Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks

Episode 089

Released on: July 1, 2025

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, we’re joined once again by romantasy comedy author Elaine Canyon, this time to talk all things audiobooks on a budget. Elaine shares her journey into narrating her own work and offers practical, low-cost strategies for authors who want to create professional-sounding audiobooks without breaking the bank. From essential gear and DIY soundproofing to software options and voice performance tips, we covereverything you need to know to get started. If you've ever thought about producing your own audiobook but didn’t kno...

Episode 088

Released on: June 15, 2025

In this episode, we dive into Networking for Authors by Dale L. Roberts, a practical and insightful guide for writers looking to expand their reach and build meaningful connections in the industry. Join us as we explore how this book reshaped our approach to networking, branding, and community-building as authors. From real-life applications to personal takeaways, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable ideas.

For this book we each came up with a motto we pulled from the reading!

Ben: “Don’t...

Episode 087

Released on: May 15, 2025

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass, where we explore how this powerful book challenges writers to go beyond the surface and create stories that truly resonate. We dive into the emotional heart of storytelling, unpack key takeaways, and reflect on how Maass’s insights can transform our writing lives. Whether you're drafting, revising, or seeking deeper connection in your prose, this conversation offers inspiration and tools to elevate your craft.

📘WHERE TO FIND THE BOOK ONLINE: https...

Episode 086

Released on: April 15, 2025

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, we dive into the world of budget-friendly publishing with romantasy comedy author Elaine Canyon. Elaine shares practical, down-to-earth strategies for producing high-quality books without breaking the bank, covering everything from editing and formatting to cover design and marketing. We also explore a range of tools authors can use throughout the publishing process, along with Elaine’s unique advice on when and how to pay for these services strategically—so you can stretch your dollars while still getting maximum value. If you’v...

Episode 085

Released on: March 15, 2025

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, we sit down with bestselling poet and marketing expert Shelby Leigh to explore the essential strategies authors need to thrive on social media. Shelby shares her journey from anonymously posting poetry online to building a successful brand that helps creatives market their work with confidence. We dive into mindset shifts around self-promotion, practical ways to streamline content creation, and how social media platforms—especially TikTok—can drive book sales. She also opens up about the unexpected challenges and benefits of both...

Episode 084

Released on: March 1, 2025

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, we sit down with multi-genre author Nicole Pierman, who also writes under the pen name Nicole Brona, to explore the intricacies of managing multiple pen names in self-publishing. Nicole shares her eye-opening experience of choosing the wrong pen name just days before publishing and the valuable lessons she learned about branding, marketing psychology, and navigating Amazon’s algorithms. We also dive into the challenges and rewards of writing in niche genres like Irish mythology, as well as the unique hurdles of...

Episode 083

Released on: February 15, 2025

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join us for an insightful conversation with Evan Gow, founder of StoryOrigin, as he shares the driving force behind his all-in-one platform designed for authors. From solving the problem of fragmented author tools to introducing innovative features like audiobook review distribution and beta copy management, Evan dives deep into the unique ways StoryOrigin is helping authors streamline their marketing and publishing efforts, like building an effective email list with enticing reader magnets. We also dive into actionable strategies for crafting e...

Episode 082

Released on: February 1, 2025

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with epic fantasy author H.L. Bernabe as she reveals her transformative journey from script writing to crafting expansive fantasy epics amid personal challenges. In this candid episode, Holly shares how channeling her experiences into writing became a powerful, cathartic release, and she offers practical insights—from embracing extended timelines for launch plans to leveraging essential software tools in self-publishing. Discover her unique perspective on the importance of attitude in marketing and how industry summits helped shape her path. Tune in for inspiration, rea...

Episode 081

Released on: January 15, 2025

Welcome to Season 6 of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast! In our season premiere, we introduce our new co-host, Jamie, author of the gripping Lisa Cooper vampire series and a dark and urban fantasy writer under the pen name J.M. Celi. Jamie shares his unexpected journey into self-publishing, revealing how a now-ending platform, Kindle Vella, sparked his success and how a classic TV series influenced his writing style. We also share our writing goals for 2025, discuss platforms we’re excited to explore, and reveal our wild card ambitions for the...

Episode 080

Released on: December 15, 2024

Join us for a bittersweet but celebratory episode as we reflect on five incredible seasons of Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks! In this special farewell episode, we explore the highs and lows of our self-publishing journeys, sharing hard-won lessons about time management, overcoming obstacles, and the crucial importance of self-care. We delve into our biggest accomplishments, biggest struggles, and offer invaluable advice for fellow authors. Discover what we'll take away from this amazing experience and hear what the future holds for each of us. Plus, join us in saying a heartfelt g...

Episode 079

Released on: November 15, 2024

Join Shanon, Rita, and Devon as they delve into “Get Your Book Selling on Kickstarter” by Russell P. Nohelty and Monica Leonelle. Discover how Kickstarter can transform your author career, even if you’ve never considered crowdfunding. This episode explores the book’s key takeaways, including identifying the most beneficial Kickstarter scenarios, leveraging exclusivity, and mastering campaign design, budgeting, and marketing. The authors also discuss the power of psychological triggers in driving sales and address their own biggest questions and concerns about the platform. Whether you’re a Kickstarter novice or a...

Episode 078

Released on: October 15, 2024

In this episode, four authors dive into Shawn Coyne's book, The Story Grid, a comprehensive editing tool that breaks down the structure of a story to reveal what works and what doesn't. We explore the key analytical tools Coyne introduces, including the Story Grid Spreadsheet and the Five Commandments of Storytelling, and discuss how the book reshapes our approach to editing. We also talk about why understanding genre expectations is essential and agree that this book is especially helpful for writers tackling revisions after completing their first draft.

Episode 077

Released on: September 15, 2024

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join us as we dive into the dark and thrilling world of Jay Darkmoore, a UK bestselling author of horror, crime, and dark fantasy dystopian fiction. In this gripping episode, Jay reveals how his background in crime and investigation lends authenticity to his macabre storytelling, from capturing the unique smell of death to crafting realistic scenarios. Discover the intriguing backstory of his journey into self-publishing, sparked by a creative act of revenge at a dinner party. Jay shares his...

Episode 076

Released on: September 1, 2024

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join Shanon, Ben, and several guests as we explore the innovative world of Ream, a subscription platform that's reshaping how fiction authors connect with and monetize their readership. We dive into our personal strategies for leveraging Ream's unique features, from offering exclusive content to gamifying the reader experience. Learn how to set up your Ream presence for success, bypass traditional retail barriers, and build direct relationships with your most devoted fans. We also explore the vibrant, supportive Ream community and s...

Episode 075

Released on: August 15, 2024

Join us for an enlightening conversation with USA Today Best-selling contemporary romance author Skye Winter. In this episode, Skye shares her journey of changing pen names and navigating the complexities of self-publishing beyond just writing. She offers valuable insights into the importance of romance tropes, dispels common misconceptions about the genre, and provides expert tips on marketing romance books. Skye also opens up about her experience as a writer with disabilities, emphasizing the power of perseverance in the face of challenges. Discover how she maintains her bestselling status while t...

Episode 074 Released on: August 1, 2024 In this episode, we talked with Emma Rosen, a nonfiction in children's book author and YouTuber who shares with us everything she knows about setting up a protective business structure like an LLC or an LTD. As a UK-based author she knows more about the cost, set up, and legalities surrounding an LTD, but she also shared with us her personal reasons for creating a protective business structure and explains the pros and cons. We also got to hear a little bit about her Kickstarter campaign that she ran in 2021 before Brandon Sanderson made it...

Episode 073

Released on: July 24, 2024

In this episode, we talk to fantasy author, Devon Gambrell-Clark, who talks to us about setting up an author platform with outside-the-box thinking. First, she shares her strategies about how to handle the flood of information available on the internet when it comes to writing, publishing, and marketing books. From her experience of going through that complete process for her debut novel, she realized it would be helpful to have a one-stop shop of indie authors who offer services to indie authors, and thus All Call Indie was...

Episode 072

Released on: July 15, 2024

In this episode, we talk to Elayna R. Gallea, a fantasy romance author. She shares her strategies for success and how she purposefully used these strategies to keep two of her titles in the top 100 best seller lists on Amazon. She also discusses how she approached learning and succeeding at learning TikTok to leverage the platform for her successes. We also got a lot of insight into her writing process and how she’s written nearly twenty books in three years.

WEBSITES/ITEMS ME...

Episode 071

Released on: June 15, 2024

In this episode, three self-published authors dive into Dale L. Roberts's insightful book, “Amazon Keywords for Books: How to Use Keywords for Better Discovery on Amazon.” YouTuber and historical and urban fantasy author, Nicole Pierman/Brona and YouTuber and nonfiction author Andy from the YouTube channel Self Pub With Andy join Shanon in this awesome discussion. They explore the vital role keywords play in increasing a book's visibility on Amazon's crowded marketplace and share their key takeaways on effectively using keyword research strategies. The conversation delves into practical stra...

Episode 070

Released on: May 15, 2024

In this episode, Shanon is joined by YouTuber and contemporary romance and picture book author, Emma Bennet, BookTuber Rachel (R.K. Stumblingbear), and YouTuber and fantasy author Devon Gambrell-Clark. They discuss Lisa Cron's book, “Story Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel (Before You Waste Three Years Writing 327 Pages That Go Nowhere).”

In this book, the author discusses brain science to understand why readers connect to your work and gives a framework for writers to use...

Episode 069

Released on: April 15, 2024

On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join Shanon, Ben, Andy, D.L. Tillery, and Adrian Santiago. Discover a wealth of free and frugal tactics to effectively market your book on a budget. Our expert hosts dive deep into leveraging free platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to build an engaged audience. You'll learn smart keyword strategies to boost discoverability on major retailers like Amazon. Plus, find out creative ways to generate those all-important book reviews without breaking the bank. Whether you're a seasoned author or...

Episode 068

Released on: April 9, 2024

As a self-published author, have you considered getting a Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) for your book? In this insightful episode, Shanon dives into the value of securing an LCCN and how it can open doors to greater visibility and credibility, especially in libraries. Discover the distinct differences between an LCCN, ISBN, and copyright registration, and learn the step-by-step process for obtaining this powerful cataloging tool. Whether you're writing fiction or non-fiction, an LCCN can be useful in elevating your book's professional standing and discoverability in the...

Episode 067

Released on: April 2, 2024

Are your email newsletters going unopened and unread? Don't let your hard work gather virtual dust! In this episode, you'll discover a surprisingly simple yet incredibly effective strategy to massively increase your email open rates. Shanon reveals an often-overlooked tactic that industry studies show can boost open rates by up to 30%, click-through rates by 14%, and even conversions by 26% - with very little effort on your part. If you've been frustrated by lackluster engagement with your email campaigns, this tip will breathe new life into your newsletters and ensure...

Episode 066

Released on: March 26, 2024

As an author in a rapidly evolving market, have you considered if your book's cover still has what it takes to captivate readers? Book covers, much like fashion, undergo trends that can make or break a book's packaging. In this episode, I explore the strategic reasons behind reinventing your book's cover design. From aligning with shifting genre expectations to maintaining a consistent brand, discover how a well-timed cover update can breathe new life into your marketing efforts. Learn tips on conducting effective market research to ensure your cover...

Episode 065 Released on: March 19, 2024 In today’s digital age, authors need innovative ways to connect with readers and promote their books. Enter QR codes - those square barcodes that can magically transport readers to exclusive online content with a simple smartphone scan. In this episode, discover inventive strategies for using QR codes to bridge your print and digital marketing efforts. Unlock a world of promotional possibilities by incorporating QR codes into your book marketing tactics in an engaging, reader-friendly way. 🐉Order your copy of A Curse of Scales & Feathers: https://books2read.com/A-Curse-of-Scales-and-Feathers IMPORTANT LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE: 🌟 Authortu...

Episode 064

Released on: March 15, 2024

In this episode, we talked to Rachel D. Adams, a YouTuber and nonfiction and paranormal romance author. She shares so many insights about how her many years of writing Fan Fiction in a community lead to finding her writing partners and eventually creating their own worlds. Today, she writes with two different co-authors, and she explains how those relationships work when it comes to the duties of self-publishing. She also shares their publishing model, first starting on Kindle Vella before releasing the work as reader magnets and full...

Episode 063 Released on: March 5, 2024 Did you know the file size of your ebooks directly impacts the royalties you earn on Amazon? Unlike other retailers, Amazon charges authors a "delivery fee" per unit sold, deducted from your 70% royalty rate. These fees are based solely on your book's file size - the larger the file, the bigger the fee. For example, an 8MB ebook could cost you over $1 per sale just in delivery charges! In this episode, Shanon reveals an easy way to minimize those profit-draining fees using free software. You'll learn a simple trick to reduce bloat from images and...

Episode 062 Released on: March 1, 2024 In this episode, we talked to Heather Howland, a professional sensitivity reader. We start the episode with her explanation of what a sensitivity reader is and why one might be important for a writer’s work. She gave us wonderful tips and advice on where to find sensitivity readers, at what point in your manuscript you should seek a sensitivity reader, and how to prepare to share your work, as well as how writers can be more intentional in character development. She also shared tips for getting sensitivity reading feedback if your budget does not al...

Episode 061 Released on: February 20, 2024 In this week's Self-Publishing Tip or Trick of the Week, Rachel D. Adams shares her tips for how to find low-cost and free ways to advertise your books. IMPORTANT LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE: 🌟 Rachel D. Adams's Ream: https://reamstories.com/magicalmischief/public 🌟 Rachel D. Adams's Website: https://racheldadams.com/ 🌟 Drop us a line at selfpubishingtipstricks@gmail.com 🐉Order your copy of A Curse of Scales & Feathers: https://books2read.com/A-Curse-of-Scales-and-Feathers ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ Thanks for watching and listening! 🔗 ➤ FACEBOOK: Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfpublishingtipstricks 🔗 ➤ Guest Registration for Self-Published Authors: https://forms.gle/a5kagunHv9x1jxvm6 ~^~^~...

Episode 060 Released on: February 15, 2024 Romance writer, nonfiction writer, hybrid publisher, and YouTuber Emma Bennet joined us to share her experiences and knowledge. She gives great tips about romance writing, especially if authors are pursing traditional publishing. She also discloses the differences in marketing her trad published work and her indie published work. She also gave us some great tips about marketing on social media and writing during NaNoWriMo. 🐉Order your copy of A Curse of Scales & Feathers: https://books2read.com/A-Curse-of-Scales-and-Feathers 🌟 Drop us a line at selfpubishingtipstricks@gmail.com ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ CONNECT WITH EMMA BENNET! 📧Emma's newsletter: https://www.emma-bennet.co.uk/kee...

Episode 059

Released on: February 6, 2024

A book's cover design is crucial for making the right first impression on potential readers. But it can be challenging to evaluate your own cover objectively before publication. In this episode, Shanon discusses tips and a cool new AI-powered tool from eBook Fairs that analyzes book covers to grade their overall effectiveness. She tests out the free Book Cover Grader tool on some of her own book covers and shares the insights from its composition analysis, genre convention checks, and other ratings. Tune in to hear her experience...

Episode 058

Released on: February 1, 2024

In this episode, freelance writer, author, editor, and the education lead for Plottr, Troy Lambert talks about his long career of publishing books through multiple publishing paths and how he became knowledgeable about SEO. We got a chance to talk about his newest nonfiction release, The Pocket Guide to SEO for Authors. During our talk with him, he explains what SEO is and how an author can maximize their visibility. This includes our books on Amazon! Last, he talks about the myth of SEO and social media.

Episode 057

Released on: January 23, 2024

When setting up product pages and advertisements, keywords are crucial to being discovered. But should you use broad, generic terms or niche, tailored ones? In this episode, we dive into the ongoing discussion around broad versus niche keywords. We'll look at insights from Kindlepreneur's Dave Chesson to help unravel which is better for search visibility and sales. You'll come away with a clearer understanding of keyword selection strategy and how to leverage keywords for optimal exposure and revenue. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned author...

Episode 056

Released on: January 15, 2024

In this episode, Esther Marie Andújar, YouTuber and paranormal romance author, shares with us how she uses subscription platforms like Kindle Vella, Kofi, and Patreon. She also gives us insight into the best tips when it comes to publishing on these platforms, plus why and how she includes bonuses for her followers on Kofi and Patreon. Last, she gives insight into what works for marketing these platforms and what type of marketing you might want to avoid.

WEBSITES/ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS E...

Episode 055

Released on: January 9, 2024

Do you want to maximize visibility and sales for your next book launch? Promotion stacking lines up multiple marketing activities around your release date to compound visibility and propel you up the charts. Tune in as I explain promo stacking, resources for strategy planning, and how this launch strategy can take your book release to the next level. I'll also share details from my own successful stacking campaigns and tips to optimize your book's debut. Don't miss this crucial launch strategy that uses strategic timing to amplify your...

Episode 054

Released on: January 2, 2024

Are you looking to take your indie author game to the next level in 2024? In this podcast episode, Shanon shares her top podcasts that provide an invaluable education on all things self-publishing. She highlights the key shows that have helped her navigate the world of independent publishing, from writing craft to marketing tactics. Whether you're just starting out or already have books under your belt, tuning in regularly to the right podcasts can provide motivation, inspiration, and actionable advice. Join her as she discuss the pods that every...

Episode 053

Released on: December 26, 2023

An author's welcome email to new newsletter subscribers represents a valuable opportunity to make a great first impression. In this week's episode, Shanon share tips for crafting an effective and engaging welcome email to help build relationships with readers. She discusses why newsletters are so important for authors and explains how to tailor your message based on where subscribers signed up and the importance of making an authentic connection. She also covers including whitelisting instructions, simple calls to action, and unsubscribe options. Whether you're just starting a newsletter...

Episode 052

Released on: December 15, 2023

Previous podcast guests D.L. Tillery, Sako Tumi, and A.F. Stewart turn the tables on Shanon, Ben, and Morgan, asking them the questions they normally ask their guests.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR HOSTS!

D.L. TILLERY

▶ Website: https://www.authordltillery.com/

▶ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/D-L-Tillery/e/B09CRDP37H

▶ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AuthorDLTillery

▶ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDLTillery/

▶ Instagram: https://www.instagram...

Episode 051

Released on: December 12, 2023

Drawing in an invested audience is vital for any author, but expensive marketing shouldn’t be the only path to reach more readers. This week’s podcast episode covers creative strategies from leveraging your own platforms to collaborating with fellow creators in order to grow your mailing list with compelling yet zero-cost reader magnets. You’ll learn why providing free value first is key before making any hard pitches, as well as discover websites that offer newsletter promotion services at no cost. Tune in to pick up easy-to-implement tips t...

Episode 050

Released on: December 5, 2023

Creating an audiobook is no small feat, but ensuring quality audio that meets industry standards is essential before release. In this podcast, Shanon shares an invaluable free tool from ACX that acts as an audio quality control lab for DIY authors. Their Audio Lab allows you to upload a file and receive an automated report checking specs against ACX’s rigorous standards. Shanon explains what this comprehensive report covers, from volume consistency to sample rate, and how to interpret the easy-to-understand pass/fail metrics. Whether releasing wide or di...