
All Things Book Marketing
The Smith Publicity 'All Things Book Marketing' podcast explores all facets of book publicity and book marketing, with great expert guests sharing vital information for both authors and publishers.
Latest episodes

7 snips
May 28, 2025 • 36min
Building Influence and Community: The Future (and Power) of Author Newsletters
In this engaging discussion, Kathleen Schmidt, Founder of Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations and a seasoned professional in publishing, shares insights from her journey in the industry. She highlights the power of newsletters, sharing her experience with 'Publishing Confidential,' which boasts a vibrant community of 16,000 subscribers. Kathleen emphasizes authenticity in content, the importance of consistent engagement, and how newsletters can foster connections between authors and readers. Future plans, including potential branded events and a podcast, also hint at exciting developments.

May 28, 2025 • 33min
Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and Advice
Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and AdviceIn this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity's Vice President of Business Development, welcomes back Emmy award-winning television producer, bestselling author, and media training expert Paula Rizzo.Paula shares her journey from TV production to becoming a media trainer, emphasizing the importance of preparation, content creation, and confidence for authors and experts. She discusses common misconceptions about media training, the value of storytelling, the essentials of video creation, and effective strategies to handle interviews.Listeners will gain insights on becoming media-ready, leveraging their book as an extension of their brand, and preparing for media appearances. Paula also introduces her course, 'Media Ready Author,' aimed at helping authors successfully navigate the media landscape.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:22 Paula Rizzo's Background and Journey02:18 The Importance of Media Training04:53 Becoming Your Own Producer07:08 Creating and Leveraging Content11:35 Tips for Effective Video Content16:05 Preparing for Media Appearances17:29 Television Interview Preparation18:18 The Power of Storytelling in Podcasts20:39 Essential Equipment for Podcasts23:16 Handling Controversial Questions28:32 Long-Term Media Strategy for Authors31:09 Media Ready Author Course OverviewFor more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

Apr 23, 2025 • 45min
How to Become the Media’s “Go-To” Expert
Janet Shapiro, Vice President at Smith Publicity, and Sophia Moriarty, Senior Publicist, share groundbreaking insights into book promotion. They discuss the importance of collaboration between authors and publicists and innovative strategies for media engagement. Topics include utilizing LinkedIn for direct connections, the power of niche media, and the necessity of patience in cultivating relationships. The duo highlights the importance of email lists and social media in building a lasting personal brand and gaining visibility in the ever-evolving publicity landscape.

Apr 23, 2025 • 52min
Navigating Bookscan: Making Your Bulk Book Sales Count and Creative Retail Sales Strategies
In this segment of Smith Publicity's 'All Things Book Marketing,' CEO Sandy Smith invites Garrett Perkins, CRO of Givington’s, to discuss effective strategies for authors to maximize their book marketing efforts. With over 10 years of experience in the publishing and e-commerce industries, Garrett shares insights on leveraging books to build credibility, generate bulk book sales, and increase speaking fees.He explains the importance of partnering with certified retailers like Givington’s to ensure book sales are tracked properly for royalties and future publishing opportunities. Additionally, Garrett emphasizes the significance of starting marketing efforts early, building a direct-to-consumer content engine, and creating ancillary products like workbooks and animated book trailers.Authors are encouraged to think beyond the book and utilize various digital tools to engage their audience and enhance their brand.00:00 Introduction to Smith Publicity00:18 Meet Garrett Perkins: CRO of Givington’s02:42 The Importance of Speaking Engagements for Authors04:02 Creative Retail Sales Strategies10:19 Certified Retail Sales and Their Importance13:56 Planning Your Book Marketing Early23:05 Building a Direct-to-Consumer Content Engine27:56 Innovative Book Marketing Strategies28:40 Case Study: John Mark Comer's Dual Book Release29:50 The Power of Animated Book Trailers31:37 Tailoring Marketing Strategies for Authors33:41 Building a Comprehensive Book Ecosystem39:36 Realistic Expectations for Book Sales42:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Mar 15, 2025 • 40min
Helping Authors Create Super Fans & Drive Revenue with Sandy Smith and Ashley Zink
In this engaging discussion, Ashley Zink, founder of Higher Ground Consulting, shares her wealth of experience in helping authors transform their books into profitable ventures. She highlights essential marketing strategies, including the importance of early planning and setting clear goals. Ashley emphasizes building an email list and leveraging reader data for deeper engagement. The talk also touches on the value of online courses for creating loyal fans and effective promotional strategies for book launches, offering authors practical advice for long-term success.

13 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 54min
LinkedIn Strategies for Authors with Rachael Robertson and Marissa Eigenbrood
In this discussion, Rachel Robertson, a LinkedIn strategist and consultant, and Marissa Eigenbrood delve into effective LinkedIn strategies for nonfiction authors. Rachel shares her journey and underscores the significance of authenticity and storytelling in building connections. They provide actionable tips for optimizing profiles and maintaining consistent engagement through innovative content, including video and newsletters. The conversation also addresses the challenges of AI-generated content while highlighting the increasing potential for meaningful interactions on the platform.

Jan 20, 2025 • 51min
AI and the Art of Publishing Business Books & Building a Thought Leadership Ecosystem
In this engaging conversation, Allison Jones, a publishing veteran and founder of Practical Inspiration Publishing, shares her insights on blending traditional and innovative publishing methods. She emphasizes the importance of continuous writing for business authors and the intersection of personal branding with book marketing. Allison discusses the nuances of AI in publishing, highlighting the need for a human touch in creating authentic author content. She also introduces her 10-day business book proposal challenge, encouraging aspiring writers to refine their ideas for impactful proposals.

Dec 12, 2024 • 40min
How Authors Can Build Global Credibility With International Rights with Guest Annie Oswald
In this episode of "Smith Publicity's All Things Book Marketing," host Sandy Smith, CEO of Smith Publicity, welcomes Annie Oswald, the former Vice President of Publishing at Franklin Covey, now a motivational speaker and publishing consultant.Annie and Sandy discuss insights on the power of international rights and their significance for authors and publishing professionals. Throughout the conversation, Annie discusses:the critical role of international rights in expanding an author's reach and credibility,the various elements that authors need to consider when exploring foreign rights for their work, including market-specific strategies,the importance of reputable foreign rights agents, and the nuances of translation.the growing demand for English-language books in India, the rising interest in Spanish-language books in the U.S., and the powerful impact of audio books.She emphasizes the importance of thorough research, building a strong social media presence, and the potential opportunities that foreign rights can unlock, such as speaking engagements and global training programs.Listeners will gain practical tips on navigating the international book market, safeguarding their rights, and boosting their global presence. Annie’s extensive knowledge and passion for the publishing industry make this episode a must-listen for authors and publishing professionals looking to expand their horizons and achieve greater success.Tune in to discover how to turn your book into a global phenomenon!ABOUT OUR GUEST: Annie Oswald recently retired (May 2024) from FranklinCovey where she served as the Vice President of Publishing. She retired to pursue her passions as a motivational speaker and publishing consultant. Her role at FranklinCovey included everything frombook proposal writing and presenting to major publishing houses, rights management, and sales and marketing. Currently, she is working with Sean Covey on The 7 Habits of Teens Graphic Novel. Annie graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Communication. Annie has accepted numerous invitations as a keynote speaker for various groups around the world. Annie and her husband reside in Lehi, Utah, and are the proud parents of four daughters.ABOUT SMITH PUBLICITY: Since 1997, Smith Publicity has been a global leader in creative publicity and public relations, helping authors and experts expand their influence and build authority beyond the pages of a book. Their clients include New York Times bestsellers, debut authors, CEOs, speakers, academics, and subject matter experts. Smith Publicity secures media appearances that boost visibility, build credibility, and fuel business and platform growth. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, Smith Publicity’s team continually innovates with clients and their teams to build strategies that amplify their ideas for lasting impact. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, the team speaks at events worldwide like Frankfurt and London Book Fairs, continually innovating to amplify their clients' voices and impact.

19 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 54min
Nurturing Creativity and Marketing Mindsets for Authors with Guest Jen Graybeal
Jennifer Graybeal, a Certified Creativity Coach with a decade of experience, empowers authors through collaborative feedback and problem-solving. She discusses the vibrant atmosphere of industry conferences, innovative marketing strategies tailored for niche audiences, and the critical distinction between strategy and tactics in marketing. Graybeal emphasizes nurturing creativity through self-care and community support, while also addressing how personal identity shapes an author’s work. Her insights inspire authors to embrace their unique voices and thrive in their creative journeys.

Oct 25, 2024 • 42min
Learn How Ghostwriting and Hybrid Publishing are Transforming Thought Leadership with Guest Kevin Anderson
In this episode of All Things Book Marketing, Marissa Eigenbrood, President of Smith Publicity, welcomes Kevin Anderson, CEO of Kevin Anderson & Associates, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of ghostwriting and book publishing.Kevin shares how his unexpected entry into ghostwriting shaped his career and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration process between ghostwriters and authors. He emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to book writing, where the marketing strategy is considered from the very beginning to maximize impact.Kevin also delves into the rise of hybrid publishing, offering authors more control over their publishing goals, and highlights how books serve as investments in thought leadership, elevating an author’s credibility beyond book sales.With advice on choosing the right ghostwriter and navigating the publishing journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights for nonfiction authors, publishing professionals, and anyone looking to understand the dynamics of book writing and marketing. Tune in to learn from Kevin’s experience and expertise in shaping bestselling books and thought leadership brands.