

Book Marketing Mentors
Susan Friedmann
Jam-packed with smart, easy and simple ideas, this weekly podcast features experts who share proven techniques to add power and zest to supercharge your book marketing plan. Hosted by Susan Friedmann, CSP, international bestselling author, and founder of Aviva Publishing, this new and exciting podcast aims to rev up your marketing efforts with fewer struggles, and more success. Start listening today and discover how to get noticed in a crowded marketplace.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2025 • 26min
How to Legally Protect Your Book, Brand, and Author Business - BM487
What if the title you love, the story you’ve lived, or the brand you’re building could land you in legal trouble?This week, attorney and author Cheri Andrews reveals what most writers miss about protecting their books and businesses. From book titles to memoir minefields, she breaks down the must-know legal moves every author should make before publishing.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why skipping copyright could cost you more than your bookThe truth about titles—and what you can’t protectMemoir red flags that could trigger lawsuitsWhen a quote crosses the line into copyright violationHow one missed step can destroy your brandProtect your words. Own your work. Avoid expensive mistakes.Listen now for the legal clarity every author needs.Here's how to connect with Cheri:EmailWebsiteLinkedInFacebook Business PageInstagramDownload Cheri's free gift, "Safeguard Your Success"*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Aug 6, 2025 • 32min
How to Build Author Websites That Attract Clients and Increase Book Sales - BM486
Is your website actually helping you sell books—or just taking up space online?This week’s guest, Sandra Beatty, turns websites into lead machines. She’s a conversion copywriter, strategist, and children’s author who helps authors and service pros transform casual visitors into loyal buyers.If your site looks good but doesn’t bring results, Sandra shows you why—and how to fix it. From layout to landing pages, she breaks down what actually works for authors who want more than just clicks.In this episode, you’ll learn:Book site or author site? How to pick the one that drives real results—or why you might need bothThe landing page fix: What your current book page is probably missingCTA clarity: The one mistake killing your conversions (and how to fix it fast)Your about page, reimagined: Why it’s doing more heavy lifting than you thinkBuild trust like a pro: How showing your pricing and tackling objections turns browsers into buyersIf you want a website that actually works for your author business, this episode is your roadmap.Here's how to connect with Sandra:EmailWebsiteLinkedInYouTubeFree listener gift - Conversion Express: Free and live 15-minute tutorials on marketing and website strategies to get more customers.*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jul 30, 2025 • 34min
How to Know It’s Time to Hire: A Smarter Path for Growth-Minded Authors - BM485
Thinking about hiring help for your author business—but not sure where to start?If you're feeling stretched thin, stuck in the weeds, or simply unsure how to grow beyond “just you,” this episode is for you.Jamie Van Cuyk, CEO of Growing Your Team, knows how overwhelming hiring can feel—especially when your business is personal. She’s helped countless creative entrepreneurs like you find the right first hire without the stress or second-guessing.What if hiring didn’t have to feel risky? This conversation reveals when to take the leap, who to hire, and how to protect your time and money.Key takeways:4 Signs It’s Time to Hire Stop wondering. Start watching for the key signals your business is ready to grow.Which Role Fits Your Book Business? Contractor or part-timer? Jamie breaks down your options and what works when.How to Avoid a Bad Hire Get clear on who you need before you post the job.A Smarter Way to Hire Learn Jamie’s step-by-step system—from job post to onboarding.Costly Hiring Mistakes to Skip Avoid desperation hires and mismanaged handoffs that stall your momentum.Ready to stop doing it all and start growing smarter? Listen now and make your first hire the right one.Here's how to connect with Jamie:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInDownload Jamie's free gift to listeners: Determine What to Delegate Worksheet*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jul 23, 2025 • 32min
Proven Publicity Tactics: How to Land National Media and Sell More Books - BM484
Are you looking for national media attention to fuel your book sales?Mary O’Donohue, former post producer for The Oprah Winfrey Show and bestselling author, joins me to share how you can land major media spots—even without industry contacts.In this episode, Mary walks you through the exact steps producers look for when choosing guests. You’ll discover how to pitch with purpose, avoid rookie mistakes, and show up as the expert media teams want on-air.If you’re ready to turn interviews into visibility, credibility, and sales, this is your blueprint.What You’ll Learn:How local media leads to national exposureThe pitching mistake most authors makeWhat producers actually want in a guestWhy your book bio won’t work—and what to say insteadHow to showcase your expertise without “selling”This conversation is packed with insights to help you stand out and make your next interview matter. Don’t miss it.Here's how to connect with Mary:Website LinkedInDownload Mary's free gift for listeners: "Free Customizable Podcast One-Sheet Templates"*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jul 16, 2025 • 27min
Publishing Was Step One. Now Comes the Hard Truth - BM483
Think publishing your book is enough? Think again.If your launch fizzled or your powerful message isn’t reaching readers, you're not the only one asking why.In this episode, Debby Kevin, Founder of Highlander Press and champion for women’s voices, reveals the real reasons your book isn’t selling, and what to do about it. Get ready for myth-busting insights and smart, practical marketing moves that actually work.What you’ll discover:Why “publish and pray” fails: With thousands of books hitting Amazon daily, discover what really gets yours seen and sold.Start marketing before you write: Yes, really. Learn how to build buzz early and turn followers into future buyers.Stop trying to reach everyone: Find out why niching down unlocks clarity, connection, and conversions.Your list is your lifeline: Forget chasing algorithms—Debby reveals how to grow an engaged email list that buys.Turn one book into many opportunities: Think beyond the page—repurpose your content into blogs, workshops, and more.If you're ready to go from feeling stuck to becoming a sought-after author with real traction, this conversation is your roadmap.Here's how to connect with Debby:Free gift: Video - Demystifying the Publishing ProcessWebsite Email LinkedIn Instagram TikTok*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jul 9, 2025 • 35min
Why Most Book Launches Fail—And How to Relaunch for Real Results - BM482
Is your book launch leaving money on the table?What if your book launch could do more than get you on Amazon—it could bring you clients, visibility, and real revenue?This week, launch strategist and bestselling author Robbie Samuels is back to expose the most common launch mistakes nonfiction authors make—and how to flip your book into a powerful business asset. With 650+ Amazon reviews and three bestsellers under his belt, Robbie pulls back the curtain on how to rally your network, supercharge your review count, and build momentum long after launch day.Key takeaways:🔥 Why launching without a strategy is like shouting into the void🔥 How to turn friends and followers into a powerful launch team🔥 The magic number of Amazon reviews you need for visibility 🔥 The easiest way to get glowing reviews—before your book goes live 🔥 How a smart relaunch can rescue a “meh” release and boost your bizIf you think your book is “done” once it’s published, this episode will change everything.🎧 Listen now and unlock the real ROI of your book launch.Here's how to connect with Robbie:Booklaunchbrainstorm.comGet your copy of his new book "LAUNCH Your Book! An Entrepreneur's Guide to Reviews That Drive RevenueLinkedInInstagramFaceBook*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jul 2, 2025 • 35min
Think Bigger: How to Reach More Readers with Strategic Book Marketing - BM481
Want real readers—and real results—for your book? If you're tired of hoping your book gets noticed and ready to start making it happen, this episode is for you.This week, bestselling author and digital marketing pro Alex Strathdee (founder of GetShelfLife.com) shares how to turn your book into a powerful tool for bulk sales and long-term impact. With over $10M in ad campaigns and 1,000+ titles under his belt, Alex breaks down what actually works and what’s wasting your time.You’ll learn how to set bold sales targets that drive real results, seed your book with influential readers who create momentum, and tap into podcasts, partnerships, and creative outreach to expand your reach. If you’re ready to market your book more intentionally, this episode is a great place to start.Key Takeaways:Set a Sales Goal That Drives Action Decide how many books you want to sell—then reverse-engineer your marketing to hit it.Give to Grow Seed free copies with the right readers to spark buzz, reviews, and surprising bulk sales.Tap Into Who You Know Start with your existing network—those warm leads could open big doors.Pitch Podcasts Strategically Guest on shows your readers already love, and use your connections to land better spots.Get Creative with Bulk Sales Think beyond bookstores—stand out with clever packages and partner with places people don’t expect.Tune in now to supercharge your book’s impact by mastering strategic thinking, choosing tools that actually move the needle, and getting your book in front of readers who need it.Here's how to connect with Alex...WebsiteLinkedInEmail Alex for a free copy of his new book "Before The Bestseller"*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jun 25, 2025 • 28min
How to Best Sell Your Book: Strategies Beyond Social Media Buzz - BM480
Think social media is enough to sell your book? Think again.This week’s guest, Patricia Viscount, is here to shake things up. She’s a master storyteller, sharp-eyed brand strategist, and the queen of email that actually converts.Patricia pulls back the curtain on why authors who only focus on social are leaving money (and readers) on the table. She’ll show you how a smart, personal email strategy builds real connections, loyal fans, and steady book sales.Don’t let algorithms limit your reach. Uncover actionable tips to turn your email list into your most valuable asset.Key Takeaways:Why social media fails authors Uncover the hidden risks of relying on likes and follows to drive real results.The secret weapon you control Find out what makes email your most powerful (and overlooked) book marketing tool.Lead magnets that spark action Get simple ideas that actually convert followers into loyal subscribers.A brand voice that builds trust Learn how a consistent voice builds instant trust with your audience.Emails readers actually want to open Discover an easy way to share stories, offer value, and grow your fanbase without sounding pushy.Ready to turn casual followers into subscribers who can’t wait to hear from you? Tune in for fresh strategies, bold truths, and the voice-building tips every serious author needs.Here's how to connect with Patricia:LinkedInWebsiteWhat is your Brand Voice (and why should you care) quiz*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jun 18, 2025 • 32min
Book Title Mistakes Authors Make—and How to Avoid Them - BM479
Think your book title is brilliant? Think again. In this week’s episode, ghostwriting powerhouse Maggie Mills pulls back the curtain on what really makes a nonfiction title grab attention, and sell books. After decades behind the scenes helping authors shine, she’s revealing why some titles flop and others spark instant curiosity (even from across a crowded shelf).Whether you’re stuck on a working title, torn between clever and clear, or wondering if you should trademark your signature method, Maggie shares the exact strategies she uses to help authors turn words into assets.🔑 5 Key Takeaways:Your Title Isn’t Enough A clever title won’t sell your book, but the right subtitle might.Test Before You Commit Use social media to title-test and build early buzz.Trademark Truth Bomb You can’t trademark a title, but there’s something else you can.Plan for the Series—Now Even one book should set the stage for book two.Shorter Sells Better Today’s readers want shorter books and bite-sized chapters.Listen now and learn what makes a title sell itself.Here's how to connect with Maggie:EmailLinkedInYouTube*************************************************************************Want More Book Marketing Ideas? Subscribe to Book Marketing with Susan Friedmann on Substack for fresh, thought-provoking strategies that challenge the norm and help you market your book in smarter, more effective ways. Click here to join me FREE on Substack Or, if you’re ready for the inside track, become a paid subscriber for exclusive behind-the-scenes marketing templates, campaign breakdowns, and access to my best strategies.

Jun 11, 2025 • 31min
How Nonfiction Authors Can Use YouTube to Sell More Books and Build Authority - BM478
This week, Louise Brogan, a LinkedIn expert and YouTube creator with over 100,000 subscribers, shares how authors can thrive on YouTube. She explains how to become a go-to authority by answering audience questions and creating valuable content. Louise highlights effective strategies like making engaging thumbnails and short videos to keep viewers returning. Plus, she discusses the importance of understanding subscriber dynamics and how to leverage social feedback to build a loyal following, transforming the way authors market their books.