Book Publishing & Marketing Tips for Experts: Author's Edge

Does hiring a publicist guarantee book sales? If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between marketing and publicity... and whether you need both... this episode is for you. Many authors assume their publisher will handle book promotion, but the truth is, “you are your best marketer.”

If you want to launch your book successfully and get the visibility it deserves, this episode is packed with must-know insights. Host Allison Lane breaks down what a publicist actually does, when you might need one, and why marketing is the umbrella under which all book promotion strategies fall.

Learn how to take control of your marketing and set yourself up for long-term success.

🎧 Listen now and take charge of your book’s success.

What You’ll Learn:

• The key differences between a publicist and a marketer (and why it matters for your book).
• 3 essential marketing decisions you need to make before hiring a publicist.
• Why publicity alone won’t sell your book... and what to focus on instead.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free guide: “3 Steps to Your Successful Book Launch” https://www.lanelit.com/launch
• Join Bestseller Launch School → https://www.lanelit.com/bestseller-waitlist
• Send Your Questions for the Next Episode. → Click the link in the episode description.
• Have a question or request? Email me at [email protected] 

Timestamps:

01:36 – Who’s responsible for marketing your book? (Spoiler: It’s you!)

02:49 – What does a publicist actually do?

05:53 – What a publicist won’t do for you (and why it matters).

07:55 – 3 steps to DIY your own publicity before hiring a pro.

09:40 – The biggest mistake authors make with PR... and how to fix it

Share this episode with an author friend who needs a visibility boost. Let’s get more books into the hands of the right readers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vqrhpTJ_dI 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Ever wondered what it really takes to start and grow a successful podcast? Or how to build an engaged writing community that actually supports your creative work? 

Allison Lane sits down with Mike Oppenheim, novelist, musician, and host of “Coffin Talk,” a podcast in the top 3% of all Apple podcasts globally.

Mike shares hard-earned insights on launching a podcast, running a thriving Substack, and leading writing workshops that help authors improve their craft. They dive into the biggest mistakes new podcasters make, why consistency is king, and how to create a sustainable content strategy—without burning out.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast, building a newsletter, or finding your ideal readers, this episode is packed with actionable strategies. Hit play now.

What You’ll Learn:

• The #1 mistake new podcasters make—and how to stay consistent without burnout.
• How to build an engaged writing community through workshops, Substack, and podcasting.
• Why video is changing podcasting—and whether you should make the switch.

Resources Mentioned:

• Mike Oppenheim’s Substack: mikeyopp.substack.com
• Coffin Talk Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coffin-talk/id1551574282
• Book Recommendation: East of Eden by John Steinbeck https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9780140186390 
• Attend Allison’s free Compassionate Critiques event series: lanelit.com/cc
• Connect with Allison on Instagram: @allisonlanelit 

Timestamps:

• [00:02:44] The biggest mistake new podcasters make (and how to fix it).
• [00:05:53] What surprised Mike the most about launching a successful podcast?
• [00:11:52] Why video podcasting is the next big shift—and how to adapt.
• [00:18:35] How to give (and receive) better feedback in writing workshops.
• [00:24:10] Should you start a Substack? Here’s what you need to know.
• [00:30:21] The truth about writing, fame, and success—what every author needs to hear.

If you loved this episode, help us reach more authors and creatives by rating & reviewing The Author’s Edge on Apple Podcasts. Your support makes all the difference And don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who’s thinking about starting a podcast or growing their writing platform. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joJDgi5aGZA 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Should you give away free content on your website, or should readers enter their email to access it? Many authors struggle with this decision. Allison Lane explains why collecting emails isn’t just about growing a list—it’s about delivering value in a way that builds trust and engagement.

You’ll learn the best way to offer free resources so that readers actually use them, stay connected with you, and take the next step toward buying your book or working with you.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ The biggest myth about free content (and why it’s misleading)
✅ How to design an opt-in page that converts without overwhelming readers
✅ Why delivering freebies by email increases engagement and trust

Resources Mentioned:

• Your Bio Package Guide: https://www.lanelit.com/package 
• Free Author Branding Checklist: https://www.lanelit.com/checklist2 
•  Have a question? Email Allison at [email protected]

Timestamps:

• [00:01:09] What does it mean to require an email for free content?
• [00:03:13] Why readers engage more when content is emailed instead of instantly available
• [00:06:25] The best way to create a sign-up page that encourages downloads 

Enjoyed this episode? Take a moment to rate, review, and share the Author’s Edge podcast with fellow authors. Your support helps us bring more actionable strategies to help you succeed. Got a question for our next Q&A? Click the "Send Me a Text" link at the top of the show notes.

Tune in now to discover the best strategy for your author platform. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezgZ6EoW_R0 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Are you an author trying to figure out how to market your book and position yourself as a leader in your genre? 

Allison Lane sits with Kris Jones, a StoryBrand-certified guide and expert copywriter, and shares the exact steps you need to take to clarify your message, make your book irresistible, and get noticed in today’s crowded market. Whether you're an aspiring author or a published one, these actionable strategies will ensure that your brand not only stands out but also resonates with the readers you want to connect with.

Ready to take control of your author journey? Let’s dive into the episode and unlock the secrets to building a brand that works for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• The #1 mistake authors make when pitching their books—and how to fix it.
• How to craft a clear, compelling brand statement that attracts readers.
• The secret to positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your genre.

Resources Mentioned:

• StoryBrand by Donald Miller: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen. https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781400248872 
• RedDoorDesigns.com: Kris Jones’ expert services for author branding.
• From Click to Client by Kris Jones: How to Easily Create a Story-Driven Website that Turns Visitors into Clients. https://www.reddoordesigns.com/book 
• Free Video & Worksheet for Author Branding: Download Kris’s free resource to help you craft your concise brand statement. https://www.reddoordesigns.com/profit-stories 

Timestamps:

[00:02:00] — The biggest mistake authors make in building their personal brand?
[00:05:30] — How to craft your 2-sentence book pitch that hooks your audience.
[00:15:00] — Why a clear brand statement is your key to success.
[00:20:00] — The importance of embracing the "guide" role in your author story.

If you found today's episode valuable, don't forget to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more authors and experts who need these actionable tips to grow their brands. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them today.

"People need to hear your story and it deserves to be told and it deserves to be heard." - Kris Jones

Tune in now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7FJ22OgKec 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Are you sending too many emails—or not enough? If you’ve ever wondered how often to email your list and what to include, this episode is your guide. Host Allison Lane breaks down the perfect email strategy for authors, showing you how to stay top-of-mind without overwhelming people.

If you’re ready to make your emails work for you (and not just be another thing on your to-do list), hit play now >>>

What You’ll Learn:

• The ideal email frequency to keep your audience engaged.
• The one thing every author email should include (but most forget).
• How to make your readers want to click your links (without feeling salesy).

Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Allison Lane: https://www.instagram.com/allisonlanelit/ 

Timestamps:

[00:02:51] — Why a “mishmash” newsletter is killing your engagement.
[00:03:17] — The real reason you should include your link 3 times in every email.
[00:06:11] — The mistake authors make with freebies (and how to fix it).

If this episode helped you, let us know! Your reviews help more authors find The Author’s Edge. Leave a review, share this episode, and let’s grow together. You can also listen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbZl0EwdsEg

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

“Successful people do what unsuccessful people are unwilling to do.” – Miriam Schulman

Are you struggling to sell your book or grow your audience beyond social media? 

In this episode, Allison Lane sits with bestselling author and creative entrepreneur, Miriam Schulman to reveal a powerful 5-part business framework that applies to authors and creatives alike. Learn how to price, promote, and prospect for book sales without relying on traditional marketing tactics.

If you're an author who wants to get published, launch your book successfully, and increase visibility, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies you don’t want to miss!

🎧 Hit play now and start making your book a success!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The 5-Part Framework helps authors sell more books without social media burnout.
• Why email marketing beats social media for building an engaged audience and increasing book sales.
• How to confidently promote your book without feeling pushy or overwhelmed.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Miriam Schulman’s Book: Artpreneur - https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781400235148  
• Miriam’s Podcast: The Inspiration Place - https://www.schulmanart.com/podcast/ 
• Get Miriam’s Free Gift: Leave a verified Amazon review for Artpreneur and send a screenshot to [email protected] to receive her agent query letter! https://www.schulmanart.com/artpreneur-book-bonuses/ 
• Follow Miriam on Instagram: @schulmanart

Timestamps:
[00:05:00] – How Miriam Schulman transitioned from artist to bestselling author
[00:14:30] – The biggest mistake authors make in marketing their book
[00:26:00] – Why email marketing is more powerful than social media for book sales
[00:38:00] – How to shift your mindset and start seeing success in book promotion
[00:41:00] – Exclusive freebie: Get Miriam’s exact agent query letter

Ready to make your book a success? Listen now & take action! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzPIMQQQhMI 🎧

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Should your author's email match your book title? Or is it better to use your name? 

The right choice can impact your author's brand, book visibility, and marketing success. In this episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison Lane breaks down the email and domain strategies every author should know—so you can avoid common mistakes and create a professional, memorable online presence.

If you're launching a book, growing your author platform, or just starting your writing career, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make the best choice. Tune in now to set up your author brand for long-term success.

🎧 Hit play now to discover the best domain and email strategy for your author career.

What You’ll Learn:

• Whether your author email should match your book title or your name.
• How to set up multiple domains without complicating your branding.
• The biggest mistake authors make when choosing a domain (and how to avoid it).

Resources Mentioned: 

• Buy your domain on Squarespace: https://www.squarespace.com/ 
• Google Workspace for email hosting: https://domains.google/ 
• Need book marketing tips? Check out Allison Lane’s website: https://www.lanelit.com/ 
• Ask Allison a question: Email her at [email protected] 

📢 Don’t miss this episode packed with expert tips on choosing the right email and domain for your author brand! Listen to this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_0VSF5vhCDQ?feature=shared 

Timestamps Highlight:

• [00:03:00] – Should you buy a domain for your book title? Here’s the answer
• [00:03:51] – How to use a book title domain as a vanity URL that redirects to your main website.
• [00:04:26] – The biggest mistake authors make when choosing a domain—and how to avoid it.
• [00:05:19] – Where to buy your domain and what to expect in terms of cost.
• [00:06:03] – Final advice: Your domain is your online home—make sure readers can find you.

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Is public speaking the missing link in your book promotion strategy? 

In this episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison sits down with Bobbie Carlton, founder of “Innovation Women” and a trailblazer in speaker visibility. Bobbie shares how authorship and speaking go hand-in-hand to amplify visibility, credibility, and even compensation. 

Discover practical tips for landing bigger stages, overcoming industry biases, and leveraging your book to open career-changing doors. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with actionable advice to transform your book into an unstoppable marketing tool.

🎧 Tune in to learn how public speaking can be the game-changer your book launch needs!

What You’ll Learn:

• Why public speaking is one of the most effective ways to promote your book.
• Creative compensation strategies for unpaid speaking gigs (and how to still make money!).
• How to leverage your book for high-profile speaking opportunities like TEDx and international stages.

Resources Mentioned:

• Innovation Women Membership: https://shrsl.com/4ps4k
• Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9780062292988  
• Cait Donovan’s Podcast: Fried. The Burnout Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fried-the-burnout-podcast/id1469939920
• Allison's Next Chapter Membership https://www.lanelit.com/offers/bzACbCjB/checkout

Timestamps

• [00:02:30] How authorship amplifies public speaking success.
• [00:06:00] Creative ways to get paid for speaking gigs—even without a speaker fee.
• [00:13:00] Why “speaking begets speaking” and how to get started sooner.
• [00:26:00] Real-life success stories of women authors leveraging public speaking.

Bobbie Carlton is the founder of Carlton PR & Marketing, Innovation Nights, and Innovation Women. Known as Boston's "Innovation Den Mother," she empowers startups and women in tech through PR, product launches, and visibility opportunities. An award-winning marketing expert, Bobbie is a passionate advocate for underrepresented voices in innovation.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/9MHsBWWYxic?feature=shared

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

What’s the real key to turning media placements into a book deal? Spoiler alert: It’s not just about landing a big-name feature. 

In this episode, Allison answers a listener’s question about pitching magazines and shares expert insights from powerhouse literary agent Sam Hiyate. You’ll learn why visibility, consistency, and audience targeting matter more than ever for authors trying to get published. 

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or an aspiring author in the world, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to boost your author marketing game.

Tune in now to discover how to pitch smarter and turn small wins into big opportunities!

What You’ll Learn:

• How to evaluate media outlets based on visibility and digital reach—not geography.
• Why pitching consistency (like one pitch per day) can transform your results.
• Tips for amplifying your media mentions to build long-term discoverability.

Resources Mentioned:

• Sam Hiyate’s agency: The Rights Factory https://www.rightsfactory.com 
• Magazines referenced: Chatelaine, Toronto Life, Chicago Tribune
• Allison’s email for your questions: [email protected]

Timestamps:

• [00:02:00] Why one media placement isn’t enough to land a book deal?
• [00:03:00] How to evaluate magazines for their audience reach and digital footprint.
• [00:05:00] Sam Hiyate’s insights on pitching Canadian vs. U.S. magazines.
• [00:06:00] The power of consistency: One pitch a day for 29 days.

Tune in here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1WwJUKJf6I 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685

Have you ever wondered how to find hope and light in the midst of profound loss?

Allison Lane sits down with Jessica Fein—author of Breathtaking: A Memoir of Family Dreams and Broken Genes, TEDx speaker, Psychology Today columnist, and podcast host of I Don’t Know How You Do It. Jessica shares her deeply personal story of caregiving for her daughter, Dahlia, while navigating immense grief, and how writing became her outlet for connection, healing, and hope.

Jessica’s journey highlights resilience, humor, and the power of storytelling. Whether you're an author, caregiver, or seeking inspiration, this episode offers wisdom and practical tools to fuel your creative dreams.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Jessica turned caregiving into a story that resonates universally.
• Why humor and joy are essential tools in the face of grief.
• The ripple effect of sharing your story and connecting with readers.
• Practical tips for authors: querying agents, building a platform, and navigating publishing.
• Why every writer (yes, you!) deserves to embrace their story with “Why not me?”

Resources Mentioned:

• Jessica Fein’s Website: https://www.jessicafeinstories.com/
• Jessica Fein’s Book: Breathtaking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781681151106 
• Jessica’s Blog on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/grace-in-grief 
• Jessica’s TED Talk on Grief Literacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClaQkyLnAaw 
• Jessica Fein’s Podcast “I Don’t Know How You Do It” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-dont-know-how-you-do-it/id1668168226 
• Allison Lane’s Compassionate Critique Events: https://www.lanelit.com/cc 

Timestamps

• [00:01:41] The story behind Jessica Fein’s sold-out book launch.
• [00:05:30] How Jessica’s memoir found its universal message.
• [00:12:50] From rejection to success: Finding her dream agent.
• [00:21:18] Balancing caregiving, writing, and launching a podcast.
• [00:27:46] Overcoming imposter syndrome as a writer.
• [00:38:18] “Why Not You?”—Jessica’s advice for aspiring authors.

Listen to this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H1MEPTrXz7I?feature=shared 

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge
“Finding visibility is tricky but she breaks it down simply and I’ve learned so much.” --Apple Podcasts review
If the show helps you, rate it five stars and leave a review. It helps more people find it.

Free from Allison:
Fix Your LinkedIn Profile free video + toolkit: https://LaneLit.com/profile
7 Shifts to Build Real Authority: https://LaneLit.com/authority
Essential Author Bio + Media Kit: https://www.LaneLit.com/package
Social Content Calendar: https://www.LaneLit.com/content
Book a Free Strategy Call with Allison: https://calendly.com/allisonlanelit/disco 

Want to be a guest? Send a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1723557361467192219d8f685