Most authors think visibility means posting more content.

But what if that’s not the real strategy?

In this episode, PR specialist Allison Preston breaks down what public relations actually is, and why it’s one of the most overlooked tools for authors who want to get seen beyond social media.

We dive into the difference between PR and marketing, how “earned media” works, and practical ways authors can start building visibility—even without a large following.

If you’ve been posting consistently but not seeing results, this episode will shift how you think about audience growth and book promotion.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• What PR really is (and what it isn’t)
• The key difference between PR and marketing
• What “earned media” means for authors
• Why social media alone isn’t enough for visibility
• How to tap into existing audiences instead of building from scratch
• Beginner-friendly PR strategies you can start right now
• Where authors should be showing up beyond social platforms
• Common PR mistakes (and how to avoid them)
• And then we end with Allison's Five Best Tips for authors and the Ink Starter Lightning round

About Allison:

Allison Preston has more than a decade of experience in journalism, public relations, and strategic communications. Her work has been in front of the camera as a news anchor and reporter, and behind the scenes, pitching stories and overseeing communications for international nonprofits. She has ghostwritten opinion pieces for nonprofit and biotech leaders, hosted two podcasts, and secured media hits in major outlets including CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, NPR, and more. She is also a Young Adult Fantasy writer of power girl princesses and warrior women.

You can find her at: 

• allisonprestonpr.com
• IG: @prestonpublicrelations

or on her Author Socials:

• IG @authoralicesheffield
• TikTok @authoralicesheffield
• Substack @authoralicesheffield

Have a publishing question? Email me at [email protected] 

Newsletter:  The Underground

Website: micamerrillrice.com 

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamriceauthor

TikTok: @micamriceauthor

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ