Beyond the Pen
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Beyond the Pen episodes

  • The Journey of an Author: What Podcasters Want to Know

    In This Episode

    Join us in this episode of Beyond the Pen as Maccabee takes us through his recent experiences at the local book fair in Indianapolis, his completion of editing another non-fiction book for the MediaCasters, and his upcoming interviews with new authors and publishing experts. Along the way, he shares his journey dealing with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and the therapeutic benefits of writing. Don't miss out on Maccabee's inspiring words and encouragement to start your writing journey today!


    Notes

    • The Importance of the Author's Journey [00:02:58] Maccabee emphasizes the importance of sharing the author's journey and inspiration, and not just their book, to podcasters and media.


    • Dealing with Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures [00:05:57] Maccabee shares his personal journey of dealing with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and how writing helps him relax.


    • Goals for the Podcast [00:08:55] Maccabee talks about his goals for the podcast, including creating partnerships, finding sponsors, and educating and inspiring listeners.
    15 min
  • From Book to Clients: Learn How to Market Your Book Authentically with Judy M. Baker

    In This Episode

    Dive into the world of book marketing with Maccabee Griffin and notable guest author and book marketer Judy M. Baker as they explore innovative strategies and share insider tips to help authors captivate their ideal readers. In this episode of Beyond the Pen, Judy reveals the secrets of building a powerful brand, harnessing the power of third-party verification, and mastering the art of email lists. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, tune in to learn how to elevate your book marketing game and enchant your audience like never before! Join us as we discuss the love for books, the ever-evolving publishing industry, and the importance of thinking outside the box. Don't miss out on Judy's exclusive offer for her transformative book marketing course that will take your author journey to new heights!


    Points of Interest

    • Introduction [00:00:00] Maccabee introduces Judy M. Baker and her background in book marketing and love for books.
    • Judy's love for books [00:01:43] Judy talks about her lifelong love for books and her experience working in libraries.
    • Identifying ideal reader demographic [00:06:10] Judy discusses strategies including social media and email, to identify their ideal reader demographicl market, to identify their ideal reader demographicing.
    • How to identify their ideal reader demographicImportance of making connections [00:07:19] Judy emphasizes the importance of making connections with readers and clients, and framing the author's journey.
    • Young adult and romance genres [00:09:14] Maccabee and Judy discuss the popularity of young adult and romance genres in the past year.
    • Childhood Reading Favorites [00:10:09] Maccabee and Judy discuss their favorite childhood books, including the Hardy Boys and Boxcar Children.
    • Book Marketing Strategies [00:11:05] Judy shares strategies for book marketing, including third-party verification, beta readers, and creating a group based on your expertise.
    • Importance of Research Librarians [00:15:06] Judy emphasizes the importance of utilizing research librarians and the free resources at your local library for book marketing.
    • Optimizing Book Listings [00:19:43] Judy discusses the importance of completing metadata associated with your ISBN number for better book discoverability on Amazon and other sellers.
    • ISBN and Book Title [00:20:47] Importance of ISBN and creating a grabby book title.
    • Categories and Author Page [00:21:46] Requesting additional categories on Amazon and creating an author page.
    • Metadata and Google Juice [00:23:48] Filling in metadata and alt tags for search engine optimization.
    • Thinking Outside the Box [00:27:17] Creative book marketing ideas, such as book announcement birth announcements, wearing book covers, and creating lead magnets.
    • Merchandise and Branding [00:30:15] The importance of merchandise and branding for authors, with examples of authors who have done it well.
    • Long-term Marketing Plans [00:32:39] The importance of thinking long-term when it comes to marketing plans, and how authors can create marketing plans that continually evolve.
    • Building Upon Launch [00:33:45] The difference between publication date and launch, and how authors can build upon their launch with multiple events, both in-person and online.
    • Red Flags in Book Marketing Services [00:37:16] What authors should look for in someone to help them market their book, and red flags to watch out for when considering book marketing services.


    Links

    • Writer Beware - https://www.sfwa.org/other-resources/for-authors/writer-beware/
    • Judy's Freebies: https://bookmarketingmentor.com/freebie
    • Redwood Writers: https://redwoodwriters.org/
    • Masterclass: https://bookmarketingmentor.com/mca12
    56 min
  • Leadership and Maverick Thinking with Guest Author Garry Hall | Beyond the Pen Podcast

    Episode Description:

    Join us on Beyond the Pen as we sit down with retired Rear Admiral Garry Hall, author of Navigating Leadership, for an insightful and entertaining conversation about the importance of risk-taking, fostering diverse relationships, and the power of teamwork.

    From his journey as a Navy helicopter pilot to becoming a leadership expert, Garry shares his wit, wisdom, and personal anecdotes, revealing the secrets to maintaining a long-lasting marriage and the power of humor in diffusing tense situations.

    Discover the power of the P.A.C.T. - Passion, Accountability, Commitment, and Traits/Traditions - and learn how these principles have shaped Garry's personal and professional life, providing valuable insights on leadership, goal-setting, and self-improvement. Tune in to hear from the next maverick of leadership, Mr. Garry Hall.


    Timestamps:

    Introduction [00:00:00] The host introduces the guest, retired Rear Admiral Garry Hall, and gives a brief background on his career.

    Garry's Introduction [00:01:13] Garry introduces himself and talks about his background, including his time in the U.S. Navy and his book "Navigating Leadership."

    The Importance of a Team in Writing a Book [00:02:37] Garry discusses the importance of having a team to write a quality book and acknowledges the host's contribution to his book.

    Growing up in New York [00:04:36], Garry talks about his experiences growing up in a diverse neighborhood in New York and how it influenced his ability to connect with people from different backgrounds throughout his career.

    The Ground School Engineering Exam Story [00:07:13] Garry shares a story about a risky leadership experience he h his roommate in flight school and how it changed his outlook on leadership.

    Lessons in Humility and Priorities [00:10:54] The importance of humility understanding others as a leader, and how Rear Admiral Hall's priorities changed throughout his career and marriage.

    Being Mentally Present [00:17:21] The importance of being mentally present when you are physically present and how it can affect relationships with loved ones.

    Using Humor to Diffuse Tense Situations [00:19:50] Rear Admiral Hall's experience using humor to diffuse a tense situation with a three-star admiral and the importance of having a quick wit as a leader.

    Leadership Success Story [00:21:29] Rear Admiral Garry Hall shares his experience of how passion, accountability, commitment, traits, and behaviors led to his helicopter detachment being recognized as the number one detachment in the Navy.

    Character Creation [00:26:04] The host presents a fictional character, Jess Wildcat, who wants to be a great leader but is a toxic leader. Rear Admiral Garry Hall suggests five major things a leader needs to have: creating a document on who they are, being responsible, setting goals, being balanced, and taking a self-assessment.

    Tips for Emerging Leaders [00:30:17] Rear Admiral Garry Hall gives tips for emerging leaders, including showing up on time, being clean of body, mind, and uniform, having a happy appearance, and pursuing goals with passion and commitment.

    Writing Kryptonite [00:32:31] Garry Hall talks about his writing process and how distractions are his kryptonite.

    Inspiring Quote [00:34:23] Garry Hall shares a quote from his late friend that inspires him to take opportunities when they arise.

    Future Projects [00:35:28] Garry Hall discusses his future projects, including a new book called "Navigating Marriage" and continuing his podcast.

    Self-Promotion [00:37:35] Garry Hall shares where listeners can find him, including his podcast and website for his book "Navigating Leadership."


    Click here for the complete transcript.

    42 min
  • Unlocking Library Secrets: Navigating Acquisitions & Adult Engagement with Joseph Wooley and Danielle Acton

    In this captivating episode of Beyond the Pen, we sit down with Joseph Wooley, Acquisitions Director, and Danielle Acton, Adult Engagement Coordinator, at the Hamilton East Public Library in Indianapolis, Indiana. Join us as we uncover the ins and outs of getting your book on library shelves, the significance of adult engagement programs, and the evolving landscape of book fairs and genre diversity. Discover the importance of professional reviewers, the role of Amazon reviews, and successful strategies authors can use to make their mark in the world of libraries.


    Key discussion points:

    1. Demystifying Acquisitions: Tips and tricks for authors to get their books in libraries
    2. Adult Engagement Programs: Why they matter and how to get involved
    3. The Value of Library Presence: The impact of having your book in libraries
    4. Expert Strategies: How to successfully pitch your book to library professionals
    5. The Reviewer's Dilemma: Professional reviewers vs. Amazon reviews
    6. Book Fair Evolution: Exploring genre diversity at this year's events


    Don't miss this informative and engaging conversation with two key figures from the Hamilton East Public Library as they share their insights and expertise to help authors flourish in the literary world!


    For More Information

    Looking for more juicy tidbits and insider info on our show? Look no further than BeyondthePenPodcast.Com! And if you're loving what you hear, consider fueling our caffeine addiction by buying us a coffee, or two, with Buy Me a Coffee. And don't forget to let us know what you thought by sharing it with others and leaving a review here.

    48 min
  • The Raising of a Rebel: Overcoming Addiction, Finding Wisdom, and Inspiring Others with Author and BrandFace Founder, Tonya Eberhart

    In this episode of Beyond the Pen, Host Maccabee Griffin sits down with BrandFace founder and author Tonya Eberhart about her father's memoir "The Raising of a Rebel: 12 Turning Points from a Child of Alcoholics. They discuss the impact of growing up in the 50s in a family of moonshiners and alcoholics and how this normalized life of swirling chaos impacted his viewpoints on parenting his children. Tonya's father, Gene Odom, shares his journey from drug and alcohol addiction to the triumphant recovery from generational trauma that helped him and his children find success in their own lives. Join us for a candid, humorous, and inspiring conversation while learning the importance of understanding our own stories can move us forward on this episode of Beyond the Pen.


    Some of the things we discuss in this episode are:


    • Introduction of guest Tonya Eberhart and her memoir, "The Raising of a Rebel."
    • How being brought up with alcoholics and moonshine runners impacted Tonya's father's views on parenting
    • Discussion on sibling rivalry and how Tonya and her younger brother fought but were protective of each other
    • Overcoming generational trauma and mental health issues within the family
    • The impact of basketball on the family and their entrepreneurial mindset
    • Normalization of drug and alcohol addiction within Tonya's father's life
    • Inside jokes and father-daughter bonding moments
    • Exploring the purpose of memoirs and their significance
    • Fun character creation improv and learning more about the author
    • Overcoming writing Kryptonite and hearing quotes of inspiration
    • What's next for Tonya and her upcoming projects
    • Shameless self-promotion and where to find Tonya's book


    48 min
  • Unpacking a Killer Story: The Making of a True Crime Podcast with Author Matthew Witten

    In this episode of Beyond the Pen, Matthew Witten talks about his book, Killer Story, and its inspiration. Join us as we dive into the world of true crime podcasts with the fictional story of Petra Kovach, a young journalist who risks everything to launch a podcast investigating an unsolved murder.


    We explore the themes of immigration, short-form storytelling, and identity and how they intersect with Petra's journey. We also discuss the moral and ethical implications of the journalism, the justice system, and the importance of character development in storytelling.


    In a fun segment, we engage in some improv character creation and learn more about the author's writing strengths and weaknesses. Tune in to discover how Petra's investigation unfolds and how her pursuit of justice ultimately leads to unexpected consequences.


    NOTE: The audio file became distorted and was somehow saved during this episode's editing phase. Until a cleaner version is uploaded, please enjoy our great conversation today. Thank you.

    44 min
  • New Horizons: A Look at Changes in Beyond the Pen

    Join us for a special episode of Beyond the Pen, where we update you on some exciting changes happening on the show. Our new format will include reading a page or two of a book and analyzing its plot, characters, and exposition, followed by some fun and creative improv.

    But that's not all! We'll also have some amazing guest authors joining us, including Tom Fowler, Tonya Eberhart, and Lee Schneider, who will share their insights and experiences with writing and publishing. We'll also be joined by industry experts like Judy Baker and Jean-Paul Garnier, who will share their expertise in the publishing industry and offer some helpful tips for aspiring writers.


    In addition to all this, we'll discuss some exciting writing projects we're involved in with MediaCasters, LLC., including some of the books we've been proofreading and editing. And to top it all off, we'll be attending a LIVE book fair where we'll be interviewing some of the best local authors in the area. So don't miss out on this jam-packed episode of Beyond the Pen! Join us as we delve deep into the world of writing and publishing and gain valuable insights and inspiration from our guests and industry experts.

    20 min
  • When Characters Take the Reigns: The Power of Organic Storytelling with writer/director Mark W. Travis

    In this episode, we delve into the art of creating well-rounded characters that can captivate any audience, whether it's through writing, film, or theater. Mark W. Travis, a seasoned author and director, shares his insights on bringing characters to life and why it's important to let them drive the story.

    Join us as we explore the three phases of writing that can help develop realistic and relatable characters that will resonate with readers or viewers. Discover the techniques that Mark uses to help writers and actors connect with their characters on a deeper level and how to overcome the obstacles that can get in the way.

    Learn how to use the roles of characters to create conflict and explore real-life examples of how this can bring a story to life. If you're a writer or actor looking to create compelling and unforgettable characters, then this is the episode for you. Tune in to Beyond the Pen and unlock the secrets to crafting dynamic characters that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

    54 min
  • Navigating the Dark and Twisty World of Denial with Guest Author C.R. Rice

    Step into the dark and twisted world of C.R. Rice's Denial with Beyond the Pen - the must-listen podcast for fans of thought-provoking, genre-defying stories. Dive deep into the dying towns of America and explore the cultural funeral rituals and views on death that shape our world. From the depths of honor and glory in war to the reality of what lies beyond, join us as we delve into the depths of Rice's visionary novel, unlocking its hidden meanings and unearthing its most powerful themes. With captivating discussions and insightful analysis, Beyond the Pen is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to experience the full impact of this truly enlightening and powerful story. Subscribe now and be transported to the heart of the Realm series.

    49 min
  • Escape from the Nazis: A Jewish Musical Family's Journey to Bolivia with Guest Author Jennifer Steil

    In this episode of Beyond the Pen, we delve into the heart-wrenching story of a Jewish musical family's escape from Nazi-occupied Vienna to Bolivia in the book "Exile Music." Discover the musical structure and themes that weave throughout the narrative. We explore the deeper topics of antisemitism, shell shock, woman empowerment, and being a lesbian in the 30s. Finally, join us as we travel down the rabbit holes of this captivating story, showcasing the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    54 min

About Beyond the Pen

From the publisher's feed

In essence, Beyond the Pen is your gateway to the fascinating world hidden within the pages of an author's book. Think of it as a deep dive into the intricate tapestry of literary works, where we…