TikTok for Authors Part 2 with Kate Hall, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep 26
In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes back Kate Hall, a successful author and marketing expert. They discuss the evolving landscape of social media, particularly TikTok, and how authors can adapt their marketing strategies to thrive. Kate shares her personal journey from struggling to successful author, emphasizing the importance of engaging content and the need to pivot in response to platform changes. The conversation also covers practical tips for creating compelling videos, the decline of hashtags, and the significance of visual hooks in content creation. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of book marketing, particularly through platforms like TikTok. They discuss the importance of creating tension and drama in storytelling, the need for relatable elements in high fantasy, and the authenticity required in content creation. The conversation also covers effective management of a TikTok shop, leveraging live streaming for engagement, and practical tips for authors looking to start their journey on TikTok. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape of book promotion and the strategies authors can employ to connect with their audience.TakeawaysAuthors need to adapt to changing social media landscapes.TikTok's restrictions are impacting how authors market their books.Visual hooks are essential for engaging content.Hashtags are becoming less effective; focus on keywords instead.Creating face content can be more effective than slideshows.Authors should diversify their content across multiple platforms.Engaging content should hook viewers in the first three seconds.Quality video and lighting are crucial for TikTok success.Authors can use personal stories to connect with their audience.Consistency and experimentation are key to finding what works. Book marketing on TikTok requires engaging hooks.Tension in storytelling is crucial for selling books.Relatable elements help readers connect with high fantasy.Authenticity in content creation resonates with audiences.TikTok Shop can significantly boost book sales.Bundles of books can attract more buyers.Live streaming can enhance engagement and sales.Pre-signing books can streamline TikTok Shop management.Editing videos for TikTok is essential for visibility.Consistency in posting leads to increased audience engagement.
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1:23:55
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1:23:55
The Cutting Edge of Self-Publishing at Author Nation with Joe Solari, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep 25
SummaryIn this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis and co-hosts Emma Alisyn and Kelli Tanzi welcome Joe Solari, Managing Director of Author Nation. They discuss the evolving landscape of self-publishing, the importance of community and connection among authors, and innovative strategies for engaging readers. The conversation highlights practical self-publishing tips, the significance of authenticity in author-reader relationships, and the future of author events, including digital signing opportunities. Joe shares insights on how Author Nation aims to create meaningful experiences for authors and readers alike, emphasizing collaboration and creativity in the industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of in-person author events, the evolution of marketing strategies in publishing, and the emergence of new models for content creation. They emphasize the need for community support among authors and explore innovative approaches to engaging with readers. The discussion also touches on the future of publishing, including the role of technology and the potential for new revenue streams through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon.
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1:20:19
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1:20:19
Building a Sustainable Author Career with Russell Nohelty, The BookFunnel Podcast Episode 24
In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the BookFunnel team welcomes USA Today bestselling author Russell Nohelty. They discuss various aspects of self-publishing, including marketing strategies, the importance of scalability, and the mindset needed for success. Russell shares insights from his own journey, emphasizing the need for authors to embrace their unique voices while also learning from other industries. The conversation touches on overcoming self-sabotage and the importance of focusing on what works in an author's career. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of writing, self-critique, and the evolution of an author's perspective over time. They discuss the importance of understanding reader expectations, the sunk cost fallacy in writing, and the impact of revisions on reader connection. The conversation also explores the challenges of rewriting and the necessity of diverse marketing strategies to achieve success in the ever-changing landscape of publishing.TakeawaysAuthors often have diverse backgrounds and experiences.Creative projects can evolve from initial ideas.Self-publishing requires ongoing marketing efforts.Authors should focus on strategies that work for them.Learning from other industries can provide valuable insights.Scalability is crucial for long-term success in writing.Self-sabotage can hinder an author's progress.It's important to embrace both successes and failures in writing. Self-critique can hinder an author's willingness to share their work.Authors evolve over time, and their interests may change.Reader expectations should guide an author's decisions.The sunk cost fallacy can trap authors in unproductive cycles.Revisions can alter the reader's connection to a story.Diverse marketing strategies are essential for success.Authors should not underestimate their audience's preferences.Creating a community around a book can enhance its success.Testing different marketing approaches can yield valuable insights.It's important to balance passion projects with marketable works.
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1:38:40
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1:38:40
Digital Authors Toolkit with Stu Grant, The BookFunnel Podcast Episode 23
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.
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1:11:44
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1:11:44
The Artisan Author with Johnny B. Truant, The BookFunnel Podcast Episode 22
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/
The official podcast from the team at BookFunnel, hosted by Jack Shilkaitis, Kelli Tanzi, and Emma Alisyn, featuring guest interviews, self-publishing industry discussions, and tips for using BookFunnel to build an author business.
New Zealand