The BookTribe Podcast

Why Understanding Your Writing Style Matters with Emily Golden and Rachel May

Join Erica, Emily and Rachel as they discuss the intricacies of discovering your writing style and the importance of critique partnerships. They share their individual journeys into writing, the challenges faced by emerging authors, and the value of finding supportive critique partners.
Together they explore the significance of personalised writing routines, the role of mindset in creativity, and the necessity of self-discovery in finding a sustainable writing practice. The discussion highlights the importance of reader expectations in crafting compelling stories and encourages writers to embrace experimentation and playfulness in their writing process.
 
Say hello to Emily and Rachel!
Emily Golden and Rachel May are the coaches and editors behind Golden May Editing. Through one-on-one coaching and their online writing program, Tenacious Writing, they help fiction writers make writing craft and process work for their unique brains, dreams, and lives.
Interested in joining the Tenacious Writing program? Find out more here: tenaciouswriting.com
Visit their website to learn more about Emily and Rachel: goldenmayediting.com
Subscribe to the Story Magic Podcast! 
 
Takeaways
Reading other authors' work is essential for growth.
Emerging authors often face the same challenges.
Finding a critique partner can transform a writer's experience.
Critique partnerships require trust and vulnerability - feedback should be respectful and actionable.
A book coach provides professional guidance, while a critique partner offers peer support.
Authors can benefit from both critique partners and book coaches simultaneously.
Understanding your writing style is essential for personal growth as a writer.
Self-awareness helps in identifying what works best for your writing process.
Experimentation is key to discovering effective writing habits.
Mindset plays a crucial role in overcoming creative blocks.
Letting go of pressure can enhance creativity and enjoyment in writing.
Reader expectations are foundational to crafting compelling stories.
Creating a sustainable writing routine involves understanding practical and mindset disruptors.
You don't have to navigate the writing journey alone; seek support when needed.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Work
10:07 The Reality of Emerging Authors
21:35 Identifying Red Flags in Critique Partnerships
29:31 Personalised Writing Processes: The Spectrum of Styles
35:01 Self-Discovery in Writing: Understanding Your Process
44:29 Crafting Compelling Stories: Reader Expectations and Foundations

How to Get Your Brand in Front of Your Ideal Reader with Hannah Brady

In this episode, Erica interviews Hannah Brady about the importance of personality-led marketing for authors. Hannah shares insights on the changing landscape of marketing, the significance of building good habits, and the necessity of starting marketing efforts early in the writing process. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies for authors, emphasising the importance of understanding one's audience, utilising social media effectively, and creating engaging content. She also highlights the necessity of upskilling in marketing techniques and the significance of patience in the marketing process. 
 
Say hello to Hannah!
Hannah Brady runs The Brady Creative, a family-founded strategic marketing agency based in the UK. They use strategic thinking, creativity and consistency to help businesses market their brand with personality. 
If you’d like to learn more about The Brady Collective and their strategy-first approach to marketing visit their website and subscribe to the Creative Juices Podcast!
 
Takeaways
Authors need to view their writing as a business.
Building good habits is crucial for marketing success.
A strategy-first approach is essential for effective marketing.
Personality plays a key role in an author's brand.
Authors should start their marketing efforts as early as possible.
Many authors misunderstand the scope of marketing, focusing too much on social media.
Collaboration among authors can enhance marketing efforts.
Understanding your target audience is vital for effective marketing.
Marketing should align with long-term business goals. Authors need to understand where their readers are on social media.
Upskilling in marketing is essential for authors.
Surveys and focus groups can help authors understand their audience better.
Patience is crucial in the marketing process.
Engaging content should include behind-the-scenes insights and not solely focus on promotional content.
Measuring success should go beyond vanity metrics.
Building a community through engagement is vital.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Author Marketing Strategies
05:59 Shifts in Marketing Landscape
11:45 The Role of Personality in Author Branding
17:56 Common Misconceptions in Author Marketing
26:54 Navigating Social Media for Authors
32:41 Researching Your Audience
38:41 Creating Engaging Content
45:11 Measuring Marketing Success

Tips for Overcoming the Fear of the Blank Page with Shelley Wilson

In this episode, Erica Birtles interviews Shelley Wilson, a multi-genre author and writing mentor, about overcoming the fear of the blank page. They discuss the challenges that authors face when starting a new project, including mindset and time management. They also discuss the impact of allowing fear to overshadow the writing process and the importance of finding joy in writing. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights and practical tips for aspiring authors. 
 
Say Hello to Shelley!
Shelley Wilson is a multi-genre author of over twenty titles and a writing mentor for women in business. She mentors women who want to write a book (usually as part of their business sales funnel) to get their ideas out of their heads and onto the page. Shelley acta as an accountability partner as they outline and write. 
Want to work with Shelley? Discover a four-week online group programme for anyone who wants to write non-fiction and needs help understanding their target audience, creating the book outline, and building a workable writing routine.
Visit Shelley’s website for more information.
 
Takeaways
Authors often face challenges with mindset and time management when starting a new project.
Writing prompts can be a helpful tool for overcoming the fear of the blank page and sparking creativity.
Shifting mindset from fear to embracing the writing process is crucial for success.
Finding joy in writing and sharing one's story can be a powerful motivator.
Overcoming fear and taking action is essential for authors to start and complete their projects. Find a writing community or support group to connect with other writers and share experiences.
Accountability partners or coaches can help keep you on track and motivated.
Self-care and well-being are essential for maintaining creativity and productivity.
Feedback from other writers and professional editors can greatly improve the quality of your writing.
Take action and write, even when motivation is lacking.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Bookish Question
03:03 Shelley's Journey to Becoming a Writer's Coach
08:34 Challenges Faced by Authors Starting a New Project
12:56 The Fear of the Blank Page and its Impact
19:02 Shifting Mindset: Strategies for Overcoming Fear
22:30 Practical Tips for Overcoming the Fear of the Blank Page
27:44 The Power of Accountability and Coaching
31:23 Prioritising Self-Care and Well-being
37:06 The Value of Feedback and Professional Editing
45:11 Taking Action: Writing Even When Motivation is Lacking
 

Think Outside the Box With your Book Marketing with Chris Green

In this episode, Chris Green, the Authorpreneur, discusses creative book marketing strategies. He emphasises the importance of thinking beyond conventional advice and finding unique ways to market books. Chris also addresses common mistakes authors make, such as jumping into paid advertising too soon, and offers alternative strategies like giving away books and building relationships with influencers. 
 
Say Hello to Chris! 
Chris Green, the Authorpreneur, helps authors use their books to build and grow their businesses and personal brands through creative book marketing strategies. 
Visit his website to learn more!
 
Takeaways
Think beyond conventional advice when it comes to book marketing and explore creative strategies.
Books can be powerful tools for establishing expertise and building a business.
Avoid jumping into paid advertising too soon and focus on building relationships and giving away books.
Brand your social media profiles and create a website to interact with readers and collect emails.
Engage with influencers in your niche and offer to provide value through guest blog posts or podcast appearances. Build relationships and leverage connections to promote your book
Offer to be a guest on podcasts or provide free copies of your Kindle book for giveaways
Create a landing page instead of linking directly to Amazon to collect email addresses and provide additional value to readers
Self-publishing offers opportunities for authors to connect with their audience
Think creatively and be willing to try new marketing tactics
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:05 Becoming an Authorpreneur
09:15 The Power of Books in Marketing
13:09 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Book Marketing
16:01 Building Relationships and Giving Away Books
20:41 Branding and Interacting with Readers
23:02 Engaging with Influencers in Your Niche
25:24 Using Podcasts and Giveaways to Expand Your Audience
27:45 The Power of Self-Publishing and Connecting with Readers
36:16 Thinking Creatively and Trying New Marketing Tactics

How to Enchant Your Readers with Gina Kammer

In this episode, we chat with book coach, Gina Kammer, about the intersection of brain science and writing. She discusses the importance of setting and fulfilling reader expectations, unlocking knowledge for readers, and creating an immersive experience. Kammer shares her three keys to reader enchantment: expectations, enlightenment, and experience. She also emphasises the significance of understanding readers and conducting market research to ensure that a book delivers on its promises.
 
Say hello to Gina! 
Book coach and editor Gina Kammer uses brain science hacks to take science fiction and fantasy authors through each step of the novel-writing process to create stories that enchant readers. Gina combines her background in teaching college writing and literature with her insights as a former in-house editor to mentor authors through craft instruction and the publishing industry. With over a decade of professional story-dragon experience, she coaches authors at inkybookwyrm.com so they know exactly which next steps to take on their journeys to publication.
Listeners can rip a page out of the Inky Bookwyrm's Spellbook! Download the "Spell for a Story Enchantment" and learn the key ingredients to a strong story that enchants readers. Access more downloads and resources by signing up for a free student account in the Inky Bookwyrm Conservatory. 
 
Takeaways
Understanding brain science can help authors create stories that enchant readers.
Setting and fulfilling reader expectations is crucial for creating a cohesive and impactful story.
Unlocking knowledge and providing enlightenment in a story can make readers care deeply.
Creating an immersive experience through world-building and emotional storytelling is key to reader enchantment.
Authors should understand their readers and conduct market research to ensure their book delivers on its promises. Understanding the reader's emotional journey is crucial for creating impactful narratives.
Readers care when they know how the characters care.
Building an emotional connection with readers leads to a loyal following.
Authors should focus on one thing and create a unique brand.
Successful authors meet reader expectations, provide value, and give readers an experience.
Authors should analyse craft advice through the three keys: expectations, enlightenment, and experience.
Start with basic story structure and show how characters care.
Vet advice to ensure it aligns with the story's goals.
Understanding brain science and story can enhance storytelling.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Bookish Question
02:33 Background and Brain Science
06:02 Simplifying Brain Science for Authors
09:24 The Importance of Purpose in Writing
11:36 The Three Keys to Reader Enchantment
14:02 The Deeper Connection in Reading
17:14 Understanding Readers and Market Research
19:02 Mood Reading and Quick Fix Stories
21:11 Infusing Stories with Emotions
23:26 The Power of Emotional Memories
25:23 Building a Loyal Following
27:13 Crafting an Author Brand
29:33 Authors Who Enchant Readers
32:18 Enhancing Storytelling with Brain Science
34:11 Moving from Discovery to Writing Phase
37:24 Advice for Aspiring Authors

The New Era of Self-Publishing with Galo Vargas

In this episode, Erica chats with Galo Vargas, founder of Inkspired, a storytelling publishing platform. They discuss the evolution of the publishing industry, the challenges faced by authors, and the role of Inkspired in supporting writers. Vargas also highlights the importance of marketing and distribution for authors and the need for a strategic approach.
 
Say Hello to Galo! 
Galo Vargas is Founder of Inkspired, a storytelling publishing platform  that allows authors to create books, web novels, graphic novels, micro-fictions, and soon, audio dramas. Inkspired provides tools for authors to create and publish their content, as well as a community of readers and beta readers for feedback. The platform also helps authors with audience growth, interactions with readers, and expanding their stories across languages and formats. 
 
Want to learn more? Visit their website: getinkspired.com/
 
Takeaways
The publishing industry has evolved with the rise of self-publishing platforms and the use of AI.
Authors face challenges in getting published and marketing their books.
Inkspired provides tools for writing, organising, and promoting stories, helping authors build an audience and drive sales.
A strategic approach to marketing and distribution is crucial for authors.
Building a community and engaging readers is essential for success in the publishing industry. Inkspired is a versatile platform that supports various formats of storytelling, including web novels, graphic novels, and micro-fictions.
The platform provides tools for content creation, publishing, and distribution, as well as a community of readers and beta readers for feedback.
Authors can monetize their content through selling chapters, crowdfunding, and memberships.
Inkspired aims to support emerging writers and help them become successful by providing opportunities for exposure and audience growth.
Getting started and being consistent are key to success as an author.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Book Recommendations
04:35 The Evolution of the Publishing Industry
08:09 The Use of AI in Writing
09:52 Serialised Fiction and Instant Feedback
12:37 The Birth of Inkspired
19:15 Challenges Faced by Authors
22:39 The Role of Inkspired in Supporting Writers
24:45 Tools and Community on Inkspired
26:34 Marketing and Audience Growth on Inkspired
31:06 Supporting Emerging Writers on Inkspired
34:09 Engaging with the Inkspired Community
38:24 The Algorithm and Marketing on Inkspired
40:31 Monetising Content on Inkspired
44:44 Advice for Aspiring Authors

Trademark Tips for Writers with Martha Pardo

Protect your author brand! Join Erica Birtles as she talks to trademark attorney Martha Pardo. Learn why trademarking is crucial for authors, how it differs from copyright, and the common mistakes to avoid. Discover the benefits of trademarking, including brand protection and licensing opportunities. Get practical tips on the process, from clearance searches to filing applications.
 
Say Hello to Martha! 
Martha A. Pardo is an attorney with almost two decades of experience. After spending most of her career helping underserved populations preserve their legal rights in housing, consumer and other areas, she established MAP Law Firm, PLLC to help small business owners protect their brands and investments through trademark services. 
 
Visit the MAP Law Firm website: https://www.maplawfirm.com
 
Takeaways
Trademarking is important for authors to protect their unique identifiers, such as book titles and logos.
Common mistakes authors make when trademarking include choosing generic or descriptive names.
Trademarking provides brand legitimacy and protection against infringement.
The process of trademarking involves conducting a clearance search, filing an application, and providing proof of use. Ebooks can be trademarked, especially if they are part of a series.
Authors can trademark their series and use it to build brand recognition and credibility.
Trademarking offers broader and easier-to-prove protections than not registering.
Authors should consider trademarking to protect their business and assess the risk involved.
Licensing trademarks can be a way for authors to generate additional income.
Resources and tools like the USPTO and search functions can help authors navigate the trademarking process.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Book Recommendation
02:21 Martha's Background and Journey to Trademarking
04:12 Explanation of Trademarks and Differences from Copyrights
06:41 The Importance of Trademarking for Authors
07:08 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trademarking
09:49 Why Fiction Authors Should Consider Trademarking
13:07 Trademarking Fictional Worlds and Characters
14:54 The Process of Trademarking for Authors
20:41 Cost and Documentation for Trademarking
25:52 Introduction and Discussion of Trademarking Ebooks
27:07 Trademarking Series and Other Opportunities
29:01 Assessing the Risk and Importance of Trademarking
31:38 Licensing Trademarks and Generating Income
33:59 Navigating the Trademarking Process and Resources
44:19 Final Advice for Authors on Trademarking
 

Why The Future of Book Marketing is Audience-first with Harry Evans

Want to boost your author brand reach? Learn how an audience-first approach can revolutionise your marketing and SEO. Join Erica Birtles as she talks to Harry Evans, co-founder of TwelveTwentyFive. Discover the importance of understanding your audience, providing value, and debunking common SEO myths. Get started with practical tips for building your brand and engaging your readers.
 
Say hello to Harry! 
Harry Evans is the Co-founder of TwelveTwentyFive, the audience-first SEO and Social agency. They work with growth-focused people and businesses to grow through SEO & Social Media by creating content that provides genuine value to their audience. 
To learn more visit their website or subscribe to the Building Podcast!
 
Takeaways
An audience-first approach in marketing and SEO focuses on understanding and connecting with your target audience throughout their buyer's journey.
Providing value to your audience is essential in building a successful audience-first strategy.
SEO is a simple discipline that requires a solid website, audience-first content, and effective distribution to reach your target audience.
Misconceptions about SEO can create a trust problem, but it is important to find professionals who simplify the process and provide real value.
Authors can start building an audience-first strategy by defining their target audience and choosing the right platforms to engage with them. Be authentic and provide value to your audience when building a personal or author brand.
Building a brand creates a community and investment in your success, making it easier to sell your products or services.
Common mistakes in building a personal brand include copying others and stopping too soon.
Continuing to post content, even if it doesn't immediately gain traction, is important for long-term success.
Use a consistent set of hashtags for each post, with about 80% of them being the same and 20% specific to the content.
Learn as much as possible about your audience and their consumption habits to inform your content strategy.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Book Recommendation
05:12 The Building Podcast: Learning from Early-Stage Entrepreneurs
07:32 Applying Audience-First Approach to Authors
13:15 Debunking Misconceptions About SEO
18:54 The Simplicity of SEO and Finding Trustworthy Professionals
20:39 First Steps for Authors: Defining Target Audience and Choosing Platforms
24:34 Building an Authentic Personal Brand or Author Brand
31:19 Understanding Your Audience for Effective Content Strategy
35:21 The Importance of Consistency in Hashtag Usage
40:33 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Personal Branding
44:23 Continuing to Post Content for Long-Term Success

Bookkeeping Basics for Authors with Alisha Thomas

Want to master your author bookkeeping? Join Erica Birtles as she talks to Alisha Thomas, a bookkeeping expert for creatives. Learn why bookkeeping is crucial for authors, how to categorise income and expenses, and the tax deductions you can claim. Discover tips to avoid common pitfalls and get started with your financial journey.
 
Say hello to Alisha!
Alisha Thomas, the owner of Wait. What. Consulting, is a Wilmington, NC-based entrepreneur with a passion for helping creative businesses thrive.
Alisha, who holds degrees in art and design and small business management, brings a wealth of experience to her role. Her background in finance, operations, and logistics for a successful gift company has equipped her with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs.
To learn more about her Quickbooks Course, follow this link. Visit the Wait. What Consulting website to learn more about their services. 
 
Takeaways
Bookkeeping is essential for authors who want to turn their passion into a business.
Authors should separate their personal and business finances by opening a separate bank account.
Using tools like QuickBooks can help authors categorise their income streams and expenses.
Good bookkeeping practices can provide authors with valuable insights for making informed business decisions.
Working with a CPA can help authors navigate the complexities of taxes and ensure compliance. Authors can claim certain expenses as tax deductions if they are related to their writing business.
It is important to keep personal and business finances separate and maintain accurate records of income and expenses.
Bad bookkeeping can result in paying too much in taxes or not having a clear understanding of financial performance.
Authors should take the time to learn about bookkeeping and seek resources, such as courses and consulting services, to help them manage their finances effectively.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Bookish Question
03:05 Alisha's Journey into Bookkeeping
06:37 Challenges Faced by Creatives in Bookkeeping
09:48 The Importance of Bookkeeping for Authors
12:56 Important Dates for Taxes in the US
15:13 Managing Bookkeeping without a CPA
18:10 Separating Personal and Business Finances
21:21 Visibility and Insights with Good Bookkeeping Practices
26:20 Common Mistakes in Bookkeeping
30:42 Consequences of Bad Bookkeeping
 

Why Every Author Needs a Podcast with Sarah Moffat

Want to boost your author brand and reach more readers? Discover how podcasting can help! In this episode, Erica and Sarah Moffat, Ghostwriter and Podcast Manager, discuss the ins and outs of podcasting for authors. Learn how to launch your own show, build a following,and monetise your content. From equipment to revenue, we cover it all. Tune in to find out if podcasting is right for you.
 
For more information about podcasting and inspiration for fiction authors, Sarah recommends the following resources:
 
School of Podcasting:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/school-of-podcasting-plan-launch-grow-and-monetize/id83653087
 
Fiction Writing Made Easy:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fiction-writing-made-easy/id1502307717
Say hello to Sarah! 
Sarah Moffat is a new mom, non-fiction ghostwriter, podcast manager, and creator of the Podcast to Book Mini Course. 
As a ghostwriter, Moffat has collaborated with authors to bring their stories to life, earning the nickname "book Yoda" from one client.
Alongside her husband, Billy, a former bassist in the hit show "One Night of Queen," Moffat has launched a podcast management service. Inspired by the challenges they faced during the 2020 pandemic, they combined their skills to offer comprehensive support to podcasters. Their goal is to empower creatives by handling the technical aspects of podcasting, allowing them to focus on content creation. Visit their website to find out more or follow Sarah on Instagram.
How to Launch Your Podcast Free Guide:
https://musical-crime-productions.ck.page/aa6dae5544
 
Podcast to Book Blueprint:
https://payhip.com/PodcasttoBookBlueprint
Key Takeaways
 
Podcast for Authors: A powerful tool for branding, connection, and revenue.
Key Steps: Plan, create, host, and promote valuable content.
Success Factors: Quality, consistency, engagement, and audience understanding.
Monetization: Align with goals, offer products or services.
Marketing: Leverage social media, guest appearances, and other platforms.
Guest Hosting: Ensure alignment and provide value.
Podcast Audits: Improve message, audience, and technical aspects.
Management Services: Streamline operations for launch and maintenance.
Repurposing: Turn podcast content into a book.
Growth: Industry is expanding, offering new opportunities.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Bookish Question
03:03 Leveraging Podcasting as a Host
06:09 Beginning Stages of Building a Podcast
09:05 Choosing a Hosting Platform
11:10 Challenges and Budgeting for Podcasting
20:53 Building a Following and Engaging with Listeners
23:10 Leveraging Podcasts for Revenue
26:51 Marketing a Podcast
28:50 Hosting Guests
30:40 Improving Podcasts through Audits
33:23 Podcast Management Services
37:06 Audio Branding and Copyright
39:53 Repurposing Podcast Content
42:07 The Growing Podcasting Industry
45:31 Understanding Your Audience