The BookFunnel Podcast

Learn more about Becca Symehttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beccasyme/dear-writer-you-still-need-to-quitSummaryIn this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes back Becca Syme, an author coach and expert in helping indie authors navigate their careers. The conversation covers a range of topics including creative marketing strategies for Kickstarter campaigns, the importance of self-awareness in marketing, and the challenges of negative biases. Becca emphasizes the need for authors to accept the changing nature of their journeys and to understand the different phases of their business. The episode concludes with insights on the unpredictability of the publishing industry and the importance of perseverance. In this conversation, they discuss the importance of hope and perseverance in the writing journey, the evolving landscape of publishing, and the significance of personal connections with readers. They explore the impact of market saturation on authors and emphasize the need for adaptability in the face of change. The discussion also highlights the importance of finding significance in small interactions and understanding the growth phases in an author's career.

Kate Hall, CEO of Align Digital Solutions and author of over 30 books, shares her journey from struggle to TikTok success. She discusses essential tips for authors on creating engaging content, emphasizing the importance of visual hooks and quality production. Kate reveals how TikTok's algorithm changes impact marketing strategies, advocating for keywords over hashtags. She also explores the benefits of TikTok Shop for book sales and emphasizes the significance of authenticity in content creation, encouraging authors to embrace their unique identities.

In this engaging discussion, Joe Solari, Managing Director of AuthorNation, shares insights into the evolving world of self-publishing. He emphasizes the importance of community among authors and the power of authentic author-reader relationships. Joe introduces innovative strategies like trigger-link email flows and the Signing Store to enhance reader engagement and streamline event logistics. The conversation also touches on new revenue models using platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon, and how consistency in audience building can lead to long-term success for authors.

Russell Nohelty, a USA Today bestselling author and creator of The Author Stack, shares invaluable insights into building a sustainable career in indie publishing. He discusses the importance of embracing a unique voice and learning from other industries. Topics include overcoming self-sabotage, understanding reader expectations, and the sunk cost fallacy in writing. Russell emphasizes the need for scalable marketing strategies and offers practical advice on using Kickstarter for testing demand. Overall, it’s a treasure trove of tips to help authors thrive.

Learn more about Digital Authors Tookit:https://www.digitalauthorstoolkit.com/SummaryIn this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis, co-host Kat, and guest Stu from Digital Authors Toolkit discuss various aspects of being an author in today's digital landscape. They cover tips for writing motivation, creative marketing ideas, the importance of author websites, and the pros and cons of direct sales versus traditional publishing. The conversation also delves into the evolution of author websites and concludes with a presentation by Stu on how authors can enhance their online presence. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various innovative strategies for authors to enhance their marketing efforts, including the importance of direct sales, the use of animated book covers, and the potential of augmented reality. They also explore how to optimize author websites for AI search engines and engage readers through interactive content.TakeawaysUnderstand what motivates you to write beyond intrinsic motivation.Pre-orders can create accountability and boost sales.A website is essential for authors to establish an online presence.Direct sales offer a personal relationship with readers but come with challenges.The landscape of author websites has transformed with new technologies.Authors need to generate their own traffic for direct sales.Trust is a significant factor for readers when purchasing from unknown authors.Selling direct can lead to higher costs for readers due to shipping.Authors should consider the benefits of special editions in direct sales.A well-designed website can enhance the reader's experience.  Authors should be prepared for customer service challenges when selling directly.Animated book covers can significantly enhance marketing efforts.Augmented reality offers exciting new ways to engage readers.Interactive content on author websites can attract and retain readers.Optimizing for AI search engines is becoming increasingly important for authors.Direct sales can help authors build a loyal fan base over time.Using social proof is crucial for authors selling directly.Creating playlists or resources for book clubs can enhance reader engagement.Authors can leverage technology to create immersive experiences for readers.Personalized messages through QR codes can enhance reader connection.

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, host Damon Courtney interviews Johnny B. Truant, a veteran in the self-publishing industry. They discuss Johnny's journey from writing his first book to becoming a successful author and podcaster. The conversation explores the evolution of self-publishing, the importance of building true fans, and the impact of AI on the industry. Johnny emphasizes the need for authors to connect with their readers on a personal level and shares insights from his new book, 'The Artisan Author.'Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setup01:22 The Journey of Johnny B. Truant04:11 The Evolution of Self-Publishing07:04 The Artisan Author Philosophy09:48 The Impact of Rapid Release12:24 Building True Fans14:47 The Reader Journey17:40 The Future of Self-Publishing30:33 Connecting with Readers in Unexpected Places32:01 The Importance of Building Relationships34:03 Navigating the Impact of AI on Authorship36:10 The Value of Being Human in a Digital World38:42 Creating True Fans Through Personal Connections41:20 Innovative Strategies for Selling Books46:08 The Future of Author Engagement49:27 Kickstarter Success and Community Building54:28 Long-Term Strategies for Author Success01:02:02 OutroThe Artisan Author Kickstarterhttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/johnnybtruant/the-artisan-author-your-way-out-of-the-self-pub-rat-raceJohnny's Websitehttps://johnnybtruant.com/Johnny's Substackhttps://johnnybtruant.substack.com/

In this episode of the BookFunnel podcast, hosts Jack Shilkaitis and Emma Alisyn welcome audiobook narrator Ruthie Bowles. They discuss the importance of engaging thumbnails, the journey of indie authors, and the nuances of audiobook narration. Ruthie shares her experiences and insights on working with authors, the significance of marketing audiobooks, and the potential of platforms like YouTube for reaching new audiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for authors to leverage their readers for marketing and to maintain clarity in character accents for narrators. In this engaging conversation, Ruthie Bowles discusses the evolving landscape of audiobooks, the importance of discoverability on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, and her experiences using BookFunnel for audiobook distribution. She shares insights on navigating reader events, the emotional depth of narration, and the significance of building authentic connections with readers. Ruthie emphasizes the collaborative nature of audiobook production and the importance of trust between authors and narrators.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:43 Meet Ruthie Bowles: Audiobook Narrator02:01 Checking In: Author Updates07:02 Tips from the Trenches: Marketing Strategies10:20 Character Accents in Writing16:42 Delivering Subscription Models with BookFunnel20:25 Ruthie's Journey to Audiobook Narration23:27 The Art of Narration: Skills and Techniques25:35 Collaboration Between Authors and Narrators28:02 Writing for Audiobooks: Tips for Authors32:14 When to Create Your First Audiobook37:03 Marketing Your Audiobook Effectively42:06 Leveraging YouTube for Audiobook Promotion43:44 The Evolving Landscape of Audiobook Distribution47:46 Leveraging BookFunnel for Audiobook Success51:45 Navigating Reader Expectations and File Sharing57:09 Engaging Readers at Events: The Power of Personal Connection01:05:42 Building Connections in the Industry01:05:58 The Evolution of Publishing and Reader Engagement01:07:49 The Emotional Experience of Audiobook Narration01:08:17 The Impact of Performance on Narration01:09:56 Navigating Spicy Scenes in Narration01:13:23 Setting Boundaries in Narration01:14:56 Diversity and Sensitivity in Narration01:17:14 The Importance of Trust in Collaboration01:20:44 Final Thoughts and Future Endeavors01:22:33 Outro

Join prolific author and podcaster Joanna Penn as she dives into the dynamic world of indie publishing. She reflects on her two-decade journey and the importance of adapting to change, especially with the rise of AI. Joanna emphasizes the need for authentic author branding and how it can set writers apart in a crowded market. She shares insights on connecting with readers and the benefits of fostering a community of loyal fans. Passion for writing should be the driving force, not just profit, in this ever-evolving landscape.

Publishing expert Jane Friedman joins hosts Jack Shilkaitis, Kelly Tansey, and Emma Allison to talk about the ever-evolving world of writing and publishing.We discuss how AI is changing the industry, why traditional publishers are adapting indie strategies, and why author-reader engagement matters more than ever.Jane also shares valuable insights for indie authors—including the power of email lists, the growing demand for special editions, and the importance of taking control of your own marketing. Whether you're self-published or traditionally published, this episode is full of practical advice to help you thrive in today's publishing landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Book Funnel Podcast02:18 Creative Updates from the Hosts05:50 Tips from the Trenches: Insights for Authors14:19 Exploring AI in the Publishing Industry25:04 The Impact of AI on Authorship26:51 The Rise of Misinformation in AI-Generated Content30:28 Concerns About AI in Publishing34:39 Speculations on AI-Generated Books38:28 Shifts in Traditional Publishing Practices45:25 Emerging Models for New Authors49:59 The Future of Special Editions in Publishing55:15 The Rise of Special Editions in Self-Publishing57:37 Indie Innovations Influencing Traditional Publishing58:30 Direct to Consumer Marketing: A Shift in Focus01:03:51 The Author's Role in Marketing and Promotion01:08:39 The Gamble of Traditional Publishing01:12:01 The Value of Steady Sales vs. Big Hits01:18:14 Closing Thoughts and Future Insights01:19:46 Outro

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis and co-hosts Kelly Tanzi and Emma Alisyn welcome author success coach Becca Syme. They discuss various topics related to self-publishing, including effective strategies for book signings, the importance of understanding one's writing process, and the nuances of social media engagement. Becca emphasizes the significance of knowing the rules of the publishing game and maintaining a strong will to publish, regardless of external fluctuations in sales or market trends. The conversation highlights the need for self-awareness and adaptability in an ever-changing industry, encouraging authors to focus on their motivations and joy in writing.Better Faster Academyhttps://betterfasteracademy.com/time-...Becca's YouTube Channel  / beccasyme Becca's Amazon Author Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction05:09 Tips from the Trenches: Author Insights10:18 Understanding the Game of Publishing18:46 Core Motivations and Author Success30:00 Understanding Higher Order Motivations32:02 The Struggle with Social Media Engagement34:18 Navigating Discoverability in a Saturated Market36:18 The Importance of Personal Choice in Writing38:49 The Emotional Toll of Writing and Creativity41:39 Understanding the Rules of Publishing44:16 The Unpredictability of Success in Publishing55:49 Covenants for Resilience in Writing01:02:08 Outro