Bound for Bestseller: Book Marketing & Book Launch Strategy for Authors

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The Book Marketing Goodies:

Get my FREE guide for book planning if you're still writing your book. Let's get that manuscript finished!

Get the book marketing blueprint filled with the framework you need to market your book in a simple, but strategic way before, at, and after your launch!

Download the launch team building guide and class. (AKA how to enlist others to help your book make a big splash at launch!)

A personal brand is vital for an author, AND for selling more books. Today, we're diving in on why a personal brand is helpful for authors and how it can help you sell more books.

Join Karlyn Ankrom and Valerie Morris as they dive deep into the world of authors, book launches, and the unique challenges of building a personal brand as a writer. Both seasoned marketers, Karlyn and Valerie bring years of experience guiding authors through the vulnerable, exciting process of sharing their work with the world—while also sharing honest stories of their own creative struggles.From confronting the emotional weight of launching a book to implementing practical social media strategies that keep your message alive long after launch day, this episode is packed with authentic, actionable wisdom for authors—and all creatives—who want to step confidently into the spotlight.

Key Takeaways

- Vulnerability is part of the journey: Both writing and promoting a book require courage. Every author faces fear—and you are not alone.

- Consistency over perfection: Keep talking about your book, even when you feel like a broken record. People need reminders!

- Make it easy for your supporters: Offer clear messaging, ready-to-use content, and realistic timelines.

- Leverage your book as a treasure trove of content: One page, one line, one post—mine your book for quotes, stories, and expertise.

- Do social your way: There's no one-size-fits-all strategy. Tap into what feels authentic to you, and let that drive your platform presence.

- Let go of the "bragging" mindset: You're not being salesy—you're helping people who need your message.

Connect more with Karlyn

In this fun episode, Carolyn Sherrow, an accomplished author with both nonfiction and fiction works under her belt talks with Valerie Morris. Carolyn shares her writing journey, discusses the deeply personal nature of her memoir "My Personal Holocaust," and offers insights into her upcoming fiction trilogy, "Dark Heritage."

Key Highlights:

Carolyn’s Writing Journey:

1. Carolyn opens up about how years of life experiences and personal healing influenced her writing. She discusses her transition from caring for her mother to finally putting her story to paper.

Memoir Challenges:

1. Writing "My Personal Holocaust" was not only emotionally challenging, but also required courage to share her life publicly. Carolyn talks candidly about the mental blocks, vulnerability, and the healing she sought to offer survivors of trauma.

Fiction vs. Nonfiction:

1. Carolyn explains the process of writing fiction vs. nonfiction – how her personal experiences shaped both, and how fiction storytelling techniques kept her nonfiction engaging and relatable.

Writing Habits & Craft:

1. From daily writing routines to switching projects when stuck, Carolyn shares practical ways she stays productive. Research and character development are key parts of her process, especially when bringing stories set in places like Kenya to life.

Trilogy Tips:

1. Carolyn offers advice for anyone writing a trilogy – emphasizing careful timeline management, character arcs across books, and the importance of cliffhangers.

Publishing Insights:

1. She reveals lessons learned from working with a local publisher, the value of flexibility, honesty, and accountability in publishing, and recounts both positive and challenging interactions with editors and agents.

Advice for Aspiring Writers:

1. Carolyn’s standout advice: Start small. “You can write a chapter” — this simple mindset shift helps overcome overwhelm and sparks accomplishment.

Where to Connect:

1. Find Carolyn and her books at cordsofgrace.com

Who Should Listen?

Authors, aspiring writers, anyone navigating memoir or fiction writing, and those interested in publishing and creative habits.

Notable Quotes:

1. “My goal with writing that book was always to bring hope and healing to people, particularly other survivors.”
2. “Sometimes you write a chapter and there’s a sense of accomplishment. It’s like, ‘Oh, I can go forward from here.’”
3. "Books are like tattoos. Once you get one, you want to get another."

Resources & Links:

My Personal Holocaust Book

Connect with Valerie Morris

1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

In this episode, Valerie Morris sits down with legacy writer, Joy Martin, to discuss the power of storytelling and the process of documenting personal and family histories. Joy Martin shares the origins of her business, My Legacy Work, and how her lifelong passion for writing and storytelling evolved into helping people preserve their unique stories for future generations.

The Power of Storytelling

1. Joy Martin explains why our life stories matter—not just to ourselves, but to connect and inspire others.

Who Chooses Legacy Writing (and When)

1. Insights into who typically seeks out legacy writing services (hint: it’s not just seniors!) and the types of life moments that spark the desire to preserve a story.

Barriers to Writing Your Story

1. The timing, readiness, and personal willingness needed to take on a legacy project—and why you can’t force someone to tell their story before they’re ready..

Getting Started: Tips & Practical Steps

1. From “brain dumps” in a spiral notebook to digging through old photos, Joy offers actionable advice for anyone curious about beginning their memoir or legacy project.

The Review Process and Overcoming Hesitancy

1. Valerie Morris and Joy Martin talk about the emotions and resistance that can come up when people see their life in print, and how Joy guides clients through the finalization process.

The Importance of Third-Party Accountability

1. Why having a coach or outside perspective makes it easier to finish your story and capture details you might otherwise overlook.

Interview Strategies & Story Extraction

1. Joy Martin shares her favorite icebreaker questions, what she’s learned about deep listening, and how she helps clients find and articulate the “rose in the sidewalk”—the moments that light them up.

1. Find Joy Martin: mylegacywork.com
2. Free 30-minute discovery call via her website
3. Additional writing resources and FAQs also available

1. You don’t have to reach old age or experience major life events to start preserving your story—everyone’s experiences matter.
2. The hardest part is often getting started; practical steps like free-writing, gathering old letters, and talking with family make it less daunting.
3. Third-party support, prompts, and accountability help get your story across the finish line.
4. Storytelling can heal, connect, and leave a lasting impact on loved ones and future generations.

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Connect with Valerie Morris

Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world

https://www.amazon.com/Were-All-Ears-increase-influence/dp/099839971X?&linkCode=sl1&tag=tintecreat-20&linkId=ec70372607211871944859985956477b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerielmorris/

Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.

https://www.tinteroonline.com/

Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/book-marketing-plan-blueprint/

Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/rock-your-next-interview/

In this insightful episode, Valerie Morris sits down with author and marketer Yasmeen Salama to explore the vibrant journey of writing, publishing, and marketing books in today's creative landscape. Yasmeen shares her personal story, the lessons learned from her debut novel "The Crimson Run," and the unique ways she’s built a community around her work.

1. From Writer to Marketer:
2. With a strong background in marketing, Yasmeen shares how skills like SEO and paid ads made her book launch more impactful, and why she’s grateful for waiting until she was truly ready.
3. Networking and Community Building:
4. Discover why writing conferences changed the game for Yasmeen and how connecting with other writers and readers has been her biggest source of support and feedback.
5. Thinking Beyond the Bookstore:
6. Yasmeen reveals her creative approach to book promotion—including events at comic book shops, art shows, and festivals—and offers advice for authors looking to think outside the box.
7. The Power of Newsletters:
8. Valerie and Yasmeen highlight why building an email list is crucial for authors, how it helps maintain a direct connection with readers, and why it’s never too late—or too early—to start.
9. The Long Game:
10. Both speakers discuss the realities of author life, busting the myth of "overnight success" and underscoring the importance of patience, persistence, and building genuine relationships.

1. Lean into networking: Writing can be lonely, but community is essential.
2. Get creative with promotion: Book signings aren’t limited to bookstores.
3. Build your platform: Start that email list, no matter where you are in your author journey.
4. Plan ahead: Festivals and awards have deadlines—research early.
5. Marketing is a marathon, not a sprint—celebrate growth at every stage!

1. Website: yasmeensalama.com (visit for links to her books, newsletter, and music)
2. The Crimson Run on Amazon

Thank you for listening to Bound for Bestseller

If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe, or leave a review.

For more creative strategies, marketing tips, and inspiring author stories, stay tuned for our next episode!

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Connect with Valerie Morris

Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world

https://www.amazon.com/Were-All-Ears-increase-influence/dp/099839971X?&linkCode=sl1&tag=tintecreat-20&linkId=ec70372607211871944859985956477b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerielmorris/

Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.

https://www.tinteroonline.com/

Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/book-marketing-plan-blueprint/

Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/rock-your-next-interview/

In this conversation, Bob Gentle joins the show to dive deep into the art and strategy of building a powerful leadership brand - whether you're an author, an entrepreneur, or someone simply wanting to be more intentional about your impact.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Personal Brand vs. Leadership Brand:
2. Bob Gentle explains the difference between the brand we accumulate organically and the brand we build intentionally to lead others.
3. Mindset Blocks on the Journey:
4. Imposter syndrome is called out as a natural part of stepping beyond your comfort zone. Bob Gentle shares helpful ways to reframe it as a beacon for growth rather than an alarm. Other common challenges include the belief that your perspective isn’t unique, and how to overcome that.
5. The Power of Your Story and Perspective:
6. You don’t need to be “extraordinary” for your life to be interesting to others. Bob Gentle and Valerie Morris discuss how stories, personal quirks, and daily realities can build connection—whether you have goats in Colorado or an apartment in Glasgow!
7. Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe:
8. Why authenticity (and a touch of storytelling creativity) goes a long way in attracting the right audience, and how building a “three-dimensional” relationship through content is key.
9. Personal Branding & Character Development:
10. Bob Gentle suggests thinking of yourself as a character, and how appropriate filters and emphasis are necessary depending on the social (or virtual) situation.
11. Choosing Your Content Channels:
12. There’s no one-size-fits-all, whether it’s TikTok, LinkedIn, or something else, the most sustainable platform is the one that aligns with your energy and skill set.
13. Repetition & Strategy:
14. The importance of talking about your book (or project) repeatedly—algorithms and attention spans demand it! But don’t be a one-trick pony; balance content about your book with other buckets of value.
15. Turning Your Book into an Ecosystem:
16. A successful book is just the beginning. Bob Gentle encourages authors to create ways for readers to enter their broader ecosystem, ensuring the book becomes a business asset, not just a calling card.
17. Thinking Bigger Than Your Book:
18. Don’t limit yourself to a single offering; your book can open doors to opportunities at every rung of the value ladder.

Best Quotes:

1. "Imposter syndrome is the natural consequence of being on the edge of your comfort zone, of doing things differently, of perhaps trying to be seen as a leader in some way (...) It's what it costs to do what other people won't do."
2. “Imposter syndrome is the natural companion of a leader.”
3. “If you want people to know you in three dimensions, we need to give them structured windows to look in through.”
4. “We need to approach building our personal brand very similar to the way that an actor would play a role.”

Whether you’re penning your first draft or launching your next book, your brand is more than a logo—it’s your story, your energy, and the intentional connections you create. Don’t hold yourself back; start building your leadership brand with purpose!

Guest Info:

Bob Gentle is a leader in personal and leadership branding, working with authors, professionals, and businesses to market and monetize their unique message. He’s active on several books and is known for delivering concise wisdom that sparks transformation.

Connect with Bob Gentle:

LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgentle/)

Bob's Work (https://amplifyme.agency/)

Connect with Valerie Morris

1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

In this episode of Bound for Bestseller,Valerie Morris sits down with author, speaker, and personal development expert Andy Storch. Known for his relentless book marketing strategies and his distinctive “Own Your…” book series, Andy Storch offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he writes, launches, and promotes his books, plus valuable insights into successful collaborations and building a personal brand. He also shares insider experience on co-authoring a book and the process around that!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. Marketing Mindset for Authors: Andy Storch shares why consistent visibility is crucial for book marketing, debunking the myth that “you’re talking about your book too much.”
2. Journey to Authorship: Andy Storch walks through his career evolution, from consulting and training to entrepreneurship and podcasting, explaining how his first book “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” was inspired and written, and why building a business around a book was always part of his plan.
3. Co-Authoring and Group Projects: Hear what it’s really like to write a book with a partner. Andy Storch discusses his collaboration with Mike Kim on “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career,” the highs and challenges of group projects, and why communication and clearly defined roles are essential for success.
4. Leveraging Strengths and Knowing Limitations: Both Valerie and Andy Storch share personal experiences about how understanding your work style (dreamer vs. executor) or hiring the right support can make or break creative partnerships and book projects.
5. Book Launch Strategies That Work: Dig into Andy Storch’s playbook for successful launches, including building an early reader team, recruiting influential endorsers, and following up persistently for Amazon reviews (for both yourself and for others - hello, karma bank!).
6. The Value of Reciprocation in the Author and Business Community: Find out why leaving reviews and supporting other authors is both good karma and solid strategy.

Connect with Andy: :

1. Books: “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” and “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career” (both available on Amazon).
2. LinkedIn: Daily posts and updates from
3. Andy Storch
4. .
5. Podcasts: The Andy Storch Show (with daily stories and lessons) and Talent Development Hot Seat.
6. Website: andystorch.com

Connect with Valerie Morris

1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

In this episode, Peter Brissette, of DM Dude, joins the show for a deep dive into author websites, personal branding, and online presence. Geared toward authors, speakers, coaches, and thought leaders, this conversation explores why your website is not just a digital brochure, but the hub of your brand and business.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Peter Brissette’s two-decade journey in digital marketing and web design
2. Cautionary tales about phishing scams and protecting your online identity
3. How and when authors should start building their website
4. Why your author site should be focused on YOU, your brand, and your expertise, not just your book
5. Insights on building an email list early and why waiting until after launch is a big mistake
6. Overcoming perfection paralysis
7. The importance of branding, images, and professional assets for a standout site
8. The business and marketing mindset every author needs to succeed online
9. Domain name tips: what to do when your ideal name is taken

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Start your website as soon as you commit to writing a book or building a personal brand
2. Invest in your online “hub.” Your site should tell your story, offer resources, collect emails, and connect you to your audience
3. Don’t wait for perfection: launch and improve over time. Your website can always evolve!
4. Build your audience and email list early; these are your true marketing power
5. Add clear calls-to-action so your website actually works for you 24/7
6. Don’t stress if your ideal domain is gone, get creative with initials or modifiers

Resources & Links:

1. Peter Brissette - dmdude.com

Connect With Your Host:

Find more creative marketing tips and personal brand strategies at Tintero Creative Content.

https://tinteroauthorsolutions.com/

Connect with Valerie on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerielmorris/

Loved This Episode?

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with an author or friend who wants to boost their online presence!

Special thanks to Peter Brissette for sharing his expertise and actionable advice for authors and thought leaders.

1. Mike Klassen’s Journey in Publishing
2. From his unexpected start as a pastor-turned-bestselling ghostwriter to founding Illumify Media, Mike Klassen emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with authors and maintaining a people-first approach.
3. Misconceptions About Publishing
4. Mike Klassen highlights two common mistakes authors make: believing they can do everything themselves, and underestimating the specialized skills required to produce a professional book. He shares anecdotes about the pitfalls of DIY publishing and the importance of having a knowledgeable, responsive team.
5. The Chaos (and Necessity) of Book Launches
6. Valerie Morris and Mike Klassen discuss the unpredictable technical glitches involved in book launches, the necessity of having experienced support, and why a publishing team can alleviate stress and setbacks.
7. The Role of AI in Authorship
8. The conversation turns to the ethical and practical implications of AI in publishing—from using AI to brainstorm and organize content to the ongoing debates about authenticity and creativity. Both guests agree that boundaries and discernment are crucial as technology evolves.
9. What Makes a 360-Degree Author
10. Mike Klassen introduces his vision for the “360-degree author”—someone educated in every facet of the book creation process, from story craft and typesetting to marketing and leveraging social media. He explains why thinking holistically leads to a more successful and professional book.
11. Mindset & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
12. Both guests address the mental hurdles that keep manuscripts stuck in drafts. Mike Klassen offers direct advice for writers struggling with self-doubt, encouraging them to “get over it” and focus on the message, not personal anxieties.

1. Surround yourself with people smarter than you—embrace collaboration.
2. Understand the entire publishing process—not just writing—to set your book up for success.
3. Embrace technology, but keep your creative and critical thinking muscles in use.
4. Don’t let fear or imposter syndrome keep your book in the drawer—the world needs your story.
5. Plan for the unexpected; even experienced teams run into new challenges every launch.

1. Website: illumifymedia.com
2. Find resources, set up a call, or sign up for the Power Writers Report newsletter directly on his site.

This episode is packed with real-world publishing wisdom and inspiration for authors at every stage. Whether you’re wrestling with your first draft or ready to bring your book to market, the advice from Mike Klassen and Valerie Morris will help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

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Connect with Valerie Morris

1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.
5. Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

Looking to make your book launch a success?

https://tinteroauthorsolutions.com/

In this episode of Bound for Bestseller, Valerie Morris sits down with author Jeff Kildow to dive deep into the fascinating world of alternative history fiction. Jeff Kildow shares his unique approach to reimagining 20th-century history, the intricate research that fuels his stories, and how his military and engineering background infuses authenticity into his novels.

Jeff Kildow discusses his hit series, starting with Nazi Menace, which explores World War II and asks “What if?” at a critical turning point in history. He explains how his books blend real events with imaginative departures, all while sticking firmly to the technological and societal realities of each era. The conversation also covers his creative process, the importance of detailed research, and the creative habits that help him bring authentic - and sometimes obscure- details into his fiction.

Listeners will hear about Jeff Kildow’s inspirations, his favorite techniques for building compelling characters, the challenges of killing off beloved creations, and his advice for aspiring writers of fiction, especially in the alternative history genre. Plus, discover how real-life experiences and travel inspire his stories, and why authenticity is essential in an AI-driven world.

1. What alternative history fiction really is and how Jeff Kildow creates believable “what if?” scenarios
2. The landmark moments behind his WWII thriller Nazi Menace and its sequels set during the Korean War and Suez Crisis
3. How a military and engineering career translates into gripping, authentic storytelling
4. The importance of research, from historical accuracy to oddball airplane “Easter eggs” in books
5. Writing habits: capturing inspiration, making notes everywhere, and balancing technical detail with engaging narrative
6. Crafting memorable characters, their arcs, and the emotional challenge of “killing your darlings”
7. Advice for new and aspiring fiction writers, including the value of accurate history, avoiding clichés, and leveraging your own unique experiences
8. The crucial role of authenticity and trust for writers in today’s content landscape

1. Visit Jeff’s website: jeffkildow.com for books, updates, and more!

Whether you’re a military history buff, a fiction writer, or just love a good “what if” scenario, this episode is packed with practical advice, entertaining anecdotes, and encouragement to embrace both your left and right brain!

Connect with Valerie Morris

1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.
5. Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!