Learn More About this Episode's Guest

https://www.paulaustinardoin.com/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07CKQ4LX8?ingress=0&visitId=c2b5df87-13b5-4e68-aa5f-07ad57524e41&ref_=aufs_ap_ahdr_dsk_ab&ccs_id=c9a9314b-d543-4fb7-9ac8-1a165123ee19

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, the team welcomes USA Today bestselling author Paul Austin Ardoin. They discuss Ardoin's journey as an indie author, the importance of meeting reader expectations, and the balance between plotting and pantsing in writing. Ardoin shares insights from his book 'Zero to Four Figures,' emphasizing the significance of branding, cover design, and building a reader base. The conversation also touches on the craft of storytelling and the necessity of outlining, while encouraging authors to trust their unique writing processes.

Takeaways

Indie authors can find real-world advice on writing and publishing.
Finishing a novel is a significant milestone for aspiring authors.
Achieving a profit of $1,000 a month is a realistic goal for indie authors.
Mistakes are valuable learning experiences in the writing journey.
Branding and cover design are crucial for attracting readers.
Meeting reader expectations is essential for book success.
Authors should align their genre with their target audience.
Outlining can help structure complex plots, especially for pantsers.
Building a reader base is vital for long-term success.
Writing should be an enjoyable process, not a chore.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
00:44 Introduction to Paul Austin Ardoin
01:44 Paul's Journey as an Author
04:15 From Zero to Four Figures: Achieving Profit
07:49 Learning from Mistakes in Book Marketing
09:53 The Importance of Titles and Branding
13:04 Cover Design and Genre Expectations
15:25 Navigating Genre Mashups
17:53 Understanding Reader Expectations
20:32 The Importance of Writing in Series
22:39 Building a Reader Base Before Marketing
25:18 Effective Strategies for New Authors
30:07 The Importance of Consistent Communication
34:05 Marketing Strategies for Introverted Authors
35:13 Crafting a Compelling Story
40:34 Outlining for Pantsers
54:09 Balancing Plotting and Pantsing
01:01:17 Outro

Learn more about Spoken
https://spoken.press/

Disclaimer
The opinions of the hosts and guest are their own and not necessarily those of BookFunnel.

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes Phil Marshall, founder of Spoken, to discuss the evolution of audiobook production through digital narration. They explore the challenges authors face in creating audiobooks, the innovations in multi-voice narration, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI technology. Phil shares insights on how Spoken is making audiobooks more accessible and customizable for authors, while also addressing the importance of voice actors in the industry. The conversation also touches on community resources for authors and the future of AI in storytelling.

Takeaways

Spoken aims to make audiobooks accessible and vivid.
Multi-voice narration enhances the storytelling experience.
Authors can create custom voices for their characters.
Ethical considerations are crucial in AI narration.
Audio is becoming a primary way to consume stories.
The cost of audiobook production is decreasing.
Authors can update their audiobooks easily post-publication.
Community support is available through Discord.
Voice actors still play a vital role in narration.
The future of AI in storytelling is promising.

Learn More about AuthorScale
https://www.authorscale.com/

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes guests Genesis Davies and Marvin from AuthorScale. They discuss the journey of self-publishing, the power of TikTok for authors, and how AuthorScale can help streamline the marketing process. Genesis shares her personal experience of going viral on TikTok, leading to significant sales growth and the transition to full-time authorship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consistency, experimentation, and leveraging tools like AuthorScale to enhance visibility and engagement in the competitive world of indie publishing.

Takeaways

Genesis started self-publishing in 2011 but found success a year ago using AuthorScale.
TikTok can significantly boost book sales if used consistently and creatively.
The importance of hooks in marketing content cannot be overstated.
Authors should focus on creating content that resonates with their target audience.
Consistency in posting is key to building an audience on social media.
Using tools like AuthorScale can save time and enhance marketing efforts.
Experimentation is crucial; not every post will go viral, but each is a learning opportunity.
Warming up your TikTok account can improve engagement and reach.
Authors should avoid getting too precious about their content; the focus should be on engagement.
Building a habit of posting regularly can lead to long-term success. 

Dakota Krout
https://www.mountaindalepress.store/pages/dakota-krout

Mountaindale Press
https://www.mountaindalepress.store/

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team interviews Dakota Krout, an international bestselling author and publisher known for his work in the LitRPG genre. They discuss Dakota's journey as an author, the rise of LitRPG and GameLit, and the intricacies of crafting stories within these genres. Dakota shares insights on tracking character progression, world-building, and the importance of branding and marketing for indie authors. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of LitRPG storytelling and offers practical advice for authors looking to grow their readership and connect with their audience. In this conversation, Dakota Krout shares insights on building a personal brand as an author, emphasizing the importance of consistency in marketing and audience engagement. He discusses the challenges of the author lifestyle, the significance of collaboration with partners, and effective strategies for newsletter engagement. The conversation also touches on overcoming the feeling of marketing into a black hole and the importance of genuine relationships in the author community. Dakota concludes with resources for aspiring authors and the value of trying new approaches in their writing journey.

Takeaways

Indie authors can find real-world advice on writing and publishing.
Dakota Krout has published 58 books and runs a publishing company.
LitRPG combines elements of gaming with storytelling.
The genre has grown significantly in popularity over the years.
Dakota was one of the early authors in the LitRPG genre.
Tracking character progression is essential in LitRPG writing.
World-building is crucial for creating immersive stories.
Combining different abilities can lead to unique character development.
Branding is important for authors to create recognition.
Marketing strategies should focus on building a recognizable presence. Create your brand and stick with it for the long term.
Engage with your audience through non-sales interactions.
Publishing a book is just the beginning of your author journey.
Collaboration with supportive partners can enhance your success.
Newsletters should focus on connection, not just sales.
Consistency in marketing is key to building recognition.
Delegating tasks can free up time for writing.
Engaging content in newsletters can drive reader interest.
Building genuine relationships is crucial in marketing.
Never hesitate to try new strategies in your writing career.

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, the team and guest Michael Evans discuss essential strategies for indie authors to succeed in storytelling and publishing. Michael shares three key questions that every author should answer to enhance their chances of success, emphasizing the importance of understanding human connection in storytelling. The conversation explores how to capture attention, identify story gaps, and test ideas effectively in the market. Michael encourages authors to find their unique voice and innovate within their genres, while also analyzing market trends to discover unmet reader desires. In this conversation, Michael Evans and his co-hosts explore the evolving landscape of storytelling and publishing. They discuss the importance of creativity, the need for authors to understand their audience, and the value of pre-selling books before they are fully developed. The conversation emphasizes the significance of testing ideas, validating market interest, and the emotional connection readers have with stories. They also touch on innovative marketing strategies, the role of special editions, and the long-term vision for building a sustainable author career.

Takeaways

The three questions for author success focus on awareness, conversion, and retention.
Storytelling is fundamentally about understanding human emotions and connections.
Getting noticed as an author doesn't require being loud; it requires having something valuable to offer.
Identifying story gaps can lead to innovative storytelling opportunities.
Testing story gaps can be done cheaply and quickly to gauge interest.
Your idea's potential is determined by its ceiling; high-potential ideas are worth pursuing.
Authors should focus on their unique storytelling voice and passions.
Market analysis can reveal trends and unmet reader desires.
Engaging with reader communities can provide insights into what stories are needed.
If writing feels like a job, it's essential to find joy in the process.  People pay attention to things worth paying attention to.
Creativity is cheap; it shouldn't cost money.
Special editions need to be truly special to stand out.
You can fill gaps in the market that readers didn't know they wanted.
Embrace creativity and risk in your projects.
Understanding reader emotions is key to selling books.
The early access model allows authors to gauge interest before full development.
Testing and validating story ideas can save time and resources.
Pre-selling books can significantly reduce risk.
Building a long-term career in storytelling requires ongoing experimentation.

"I took a huge risk."

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes Sasha Black, a successful author and entrepreneur. Sasha shares her journey from a corporate job to becoming a full-time writer under the pen name Ruby Rowe, focusing on sapphic fantasy. She discusses her unique writing process, the impact of TikTok on her sales, and her strategy for direct sales through her own website and warehouse. The conversation also touches on the challenges of hiring and building a team in the self-publishing industry, emphasizing the importance of joy and creativity in the writing process. In this engaging conversation, Sacha Black shares her journey into TikTok as an author, discussing the strategies she employed to build her following and promote her books. The discussion delves into the importance of authenticity, understanding one's audience, and the challenges of navigating social media platforms for book sales. Sacha emphasizes the need for resilience in the face of criticism and the value of finding joy in the writing process. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of in-person events and the significance of niche marketing for authors.

Learn More About Sacha Black
https://sachablack.co.uk/

Learn more about Scrivener
https://www.literatureandlatte.com

Summary

In this episode of the BookFunnel podcast, the team welcomes Oliver Evensen, the director of marketing and outreach for Scrivener. They discuss the features and benefits of using Scrivener for writing, the challenges authors face in their writing journeys, and how to effectively utilize the software to enhance productivity and organization. The conversation also touches on the importance of revision modes, the flexibility of the iOS app, and the community resources available for Scrivener users. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of using Scrivener, a powerful writing tool for authors. They discuss the importance of understanding the binder, structuring chapters and scenes, and utilizing features like synopses, labels, and templates to enhance the writing process. The conversation also touches on advanced tools for experienced users, tracking progress with word counts, and the benefits of using keywords and metadata for organization. Additionally, they introduce Scapple, a mind mapping tool, and a new app called Written, designed for a simpler writing experience. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the flexibility and utility of Scrivener and its ecosystem for writers at all levels.

Takeaways

Scrivener is a versatile writing tool for all types of authors.
Organizational features in Scrivener help streamline the writing process.
Authors often face challenges in completing their projects due to perfectionism.
Using Scrivener can enhance the writing experience and productivity.
Revision modes in Scrivener allow for easy tracking of changes.
The iOS app provides flexibility for writing on the go.
Creating a structured project in Scrivener can simplify the writing process.
Snapshots in Scrivener help authors keep track of document changes.
Labels and icons in Scrivener can aid in organizing chapters and scenes.
The community and resources available for Scrivener users are invaluable. Understanding the binder is crucial for effective use of Scrivener.
Building a simple structure can enhance the writing process.
Utilizing synopses and notes can aid in organization.
Starting with basic features prevents overwhelm.
Visualizing character arcs with labels can clarify story structure.
Tracking writing progress with word counts is motivating.
Templates can save time and streamline the writing process.
Keywords help in organizing complex projects.
Metadata allows for advanced organization techniques.
Exploring all features of Scrivener can enhance the writing experience.

Learn more about Becca Syme
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beccasyme/dear-writer-you-still-need-to-quit

Summary

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes back Becca Syme, an author coach and expert in helping indie authors navigate their careers. The conversation covers a range of topics including creative marketing strategies for Kickstarter campaigns, the importance of self-awareness in marketing, and the challenges of negative biases. Becca emphasizes the need for authors to accept the changing nature of their journeys and to understand the different phases of their business. The episode concludes with insights on the unpredictability of the publishing industry and the importance of perseverance. In this conversation, they discuss the importance of hope and perseverance in the writing journey, the evolving landscape of publishing, and the significance of personal connections with readers. They explore the impact of market saturation on authors and emphasize the need for adaptability in the face of change. The discussion also highlights the importance of finding significance in small interactions and understanding the growth phases in an author's career.

In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, the team welcomes back Kate Hall, a successful author and marketing expert. They discuss the evolving landscape of social media, particularly TikTok, and how authors can adapt their marketing strategies to thrive. Kate shares her personal journey from struggling to successful author, emphasizing the importance of engaging content and the need to pivot in response to platform changes. The conversation also covers practical tips for creating compelling videos, the decline of hashtags, and the significance of visual hooks in content creation. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of book marketing, particularly through platforms like TikTok. They discuss the importance of creating tension and drama in storytelling, the need for relatable elements in high fantasy, and the authenticity required in content creation. The conversation also covers effective management of a TikTok shop, leveraging live streaming for engagement, and practical tips for authors looking to start their journey on TikTok. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape of book promotion and the strategies authors can employ to connect with their audience.

Takeaways

Authors need to adapt to changing social media landscapes.
TikTok's restrictions are impacting how authors market their books.
Visual hooks are essential for engaging content.
Hashtags are becoming less effective; focus on keywords instead.
Creating face content can be more effective than slideshows.
Authors should diversify their content across multiple platforms.
Engaging content should hook viewers in the first three seconds.
Quality video and lighting are crucial for TikTok success.
Authors can use personal stories to connect with their audience.
Consistency and experimentation are key to finding what works. Book marketing on TikTok requires engaging hooks.
Tension in storytelling is crucial for selling books.
Relatable elements help readers connect with high fantasy.
Authenticity in content creation resonates with audiences.
TikTok Shop can significantly boost book sales.
Bundles of books can attract more buyers.
Live streaming can enhance engagement and sales.
Pre-signing books can streamline TikTok Shop management.
Editing videos for TikTok is essential for visibility.
Consistency in posting leads to increased audience engagement.

Summary
In this episode of the Book Funnel Podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis and co-hosts Emma Alisyn and Kelli Tanzi welcome Joe Solari, Managing Director of Author Nation. They discuss the evolving landscape of self-publishing, the importance of community and connection among authors, and innovative strategies for engaging readers. The conversation highlights practical self-publishing tips, the significance of authenticity in author-reader relationships, and the future of author events, including digital signing opportunities. Joe shares insights on how Author Nation aims to create meaningful experiences for authors and readers alike, emphasizing collaboration and creativity in the industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of in-person author events, the evolution of marketing strategies in publishing, and the emergence of new models for content creation. They emphasize the need for community support among authors and explore innovative approaches to engaging with readers. The discussion also touches on the future of publishing, including the role of technology and the potential for new revenue streams through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon.