In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis hands over the reins to Damon Courtney and special guest Kevin J. Anderson, a bestselling author and indie publisher. They discuss Kevin's journey through traditional and self-publishing, the establishment of WordFire Press, and the importance of building a direct relationship with readers. Kevin shares insights on the power of crowdfunding through Kickstarter, his successful campaigns, and the value of short fiction in engaging audiences. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of publishing and the strategies authors can use to thrive in it. In this conversation, Kevin J. Anderson reflects on his writing journey, sharing insights into his early works and the evolution of his career. He discusses the power of Kickstarter as a platform for authors, emphasizing the importance of understanding audience engagement and the lessons learned from his successful campaigns. Anderson also delves into the revival of his Terran Cognita trilogy, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of bringing his vision to life through crowdfunding. The conversation concludes with a focus on crafting the perfect edition of his work, showcasing the creative control that comes with independent publishing.

[More about Kevin J Anderson]
Wordfire Press: https://wordfirepress.com/
Kickstarter Creator Page: https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/t...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...

— — — — —

Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel

Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group: / 14n8xw8jpc 

Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, host Jack Shilkaitis and co-hosts Emma Alisyn and Kelli Tanzi welcome guests Jason and Leah Bond. The conversation covers various aspects of the writing and self-publishing journey, including creative processes, tips for engaging with readers, and the unique approach of in-person direct sales at events. The Bonds share their experiences and insights on how to effectively market books and connect with audiences, emphasizing the importance of conversation over pressure in sales. In this conversation, the speakers discuss strategies for authors to effectively market their books at conventions. They emphasize the importance of creating an inviting display, planning for events, overcoming imposter syndrome, setting sales goals, and building rapport with attendees. The insights shared are based on personal experiences and aim to help authors navigate the challenges of selling their work in person. In this segment, the conversation delves into the art of converting cold traffic into warm connections at conventions, emphasizing the importance of rapport and personal interaction in sales. The speakers share insights on crafting effective elevator pitches, the power of consent in conversations, and the significance of tailoring messages to different audiences. They also discuss the emotional connection readers seek in stories and how authors can overcome objections to in-person sales by adopting a growth mindset. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the intricacies of building a writing routine, the importance of kindness towards oneself in the writing process, and the dynamics of networking at conventions. They delve into the startup costs for authors, strategies for capturing audience engagement, and the significance of authenticity in character development, particularly in military sci-fi. The discussion emphasizes the need for authors to connect with their audience and the value of maintaining a healthy balance between work and relaxation. In this conversation, the participants discuss the significance of panels at conventions, the journey of martial arts, and the intersection of writing and combat. They explore themes of confidence, exposure, and realism in fight scenes, emphasizing the importance of training and strategy in both martial arts and writing. The discussion also touches on the challenges of portraying female warriors realistically in fiction and the value of connecting with audiences through panels and conventions.
 
 [More about Jason Bond]
 
 Website
 https://www.jason-bond.com/
 
 Amazon Author Page
 https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jason-Andrew-Bond/author/B005IYCGIC
 
 Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
 https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
 Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!

Jack, Kelli, and Emma spend time with friend of the pod, Katie Cross! This wide ranging conversation dives into the business of direct sales, building a community of readers, crowdfunding, and Katie's writing process.

 [Katie Cross's Bookstore] https://katiecrossbooks.com/
 
 Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
 https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
 Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!
 
 [Chapters]
 00:00 Introduction to Direct Sales for Authors
 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guest
 01:27 Katie Cross's Background and Journey
 02:15 Accountability and Creative Projects
 10:22 Tips from the Trenches: Self-Publishing Advice
 22:47 Deep Dive into Direct Sales
 34:15 Affiliate Program Challenges
 34:51 Engaging with Readers: Coffee with Katie
 35:55 Incentive Programs and Direct Sales
 37:35 The Pressure of Direct Sales
 41:46 Tracking Reader Behavior
 43:45 Strategies for Direct Sales
 54:33 Self-Narration Journey
 01:05:05 Pricing and Sales Strategies
 01:10:44 Launching Books 11 and 12: Ad Strategies and Long-Term Goals
 01:12:28 Kickstarter Adventures: Diversifying Income Streams
 01:15:50 The Network Series: Special Editions and Future Plans
 01:18:02 Balancing Multiple Revenue Streams: KU, Direct Sales, and Kickstarter
 01:24:07 The Writing Journey: From Nursing to Full-Time Author
 01:28:57 The Katie Cross Method: Writing, Outlining, and Productivity
 01:43:34 Upcoming Releases and Future Plans
 01:44:55 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Book Funnel podcast, hosts Jack Shilkaitis, Kelli Tanzi, and Emma Alisyn welcome guest Kay Wagner, an award-winning author. The conversation covers various aspects of writing, including current projects, character development, and the importance of improvisation in enhancing creativity. The hosts share their personal writing experiences and strategies, emphasizing the balance between writing to market and allowing creative freedom. Kay discusses her new series and the benefits of taking improv classes to loosen up creativity. The episode is filled with practical tips for writers and insights into the writing process. In this conversation, Kae Wagner and Jack Shilkaitis explore various themes related to authorship, including the benefits of improv for writers, strategies for monetizing writing beyond book sales, and the transition from nonfiction to fiction. They discuss the importance of understanding books as assets, creating community around fiction themes, and navigating vulnerability as an author. The conversation also touches on the significance of building a personal brand as an author and the need for connection with readers. In this conversation, Kae Wagner discusses the importance of crafting stories with a cinematic approach, the significance of visibility assessments for authors, and strategies for engaging with readers, especially for introverts. The discussion also covers guerrilla marketing tactics and the mindset shift required for authors to promote their work effectively. Kae emphasizes the value of personal connections and the need for authors to be bold promoters of their books. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of writing, including the importance of setting goals, utilizing tools like AutoCrit for story analysis, and the formula for mastery in writing. They delve into the Frankie Girl series, exploring character development, family dynamics, and the writing process. The conversation also touches on innovative marketing strategies for authors and the significance of community in the writing journey.

More about our guest, Kae Wagner: 
 [Bold Authors Network] https://kaewagner.simplero.com/page/592727-bold-authors-network
 [The Frankie Girl Series] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTFRVFC7?binding=paperback&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tpbk&qid=1738960429&sr=8-1
 
 [From Emma's Tip]
 Scribe Shadow: https://app.askpoeai.com/
 
 [From Kelli's Tip]
 4 the Words: https://4thewords.com/
 
 Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
 https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
 Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!
 
 [Chapters]
 00:00 Introduction
 00:26 Meet the Hosts and Guest Author
 02:14 Current Writing Projects and Updates
 08:24 Tips from the Trenches: Writing and Self-Publishing
 26:19 Monetizing Your Writing Beyond Books
 53:00 Damon the Swifty and Author Visibility
 54:00 The Power of Personal Engagement
 56:14 Visibility Assessment Explained
 58:55 Guerrilla Marketing for Authors
 01:12:10 The Three V's of Bold Promotion
 01:19:17 The Story Behind Frankie Girl
 01:32:59 Marketing Strategies and Final Thoughts
 01:37:27 Writing Challenges and Strategies
 01:37:50 Introducing the Podcast and Guest
 01:38:26 Host and Guest Introductions
 01:39:46 Current Writing Projects
 01:45:48 Tips from the Trenches
 02:03:43 Monetizing Your Writing Beyond Books
 53:20 Pushing Authors to Increase Visibility
 56:14 Creating a Visibility Assessment
 58:58 Guerrilla Marketing for Introverted Authors
 01:01:19 Engaging with Readers Personally
 01:12:10 The Three V's of Bold Authors Network
 01:19:17 The Story Behind Frankie Girl Series
 01:29:57 Innovative Marketing Strategies
 01:34:57 Final Thoughts and Community Invitation
 
 

Jack, Emma, and Kelli talk with Bekah Brinkmeier about writing, ghostwriting, getting beta readers and good feedback, and her process for writing. The team ends up adopting one of her key habits to write more. They wrap up with a discussion on AutoCrit and how it empowers authors.

Learn more about AutoCrit and their tools to help you plan, write, and edit your work.
https://www.autocrit.com/
 
Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!
 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:40 Meet the Hosts and Guest
01:20 AuthorNation and Networking
03:00 New BookFunnel Features
05:16 Writing Updates from the Hosts
07:41 Tips from the Trenches
08:15 Beware of Vanity Publishers
11:45 Discovering Your Writing Routine
17:03 Micro Rituals for Writers
22:25 Introduction to Autocrit
35:44 Balancing Beta Reader Questions
36:28 Key Questions for Beta Readers
37:59 Importance of Reader Feedback
38:29 Marketing Insights from Beta Readers
42:41 Autocrit Tools for Authors
57:11 Using Dictation for Writing
01:11:01 Character Name Cleanup Tips
01:11:32 iPhone Vocabulary Insertion
01:12:26 Micro Rituals for Writers
01:13:33 Pomodoro Technique Explained
01:15:08 Passion Projects and Creativity
01:16:46 Balancing Client Work and Personal Projects
01:19:31 Ghostwriting Origin Story
01:24:51 Challenges and Rewards of Ghostwriting
01:31:37 Advice for Aspiring Ghostwriters
01:42:59 Autocrit Features and Offers

Jack, Emma, and Kelli sit down with Adam Stemple of WrittenWell.com to discuss the craft of writing, editing, the author's journey, and industry tips.
 
 Save on WrittenWell.com with discount code: 
 BOOKFUNNELPOD
 
 Get access to WrittenWell's Courses, Genre Guides, and Community for $14.49/mo or $120/year.
 Sign up at https://writtenwell.com/
 
 Adam Stemple:
 [Adam's Books] https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001HCXTO4
 [Adam's Website] https://www.adamstemple.com/
 
 Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
 https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
 Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!
 
 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
 00:45 Meet the Guests: Adam Stempel
 01:27 Writing to Market: A Big Topic
 01:57 Reader Magnet Drama
 03:36 Editing vs. Writing: The Brain Switch
 08:03 Self-Publishing Tips from the Trenches
 13:07 Plotting and Outlining Tips
 17:42 Genre Trends and Writing to Market
 29:35 Advice for Slow Writers
 36:27 Balancing Art and Business in Writing
 51:30 Embracing Genre Constraints
 52:08 Editing and Identifying Tropes
 55:12 Targeted Editing Passes
 55:55 Character Depth and Sensory Details
 59:10 Writing Realistic Fight Scenes
 01:10:42 AI in Writing: Pros and Cons
 01:19:50 Adam's Origin Story
 01:30:23 Writing and Publishing Tips
 01:35:37 Conclusion and Shoutouts

The team sits down with Mal Cooper and gets into the details on successful marketing for self-published authors using Facebook ads. Mal's course on Facebook ads is well-known by the indie author community and she dispenses a lot of great advice with us in this episode.

 More about Malorie Cooper
 Facebook Ads & Marketing: https://storytellerlab.net
 Mal's Books: https://aeon14.com
 
 Sign-up for Upcoming BookFunnel Webinars
 https://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel
 
 Join the Discussion in the BookFunnel Authors Facebook Group
 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14N8Xw8JPc/
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment on this video or at [email protected] and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question!
 
 00:00 Introduction and Personal Theories
 00:28 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest
 01:27 Vegas Adventures and Client Stories
 03:08 Author Interactions and Personality Types
 06:38 Tips from the Trenches: Writing and Marketing
 13:19 Mal Cooper's Writing Journey and Productivity
 19:02 The Importance of Facebook Ads for Authors
 29:22 Investing in Your Book Business
 29:55 Understanding Readthrough and Audience Targeting
 31:48 Reordering Your Series for Better Conversions
 33:06 Box Sets vs. Individual Books in Ads
 35:54 Maximizing Your Book's Potential
 43:47 Common Reasons Facebook Ads Fail
 52:51 Effective Targeting Strategies for Facebook Ads
 59:40 Exploring Target Audiences for Authors
 59:42 Leveraging TV Shows and Video Games
 01:00:25 Ancillary Interests and Niche Targeting
 01:00:53 Challenges with Demographic Targeting
 01:01:57 Effective Ad Strategies for Authors
 01:03:15 Understanding Facebook Ad Mechanics
 01:10:03 Optimizing Ad Spend and Conversion
 01:11:17 The Power of Reader Magnets
 01:18:15 Future Trends in Advertising
 01:22:13 Mal's Journey and Writing Philosophy
 01:28:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The team recaps the first ever Author Nation conference for self-published authors, which took over for the 20Books Vegas conference. 

Check out our library of webinars and sign-up for upcoming live events at BookFunnel.com/videos
 
Questions? We can help! Contact [email protected] by email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question.
 
 00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on AuthorNation
 00:25 Welcome to the Book Funnel Podcast
 00:44 Recapping AuthorNation: First Impressions
 02:01 Meeting the Team in Person
 02:58 Transition from 20Books to AuthorNation
 05:43 Conference Layout and Networking
 07:28 Future Improvements for AuthorNation
 10:39 Industry Day Highlights
 22:35 In-Person Direct Sales and Strategies
 26:17 BookFunnel's Future Plans
 27:22 Exciting Ideas for Authors and Readers
 28:14 The Year of the Reader
 29:31 Fun Times in Vegas
 31:04 Gourmet Dining Experiences
 36:33 Meeting Industry Heroes
 40:33 Kevin Smith's Motivational Talk
 43:14 Story Wars: A Creative Battle
 45:09 Final Thoughts and Tips

In this episode of the BookFunnel Podcast we sit down for a chat with Kate Hall to discuss TikTok for authors. Kate has courses for authors on a variety of topics, including using TikTok as a marketing tool. We get into the nitty gritty here, so make sure you watch the full episode as there are lots of little gems along the way!
 
 This episode was recorded on 11/7/24.
 
 More info about Kate Hall
 (Website & Courses) https://www.alynedigital.com
 (TikTok) http://tiktok.com/@thebooktokgoddess
 (Instagram) http://instagram.com/katehallbiz
 (YouTube Channel) https://www.youtube.com/@KateHallBiz
 (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/katehallpublishing
 
 Check out our library of webinars and sign-up for upcoming live events at BookFunnel.com/videos
 
 Questions? We can help! Leave a comment or contact [email protected] by email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question.
 
 00:00 Introduction to Rejection and Instinctual Fears
 00:25 Welcome to the Book Funnel Podcast
 00:51 Kate Hall's Journey with TikTok
 05:36 Tips from the Trenches: Author Strategies
 17:09 Main Topic: TikTok for Authors
 36:50 Going Viral on TikTok
 37:27 The Power of Emotional Hooks
 38:47 Cross-Platform Strategies
 40:38 Creating Effective TikTok Slideshows
 46:51 Batching Content for Efficiency
 58:42 Writing to Market vs. Writing to Trend
 01:00:55 Universal Fantasy and Its Impact
 01:07:44 Avoiding TikTok's Content Pitfalls
 01:16:16 Navigating Canva's Bulk Create Feature
 01:18:48 Managing Multiple TikTok Accounts
 01:20:14 Device Recommendations for TikTok
 01:25:57 Avoiding TikTok Bans and Misconceptions
 01:34:42 Effective TikTok Marketing Strategies
 01:45:04 Optimizing Your TikTok Algorithm
 01:53:17 Final Thoughts and Course Information

Join Jack, Kelli, and Emma as they discuss how to get more Amazon reviews with Patsy Collins. 

Learn more about Patsy Collins: 
(Website) https://patsycollins.uk 
(Amazon Author Page) https://www.amazon.com/stores/Patsy-Collins/author/B004O08LRQ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1730514596&sr=8-2&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 
(Little Mallow Cosy Mysteries) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR7TVKF8?binding=kindle_edition&ref_=ast_author_bsi
 
Check out our library of webinars and sign-up for upcoming live events at BookFunnel.com/videos
 
Questions? We can help! Contact [email protected] by email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can with an answer to your question.