! Whether you're a seasoned…
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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…
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In this week's episode, we chat about connecting with the elusive reader who seems to dwell beyond the realms of mainstream social media platforms. Even though the digital age is dominating how a lot of us consume content, not every reader can be found scrolling through Instagram reels or TikTok videos. So how do they find the books they buy, and h…
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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…
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This is another listener request and we're talking about trigger words that could potentially result in your hard-earned reviews being pulled from your retail page. We chat about the fine line between what reviewers should say to maintain authenticity and what words they should tactfully avoid to ensure their reviews don't get flagged or worse, the…
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Have you ever wondered why some books seem to effortlessly rack up Amazon reviews while others struggle to even get noticed? This week we're unveiling a secret strategy that savvy authors have been using to bolster their review numbers. We chat about the art of prompting reviews from your readers in a way that feels natural and seamless. It's a gen…
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This week we're talking about literary agents. Who they are, what they do, and whether you really need one. We'll explore the ins and outs of literary representation, breaking down the roles and responsibilities of literary agents, and shedding light on the services they provide for authors. We'll also discuss the darker side of the industry, inclu…
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Join us in this week's episode as we chat about the latest innovation from Amazon: the Virtual Voice. Imagine a world where authors can transform their written words into audiobooks using artificial intelligence. FOR FREE. It's a game-changer for indie authors, but what does it mean for the future of storytelling and the traditional audiobook indus…
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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 …
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In this episode, Penny and Amy decode the intricate world of big media outlets and help you understand what they're looking for and whether or not you’re right for a big media outlet. We kick off by addressing a common misconception – that success in media equals instant fame or a bestselling book. We’ll discuss the importance of finding your niche…
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Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on a common dilemma many memoir authors face: determining whether their book can be classified as self-help. While storytelling and imparting wisdom often go hand in hand, understanding the nuances between these genres is essential for maximizing the impact and success of your book. Too often, authors find…
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Join us for a candid discussion as we shine a light on the often-overlooked aspects of the author journey. In this episode, we tackle the things that many authors aren't adequately prepared for but are crucial to their success. From the seemingly mundane task of reading contracts to the sobering realization that publishing is indeed a business, we …
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In this episode, we delve into a crucial but often overlooked aspect of being an author: education in publishing. And we get it, it’s another thing to learn. But it’s crucial to your success and we’ll unpack why. But don't worry, you don't need a PhD in publishing to thrive. Join us as we explore why understanding the ins and outs of the industry c…
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Whether you're a seasoned author navigating the industry or an aspiring writer with dreams of seeing your work on the screen, this episode is a must-listen. Join us in uncovering the hidden dangers, understanding the deceptive tactics, and learning how to safeguard your literary creations from potential exploitation. Don't let the allure of TV and …
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We're delving into the recent changes that Amazon has implemented for international book buyers. The notable shift is the disallowance of gifting copies of books internationally, a move that carries significant implications for authors. Why the continued tightening of the reins? We have our theories, so tune in! Send us your feedback! Help promote …
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We're chatting about the often misunderstood differences between publicity, marketing, advertising, and branding. Why? Because knowing the differences can save you a lot of time and money in terms of what kind of support you need to achieve your goals. If you're looking to hire a team, or you're trying to develop a self-promotion plan, this episode…
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Have your Amazon Ads suddenly stopped working? Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind why your carefully crafted ads may have taken a nose dive. We break down the complexities of Amazon advertising, and how oftentimes the elements that need some TLC aren't on the ad dashboard at all! Send us your feedback! Help promote the podcast and earn free…
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Beyond the cover, your book's title is its first impression. Dive into the discussion on why the right title, paired with a captivating subtitle, can be the key to converting more shoppers to buyers. - Discover what that make a book title memorable, intriguing, and reflective of its essence. - Explore the subtle art of crafting subtitles that add d…
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Your book is priced well and the cover is great – so why isn’t it flying off the shelves? In this eye-opening episode, we demystify the confusion surrounding book sales. We’ll dig into the reader journey and explore why books, despite their relatively modest price tag, aren't impulse buys. Discover why books aren't just commodities but investments …
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Drumroll, please! Tune in for a big announcement about Penny's latest book that just hit Amazon! This book is bigger and better than any previous Amazon title and you definitely want to tune in to find out why. We're also going to be running a lot of special promos so keep an eye out on all Penny's social media channels to win special swag and grea…
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This is our second most downloaded episode of all time! Why do we think it's popular? Well, as an author you want people to love your work, we get it. You also put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into getting your book made and it's normal to have moments of, "it's good enough" because you just want to move on to the next thing. But good enough and…
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