Build Your Author Brand Podcast

Teddy Smith is partnership manager at Publishing Performance, host of the Publishing Performance Show podcast, and founder of My Romance Reads, a newsletter with over 25,000 romance readers who love free and discounted books. Publishing Performance is an AI-powered Amazon ad tool that helps authors set up campaigns, choose keywords, and optimize over time to sell more books and increase profits. In this episode, Teddy shares lessons from marketing his own products and how data, automation, and smart strategy cangive indie authors a competitive edge.

Episode Highlights:

How Teddy mastered Amazon’s algorithm—and what most authors get wrong about ads

The two types of readers (fiction vs. non-fiction) and how they search for books differently

Using ChatGPT and other tools to reverse-engineer what your readers really want

Why your cover, title, and book description must be optimized to sell

The power of reader-targeted promotions—and how free or discounted books can drive thousands of downloads and long-term fans

Connect with Teddy:

Website: https://teddyagsmith.com/

Social media (all platforms): @teddyagsmith

Publishing Performance: https://publishingperformance.com/

My Romance Reads: https://myromancereads.com/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

Jodi Brandon is a book publishing strategist and coach for business owners and leaders, and the founder of Jodi Brandon Editorial. Jodi has used her 20+ years’ experience in book publishing to help 850+ business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs write, publish, and market a book to grow their business. She is the author of Write.Publish.Market., 2nd edition (3rd edition coming fall 2025!), and the host of the Write Publish Market podcast.

In this episode, Jodi and Isabelle discuss how business owners can use a book as a powerful business tool—not just for credibility and visibility, but for long-term impact. They break down why the true ROI of a book isn’t in royalties, but in the opportunities it creates.

Episode highlights:

How writing a book can grow your business and authority

The rise of hybrid publishing and how it compares to traditional and self-publishing

Why your personal goals matter more than bestseller status or vanity metrics

How to repurpose existing content to start your book and skip the overwhelm

The role of primary vs. secondary audiences in book marketing

Why writing a book is a long game—and how it pays off

Connect with Jodi:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JodiBrandon 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodibrandoneditorial/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodibrandoneditorial/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, Isabelle sits down with Chris Banks, CEO and founder of ProWritingAid - a software company dedicated to helping writers improve their craft. This conversation explores how a side project born from procrastination turned into a transformative tool helping millions of writers express theirpurpose.

Episode Highlights:

How authors across all genres can use ProWritingAid to help them craft, polish, and elevate their writing

Why knowing your “why”—your purpose for writing—is the key to resilience and impact

Resources that Chris used to uncover the deeper message in his own projects, and how that helped him define his overall purpose

Connect with Chris:

Website: https://prowritingaid.com

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

Aryn Van Dyke is a book marketing consultant and author coach. She has worked on hundreds of book launches, including multiple New York Times bestsellers, spanning across multiple nonfiction genres. After getting her start at HarperCollins, Aryn founded Book Rockstar in 2019 to make book marketing strategy more accessible to all authors. In this episode, Isabelle and Aryn discuss real-world advice about getting over the initial discomfort of marketing, finding joy in connecting with readers, and why even small steps in your marketing can move the needle far more than you might expect.Episode Highlights:

The "Five C’s" every successful author needs when it comes to their marketing

The power of small, consistent marketing habits to build lasting readership

How creativity, flexibility, and strategic testing can unlock better marketing results

Why marketing isn’t optional, and how a simple mindset shift can make it less overwhelming (even enjoyable)

Why there’s no "one-size-fits-all" approach to book marketing, and how to find what truly works for your audience

Why building community - online, offline, or both - is crucial for long-term success

The importance of understanding your marketing strategy, even if you outsource it

Connect with Aryn:

Instagram:@thebookmarketer

Website:www.bookrockstar.com 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryn-van-dyke/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, website designer Stu Grant shares what it takes to build a powerful online presence that not only looks good but also boosts your author brand and book sales. We discuss how author websites are evolving, what features truly matter, and the small tweaks that can make a big difference in how readers discover and connect with your work.

From SEO tips to smart design choices, Stu breaks down the building blocks of an effective author platform. Whether you're launching your first site or looking to level up, this conversation is packed with practical advice and real talk about showing up online with purpose.

Episode Highlights:

The must-have elements of a great author website

SEO basics authors often overlook—and why mobile optimization isn’t optional

Discoverability in a noisy world: why reader “touch points” matter more than ever

The honest truth about selling direct—and why it isn’t for everyone• How authors can use cutting-edge features like augmented reality book covers and Alexa voice integrations in their website and marketing

About Stu: As the highest-rated web designer on Reedsy, Stuart Grant brings a wealth of expertise from over a decade in the publishing industry, having created more than 300 author websites. He’s spoken at notable events like the Self-Publishing Show in London and Author Nation in Las Vegas, and has shared his expertise on countless podcasts and conferences. He leads a digital agency laser focused on author success from Norfolk in the UK where he lives with his sassy 6 year old daughter, mad dog, and wonderful wife.

Connect with Stu:

On Reedsy at: https://reedsy.com/stuart-grant

Or via his agency website: https://www.digitalauthorstoolkit.com/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, Nicola Washington joins Isabelle to explore the world of social media marketing and PR for authors, discussing how to effectively connect with readers and build an engaging online presence. Nicola is an Instagram educator and strategist specializing in working with writers and authors. During this episode, she shares invaluable insights on crafting content that resonates with the right audience, overcoming the overwhelm of social media platforms like Instagram, and creating a sustainable posting strategy. Whether you're a fiction or nonfiction writer, traditionally published or self-published, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you grow your platform and promote your book successfully.

Key Takeaways:

The foundation of effective book marketing is understanding your ideal reader and crafting content that captures their interest

How to navigate Instagram’s ever-evolving features without feeling overwhelmed, and how to start where you are—whether you're a beginner or an experienced user

Tips for discovering the right posting frequency based on your goals—whether you're just starting out, maintaining engagement, or actively growing your audience

The power of observing successful authors in your niche, understanding what works, and using that as inspiration for your own content

Connect with Nicola:

Website: https://www.toomuchsocial.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toomuch_social/

Substack: https://nicolawashington.substack.com/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, J.D. Barker shares his unconventional path fromghostwriting to becoming an international best-selling author. He shares how his path of innovative marketing and out-of-the-box thinking has allowed him to outmaneuver traditional publishing and book marketing routes that can keepauthors stuck.

J.D. Barker is an international bestselling American author whose work has been broadly described as suspense thrillers, often incorporating elements of horror, crime, mystery, science fiction, and the supernatural.

Episode Highlights:

J.D.’s journey from ghostwriting to bestsellingauthor and how he carved his own author path

How creative and disruptive book marketing cangenerate buzz and reader engagement for indie authors

How J.D. created a hybrid approach to traditionalvs indie publishing

Why branding matters, how traditional publishersfocus on individual books rather than authors, and how indie authors have amarketing edge

Why innovation is key to breaking through anindustry where millions of books are published annually

Haunted house giveaway details: https://woobox.com/vcevs2.

Pre-order link for the Something I keep Upstairs: https://jdbarker.com/books/something-i-keep-upstairs/.

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In the first episode of season 3, Isabelle sits down with Siobhan Purcell. Siobhan is an Irish author who has just published her debut novel, A Murderous Affair: The Quay Road Mysteries Book 1. Based in the West of Ireland, Siobhan draws inspiration from the charm and intrigue of village life, weaving stories that blend vivid landscapes, memorable characters, and a touch of suspense.She is a mom to 4 children who have all successfully reached adulthood, 2 fluffy dogs and has been a serial entrepreneur all her life

Siobhan’s second novel will be released on 17th March 2025.Episode Highlights:

• The benefits of Indie author conferences - from industry knowledge to career-changing connections

• The power of networking – how casual conversations can lead to game-changing advice, friendships, and career growth

• The supportive global writing community – how indie authors collaborate, share insights, and lift each other up rather than compete

• Conferences aren’t just for learning—they’re a chance to contribute knowledge and support fellow authors, even as a beginner

• Information on how you can attend the first annual Ireland’s Publishing show this March 18th – 20th, 2025 Ireland’s Publishing Show will take place at The Inn at Dromoland, Co. Clare Tickets: https://irelandspublishingshow.com/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, Isabelle sits down with Dr. Kathrine McAleese, a speaker, author, and entrepreneur, to discuss how embracing authenticity and thinking outside the box helped her create a successful global book launch. Kathrine’s journey isn’t just about writing a book—it's about building a community and staying true to her personal mission. She shares how her book launch became an immersive, unforgettable experience and how small beginnings led to unexpected opportunities. Kathrine also offers practical advice for aspiring authors and entrepreneurs on creating a launch that resonates with your audience.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Power of Authenticity: Kathrine talks about how staying true to her values and being authentic to herself played a pivotal role in her success.

2. Small Beginnings, Big Opportunities: Kathrine shares how starting with smaller events and projects helped her build momentum.

3. Creating a Movement: We dive into how Kathrine used her book launch to engage her community and turn it into a memorable experience.

4. Building a Supportive Network: Kathrine reflects on the importance of surrounding yourself with a strong community and how it’s supported her success

5. Advice for Aspiring Authors and Entrepreneurs: Kathrine shares her top tips for anyone looking to make an impact—whether through a book, a brand, or a business.

Connect with Kathrine:

Instagram & Threads: @drkathrine

Website: https://www.drkathrine.com/

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠www.buildyourbrandwithpr.com⁠⁠⁠

Threads: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.kni... Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠  / isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠⁠  

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠  / isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠⁠  

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠  / ikpublicity⁠⁠⁠  

TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠  / isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠⁠  

X: ⁠⁠⁠  / ik_publicity⁠⁠⁠  

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links

In this episode, Isabelle sits down with Veronique Moorcroft, a successful multi-genre, traditionally published author known by the pen names Nikki Moore and Ella Allbright. Veronique takes us through her author journey, sharing the highs and lows of her career—from early setbacks to key moments of recognition. She highlights the importance of persistence, the value of supportive writing communities, and the challenges of navigating marketing, publicity, and rejection in the competitive world of publishing. Episode Highlights:

The Truth About Traditional Publishing: Veronique dispels the myth that securing a publishing deal is the end of the hard work. She shares how, even after signing with a publisher, authors must hustle to handle their own marketing, publicity, and social media presence.

Overcoming Health Challenges: Veronique reflects on how overcoming serious health setbacks, including a critical surgery and long recovery, taught her resilience and helped shape her approach to writing and persistence.

The Power of Community: Veronique emphasizes the importance of being part of a supportive network of writers and how it has helped her stay motivated. She also highlights the inclusive nature of the writing world, where there’s room for every author to thrive.

Staying True to Your Values: Veronique discusses how staying true to her values and adapting to the evolving publishing landscape has been key to her success. She also talks about trusting your instincts as an author.

Embracing Rejection: Veronique talks about how rejection is an inevitable part of an author’s journey, and how resilience and persistence are essential for long-term success.

The Impact of Social Media: Veronique shares how platforms like BookTok and Instagram have reshaped the way authors connect with readers, and how she engages with her audience online to build meaningful relationships.

Advice for Aspiring Authors: Veronique offers practical advice for emerging writers, including the importance of networking, continuously honing your craft, and staying motivated, even when the journey gets tough.

Connect with Veronique:

https://nikkimooreauthor.wordpress.com

Instagram and Threads: @authorbythesea1207 ⁠

Connect with Isabelle:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buildyourauthorbrand.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Threads:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr⁠⁠⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ikpublicity⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_pr⁠⁠⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ik_publicity⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Download the latest free guide and checkout the other useful links:

https://www.buildyourauthorbrand.com/useful-links