In this episode, host and Smith Publicity Vice President Corinne Moulder chats with Sally Ekus, a senior literary agent at JVNLA, about the evolution and specialization of the culinary publishing market.

Sally shares her journey growing up in the world of cookbook publishing, her expertise in representing culinary authors, and the shifts in the industry toward niche, hyper-targeted cookbooks.

They also discuss the importance of leveraging backlists for ongoing success, the impact of platforms like Substack on the publishing industry, and the future trends in culinary and nonfiction publishing. The episode provides valuable insights for authors, publicists, and anyone interested in the culinary literary space.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:14 Sally Ekus' Background and Career Journey
01:57 The Evolution of Culinary Publishing
04:37 The Shift Towards Niche and Specialized Cookbooks
07:18 Successful Examples of Hyper-Targeted Cookbooks
13:14 The Importance of Backlist Promotion
23:16 Sally Ekus' Role and Future Plans
28:18 The Impact of Substack and Newsletter Platforms
33:06 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

Sally Ekus is a Senior Literary Agent at JVNLA where she spearheads The Ekus Group, a boutique culinary division representing a wide range of culinary, health, wellness, and lifestyle talent. On the non-culinary side, Sally represents books about caregiving and parenting, and is expanding into select other non-fiction genres. From concept to contract, she has brokered over 300 book deals with top publishers including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Hachette, Simon & Schuster, and numerous indie publishers. Sally hosts an online community called How to be a Cookbook Author and writes the bestselling Substack Newsletter, Not So Secret Agent.

For more information about book publicity, visit Smith Publicity.

In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' host Smith Publicity's Corinne Moulder talks with Lee Wind, Chief Content Officer for the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA). 

Lee discusses his award-winning program 'We Are Stronger Than Censorship,' which counteracts book challenges by donating books to promote freedom to read. He shares insights on creating impactful book marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of allyship and his experiences as an author focusing on queer history and social justice.

Lee also introduces his upcoming picture book, Like That, Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally. For more information, visit wearestrongerthancensorship.org and leewind.org.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:19 Lee Wind's Background and Achievements
01:52 We Are Stronger Than Censorship: The Motivation
03:22 Challenges and Strategies in Book Banning
05:32 Program Partnerships and Community Involvement
07:23 Impact and Future Goals of the Program
20:38 The Importance of Allyship
21:51 Lee Wind's New Book: Like That, Eleanor
29:02 Book Marketing Tips and Strategies
38:43 Conclusion and Call to Action


For more information visit Smith Publicity, connect with Corinne Moulder and Lee Wind.

Building Influence and Community: The Future (and Power) of Author Newsletters 

In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' the host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity's Vice President of Business Development, interviews Kathleen Schmidt, founder of Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations.

They discuss Kathleen's extensive experience in book publishing as a publicist, literary agent, acquisitions editor, and ghostwriter. Kathleen shares the inspiration behind her popular newsletter 'Publishing Confidential,'  on Substack.

 She offers advice on creating engaging content, building a newsletter audience, and the evolving role of digital platforms in the publishing industry. Kathleen also touches on future plans, including branded events and a potential podcast.

The conversation provides valuable insights for authors, experts, and publicists looking to navigate the ever-changing landscape of book publicity.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Hype
01:35 Kathleen's Journey to Publishing Confidential
03:32 Growing a Newsletter Audience
07:24 Balancing Personal and Professional Content
10:20 The Role of Newsletters in Modern Publishing
15:40 Tips for Publicists and Newsletter Writers
24:31 Starting and Sustaining a Newsletter
34:13 Future Plans and Conclusion

For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and Advice

In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity's Vice President of Business Development, welcomes back Emmy award-winning television producer, bestselling author, and media training expert Paula Rizzo.

Paula shares her journey from TV production to becoming a media trainer, emphasizing the importance of preparation, content creation, and confidence for authors and experts. She discusses common misconceptions about media training, the value of storytelling, the essentials of video creation, and effective strategies to handle interviews.

Listeners will gain insights on becoming media-ready, leveraging their book as an extension of their brand, and preparing for media appearances. Paula also introduces her course, 'Media Ready Author,' aimed at helping authors successfully navigate the media landscape.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:22 Paula Rizzo's Background and Journey
02:18 The Importance of Media Training
04:53 Becoming Your Own Producer
07:08 Creating and Leveraging Content
11:35 Tips for Effective Video Content
16:05 Preparing for Media Appearances
17:29 Television Interview Preparation
18:18 The Power of Storytelling in Podcasts
20:39 Essential Equipment for Podcasts
23:16 Handling Controversial Questions
28:32 Long-Term Media Strategy for Authors
31:09 Media Ready Author Course Overview

For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

In this episode of the All Things Book Marketing podcast, Sandy Smith from Smith Publicity converses with collegues and industry powerhouses Janet Shapiro, Vice President of Publicity, and Senior Publicist, Sophia Moriarty.

They delve into innovative strategies for gaining attention in the book promotion world, emphasizing the crucial role of authors in collaboration with their publicists.

Key topics include the shift towards direct media connections with experts, the importance of maintaining active engagement on platforms like LinkedIn, the evolving landscape of publicity, and the power of niche media for book sales and personal branding.

The discussion highlights the value of patience and consistent effort in building long-term media relationships and leveraging social media for effective book marketing.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:13 New Strategies in Publicity
02:04 Collaborative Approach with Authors
03:08 Direct Media Connections
06:07 Effective Use of LinkedIn
09:36 Building Long-Term Media Relationships
17:16 Social Media Strategies for Authors
23:51 Establishing Client Relationships
24:07 Success Stories and Client Wins
25:00 The Importance of Persistence
26:23 Leveraging Niche Publications
30:02 Networking and Podcasting
31:26 Exploring Newsletters and Substack
34:24 The Value of Social Media Engagement
35:46 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this segment of Smith Publicity's 'All Things Book Marketing,' CEO Sandy Smith invites Garrett Perkins, CRO of Givington’s, to discuss effective strategies for authors to maximize their book marketing efforts.

 With over 10 years of experience in the publishing and e-commerce industries, Garrett shares insights on leveraging books to build credibility, generate bulk book sales, and increase speaking fees.

He explains the importance of partnering with certified retailers like Givington’s to ensure book sales are tracked properly for royalties and future publishing opportunities. Additionally, Garrett emphasizes the significance of starting marketing efforts early, building a direct-to-consumer content engine, and creating ancillary products like workbooks and animated book trailers.

Authors are encouraged to think beyond the book and utilize various digital tools to engage their audience and enhance their brand.

00:00 Introduction to Smith Publicity
00:18 Meet Garrett Perkins: CRO of Givington’s
02:42 The Importance of Speaking Engagements for Authors
04:02 Creative Retail Sales Strategies
10:19 Certified Retail Sales and Their Importance
13:56 Planning Your Book Marketing Early
23:05 Building a Direct-to-Consumer Content Engine
27:56 Innovative Book Marketing Strategies
28:40 Case Study: John Mark Comer's Dual Book Release
29:50 The Power of Animated Book Trailers
31:37 Tailoring Marketing Strategies for Authors
33:41 Building a Comprehensive Book Ecosystem
39:36 Realistic Expectations for Book Sales
42:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of the Smith Publicity All Things Book Marketing Podcast, Sandy Smith, CEO of Smith Publicity interviews Ashley Zink, founder of Higher Ground Consulting, about her expertise in helping authors turn their books into profitable ventures. They delve into the crucial steps for successful book marketing, including early planning, identifying clear goals, capturing reader data, and using lead magnets. Ashley also emphasizes the importance of building an email list, leveraging an author's network, and integrating revenue-generating opportunities like online courses. This comprehensive discussion offers invaluable advice for authors aiming to maximize their book's success and long-term impact. 

For more insights, authors and aspiring writers can explore Ashley Zink’s services on LinkedIn or through Higher Ground Consulting’s website. Listening to the full podcast episode can provide additional nuances and practical tips for taking your book marketing strategy to the next level.

For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

Sandy Poirier Smith on LinkedIn.

In the latest episode of the All Things Book Marketing Podcast, host Marissa Eigenbrood of Smith Publicity leads a discussion with LinkedIn strategist Rachel Robertson. The conversation focuses on the evolution of LinkedIn strategies, especially for nonfiction authors. Rachel shares her journey into LinkedIn consultancy, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and storytelling. The duo explores tips for optimizing LinkedIn profiles, generating engaging content, and staying consistent. They also touch on trends and updates expected, highlighting the increasing role of video, the importance of dwell time, and the challenges posed by AI-generated content. 

Marissa Eigenbrood, president of Smith Publicity, hosts this episode of All Things Book Marketing Podcast and speaks with Allison Jones, founder of Practical Inspiration Publishing. 

They discuss Allison's publishing journey and her approach to blending traditional and innovative methods in the industry.

The conversation highlights the significance of continuous writing for business authors, the intersection of personal branding with book marketing, and the nuanced use of AI in publishing.

Allison shares insights on creating impactful content and discusses her 10-day business book proposal challenge. They also delve into future trends, especially the evolving role of AI, and emphasize the importance of human touch in creating relatable and authentic author content.



 

In this episode of "Smith Publicity's All Things Book Marketing," host Sandy Smith, CEO of Smith Publicity, welcomes Annie Oswald, the former Vice President of Publishing at Franklin Covey, now a motivational speaker and publishing consultant.

Annie and Sandy discuss insights on the power of international rights and their significance for authors and publishing professionals. Throughout the conversation, Annie discusses:

• the critical role of international rights in expanding an author's reach and credibility,
• the various elements that authors need to consider when exploring foreign rights for their work, including market-specific strategies,
• the importance of reputable foreign rights agents, and the nuances of translation.
• the growing demand for English-language books in India, the rising interest in Spanish-language books in the U.S., and the powerful impact of audio books.

She emphasizes the importance of thorough research, building a strong social media presence, and the potential opportunities that foreign rights can unlock, such as speaking engagements and global training programs.

Listeners will gain practical tips on navigating the international book market, safeguarding their rights, and boosting their global presence. Annie’s extensive knowledge and passion for the publishing industry make this episode a must-listen for authors and publishing professionals looking to expand their horizons and achieve greater success.

Tune in to discover how to turn your book into a global phenomenon!


ABOUT OUR GUEST: Annie Oswald recently retired (May 2024) from FranklinCovey where she served as the Vice President of Publishing. She retired to pursue her passions as a motivational speaker and publishing consultant. Her role at FranklinCovey included everything frombook proposal writing and presenting to major publishing houses, rights management, and sales and marketing. Currently, she is working with Sean Covey on The 7 Habits of Teens Graphic Novel. Annie graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Communication. Annie has accepted numerous invitations as a keynote speaker for various groups around the world. Annie and her husband reside in Lehi, Utah, and are the proud parents of four daughters.

ABOUT SMITH PUBLICITY: Since 1997, Smith Publicity has been a global leader in creative publicity and public relations, helping authors and experts expand their influence and build authority beyond the pages of a book. Their clients include New York Times bestsellers, debut authors, CEOs, speakers, academics, and subject matter experts. Smith Publicity secures media appearances that boost visibility, build credibility, and fuel business and platform growth. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, Smith Publicity’s team continually innovates with clients and their teams to build strategies that amplify their ideas for lasting impact. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, the team speaks at events worldwide like Frankfurt and London Book Fairs, continually innovating to amplify their clients' voices and impact.

Nurturing Creativity and Marketing Mindsets for Authors

In this episode of the All Things Book Marketing Podcast, host Corinne Moulder, Vice President of Smith Publicity, discusses book marketing strategies and author coaching with expert Jennifer Graybeal, a Certified Creativity Coach. Jennifer shares insights from her 10 years of experience in coaching, workshops, and editing, having helped over a thousand authors.  

The conversation covers: 

• the value of industry conferences such as NINC and AuthorNation,
• exciting new trends in book marketing and social media to build visibility,
• the importance of effective marketing strategies versus tactics, and
• guidance on nurturing creativity, emphasizing self-care, community support, and understanding individual needs.  

About our Guest: Jen Graybeal (she/her) is dedicated to empowering authors through encouraging feedback, collaborative problem solving and gently-applied tough love. In ten years of coaching, workshops, and editing projects, she has helped over a thousand authors create stories they are proud of and businesses that align with their individual vision of success. Jen is a Certified Creativity Coach with a degree in English, an ever-expanding TBR pile, and a furball assistant that is usually on her lap. Visit her website for client testimonials at www.jengraybeal.com or follow her on Instagram, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok: @JenTheEditor.

About Smith Publicity: Since 1997, Smith Publicity has been a global leader in creative publicity and public relations, helping authors and experts expand their influence and build authority beyond the pages of a book. Their clients include New York Times bestsellers, debut authors, CEOs, speakers, academics, and subject matter experts. Smith Publicity secures media appearances that boost visibility, build credibility, and fuel business and platform growth. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, Smith Publicity’s team continually innovates with clients and their teams to build strategies that amplify their ideas for lasting impact. Recognized in PR News’ “Agency Elite Top 100” and as top publicists by Qwoted, the team speaks at events worldwide like Frankfurt and London Book Fairs, continually innovating to amplify their clients' voices and impact. Sign up for their newsletter.

In this episode of All Things Book Marketing, Marissa Eigenbrood, President of Smith Publicity, welcomes Kevin Anderson, CEO of Kevin Anderson & Associates, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of ghostwriting and book publishing.

Kevin shares how his unexpected entry into ghostwriting shaped his career and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration process between ghostwriters and authors. He emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to book writing, where the marketing strategy is considered from the very beginning to maximize impact.

Kevin also delves into the rise of hybrid publishing, offering authors more control over their publishing goals, and highlights how books serve as investments in thought leadership, elevating an author’s credibility beyond book sales.

With advice on choosing the right ghostwriter and navigating the publishing journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights for nonfiction authors, publishing professionals, and anyone looking to understand the dynamics of book writing and marketing. Tune in to learn from Kevin’s experience and expertise in shaping bestselling books and thought leadership brands.

In this episode of All Things Book Marketing, Marissa Eigenbrood, President of Smith Publicity, chats with ghostwriter and business strategist Emily Crookston about how to maximize a book’s impact as a powerful marketing tool.

Emily offers authors insightful strategies to seamlessly integrate their business goals into the book-writing process, starting well before the final manuscript is complete.

With her unique perspective, Emily emphasizes that a book isn’t just a standalone project—it’s a crucial element in building a brand, generating leads, and supporting overall business objectives.Listeners will gain valuable advice on the importance of marketing during the writing phase, not just after publication.

Emily explains how engaging potential readers early through tactics like LinkedIn polls for title feedback can build buzz and ensure that the book resonates with its target audience.

Marissa and Emily also discuss the importance of maintaining post-publication momentum, ensuring long-term return on investment (ROI) for authors who use their books to grow their business and gain credibility. 

From overcoming mindset challenges like procrastination to choosing the right title, and the benefits of collaboration with ghostwriters or marketing professionals, this episode is packed with actionable tips for nonfiction authors and publishing professionals.

Whether you’re preparing to write a book or looking to amplify your book’s reach, this conversation provides essential takeaways to ensure your book works as a lasting asset for your business.

In the latest episode of the Smith Publicity podcast, Sandy Smith, CEO of Smith Publicity, sits down with publishing veteran and expert Debra Englander. Debra's vast experience in working with business and non-fiction authors discusses:

• Navigating working with publishers,
• Importance of building an author brand/platform
• What publishers are looking for in decising which authors to sign on--platform vs good content–what is more impactful
• Setting realistic goals for your book
• Working with a business book publicist
• Leveraging pre-order book sales strategies

Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned nonfiction or business book author, this episode is packed with invaluable tips to help you succeed in today’s competitive market, and make the most of working with a business book publicists. Don’t miss out on Debra’s expertise on how to turn your book into a long-term asset and enhance your author brand.

Olivia McCoy and Karen McNally Upson discussed the benefits of print on demand technology for authors, dispelling stigmas associated with self-publishing. Karen offers essential insights into the  importance of aligning distribution strategies with reader behavior to maximize book sales.


Key Points

• The benefits of print on demand for authors, highlighting how it reduces the need for authors to carry books and prevents excess inventory costs. Traditional publishing houses are increasingly adopting this approach.
• The impact of timing - production delays and distribution challenges in the book industry.
  
  
• The importance of publishers focusing on acquiring and producing great books while leaving distribution to specialized companies like Ingram. The efficiency and global reach of Ingram's print on demand service (Ingramspark) are highlighted.
  
  
• .How different genres have varying reader preferences for book formats, such as ebooks or physical copies, and importance of aligning distribution strategies with reader behavior to maximize book sales.
  
  
• A case study contrasting two publishing pathways: custom publishing under an author's imprint and hybrid publishing. The success stories of two authors with similar topics but different brand evolutions demonstrate the effectiveness of tailored distribution strategies.
  
  
• Setting authors up for success by aligning their distribution strategies with their brand development and readership. The discussion highlights the significance of choosing the right publishing pathway based on individual goals and brand maturity.
  
  Discover more about Smith Publicity at www.smithpublicity.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, & LinkedIn.

Most promotional efforts will center around publication month, but that doesn't mean your job is done when the first of the next month rolls around! Brand expert Deb Gabor joins us to discuss what it takes to grow and manage a successful brand and key things she's done post-publication with her book.

“Leading Expert" doesn't come close to describing Deb Gabor's passion for brands. More accurate? Brand Guru. Brand Impresario. Brand Evangelist. She's written the book on branding (three times!) with bestsellers Branding is Sex, Irrational Loyalty, and Person-ality. She's the founder and CEO of Sol Marketing, a strategy-led marketing firm obsessed with solving major business and branding problems for clients in every industry. Companies throughout the world use Deb’s Brand Values Pyramid, Ideal Customer Archetype, and “Brand Swagger Questions” to align their teams and articulate their brands to audiences.

Deb also lends her brand authority with frequent contributions and commentary to major news outlets such as Entrepreneur, Forbes, FORTUNE, Inc., MediaPost, New York Times, NPR, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. Business and marketing organizations regularly call on Deb as a keynote speaker and workshop leader, relying on her as an inspiration for executives to embrace the power of branding to create Marketing That Sells. Learn more at debgabor.com and solmarketing.com and follow Deb on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.
 
Discover more about Smith Publicity at www.smithpublicity.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, & LinkedIn.

You've gotten through writing, editing, design, production, distribution, and publication. Your book is now published and available and... now what? Written Word Media's Emma Boyer joins us in this episode of All Things Book Marketing to discuss timing, strategy, and recommendations for post-publication promotions. 

 Emma Boyer is the VP of Digital Operations at Written Word Media, a book promotion company that uses specialized and proprietary data-driven marketing techniques to empower authors and publishers to reach their audiences, and has been working in various capacities in the book publishing industry — from PR to marketing to consulting — for over 15 years. She holds an MA from Carnegie Mellon University and is very interested in the potential at the intersection of the tech and publishing worlds and is passionate about helping authors find audiences and audiences find books. Learn more at www.writtenwordmedia.com.


Discover more about Smith Publicity at www.smithpublicity.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, & LinkedIn.

For authors navigating complex publishing pathways, a literary agent serves as a guide and advocate,
cutting through the noise and opening up the doors to new opportunities on your behalf. Not only is
working with a literary agent essential for any kind of traditional deal, but they can also help authors with translating publishing contracts from hybrid and indie houses as well and can curate long-lasting
relationships with editors and publishers alike. But first, before working with an agent, you have to query them. What does that entail? And once you’ve signed on, what are the best practices for creating a positive working relationship? We’re glad you asked!

Donya Dickerson, Literary Agent at Aevitas, and John Willig, Literary Advisor and Content Coach at
Literary Services Inc., joined Host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity’s VP of Business Development, to
discuss how to query and work collaboratively with literary agents.

Literary Agent and author Lucinda Halpern discusses tips for querying and other ways to get connected to and signed by an agent in this episode of All Things Book Marketing! 

Lucinda Halpern is a literary agent and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York. She has worked with all major publishers, including Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, and Scholastic, and currently represents New York Times and internationally best-selling authors in the categories of personal growth, popular science, narrative nonfiction, memoir, and upmarket fiction. Her classes and coaching programs have been taught to hundreds of writers worldwide, and became the inspiration for her new book Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author (Hay House; February 6th, 2024). Learn more at lucindaliterary.com or download Lucinda’s free author training. Follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X @lucindaliterary and @luncindahalpern and learn more about her work at LucindaLiterary.com.

Discover more about Smith Publicity at www.smithpublicity.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, & LinkedIn.

Audio content is in with readers and that means that audiobooks are now expected from authors, not just recommended. David Wolf, Founder and CEO of Audivita, answers some commonly asked questions including the who, what, when, where, and why of audiobooks in this episode of Smith Publicity's All Things Book Marketing. 

David Wolf spent years serving as a music composer and producer of audio content for radio, TV, film, podcasts, audiobooks and multimedia. His previous company, Crywolf Productions, Inc. (1985-1999) and its recording studios provided music, sound design and production services for advertising and also studios such as Amblin, Discovery Channel, NBC Universal and Disney and for many well-known brands such as Southwest Airlines, Miller Brewing, Embassy Suites, Procter & Gamble, Texas Instruments, Brock Hotel Corporation and many more. 

David founded Audivita Studios in 2016 to apply his experience and the talents, skills  and expertise of his creative team to help companies, publishers, entrepreneurs, influencers and thought leaders grow their brands and businesses with podcasts and audiobooks. 

In 2024, Wolf is on a course to expand the core production business into related industry verticals with the creation of Media Capital Ventures, leveraging his experience in business building and operating experience in production and media. Concurrently, he co-founded 1125 Studios with Christian Bruun to develop and produce original series podcasts, film and television series. MCV has recently added Stock Day Media to its portfolio of companies to leverage the production team at Audivita Studios specifically for the OTC markets. Learn more at audivita.com and follow them on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn @audivitastudios.

Discover more about Smith Publicity at www.smithpublicity.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, & LinkedIn.