The BookTribe Podcast

Book marketing 2.0: Expanding your reach with Online Book Tours

Trish Collins, co-founder of TLC Book Tours, discusses the concept of online book tours and their impact on book marketing. The conversation covers the evolution of book tours, the role of social media, the challenges and benefits for authors, and the process of working with TLC Book Tours. Trish also discusses the criteria for selecting Instagram influencers for book tours, the characteristics of an ideal author for book tours, the importance of investment in marketing activities, and the measurement of success for book tours.
Subscribe for more expert tips, insights and guidance! 
 
Say hello to Trish! 
Trish Collins is the co-founder of TLC Book Tours, an agency helping authors to get their book in the hands of readers who are active on social media.
If you’d like to learn more, then visit their website or follow them on social media at @tlcbooktours! 
 
Takeaways
Online book tours are a word-of-mouth marketing strategy that leverages social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to promote books and engage readers.
Authors benefit from increased visibility and credibility through online book tours, but success is a long-term game that requires consistent engagement and promotion.
Ideal authors for book tours have marketable books with an audience, flexibility, and the ability to wait for tour posts.
Authors need to invest in a website, social media presence, and good editing and cover design before considering a book tour.
Success for book tours is measured through engagement metrics such as comments, likes, shares, and views on social media platforms.
Authors should not give up and should continuously adapt their marketing strategies to find what works best for them.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Evolution of Online Book Tours
07:31 The Impact of Social Media on Book Marketing
11:13 Challenges and Benefits for Authors
25:23 Selecting Instagram Influencers for Book Tours
28:36 Characteristics of an Ideal Author for Book Tours
31:11 Investing in Marketing Activities for Book Tours
34:43 Measuring Success for Book Tours
36:27 Adapting Marketing Strategies for Book Tours

From Manuscript to Bestseller: Blurbs, Blunders, & Building a Brand

In this episode, Erica interviews Judith Briles, a publishing consultant and book marketing expert. They discuss various book-related topics, including the role of a publishing consultant, the importance of a clear book blurb, and common marketing and publishing blunders. Briles also highlights the significance of professional editing and design in creating a quality book, while encouraging authors to persist, persevere, and plan for success.
Subscribe for more experts tips, insights and advice! 
 
Say hello to Judith! 
Judith Briles is a Book Publishing Expert, Book Marketing Expert, Inspiration Book Coach and The Book Shepherd. She coaches writers to the completion of their manuscripts, and helps them to create and implement a book marketing launch and campaign strategy.
She is also an Internet Radio Host, International Speaker, Publisher, and award-winning and best-selling Author.
If you’d like to learn more about Judith, please visit her website. 
Takeaways
Authors can make money from Kindle Unlimited through page turns and previews, and it can also serve as a marketing tool.
A publishing consultant, or book shepherd, helps authors with various aspects of the publishing process, including editing, design, and marketing.
A clear and intriguing book blurb is essential for attracting readers and generating interest in the book.
Common marketing blunders include not defining the target audience and failing to articulate the core message of the book.
Common publishing blunders include not editing the book thoroughly and not seeking professional help when needed. Writing and publishing should be treated as a business, with the author and the book recognised as valuable assets with profit potential.
Professional editing and design are essential for creating a quality book that will be well-received by readers and reviewers.
Authors should embrace marketing from the beginning and build their brand to create awareness and attract readers.
When deciding between self-publishing and traditional publishing, authors should consider their goals, desire for control, timing, and financial expectations.
Authors should persist, persevere, and plan for success, understanding that it takes time and effort to achieve their goals.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Random Bookish Questions
02:18 The Juiciest Genres: Romance and Celebrity Memoirs
03:24 Making Money from Kindle Unlimited
06:24 The Role of a Publishing Consultant
13:46 The Importance of a Clear Book Blurb
23:47 Common Publishing Blunders
23:55 Treating Writing and Publishing as a Business
24:30 The Importance of Professional Editing and Design
25:24 Embracing Marketing and Building a Brand
31:48 Choosing Between Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing
35:13 Persisting, Persevering, and Planning for Success

Screw the Gatekeepers: Write Your Damn Book and Self-Publish Like a Boss

In this episode, Elizabeth Lyons discusses the rise of self-publishing and the challenges in traditional publishing. She also explores the common stages and goals of authors, as well as the misconceptions about writing and publishing. Finally, she weighs the upsides and downsides of self-publishing. In this conversation, Elizabeth Lyons discusses the pros and cons of self-publishing, common pitfalls in the publishing process, the importance of defining your why, overcoming roadblocks in the writing process, costly mistakes in the publishing process, factors contributing to the success of a book, recommended resources for authors, and shares one piece of advice for authors.
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert guidance, tips and insights!
 
Say hello to Elizabeth!
Elizabeth Lyons is a 6x author, book writing & publishing coach, book editor, and host of the ‘Write the Damn Book Already’ podcast. Through her ‘Publish A Profitable Book’ course, she helps authors remove overwhelm and overthinking by walking them step-by-step through the self-publishing process so you can have a book that's indistinguishable in quality from those published by the "big guys." 
Want 15% off the ‘Publish a Profitable Book’ course? Use code: LETSPUBLISH!
If you want to learn more, visit the website or subscribe to her podcast. 
 
Takeaways
Self-publishing has become more popular due to increased transparency about the traditional publishing process.
Authors often seek personal growth and fulfilment through writing.
Many authors come to Elizabeth Lyons for help when they are stuck in the writing process or unsure where to start.
There are misconceptions about the ease and quick path to success in writing and publishing. Self-publishing offers benefits such as creative control, faster time to market, and higher royalties, but it also requires self-direction and self-discipline.
One of the biggest pitfalls in the publishing process is thinking you don't need an editor. Good editing is essential to ensure content clarity and reader engagement.
Before starting to write and publish a book, it is important to define your why and understand the benefit your book will bring to your audience.
To overcome roadblocks in the writing process, surround yourself with a community of writers, be willing to push yourself, and recognize that all books are written in small increments of time.
Costly mistakes in the publishing process include working with vanity publishers who prioritise profit over quality and not investing in professional cover design.
The success of a book is unpredictable, but putting your best foot forward, surrounding yourself with the right people, and being willing to market and promote your book can increase its chances.
Embrace curiosity and ask 'what if' questions to explore the possibilities and positive outcomes of writing and publishing a book.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
03:09 The Rise of Self-Publishing
09:01 Challenges in Traditional Publishing
13:00 Common Stages and Goals of Authors
20:38 Upsides and Downsides of Self-Publishing
21:17 Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing
23:41 Common Pitfalls in the Publishing Process
28:25 The Importance of Defining Your Why
31:41 Overcoming Roadblocks in the Writing Process
37:30 Costly Mistakes in the Publishing Process
40:50 Factors Contributing to the Success of a Book
45:06 Recommended Resources for Authors
46:28 One Piece of Advice for Authors

First Draft Fear? Conquer Writer's Block & Write Your Novel

In this conversation, Erica and Emma Dhesi, author and book coach, discuss the role of AI in writing, where new writers should start, how to overcome creative blocks, and dealing with negative feedback. Emma emphasises the importance of human interaction and the unique ways our brains work when writing. She also provides resources for craft and mindset, including her own book and course. 
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert tips, guidance and advice!
 
Say hello to Emma! 
Emma Dhesi is an author and book coach based in the UK, who specialises in helping beginner authors break through their creative blocks, boost their self belief and write their first novel.
Emma runs a 'Crack The Code: Break Through Writer's Block' challenge throughout the year to provide personalised guidance on how to get to the root of writer’s block so you can banish it forever. If you’d like to join in, follow this link.
For more about Emma and her work, visit emmadhesi.com. 
 
Takeaways
Writing a book is a long-term commitment that requires patience, perseverance, and the ability to overcome self-doubt.
Working with a book coach can provide accountability, feedback, craft learning, mindset support, and brainstorming sessions.
AI can play a role in book coaching by helping with brainstorming, identifying plot holes, and generating fresh ideas.
AI can provide objective feedback and serve as a critique partner, but human interaction is still valuable in the coaching process. AI can be a useful tool in writing, but human interaction and the unique ways our brains work are still essential.
New writers should start by writing as a hobby and reading widely to discover the types of stories they enjoy.
Taking writing classes and finding a coach can help new writers learn the craft and improve their skills.
Dealing with rejection and negative feedback requires a strong mindset and belief in oneself.
Resources for writers include craft books, such as 'Launchpad' and 'Plot and Structure,' and mindset books, such as 'Big Magic' and 'Bird by Bird.'
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Bookish Questions
08:06 The Importance of Commitment and Accountability
29:33 Overcoming Rejection and Dealing with Negative Feedback

Cracking the Code to Readers Hearts: Level up your romance writing!

Summary
In this episode, Erica interviews Paula Judith Johnson, an online entrepreneur and bestselling romance author. They discuss Paula's passion for writing and romance books, the challenges and moments in her writing and publishing journey, and the difficulties in writing, publishing, and selling books. They also talk about common challenges for romance authors, the value of community, and Paula's upcoming Fantasy and Sci-Fi Authors Summit. 
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert insights and tips! 
 
Say Hello to Paula!
Paula Judith Johnson is an online entrepreneur, Amazon Best Selling author, and an award-winning author of steamy romance novels.
Paula is also the hostess of the Writing Romance Mastery Summits, where you can learn about writing, publishing, and marketing your romance novels, and the creator of the 10-week, immersive Seductive Storylines course that teaches authors how to write irresistible romance novels.
For the free download of Paula’s Seductive Storylines Cheatsheet, follow this link. 
To learn more about Paula visit her website or sign up for the next Writing Romance Mastery Summit. 
 
Takeaways
Continuous learning and research are essential for writers to improve their craft.
Building a supportive community of authors is valuable for collaboration and sharing ideas.
Romance authors should understand the expectations of readers and include the necessary beats in their novels.
Authors should seek resources and communities that resonate with their specific goals and needs.
The writing, publishing, and marketing processes can be challenging, but there are resources and support available to help navigate them.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quick Fire Questions
03:38 Passion for Writing and Romance Books
07:00 Challenges and Moments in the Writing and Publishing Journey
12:03 Difficulties in Writing, Publishing, and Selling Books
21:01 Writing Romance Summits and the Value of Community
27:35 Cutting Through the Noise and Building Supportive Networks
38:02 Upcoming Fantasy and Sci-Fi Authors Summit
39:32 Advice for New Romance Authors

Sci-fi and fantasy Writing: World-building, Writer's Block & Finding Your Voice

In this episode, Erica interviews Beth Barany, an award-winning novelist, NLP practitioner, and creativity coach for writers. They discuss various aspects of writing sci-fi and fantasy novels, including what makes a good novel in these genres, common myths and misconceptions, and the current market for sci-fi and fantasy authors. Beth also provides tips and exercises for overcoming writer's block and encourages writers to approach their craft with a gentle and persistent mindset.
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert tips, guidance and insights!
 
Say hello to Beth!
Beth Barany is an award-winning novelist, master neurolinguistic programming practitioner, and certified creativity coach for writers. She's also an experienced international speaker and podcaster.
Beth specialises in helping writers experience clarity, so they can write, revise, and proudly publish their novels to the delight of their readers. Her courses are packed with useful hands-on information that you can implement right away. She runs a 12-month group coaching program to help science fiction and fantasy writers edit their manuscripts and get published. She also offers bespoke one-on-one coaching and consulting programs for science fiction and fantasy authors and other adventurous thinkers.
To learn more visit bethbarany.com or follow Beth on Instagram! To access Beth’s free World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers follow this link.
Takeaways
Good sci-fi and fantasy novels have realistic characters and worlds, with complexity, contradictions, and consequences.
Authors should think through their magical systems, considering causes, consequences, and costs.
The market for sci-fi and fantasy authors is busy, but there is room for everyone and trends come and go.
AI tools can be helpful for brainstorming and overcoming creative roadblocks, but authors should find a balance and maintain their unique voice.
Sci-fi and fantasy authors face the challenge of grounding readers in unfamiliar worlds while also providing familiarity.
Embracing unique and quirky ideas is important, as readers are always looking for something new. World building is a crucial aspect of writing in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.
Overcoming writer's block can be achieved through exercises such as setting a timer and engaging in free writing.
Approaching writing as a gentle exercise and developing a consistent writing habit can help foster creativity.
Building supportive networks and joining writing organizations can provide valuable connections and resources for writers.
Persistence is key in pursuing a writing career and achieving success.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Qualification
02:11 Bookish Quickfire Questions
06:03 What Makes a Good Sci-fi or Fantasy Novel
09:40 Myths and Misconceptions about Writing Sci-fi or Fantasy
12:21 The Market for Sci-fi and Fantasy Authors
14:34 Challenges and Opportunities in the Market
23:21 World Building in Science Fiction and Fantasy
24:11 Emphasis on World Building in Sci-Fi and Fantasy
25:07 Overcoming Writer's Block
26:06 Writing Exercises to Overcome Writer's Block
28:26 Writing as a Gentle Exercise
30:17 Managing Ideas and Starting to Write
31:01 Building Supportive Networks
38:35 Beth Barany's 12-Month Mastermind Program
42:53 Beth Barany's Podcast: How to Write the Future
44:24 The Importance of Persistence
 

Perfect The Craft of Storytelling and Build a thriving Business

In this episode, Kat Caldwell, writer, podcaster and creative coach, discusses starting an authoring business and the importance of storytelling. Kat provides advice on creating a sustainable writing routine and preparing manuscripts for publication, including marketing and budgeting. Additionally, Kat explains the value of book coaching and offers tips for selecting a book coach.
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert guidance!
 
Say hello to Kat! 
Kat Caldwell is a writer, podcaster and creative coach who is passionate about helping those who want to write their story get the tools and support they need. To help all writers, whether indie or traditionally published, Kat started her podcast Pencils&Lipstick in 2019, as well as the Creative Writing Community and the Creative Writing Sprints Membership in 2021. Kat runs monthly workshops centered on bettering the craft of writing as well as book marketing and the business around being an author. 
 
If you’d like to find out more, visit her website or join her newsletter for writers. 
Or discover the Pencils and Lipsticks podcast channel.
 
Takeaways
Understand the craft of storytelling and the importance of creating engaging stories.
Develop a sustainable writing routine and continuously improve your writing skills.
Prepare your manuscript for publication by learning self-editing techniques and understanding the business side of authoring.
Consider working with a book coach to receive personalised guidance and feedback.
Trust your instincts as a writer and never stop learning and growing.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quick Fire Questions
02:01 Passion for Helping Other Authors
04:30 The Difference Between Writing and Storytelling
07:46 Pitfalls in Creating a Story
09:34 Creating a Sustainable Writing Routine
14:23 Preparing the Manuscript for Publication
26:31 Overcoming Fears and Taking Business Risks
31:33 The Value of Book Coaching

Beyond Stereotypes: Writing Authentic Native American Characters

Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, Choctaw author and founder of fictioncourses.com, speaks with Erica about writing characters from different backgrounds, specifically Native American characters. Sarah provides tips for authors on researching and developing diverse characters, and highlights the value of cultural resources and primary sources. Sarah also gives authors tips on how to avoid common mistakes when writing about Native American characters. 
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert tips and advice! 
 
Say hello to Sarah! 
Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer is an author, speaker and Choctaw storyteller, who writes historical fiction that features authentic American Indian characters. Sarah’s signature course, ‘Fiction Writing: American Indians’, is equipping authors to write authentic stories that honour Native American history and culture.
Through FictionCourses.com, she takes authors who are struggling to master the tools and knowledge of their author journey and helps them become confident in writing their books. Sarah’s ‘Dictation Bootcamp for Authors’ takes authors through the process of mastering dictation through easy exercises that lead them to become the master of their fictional worlds. 
To learn more about Sarah’s courses visit www.fictioncourses.com. Or follow FictionCourses on Facebook and Instagram. 
 
Takeaways
It is important for authors to write about characters from different backgrounds to create a more accurate and realistic representation of the world.
Writing about Native American characters requires research and understanding of their specific tribe, region, and time period.
Authors should be aware of stereotypes and pitfalls when writing about Native American characters and strive for accurate and respectful representation.
Resources such as cultural centres, museums, and primary sources can provide valuable information for writing diverse characters.
Authors can benefit from incorporating dictation into their writing process, and training programs like the dictation camp can help them develop this skill.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quick Fire Questions
02:57 Background and Starting Fictioncourses.com
05:35 The Importance of Writing About Characters from Different Backgrounds
09:30 The Impact of Getting it Wrong
12:20 The Anxiety of Writing About Different Characters
15:33 Mistakes Authors Make When Writing About Native American Characters
23:52 Tips for Writing Diverse Characters
26:24 Pitfalls of Writing Native American Characters
29:42 Considerations for Developing Native American Characters
31:41 Positive Representations of Native American Characters
34:24 Resources for Writing Diverse Characters
38:06 Dictation Camp for Authors
41:24 Advice for Authors

Embrace the Hustle: Self-publishing, Mental Wellness and Community

In this episode, Erica interviews Jennae Cecelia, a self-published poet and author, about her journey and experiences in self-publishing. Jennae shares her journey as a self-published author and provides advice on managing mental health as an author, building a community of readers, and dealing with negativity and reviews. 
Subscribe to the BookTribe podcast for more expert insights! 
 
Say hello to Jennae! 
Jennae began her career as an author and poet in 2016 by self-publishing. Since then she has gone on to write thirteen Amazon Best-Selling poetry books. She now helps other authors and writers learn how to navigate the process of putting their book out into the world. 
 
If you’d like to find out more about Jennae or to download her guide for self-published authors, visit her website. 
For her latest book ‘Come Be Cozy’ follow this link. 
 
Takeaways
Self-publishing allows authors to have more control over their work and potentially make more money per book sale.
Building a community of loyal readers is more important than having a large number of followers.
Managing mental health as an author is crucial, and authors should prioritise self-care and establish healthy routines.
Comparing oneself to other authors can be detrimental, and authors should focus on their own journey and progress.
Having grace and patience with oneself is essential throughout the self-publishing journey.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
01:22 Writing Preferences and Favourite Protagonists
04:16 Jennae's Journey and Overcoming Trials
06:48 Timeline of Janaye's Journey
08:09 Misconceptions about Self-Publishing
10:14 Mechanics of Self-Publishing
11:59 Pre-Ordering and Benefits of Self-Publishing
14:43 Managing Mental Health as an Author
21:22 Dealing with Negativity and Reviews
23:13 Resources and Communities for Self-Published Authors
25:04 Importance of Book Covers
26:34 Managing Mental Health during Book Releases
29:19 Balancing Responsibilities and Writing
31:04 Building a Community of Loyal Readers
34:01 Managing Mental Health and Finding Balance
37:15 Advice for Authors
 

Essential Tips for New Writers: Keep It Simple and Find Your Tribe

In this episode, Erica chats with Stacy, the seasoned author and Founder of Shortcuts for Writers. Join them as they discuss the importance of finding your tribe and how to avoid common writing mistakes!
To learn more about shortcuts for writers visit www.shortcutsforwriters.com. 
 
Takeaways
Surround yourself with other writers and join writing communities for support and guidance.
Read extensively in the genre you are writing to learn from well-written books.
Seek feedback from critique partners or beta readers to improve your writing.
Do thorough research and consult experts when writing about diverse characters or unfamiliar topics.
Focus on continuous learning and find mentors who resonate with you.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
01:05 Stacy's Journey into Fiction Writing
06:31 The Challenges of Being a Writer
10:27 Developing a Positive Mindset
13:06 Finding Support and Communities
14:05 Common Mistakes in Writing
21:17 Advice for Beginning Writers
23:33 Tools for Writers
27:19 Balancing Writing with Lifestyle
33:32 Authentic Representation of Diverse Characters
37:47 Advice for Writers
40:04 Stacy's Programs and Courses
42:07 Contacting Stacy
43:08 Conclusion