The Authors Porch

The Authors Porch

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The Authors Porch episodes

  • S4 E14 - Pros and Cons of KDP Select

    Are you better off enrolling your book in KDP Select, or should you go wide and distribute across multiple platforms?


    In this episode of The Authors Porch Podcast, we dive deep into the pros and cons of KDP Select, what genres thrive on Kindle Unlimited, and when it might be smarter to go wide. Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your author career.


    ✅ KDP Select: What It Is & How It Works – Exclusive perks like Kindle Unlimited, promotional tools, and regional royalties


    ✅ The Pros & Cons of KDP Select – The benefits of exclusivity vs. the risks of limiting your distribution


    ✅ Going Wide: The Benefits & Challenges – Reaching global readers across multiple platforms and expanding beyond Amazon


    ✅ Which Genres Do Best in KDP Select? – Why Romance, Mystery, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy authors often stick with KU


    ✅ Which Genres Thrive on Multiple Platforms? – Why Non-Fiction, Literary Fiction, and Niche Markets may benefit from a wide strategy


    ✅ How to Make the Best Choice for Your Author Career – Balancing visibility, royalties, and long-term growth

    📺 Claire Fraise’s Video: "KDP Select Pros & Cons – Is It Worth It?" – A must-watch for authors debating exclusivity vs. wide publishing! 🎥 Watch here:https://youtu.be/g0UIJ4XcBYs

    📚 Monica Leonelle & Russell Nohelty – The Future of Publishing – Learn how successful indie authors think ahead and adapt to the evolving publishing industry. Explore their resources at: writermba.com

    Don’t miss this episode! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your publishing strategy, this discussion will help you navigate KDP Select, wide distribution, and everything in between.


    🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform!


    📩 Have thoughts on this topic? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear about your experience!

    #TheAuthorsPorch #KDPSelect #GoingWide #SelfPublishing #KindleUnlimited #IndieAuthor #BookMarketing #PublishingTrends

    14 min
  • S4 E13: Writing What You Love vs. Writing What Sells – Finding the Balance

    As an author, do you write for passion or profit—or is there a way to do both? In this episode of The Authors Porch Podcast, we dive into the ongoing debate of writing what you love versus writing what sells.


    📖 What You'll Learn:


    ✅ The difference between writing for creativity and writing for market trends
    ✅ How to balance passion with profitability
    ✅ Why understanding your audience matters
    ✅ Practical strategies to merge what you love with what readers want
    ✅ How to set realistic expectations for success

    Whether you're looking to turn your writing into a full-time career or just want to share stories straight from the heart, this episode will help you navigate the path that best aligns with your goals.


    🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform!


    🔗 Learn more at:www.heauthorsporch.com


    📚 Need help with your author platform & marketing? Visit On The Page Author Services for expert guidance!


    #TheAuthorsPorch #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor #AmWriting #WritingTips #SelfPublishing #AuthorBranding #BookMarketing

    17 min
  • S4 E12 - Murder without a Duck - Claudia H Long

    Welcome to another exciting episode of The Authors Porch Podcast! This week, CJ sits down with Claudia Hagadus Long, a talented and versatile author known for her captivating historical novels and engaging mystery series. They dive into Claudia's latest book, Murder without a Duck, and explore her journey as a writer, her inspirations, and what makes her stories resonate with readers.


    In This Episode:

    📖 Meet Claudia Hagadus Long

    • Author of 8 novels spanning historical fiction and mystery.
    • Lawyer, weaver, passionate cook, and storyteller living in Northern California wine country.
    • Her work includes historical novels set in 1690s Mexico, contemporary Zara and Lilly mysteries, and a novella about women in the 1920 San Francisco labor movement.


      • 🦆 Murder without a Duck

      • The first book in Claudia's new Simpato Mystery Series.
      • An "edge-of-cozy" mystery featuring Salvia Devine, a temporarily-suspended lawyer navigating scary and funny twists that are sure to delight readers.
      • Claudia shares her inspirations, writing process, and the unique blend of humor and suspense in her storytelling.


        • 🌟 Writing Wisdom and Insights

        • Balancing multiple genres and weaving personal passions into writing.
        • Crafting characters and settings that transport readers into rich, immersive worlds.
        • Building a writing career that spans historical fiction and mystery while staying true to her creative voice.


          • Where to Find Claudia Hagadus Long:
          📚 Website: claudiahlong.com
          📖 Facebook: @claudialongauthor
          📷 Instagram, Threads & BlueSky: @claudiahlong

          Connect with The Authors Porch:
          🌐 Website: theauthorsporch.com
          📧 Newsletter: Join Here
          📱 Social Media: @TheAuthorsPorch on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

          32 min
        • S4 E11 - A Journey Through Historical Romance with Patricia Bates

          Welcome to The Authors Porch Podcast!


          This week, CJ Ives Lopez sits down with Canadian author Patricia Bates, a writer with a deep passion for historical romance, world-building, and storytelling.

          From her early days as a grade school writer to her success as a multi-genre author, Patricia shares her love for weaving captivating tales and exploring new worlds.


          1. Meet Patricia Bates

            • Discover Patricia's journey from a young storyteller to a seasoned author who loves history and romance.
            • Learn how her hobbies, like gardening and crafting period costumes, inspire her creative process.


            • Exploring Historical Romance

              • Dive into the intricacies of writing historical romance—how Patricia brings authenticity and passion to her stories.
              • Get a behind-the-scenes look at how she researches and builds compelling worlds for her readers.


              • Beyond Romance: Hexes and Oh's Anthology

                • Hear about Patricia's latest work, Hexes and Oh’s Anthology, and her experience contributing to this exciting collection.
                • Link to the anthology: Hexes and Oh’s Anthology on Amazon.


                • Patricia’s Diverse Pen Names and Bookstore

                  • Discover Patricia’s multi-genre writing and explore her bookstore showcasing works from her various pen names: Sultry Reads.
                    • Patricia Bates’ Historical Romance Website: www.patriciabates.com
                    • Patricia’s Bookstore: Sultry Reads
                    • Hexes and Oh’s Anthology: Buy on Amazon



                      • If you’re a fan of historical romance, passionate storytelling, or multi-genre authorship, this episode is for you! Patricia Bates shares her insights, inspirations, and experiences as an author who loves crafting timeless tales.


                      Connect with Us:

                      • Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
                      • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                      • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                      • Facebook: The Authors Porch


                        • #TheAuthorsPorch #HistoricalRomance #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #PatriciaBates

                        41 min
                      • S4 E10 - Your Author Platform – Focusing on Readers Over the Noise

                        This week, host CJ Ives Lopez delves into the art of building an author platform that truly connects with readers. She discusses the pitfalls of chasing virality, the importance of authenticity, and how fiction can be a refuge in a chaotic world. Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you create a meaningful and reader-focused platform.

                        1. What is an Author Platform?

                          • Your author platform is your public presence—spanning your website, social media, and newsletters. Learn how to use it to build trust and showcase your unique voice.
                          • Explore the three pillars of an impactful platform:

                          • The Risks of Virality:

                            • Understand why viral posts often prioritize short-term attention over long-term loyalty.
                            • Discover how viral content can clash with the safe and healing space fiction readers seek.

                            • Why Reader-Focus Matters:

                              • Fiction offers an escape, a place of peace, and a chance for readers to explore emotions. Learn why staying focused on your readers’ needs is critical to building trust and engagement.

                              • Practical Tips for Building a Reader-Focused Platform:

                                • Authenticity: Be true to your voice. Readers connect with who you are.
                                • Stay Niche: Write for your audience and stay aligned with your genre.
                                • Plan Long-Term: Build trust and loyalty by prioritizing consistency over trends.
                                  • The Authors Porch Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
                                  • OTP Author Services: Need help building your author platform or creating a consistent brand? Visit www.otpauthorservices.com.

                                    • "As authors, we have the power to create worlds that inspire and heal. Let’s ensure our platforms reflect that same sense of peace and creativity for our readers."


                                    Connect with Us:

                                    • Website: www.theauthorsporch.com
                                    • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                    • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                    • Facebook: The Authors Porch

                                      • #TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorPlatform #WritingCommunity #BookMarketing #FictionWriters

                                      22 min
                                    • S4 E9 - Interview with Sean Bridges

                                      In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez returns to her interview series after a year-long hiatus, bringing insightful conversations back to the literary world.


                                      This week, CJ sits down with Sean Bridges, an award-winning screenwriter and author whose talent and dedication to storytelling shine through his remarkable works.


                                      Sean Bridges, a Texas Hill Country resident, has a multifaceted career in screenwriting and writing.


                                      He's not only a Stephen King Dollar Baby—an exclusive group of creatives permitted by Stephen King to adapt his work—but has also made waves with his festival-winning audio production of One for the Road.


                                      His most recent screenplay, Beginner’s Luck, is already an award-winner in 2024 at both the San Antonio and Austin Film Festivals.


                                      This episode highlights his journey, his unique approach to storytelling, and his upcoming novel, Gunbarrel Highway. Set to release on November 20th in paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats, Gunbarrel Highway promises to captivate readers and listeners alike.

                                      CJ thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with the world of author interviews and bringing you Sean’s inspiring story. Be sure to check out Sean’s work, dive into his latest novel, and explore his contributions to audio productions and screenwriting.


                                      In This Episode:

                                      • Sean Bridges discusses his career journey, from award-winning screenwriting to his recent ventures in novel writing.
                                      • Insight into Sean’s experience as a Stephen King Dollar Baby with his adaptation of One for the Road.
                                        • Behind the scenes of his upcoming novel Gunbarrel Highway, set to release November 20th.
                                        • A look at his award-winning screenplay Beginner’s Luck and his passion for storytelling.


                                          • Links to Sean’s Work:

                                          • Audible Parade
                                          • Wild Rose Press
                                          • Gunbarrel Highway on Amazon


                                            • Connect with Us:

                                            • Website: The Authors Porch
                                            • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                            • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                            • Facebook: The Authors Porch


                                              • #TheAuthorsPorch #SeanBridges #GunbarrelHighway #AuthorInterviews #WritingCommunity #BookRelease #CreativeWriting #Podcast

                                              33 min
                                            • S4 E8 - How to Create an Author Bio That Resonates with Readers

                                              How to Create an Author Bio That Resonates with Readers

                                              Episode Summary:
                                              In this episode, CJ Ives Lopez dives into the art and importance of crafting an author bio that goes beyond listing credentials to truly connect with readers. Your author bio serves as more than an introduction—it’s an opportunity to share your journey, establish your authority, and create an emotional connection with your audience.


                                              CJ breaks down the key elements of a resonant author bio and offers practical tips on how to make it engaging, relevant, and consistently up-to-date.


                                              Key Takeaways:

                                              1. The Importance of an Author Bio

                                                • An author bio is the reader's first impression of who you are. It’s not just a list of accomplishments but a glimpse into your personality and the motivations behind your writing.
                                                • Your bio should strike a balance between authority and authenticity, showcasing your experiences while inviting readers to get to know the person behind the words.

                                                • Establishing Authority While Building a Personal Connection

                                                  • Sharing your accomplishments gives you credibility, but weaving in personal anecdotes and unique experiences adds authenticity, making your bio more relatable and engaging.
                                                  • A great bio explains not just why you're qualified but why you care about what you write.

                                                  • Becoming a Familiar Name, Not Just an Author

                                                    • An author bio serves as the beginning of a relationship with your readers. You’re not just introducing yourself as a writer; you’re positioning yourself as someone they can relate to and look forward to hearing from again.
                                                    • Use your bio to share pieces of your journey, inspiration, or hobbies that connect with your readers' interests.

                                                    • Connecting Emotionally: Let Readers Know Why You’re Worth Their Time

                                                      • Readers invest more than money; they invest time and emotional energy when they pick up a book. Your bio should help them feel confident that this investment is worthwhile.
                                                      • By sharing personal struggles, triumphs, or motivations, you build an emotional bond that goes beyond credentials.

                                                      • Demonstrating Consistency and Credibility Across Platforms

                                                        • Ensure your bio reflects a consistent brand across various platforms, whether on social media, your website, or book covers. Consistency builds trust and helps readers feel connected to a reliable, authentic voice.

                                                        • Tailoring Your Bio to Meet the Reader’s Needs

                                                          • Customize your bio for your target audience. For example, readers of women’s fiction may appreciate insights into your family life, while fantasy readers might be more interested in your passion for world-building.

                                                          • Avoiding Filler and Staying Relevant

                                                            • Share details that connect to your writing and audience. Avoid oversharing unrelated personal information that may distract from the core message.
                                                            • Update your bio periodically to include new accomplishments or shifts in your writing focus.

                                                            • Encouragement for Writers

                                                              • Your author bio is an evolving piece of your writing identity. Keep it updated to reflect your growth and connect with readers authentically.


                                                                • Make sure to revisit your author bio regularly. Does it still reflect who you are and where you are in your writing journey? If not, it's time for an update!

                                                                Mentioned Links:

                                                                • CJ Ives Lopez's Website
                                                                • On the Page Author Services


                                                                  • Connect with Us:

                                                                  • Website: theauthorsporch.com
                                                                  • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                  • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                  • Facebook: The Authors Porch


                                                                    • #TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorBio #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #Branding #PersonalConnection

                                                                    25 min
                                                                  • S4 E7 - The Power of Storytelling in Branding for Authors

                                                                    In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez dives into The Power of Storytelling in Branding for Authors.

                                                                    Storytelling isn’t just for the pages of your book—it’s a tool that helps build an author’s brand, allowing readers to connect with you on a deeper level. CJ covers how to use your personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs to craft an authentic narrative that resonates with your audience and strengthens your brand.


                                                                    1. What is Storytelling in Branding?

                                                                      • Learn how to weave your personal life and experiences into your author brand to create a narrative that resonates with your readers.
                                                                      • CJ shares personal stories about how her writing connects to her real-life experiences, from nightmares turning into love stories to drawing inspiration from her children.

                                                                      • Building a Relatable Author Persona

                                                                        • Authenticity matters! Learn how to connect with your readers beyond the book by sharing your journey, struggles, and inspiration.
                                                                        • Example: How authors like Stephen King and J.K. Rowling use their personal stories to form deeper connections with readers.

                                                                        • Using Storytelling in Marketing and Social Media

                                                                          • Explore how to tell your story across various platforms—social media, newsletters, and websites—while keeping things authentic.
                                                                          • CJ explains how sharing her daily life, including Elvis the dog, creates a personal connection with her audience.

                                                                          • Creating an Emotional Connection with Readers

                                                                            • Emotional storytelling leads to lasting relationships with readers. CJ discusses how sharing personal victories and failures can build this bond.
                                                                            • Example: CJ opens up about publishing her first book at 40, embracing imperfections, and moving forward despite doubts.

                                                                            • Keeping Your Story Consistent Across Platforms

                                                                              • Consistency is key to credibility. Learn how to keep your storytelling aligned across social media, newsletters, and websites.
                                                                              • CJ shares advice from her military background on maintaining consistency and how it’s helped her establish credibility as an author.


                                                                                • Remember, storytelling isn’t just for your books—it’s how you connect with your readers. So go out there and tell your story, because no one else can tell it like you!
                                                                                Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts on this episode of The Authors Porch.


                                                                                Connect with Us:

                                                                                • Website: theauthorsporch.com
                                                                                • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                                • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                                • Facebook: The Authors Porch


                                                                                  • #TheAuthorsPorch #AuthorBranding #StorytellingInBranding #WritingCommunity #AuthorLife #PersonalBranding

                                                                                  26 min
                                                                                • S4 E6 - Marketing for Authors

                                                                                  Season 4, Episode 6: Marketing for Authors

                                                                                  In this episode of The Authors Porch, CJ Ives Lopez dives deep into the world of book marketing for indie authors.

                                                                                  We cover a wide range of marketing strategies, from social media engagement and paid ads to book events and trailers. If you’re looking to effectively market your book, tune in for practical advice, helpful resources, and proven methods to reach your target audience.

                                                                                  Topics Covered:

                                                                                  1. Social Media Marketing

                                                                                    2. Platforms: Key platforms include Instagram, Twitter (now X), Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Emphasize tailoring content to each platform to better connect with different audiences.

                                                                                    Engagement: Build a community through consistent engagement, responding to comments, and using book-related hashtags.

                                                                                    Content Types: Utilize teasers, cover reveals, behind-the-scenes, author Q&A sessions, and promotional graphics/videos to keep your audience engaged.


                                                                                    Collaborations: Partner with book influencers or "Bookstagrammers" to broaden your reach.

                                                                                  2. News Outlets and Press Releases

                                                                                    3. Reach out to local newspapers, TV stations, or radio programs to promote your book.

                                                                                    Shoutout to Rob The Warrior Strategist: Get help with press releases for wider reach. Learn more at Rob The Warrior Strategist.

                                                                                    Silver Dagger Book Tours: See great results from organized book tours. Check them out at Silver Dagger Book Tours.


                                                                                    • Advertising (Amazon, Facebook, Google, BookBub)

                                                                                      • Amazon Ads: Maximize your book's visibility through Amazon Advertising. Learn about Bryan Cohen’s Author Ad School at Best Page Forward.

                                                                                      BookBub: Use BookBub for targeted ads, and leverage their blog for insightful marketing advice. Learn more at BookBub.

                                                                                      Dave Chesson's YouTube: Learn more about ads and indie publishing from Kindlepreneur's YouTube Channel.


                                                                                      • Word of Mouth Marketing

                                                                                        • Street Teams: Build a small group of dedicated readers who can help spread the word about your book.

                                                                                        Reader Reviews: Use reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or social media to generate buzz. Learn about effective Goodreads giveaways at Alessandra Torre’s Website.

                                                                                        ARC Copies: Send out Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) to generate early buzz and reviews.

                                                                                      • Blogging and Guest Posts

                                                                                        • Create an author blog with updates, writing tips, book excerpts, and personal stories.
                                                                                        • Write guest posts on popular blogs or industry websites.
                                                                                        • Arrange virtual book tours to increase visibility and engage readers.

                                                                                        • Podcasts

                                                                                          • Guest Appearances: Pitch yourself as a guest on book-related podcasts.
                                                                                          • Start Your Own Podcast: Share insights on writing, storytelling, or your book's genre.
                                                                                          • Cross Promotion: Collaborate with other content creators for mutually beneficial exposure.

                                                                                          • Email Marketing

                                                                                            • Newsletter: Build an email list and provide value through updates, giveaways, and exclusive content.
                                                                                            • Reader Magnets: Offer a free short story or novella to entice readers to join your mailing list.

                                                                                            • Goodreads Marketing

                                                                                              • Giveaways: Run Goodreads giveaways to increase visibility.

                                                                                              Reader Groups: Connect with your target audience by participating in or creating Goodreads groups.


                                                                                              • Book Events and Signings

                                                                                                • Local Bookstores: Partner with bookstores for in-person or virtual signings.

                                                                                                Book Fairs and Conventions: Attend literary events to connect with readers and network with fellow authors.


                                                                                                • Paid Promotions via Book Promotion Sites

                                                                                                  • Use BookBub Featured Deals and other sites like Freebooksy and Bargain Booksy to boost your book during promotions.

                                                                                                  • Book Trailers

                                                                                                    • Create engaging book trailers for social media, ads, or your website. For help creating high-quality trailers, visit BookBrush.


                                                                                                    • Special Resources Mentioned:

                                                                                                      • Monica Leonelle and Russell Nohelty: Experts in indie publishing at Writer MBA.

                                                                                                      Black Château Enterprises: For full-service author marketing, visit Black Château Enterprises.

                                                                                                      The Inkfluence: For Kickstarter campaigns, book boxes, and swag fulfillment, check out The Inkfluence.


                                                                                                        Book Promo Shoutout:

                                                                                                        At the start of this episode, CJ gives a shoutout to Purpose by Timothy McKenney  An environmental thriller featuring Emerald Enterprises and their tough decisions in a high-stakes world. Check it out here: Purpose on Amazon.


                                                                                                        • Tune in to hear practical strategies for marketing your book.
                                                                                                        • Let us know what marketing strategies have worked for you—share your thoughts on social media!


                                                                                                          • Connect with Us:

                                                                                                          • Website: theauthorsporch.com
                                                                                                          • Twitter: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                                                          • Instagram: @TheAuthorsPorch
                                                                                                          • Facebook: The Authors Porch

                                                                                                            • #TheAuthorsPorch #BookMarketing #IndieAuthors #AuthorLife #PurposeBook #WritingCommunity #SocialMediaForAuthors #SelfPublishing #MarketingTips #EnvironmentalThriller #DaveChesson #Kindlepreneur #GoodreadsTips #BookPromotion

                                                                                                            34 min
                                                                                                          • S4 E5 hilling Thrills: A Review of Never Cry Alone by Tyrell Plair

                                                                                                            In this episode, we dive into the gripping and chilling novel Never Cry Alone by Tyrell Plair. Based on a real-life case, this story is told from two perspectives: the killer and the detective determined to bring them to justice. Tyrell’s ability to pull you inside the heads of his characters makes this a wild and eerie ride. If you’re a fan of dark thrillers with intense emotional depth, this is one book you won’t want to miss.


                                                                                                            Highlights:

                                                                                                            • How Never Cry Alone presents dual perspectives that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
                                                                                                            • The way Tyrell Plair’s storytelling pulls readers into the mind of a killer and a detective.
                                                                                                            • The gripping, descriptive narrative that makes this book a must-read for fans of crime thrillers.
                                                                                                            • Trigger warnings to be aware of, but trust me, the suspense is worth it.


                                                                                                              • Want to Read the Full Review?
                                                                                                              Check out the full review on The Author's Porch: Never Cry Alone Book Review.

                                                                                                              Ready to Grab Your Copy?
                                                                                                              Get Never Cry Alone on Amazon: Buy the Book.

                                                                                                              Connect with Me:

                                                                                                              • Visit The Authors Porch for more reviews and recommendations.
                                                                                                              • Follow us on social media
                                                                                                              • Follow the podcast for more in-depth book discussions and author interviews.

                                                                                                                • 11 min

                                                                                                              About The Authors Porch

                                                                                                              From the publisher's feed

                                                                                                              Welcome to rich narratives and dynamic dialogues, The Authors Porch!