The Book Mentor Podcast

In today's episode of the podcast, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, along with Sheryl Andrews dive deep into the world of book marketing, especially focusing on the crucial period around a book launch.   

They share insights on maximizing your book's visibility and sales, with strategies that include optimizing discoverability on Amazon, securing PR, and lining up the right launch support. Learn from their experiences, both personal and with clients, as they discuss building a robust pre-launch momentum and keeping it alive well beyond publication day.   

Plus, they offer valuable tips on securing endorsements, asking for help, and celebrating your book's launch in style. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with advice and encouragement to ensure your book reaches its full potential.   

You can get your copy of Book Marketing Made Simple on Amazon or all good book retailers.  

 ** Check Out Our Events **  

If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into maximising your book promotion online - how to say “buy my book” without saying “buy my book”!  

I am also running the Book Launch Blueprint workshop on Monday 30 June where I take you step by step through the process of becoming an Amazon bestseller - and giving you access to all the swipe files, emails, social media templates to be successful.   

You can find out more about all our events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com.   

Key insights  

Visibility and Support: Building a network and asking for help is crucial. Your friends, family, colleagues, and connections can make a significant impact when it comes to sharing your book’s launch.  

Discoverability Optimization: Make sure your book is easily found online by focusing on the right categories, keywords, and metadata. A well-crafted title and subtitle, along with a strategic description, can improve your book’s searchability.  

Celebration and Execution: The launch is also a celebration of your hard work. Whether it’s a full-blown launch party or a quiet toast, marking the occasion keeps the excitement alive and engages your community.  

Bio – Karen Williams  

Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well.   

With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker.  

Website: https://librotas.com   

Socials:   

 https://www.facebook.com/librotas

https://twitter.com/librotas

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

 https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas 

https://www.youtube.com/@librotas   

Bio – Sheryl Andrews  

Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage Your Critic, was published in 2016 and she is currently writing her second.  

Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com   

Time-stamped overview:  

00:00 Book Launch Success Strategies
05:10 Book Promotion & Network Strategy
06:55 Leveraging Small Networks Effectively
12:48 Securing Book Endorsements and Reviews
14:56 Expanding Book Reach via Influencers
18:19 Seek Help and Delegate Tasks
22:25 Measuring Success in Launches
24:05 Creative Book Launch Strategies
26:44 Celebrate Your Writing Milestones  

Keywords:    book launch, book sales, book publication, book PR, book launch support, book design, Amazon launch, amazon bestselling launch, book marketing, street team, engaging influencers, book endorsements, PR strategy, book keywords, book categories, podcast interviews, book metadata, book launch event, becoming a bestseller, book launch party, amazon bestseller, librotas, book marketing made simple

Many authors make the mistake of starting their marketing efforts too late, missing key opportunities to build momentum. In this episode of the podcast, Sheryl Andrews and Karen Williams dive into the essential strategies for preparing for a successful launch.   

We break down what you need to do well in advance to position your book for success and grow an engaged audience, while avoiding common pre-launch pitfalls. We're talking about the importance of engaging with your audience early to ensure you write the right book for your business and how building anticipation can make all the difference.   

So tune in as we explore the journey from idea to publication and how to make your book a key part of your broader business ecosystem.  

👉 If you’ve not yet got a copy of Book Marketing Made Simple, mentioned in this episode, you can find it on Amazon and all good book retailers.  

** Check Out Our Events **  

If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into an important area of marketing and selling your book.  

You can find out more about this and our other upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com.   

Key insights  

Engage Early: Start building momentum months before your launch. Engage your audience early to ensure you’re writing the right book for your business and avoid missing opportunities. Conversation is key!   

Build Anticipation: Share your author journey as well as your book content. People are naturally curious and want to follow the highs, lows, and learnings. Don't underestimate the power of sharing your process.   

Plan, Plan, Plan: Have a pre-launch strategy in place. Break down tasks weekly to make them manageable and ensure you're ready to deal with any inner critic that might pop up.   

Bio – Karen Williams  

Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well.   

With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker.  

Website: https://librotas.com  www.bookmarketingmadesimple.com   

Socials:   

https://www.facebook.com/librotas

https://twitter.com/librotas

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

https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas 

https://www.youtube.com/@librotas   

Bio – Sheryl Andrews  

Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage Your Critic, was published in 2016 and she is currently writing her second.  

Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com   

Time-stamped overview:  

00:00 Overcoming Publishing Doubts
04:51 "Bravery in Writing and Publishing"
09:28 Aligning Business Goals and Messaging
13:13 Effective Book Marketing Strategies
15:07 CRM and Newsletter Strategies
18:27 Storytelling Key to Content Creation
20:52 Engaging Readers in Writing Journey
23:58 Effective Book Marketing Strategies  

Keywords:    Successful book launch, writing process, author confidence, book marketing strategy, nook positioning, book promotion, email marketing, social media marketing, business list building, business ecosystem, crowdfunding, community building, business storytelling, pre-launch book marketing, personal brand, writing clarity, book themes, content repurposing, author journey, podcast book marketing, book marketing made simple

Today, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, is joined by Nicky Blewitt—a book marketer, self-published author, and expert in helping writers build platforms that actually sell books.  

Nicky’s journey from gardener to author and marketing strategist is proof that smart marketing, not big budgets, makes the difference. With over 20 books published and years of experience navigating the indie publishing world, he’s discovered what really works when it comes to building an author platform that attracts readers and grows your influence.  

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of building a strong author platform, from branding and networking to creating a lead magnet that actually converts. We also explore the power of influencers—how they can help you reach more readers, and why they aren’t just for fiction authors.  
We discuss practical, low-cost strategies for book marketing, avoiding common pitfalls, and making the most of your time and resources—so you can focus on what matters most: writing books and getting them into the hands of the right readers.  

If book marketing feels overwhelming, this conversation will give you a clearer, more focused approach to growing your audience and selling more books.  

** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **  

Fancy being inspired to write your book? You can check out all our upcoming events via our website, including our Book Launch Blueprint workshop on Monday 30 June, where you can learn the exact steps you need to follow to launch an Amazon bestselling book.   

We run a monthly online networking event (although we are taking a break in May while we run our writing retreat in Spain) and will be back online on Tuesday 3 June for the Coffee and Connect Café, 12-1pm UK time: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.   

Key Takeaways  

Consistent Branding is Crucial: Whether it's your website or social media profiles, ensure that your branding is cohesive and genre-appropriate to make a memorable impression on readers.  

Discoverability through Networking: Engage with other authors in your genre to share knowledge and run joint promotions. It's a valuable way to tap into new audiences and gain support in the indie author community.  

Influencer Relationships Matter: Reach out to influencers with genuine engagement, offering value first before asking for anything in return. Building solid relationships can increase your book's visibility significantly.  

Bio   Nicky has been writing fiction and non-fiction for the last 10 years. He is a big fan of self-publishing and the freedom it gives writers. He has been an active book marketer for the last five years, disappearing down many rabbit holes during that time. Luckily he emerged knowing what works and what doesn't!  

Website: https://www.thebookmarketer.pro   

Socials:  https://www.instagram.com/the_book_marketer/   

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 From Gardener to Self-Published Author
06:09 Networking and Promotion Strategies
07:49 Centralized Content Strategy Essentials
11:43 Influencer Platforms: Influency & Intellifluence
15:11 Effective Series Writing Essentials
18:37 Trust Individuals: Personalize Marketing Approach
20:54 Targeting Ideal Influencers Effectively 26:25 Empowering Authors for Independence
27:19 "Building Relationships with Influencers"
32:38 Influencer Promotion Cost-Sharing Strategy  

Keywords:    self-publishing, book marketing, author platform, book branding, email list, lead magnet, social media, influencer marketing, book promotion, business networking, fiction authors, nonfiction authors, creative writing, amazon ad campaigns, reader engagement, beta readers, digital assets, book cover design, book launch, email marketing, book genre targeting, amazon keyword research, author outreach, influencer marketing, amazon author central, becoming a bestselling author

Today, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, is joined by Greg McQueen, a former TV writer turned ghostwriter and AI writing specialist.

Greg brings a unique perspective to writing, blending decades of storytelling expertise with a deep curiosity for AI and technology. With a background shaped by his successful writer father—who worked on the renowned series The Bill—Greg grew up immersed in the world of television writing. His career has since evolved from screenwriting to ghostwriting nonfiction, where he now helps professionals turn their expertise into impactful books.

In this conversation, we dive into Greg’s journey from photography to writing, how AI has transformed his workflow, and why he sees AI as “Photoshop for writers.”

We explore tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity, discuss the practicalities of using AI for research and structuring books, and unpack the risks of emerging AI tools. Whether you’re new to AI or already experimenting with it, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of these evolving technologies in your writing process.

** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **  

Fancy being inspired to write your book? Join our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event. It’s on the first Tuesday of each month, from 12-1pm UK time. Our next session on Tuesday 1st April gives you the opportunity to ask Karen any question you like about the book-writing process.  

Also coming up soon is our Book Kick-Start workshop and Writing Retreat in Spain.  

You can check out all our events here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.   

Key Takeaways  

Leverage AI Tools: Greg views AI as "Photoshop for writers", highlighting how tools like ChatGPT and Claude can enhance the writing process by improving efficiency while maintaining human authenticity.  

AI in Research & Writing: Discover how AI can assist in keeping track of background materials, offering draft suggestions, and ensuring a cohesive writing process by continually referencing stored project data.  

Adopt AI for Future Readiness: As Greg suggests, AI tools might soon become industry standards, much like Photoshop in photography. Now's the perfect time to explore and embrace these technologies to avoid falling behind.  

Bio  

Greg McQueen, a former TV writer (including "Life Force" with Damian Lewis), now specializes in ghostwriting nonfiction and AI writing. He helps professionals transform their expertise into engaging books and training materials, combining storytelling expertise with teaching experience to make complex topics accessible while preserving their impact.  

Website: www.signaltowords.com   

Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmcqueen-ghostwriter/  

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 Writer's Legacy in Creative Upbringing
05:29 "Haiti Relief Anthology Initiative"
08:15 Exploring AI Evolution and Impact
13:01 AI-Assisted Ghostwriting Benefits
15:36 "Enhancing AI with Project Preloads"
17:44 Preloading Instructions for Writing Projects
21:14 Book Comparison Using ChatGPT
27:15 Navigating AI in Writing
30:25 AI Data Usage Misunderstanding
33:10 Embrace Evolving Tech in Writing  

Keywords:    AI writing, ghostwriting, storytelling expertise, nonfiction writing, TV writer, writing tools, book creation, writing profession, TV writing career, publishing process, book proposal, earthquake Haiti, anthology short stories, AI tools, ChatGPT, Claude AI, writing research, DeepSeek AI, Perplexity AI, AI privacy, AI-generated content, nonfiction writing, AI for writers, Greg McQueen, Karen Williams Book Mentor

In this episode, Karen Williams sits down with Julia Schneider, a seasoned business growth and community engagement specialist with over 16 years of experience. Julia’s holistic approach to nurturing physical health, emotional well-being, and personal growth makes her an authority in building vibrant communities.   

Together with Karen, Julia delves into the intricacies of constructing a community around your book. They explore the journey from Julia’s transition from fitness to community management, the significance of social interaction, and the vital role communities play in author success.   

Whether you're an author looking to launch your first book or an entrepreneur aiming to cultivate lasting connections, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Julia shares her expertise on the steps to creating and managing successful communities, selecting the right platforms, and maintaining the energy needed for community leadership.  

** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **  

Fancy being inspired to write your book? Join our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event. It’s on the first Tuesday of each month, from 12-1pm UK time. Our next session on Tuesday 1st April gives you the opportunity to ask Karen any question you like about the book-writing process.  

Also coming up in April 2025 is our Book Kick-Start workshop and writing retreat in Spain.  

You can check out all our events here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.   

Key Takeaways  

Community as a Catalyst: Julia emphasizes that building a community is a powerful way to elevate and market your book. Engaging people who are excited about your topic creates a base that's eager for more – think programs, courses, and collaborations!  

Keep It Simple: Start simple and prioritize value. Avoid overwhelming your community members by focusing on providing meaningful, bite-sized content, which encourages genuine interaction and sustained engagement.  

It's All About Relationships: Julia highlights the necessity of an active and engaging presence as a community leader. Your role extends beyond content creation – being relational and connecting with your community can transform it from a group into a vibrant ecosystem.  


Bio  

Julia Schneider is a business growth and community engagement specialist with over 16 years of experience in business and marketing. Her specialty lies in creating vibrant, supportive online learning communities and helping businesses grow. She combines her expertise in community building, program creation, and transformational coaching to foster environments where individuals thrive, connect, and make a positive impact on the world.  

Her diverse educational background includes a degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences, certifications as a Feminine Power Transformational Coach and Leader, and a diploma in Recreation and Leisure. This holistic foundation allows her to approach business growth and community development in a way that nurtures physical health, emotional well-being, and personal growth.  

Julia’s approach to community engagement is rooted in attentiveness to member needs, fostering a sense of belonging, and involving community members in collaborative projects. She implements innovative strategies that not only enhance member engagement but also drive organic growth and promotion for businesses.  

Website: www.alivewithpossibility.ca   

Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-schneider-543805143   

Time stamped overview:
00:00 Passion Projects and Community Building
04:50 Community Benefits for Authors
08:07 Networking for Client Understanding
13:32 Value Over Quantity in Giving
17:22 Engagement and Facebook Group Dynamics
17:58 Start Simple, Grow Later
23:45 Start Small and Build Gradually
25:11 Project Planning: Work Backwards  

Keywords: community engagement, business growth, online learning community, book marketing, community building, membership platforms, networking events, marketing ecosystem, content creation, audience engagement, sustainable community, community support, relationship building, book marketing, marketing ecosystem, marketing funnel, membership programmes, business membership, book sales, business books, business book bites

In this episode host Karen Williams is joined by Jim James, an accomplished marketing consultant, podcast host, and author. With years of experience, he has mastered the art of making a profit from publicity and has ventured into writing and podcasting.   

Jim has published three books, leveraging his podcast, "The Unnoticed Entrepreneur", to transform insightful conversations with over 500 guests into a valuable publishing opportunity. Jim discusses the importance of being a podcast guest as a strategy to drive book audiences and shares practical tips for maximising the exposure gained from guest appearances.   

Tune in as he provides actionable insights on how to prepare effectively, leverage podcast appearances for SEO benefits, and create lasting connections with hosts—all while sharing some of his favourite tech tools and personal anecdotes along the way.   

This episode is a masterclass in understanding the synergy between podcasting and writing for business growth, designed to inspire authors and entrepreneurs alike.  

 ** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **  

Fancy being inspired to write your book? Join our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event. It’s on the first Tuesday of each month, from 12-1pm UK time.   

Also coming up is our Book Kick-Start workshop - perfect if you want help getting started. And our writing retreat in Spain - ideal for quality time to write your book in the beautiful Andalucian Mountains.   You can check out all our events here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.   


Key Takeaways:

Preparation is Key: Jim emphasizes that 70% of your podcast appearance success is in the preparation. Know the show's style, prepare your talking points, and ensure your tech setup is top-notch. 

Leverage Your Podcast Appearance: Don’t just appear and disappear. Jim advises maximizing the relationship with the host. Follow-up, express gratitude, and explore further collaboration opportunities. 

Create a Clear Call to Action: Engage your audience with a clear next step. Provide valuable takeaways or free resources to keep the conversation going beyond the episode.  

Bio: Jumping out of a plane at the age of 17 taught Jim what he was going to do with his life. Be an entrepreneur. He had learnt how to make a profit from publicity...he's enjoyed 25 years as an expatriate entrepreneur in Asia, and now is a marketing consultant, podcast host and author living in Wiltshire.  

Website:  https://www.jimajames.com  https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Jim-James/author/B09C6LPVH2 

Socials:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimajames https://www.facebook.com/jimacljames https://www.facebook.com/jimacljames   

Time stamped overview:

00:00 Publishing and Podcasting Journey
05:08 Entrepreneurial Success Stories: A Journey
07:27 Podcast Guesting: Access & Credibility Boost
10:59 Preparing for Podcast Appearances
15:09 Effective Storytelling for Media Engagement
17:46 "Podcasting: A Two-Way Journey"
20:41 Interactive Content for Engagement 25:33 Building Success Through Coaching Networks 27:39 Top Tools for Video and Audio
29:46 Leveraging Content Across Platforms
33:46 Build Your Personal Website Now
37:08 Streamlining for Podcast Success  

Keywords: entrepreneur, publicity, marketing consultant, podcast host, podcast guesting, book marketing, guesting on podcasts, smart author system, writing a book, self-published, Amazon books, British Business Book Awards, Wiley, podcast guest, podcast strategy, podcast host, podcast preparation, podcast pitch, audiogram, SEO, book backlinks, podcast guest blueprint, book pr, leverage podcast

Welcome back to another insightful episode where we explore the pivotal choices authors face in their publishing journey.   

In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of book publishing with Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews. Together, we'll unravel the complexities authors encounter when deciding between self-publishing, hybrid publishing, or traditional publishing.   

We discuss the five key considerations every author should ponder: intellectual property, control of content, budget, timelines, and perception in the publishing industry.   

Whether you're a first-time author or looking to refine your publishing strategy, this episode will equip you with the clarity and insights you need to make the best decision for your book and your business. Tune in and get ready to take the next step in your author journey!  

** Check Out Our Events **  

If you’d like to find out how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free online monthly networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café, which is held on the first Tuesday of each month. We are also running our next Book Kick-Start workshop on Monday 31 March - perfect if you are in the early stages of writing your non-fiction book and need help to begin.  

You can find out more about all our upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com.   

Key insights:  

Intellectual Property (IP) Matters: Your book could be the cornerstone of your business ecosystem. Ensure you retain rights to create products, courses, and more from your content. Clear IP can pave the way for a thriving business journey.  

Control of Content: Understand what autonomy you want over your book's content, design, and pricing. While self-publishing offers more control, traditional routes could mean a trade-off for market expertise.  

Timelines and Planning: Traditional deals can take a while, from getting the deal to seeing your book in print. If timing is crucial, factor in publishing timelines in your strategy. Self-publishing might be quicker but needs your diligence in planning.  

Bio – Karen Williams   Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well.   

With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker.  

Website: https://librotas.com   

Socials:   

https://www.facebook.com/librotas https://twitter.com/librotas https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/  https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas  https://www.youtube.com/@librotas   

Bio – Sheryl Andrews   Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage Your Critic, was published in 2016 and she is currently writing her second.  

Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com   

Time-stamped overview:  

00:00 Intellectual Property Importance in Publishing
04:18 Balancing Copyright in Publishing
09:15 Balancing Feedback with Authorial Voice
10:42 "Vision and Strategy for Authors"
16:10 Affordable Self-Publishing for Beginners
17:41 "Focus on Writing, Not Publishing"
21:58 Self-Publishing Timeline Realities
25:34 Balancing Teamwork and Deadlines
26:41 Time Perception and First Experiences
30:25 "Effective Publishing Partnership Strategies"  

Keywords:  publishing decisions, self-publishing, hybrid publishing, traditional publishing, intellectual property, IP, getting a publishing deal, book writing, copyright, book writing permissions, fair use policy, publishing budget, publishing timescales, book royalties, book creative control, book content control, book pricing, book writing timeline, how long does it take to write a book?, book marketing, book feedback, publishing team, book launch, alliance of Independent Authors, karen Williams the book mentor, book marketing made simple

In our latest episode Karen Williams is joined by accomplished writer and freelance journalist, Milli Hill. With a passion for challenging and reframing the narrative around women's bodies, Milli has authored three books, and her fourth, "Ultra Processed Women", is set to release this spring. 

Milli shares her remarkable journey from therapist to writer, spurred by her transformative experience of motherhood and her foray into mommy blogging. Discover how she transitioned into journalism, writing for prestigious publications like The Telegraph, and landed her first book deal with Harper Collins.

We delve into the world of Substack - a platform she believes is the future of writing. She provides valuable insights on how Substack has revitalized her writing career, offering both creative freedom and financial stability. Milli discusses the importance of consistency, finding your passion, and experimenting with content to build a loyal subscriber base. 

Whether you're an aspiring author or seasoned writer, Milli's advice on leveraging Substack to enhance your writing journey and connect with a dedicated audience is not to be missed. 

 ** Join our Community **

This podcast is brought to you by Karen Williams, The Book Mentor at Librotas. If you’d love to be part of our community and get inspired to write your book, join us at our next Coffee and Connect Café - a friendly online networking event held on the first Tuesday of each month from 12–1 pm UK time.

Check out all our events and sign up here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.  Or visit our website to discover how we can best support you in writing a successful business-building book.

Key Takeaways

Embrace Your Authentic Voice: Milli emphasized the importance of writing about what truly interests and excites you. Whether it’s feminism, motherhood, or your unique life experiences, being genuine will resonate deeply with your audience.

Utilize Substack for Financial Stability: Substack offers a sustainable model for writers by providing multiple monetization options. From paid subscriptions to exclusive content, it helps in creating a predictable revenue stream while allowing you to own your mailing list.

Consistency and Community: Milli highlights the significance of consistency in content creation. Regular posting schedules not only build a loyal audience but also create a supportive community that engages and grows with your work. She also runs an online writing group through Substack, creating deeper connections with her readers.  


Bio

Milli Hill is a writer and freelance journalist with a passion for reframing the narrative around women’s bodies. She is the author of the bestselling Positive Birth Book (2017), Give Birth like a Feminist (2019) and My Period (2021, for preteen girls). Her fourth book, Ultra Processed Women, will be published by Harper Collins in 2025, with a fifth book to follow in 2026. To date, her books have been translated into seven languages. 

From 2012 to 2021 she founded and ran the Positive Birth Movement, a global network of antenatal discussion groups aimed at improving birth and giving women better access to support and information. She ended this work, in part, due to the online abuse she received as a result of advocating for sex-based language in maternity care. Milli has spoken nationally and internationally about positive birth, obstetric violence and female autonomy in health. 

As a journalist since 2013 she has written for many publications including Telegraph, Mail, Guardian, Independent, ipaper and Mother&Baby, and has appeared on BBC Breakfast news, BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 2, BBC 5 Live, talkradio, LBC and many leading podcasts. She writes on substack about women’s health, feminism, and issues around sex and gender including the erasure of women from language. Milli lives in Somerset with her partner, three children and two dogs.

Website: www.millihill.co.uk 

Amazon page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Milli-Hill/author/B00RITKBBE  

Socials: 

https://millihill.substack.com
 
https://www.instagram.com/milli.hill  


Time stamped overview:

00:00 Motherhood Journey Sparks Mummy Blog
06:06 Substack Subscription Earnings Explained
07:23 Monetizing Substack: A Transformative Journey
10:44 Struggles with Book Writing Transparency
15:25 Niche Substack: Turn Passion into Profit
18:03 Book Promotion via Substack
20:31 Start Substack: Simple and Supportive
22:53 Substack Profits from Social Chats
28:12 Juggling Book Releases and Projects


Keywords: 

Substack, freelance journalism, book writing, mummy blogging, positive birth movement, book publishing deal, Ultra Processed Women, feminist writing, writing tips, online writing groups, monetizing book content, crowdfunding, Mailchimp, Medium, Patreon, financial security for writers, substack for writers, milli hill, book podcast, substack podcast, harper collins book deal, monetizing for writers, loyal subscriber base, book promotion, start substack

Today, we dive deep into Amazon ads with Michal Stawicki. Once a burnt-out IT specialist, Michal transformed his life by publishing 19 books, selling around 100,000 copies, and creating numerous good habits. He also started a book advertising business and achieved the dream of quitting his day job.  

Amazon ads have been a game-changer in his success story. From beginning as an author during the Kindle "gold rush" era to offering ad services to other authors, Michal emphasizes the evolving landscape of book marketing.   

He goes into detail about Amazon's pay-per-click advertising model, the importance of having a compelling book page, and offers actionable hacks for authors to increase their book's visibility and sales. We also discuss common mistakes authors make, and why understanding both your book and the Amazon algorithm is crucial for ad success.  

If you're an author looking to navigate the complexities of Amazon ads and boost your book sales, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for a packed session of valuable insights and practical advice from someone who's mastered the art and science of Amazon advertising.  

Fancy being inspired to write your book? Join our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event. It’s on the first Tuesday of each month, from 12-1pm UK time. We also have one more place left on our writing retreat in Spain from 26 April to 3 May.    

You can check out all our events here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.   

Key Takeaways  

Understanding the Basics of Amazon Ads: Michal explains that Amazon ads are a pay-per-click advertising system that can drive significant traffic to your book page. Although simple in concept, they require a nuanced approach to master.   

 Importance of a Compelling Book Page: Your book cover, title, description, and reviews are pivotal in converting visitors into buyers. Ensure your headline is short and impactful, utilize editorial reviews, and gather as many organic reviews as possible.   

Testing Your Luck with Automatic Ads: Michal shares that setting up an automatic ad can be a litmus test for your book’s compatibility with Amazon’s algorithm. High click-through rates could indicate that your book has the potential to perform well.   

Bio   Nicknamed Mr. Consistency by his friends, Michal Stawicki started as a 33 year old burned out IT specialist. In the last decade, he published 19 books, sold about 100,000 copies of them, created dozens of new good habits, started a book advertising business, and quit his day job as a database administrator.   Website: https://resurrectingbooks.com   Find out more about Michal’s books at https://www.amazon.com/stores/Michal-Stawicki/author/B00D0MNDJU.   

Socials:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/stawicki-michal   https://twitter.com/StawickiMichal https://www.facebook.com/michal.sta.9  

Time stamped overview:   00:00 Kindle Publishing Evolution 03:45 Amazon PPC Book Advertising 06:58 Cost of Amazon Service Mastery 12:29 Monetizing Fiction vs. Nonfiction Readers 14:12 Books: Start With The End in Mind 18:50 YouTube Amazon Book Ad Guide 23:18 Boost Book Sales with Editorial Reviews 26:56 Optimizing Book Page for Sales 28:33 Impact of Review Quantity on Sales  

Keywords:    Amazon ads, Amazon book ads, pay per click advertising, book publishing, book advertising, Kindle publishing, Amazon algorithm, book cover design, book metadata, Amazon reviews, book description, editorial reviews, nonfiction books, fiction books, self-publishing, Amazon advertising strategy, book sales, click-through rate, conversion rate, advertising budget, book marketing, keyword optimization, book promotion, book page optimization, advertising ROI, advertising strategy, book royalties, book marketing mistakes, amazon advertising costs, boost book sales, business book bites podcast

In today's episode Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive into a topic that is crucial for every nonfiction author: standing out in a crowded marketplace while staying relevant to today's readers.   
They explore how emerging trends can shape nonfiction publishing and how authors can leverage these trends to better connect with their audience. Inspired by a recent conversation in a women's WhatsApp group on menopause and sleep, they illustrate the importance of understanding trends to inspire ideas, boost visibility, and position expertise.   

So what are the current trends? Karen is seeing more people writing about topics like AI, sustainability, personal development, neurodivergence and more. So grab a coffee, sit back, and get ready to uncover the secrets of leveraging trends in nonfiction publishing.  

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*** NEW AI BOOK MENTORS ***

Want access to a Book Mentor anytime, anywhere? Check out our new AI Book Mentors, powered by AI and developed using my expertise! Each aims to solve one of your most burning questions about the book planning, writing, publishing or marketing process. And each available immediately for the price of a coffee. Check out http://librotas.com/aibookmentor.    Or, if you’d like personal help and support, then please get in touch via [email protected].   

Key insights  

Aligning Passion with Trends: Balancing your passion and expertise with what's trending is crucial for success. Research trends early, but remain adaptable to deepen your themes if trends shift.  

Leverage Multimedia Research: Utilize tools like ChatGPT, Answer the Public, and Amazon categories to compare your book ideas, ensuring you tap into current hot topics that resonate with readers.  

Validation and Reader-Centric Focus: Validate your ideas with diverse sources, including primary research and client interactions, ensuring your book speaks directly to the needs and language of your intended audience.  

Bio – Karen Williams   Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well.    With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker.  

Website: https://librotas.com   

Socials:    https://www.facebook.com/librotas https://twitter.com/librotas https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/  https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas  https://www.youtube.com/@librotas   

Bio – Sheryl Andrews   Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage Your Critic, was published in 2016 and she is currently writing her second.  

Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com   

Time-stamped overview:   00:00 Defining Your Unique Angle 05:13 Finding Your Unique Angle 07:09 Balancing Personal Insight with Audience Needs 10:38 Della Judd: Post-Pandemic Career Insights 15:21 "Share Your Story, Raise Awareness" 16:37 Personalize Trends: Stand Out, Align 19:54 "Confidence Through Diverse Feedback" 24:08 Evaluating Research Bias in Results 28:06 Book Writing & Networking Insights  

Keywords:    nonfiction author, book marketplace, trends shape nonfiction publishing, leverage trends, inspiring book ideas, book boosting visibility, finding your sweet spot, unexpected benefits of writing, book-related trends, book angle, your book is the hook, book research, smart author system, Amazon categories, booktok, LinkedIn, answer the public, chat GPT, ai for writing, menopause and sleep, writing a business book, book trends, book research, book trends 2025