Not everyone talks about it, but all authors want to sell books. And we know a lot of you secretly (or not so secretly) would love to make enough to be a full-time author.  But is achieving significant sales still a possibility? The surprising answer lies in the realm of self-publishing, where a lot of successful authors are find their footing. Join us as we go through some suprising statistics and dissect the advantages that heavily favor self-published authors in today's dynamic market. From increased creative control to streamlined publishing processes, discover why this avenue has bec ..read more

This is another listener request and we're talking about trigger words that could potentially result in your hard-earned reviews being pulled from your retail page.  We chat about the fine line between what reviewers should say to maintain authenticity and what words they should tactfully avoid to ensure their reviews don't get flagged or worse, their accounts blacklisted.  And what's your role as an author? You must lead this charge! It's your responsibility to stay on top of industry standards so your readers feel confident supporting your brand. We'll share tips on effectively ..read more

Have you ever wondered why some books seem to effortlessly rack up Amazon reviews while others struggle to even get noticed? This week we're unveiling a secret strategy that savvy authors have been using to bolster their review numbers. We chat about the art of prompting reviews from your readers in a way that feels natural and seamless. It's a genius tactic that surprisingly few authors employ, but the results speak for themselves. From crafting the perfect call-to-action to timing it just right, we'll guide you through the basics of this simple and FREE strategy. Buy Penny's new book, The ..read more

This week we're talking about literary agents. Who they are, what they do, and whether you really need one.  We'll explore the ins and outs of literary representation, breaking down the roles and responsibilities of literary agents, and shedding light on the services they provide for authors. We'll also discuss the darker side of the industry, including common scams to avoid and red flags to watch out for when seeking representation. Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula now! FREE BONUS If you leave a review for the podcast email info@amarketingexpert.com and we'll give you o ..read more

Join us in this week's episode as we chat about the latest innovation from Amazon: the Virtual Voice.  Imagine a world where authors can transform their written words into audiobooks using artificial intelligence. FOR FREE. It's a game-changer for indie authors, but what does it mean for the future of storytelling and the traditional audiobook industry? Is this advancement a boon for indie authors seeking accessibility and affordability in audiobook production, or does it signal a threat to the livelihood of professional narrators? Maybe it's a little of both. Join us as we weigh the p ..read more

In this episode, we take a peek behind the curtain and dive into the sometimes harsh realities of the publishing world, shedding light on the obstacles that can slow an author's rise to the top – and sharing insights on how to avoid them.  While we love authors who dream big, keeping expectations in check is essential. Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a bummer episode but rather a discussion of actionable things authors can do to avoid wasting precious time and resources on futile pursuits. From the allure of quick-fix marketing campaigns to the importance of reader reviews and social proof ..read more

In this episode, Penny and Amy decode the intricate world of big media outlets and help you understand what they're looking for and whether or not you’re right for a big media outlet.  We kick off by addressing a common misconception – that success in media equals instant fame or a bestselling book. We’ll discuss the importance of finding your niche and leveraging various platforms to reach your target audience effectively. But who exactly is your target market? We’ll unpack that, too! We explore the nuances of identifying and reaching the right audience for your content.  Join us as ..read more

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on a common dilemma many memoir authors face: determining whether their book can be classified as self-help.  While storytelling and imparting wisdom often go hand in hand, understanding the nuances between these genres is essential for maximizing the impact and success of your book. Too often, authors find themselves straddling the line between memoir and self-help, leading to confusion for both themselves and their readers. We dissect the key differences between these genres, offering insider insights into what sets them apart and how to lever ..read more

Join us for a candid discussion as we shine a light on the often-overlooked aspects of the author journey. In this episode, we tackle the things that many authors aren't adequately prepared for but are crucial to their success. From the seemingly mundane task of reading contracts to the sobering realization that publishing is indeed a business, we explore the facets of authorship that can catch even the most seasoned writers off guard. We understand that delving into legal jargon may not be the highlight of your day, but we break down why it's essential and how it can protect your interests in ..read more

In this episode, we delve into a crucial but often overlooked aspect of being an author: education in publishing. And we get it, it’s another thing to learn. But it’s crucial to your success and we’ll unpack why. But don't worry, you don't need a PhD in publishing to thrive. Join us as we explore why understanding the ins and outs of the industry can not only save you money but also significantly impact your success as a writer. From the ever-evolving landscape of Amazon to emerging trends shaping the publishing world, we break down the importance of staying informed. We offer practical tips a ..read more