The longest-running book marketing podcast in the world. This is the show for writers who want to build their platform, sell more books, and change the world wi...
Book Promotion in 2025: How AI Gives Authors More Time to Write
It’s 2025, and authors are at war over AI. Some are embracing it, others are retreating to bunkers, and a few think it’s just another passing fad. But amid all the controversy, most authors are missing out on the AI advantage that everyone can agree on: AI can help you market your books, which gives you more time to write. Most of us became authors because we love writing, not because we love marketing. But what if AI could handle some of the heavy lifting for you? What if you could spend less time on book promotion and more time crafting stories? In this week’s episode, I sit down with Alexander Macris, an author, game creator, and expert in AI-powered marketing. We discuss: The AI tools that help authors sell more books (without replacing their creativity) How to use AI to improve book descriptions, pitches, and cover designs The surprising way AI can analyze your data to help you serve your readers Listen in or read the blog version to learn how you can use AI to reclaim your writing time! I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you used AI in your marketing? Join the conversation in AuthorMedia.Social, a no-drama space where authors share their AI experiences with civility and curiosity.Support the show
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59:40
The Sci-Fi Zeitgeist Has Shifted – What Authors Need to Know
Science fiction is changing, and so are its readers. The cultural landscape that shaped the last 40 years of sci-fi is shifting, including thoughts about wokeness, AI, WWIII, population, and more. If you're still writing about overused and cliched sci-fi themes, you're missing the mark.In this week's episode of Novel Marketing, we explore:Why climate-change narratives are losing their grip on sci-fi readersHow population change can impact the next big sci-fi storiesThe new role of AI in the sci-fi genreHow today's global conflicts hint at the future of war in sci-fiUnderstanding these shifts will help you write more compelling stories that stand out in a genre desperate for fresh perspectives. Listen in or read the blog version to dive into the essentials of writing a sci-fi novel amidst evolving themes like population collapse and AI advancements.https://www.authormedia.com/the-sci-fi-zeitgeist-has-shifted-what-authors-need-to-know/Support the show
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37:47
Indie Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
To indie publish or traditionally publish? That is the question.For years, indie publishing was seen as a fallback for authors who couldn’t land a traditional contract. But times have changed. Many indie authors now outsell and out-earn their traditionally published counterparts.And yet, while many traditionally published authors are switching to indie, it’s far less common to see a successful indie author sign with a major publisher.What would make an indie author turn down a traditional publishing deal?I spoke with Scott LaPierre, an author and conference speaker, to find out.In this week’s episode, we discuss:The biggest myths about traditional publishingHow signing a contract affected book salesTraditional publishing’s take on pricing and marketingThe cost of getting your rights back and why it mattersScott gives a first-hand account of working as a traditional and indie author and where he landed after experiencing both routes.If you’ve ever wondered which path is right for you and your book, listen in or read the blog version of our conversation.Support the show
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46:09
Stop Writing Book Series!
If you’re thinking about writing a book series, you might want to reconsider, especially if you’re a new author. That’s not to say you should never write a series, but it can be a risky endeavor, and I can prove it with math.In this week’s episode, I break down why writing a series may limit your potential readership. You’ll learn:The four steps every reader must take for your sequel to sell wellThe math behind why sequels struggle to sellThe hidden dangers of "battered reader syndrome" and how it affects new authorsA pre-series strategy for new authorsIf you’ve ever wondered whether you should commit to a series or focus on standalones, listen in or read the blog post for a fresh perspective and a smarter strategy.Support the show
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22:50
How to Sell Books From a Table
Have you ever set up a book table and stacked your books neatly, only to walk away with disappointing sales? You're not alone.But there is a better way to sell books from your book table at in-person events.In this week's episode of Novel Marketing, I sit down with Sarah Hickner, an expert in book table sales, to uncover:Common mistakes authors make at book tables (and how to avoid them)Simple tricks to draw readers in without feeling pushyHow to use giveaways, bundles, and book covers to boost salesWhy in-person events aren't just about selling booksWhether you're an introvert or a seasoned seller, listen in or read the blog version to learn how to set up an eye-catching table, use giveaways effectively, craft the perfect pitch, and avoid common mistakes that cost authors sales.Support the show
The longest-running book marketing podcast in the world. This is the show for writers who want to build their platform, sell more books, and change the world with writing worth talking about. Whether you self publish or are with a traditional house, this podcast will make book promotion fun and easy. Thomas Umstattd Jr. interviews publishers, indie authors, and bestselling traditional authors about how to get published and sell more books.
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