Book Marketing Mentors

Hosted by Susan Friedmann

Business Marketing Entrepreneurship

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540

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

Jam-packed with smart, easy and simple ideas, this weekly podcast features experts who share proven techniques to add power and zest to supercharge your book marketing plan. Hosted by Susan Friedmann, CSP, international bestselling author, and founder of Aviva Publishing, this new and exciting podcast aims to rev up your marketing efforts with fewer struggles, and more success. Start listening today and discover how to get noticed in a crowded marketplace.

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60 recent

August 19, 2026Episode 53928 min

Why You’re Afraid to Market Your Book, Even When You Know How - BM539

Could the real reason you’re avoiding book marketing have nothing to do with marketing? You know you need to talk about your book, yet every time you think about promoting it, reaching out, or asking for the sale, something inside you pulls back. This week’s guest is Judy Kane , author of Your Four Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life and an expert in uncovering the subconscious beliefs that shape our choices. Judy explains how fear of visibility, rejection, criticism, and selling can quietly hold authors back, even when they believe deeply in their books. You’ll discover how to recognize the stories driving your resistance, fact-check assumptions that may no longer be true, and use visualization to create a more confident response to marketing. We also explore how early beliefs about money, self-worth, and success can affect your willingness to sell, charge for your work, and receive the opportunities your book creates. What You’ll Discover: Why marketing can feel more threatening than it is How to challenge the stories holding you back Why reconnecting with your purpose changes marketing How visualization can build confidence How money beliefs influence selling Tune in to uncover the hidden beliefs that may be holding your book back and discover how to move forward with greater confidence. Here's how to connect with Judy: Website LinkedIn Buy a copy of her book: Your4Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life Book your 15 minute free consultation ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

August 12, 2026Episode 53827 min

How to Attract Dream Clients With YouTube and AI - BM538

Are you tired of chasing clients, posting constantly, and wondering whether any of it is actually helping your book or business? What if the right clients could discover you, learn from you, and decide they want to work with you before you ever speak? This week’s guest is Helmi Hasan, an engineer-turned-marketer and founder of a thriving consultancy that helps non-technical entrepreneurs use AI and YouTube to attract clients without paid ads or becoming full-time influencers. Helmi explains why YouTube isn’t just another social media platform demanding more content. Used strategically, it can become a searchable library of your expertise that continues building trust long after you publish each video. During our conversation, you’ll discover how to turn the ideas already inside your book into valuable videos, make your online presence easier for both people and AI to understand, and position yourself as the expert clients are already looking for. You’ll also learn: Why attracting clients requires a very different mindset from chasing them How to use your book as a ready-made source of YouTube content What might be confusing potential clients about your online presence How AI can help you uncover the questions your audience is already asking Why you don’t need to become an entertainer to succeed on YouTube How podcast interviews and testimonials can strengthen your credibility What helps AI tools recognize and recommend you as a trusted expert Could the content you’ve already created become the reason your next client finds you? Listen in to discover how YouTube and AI can help turn your expertise into a steady source of visibility, authority, and inbound opportunities. Here's how to connect with Helmi: Website YouTube LinkedIn Free offers from Helmi: Skool - How to Start a YouTube channel that makes you the authority in your niche. Video starter kit ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

August 5, 2026Episode 53727 min

How to Stay Healthy While Writing and Marketing Your Book - BM537

What if the biggest obstacle to finishing your book isn't your writing process... but your daily habits? Many authors push through exhaustion with coffee, skip meals, and promise themselves they'll focus on their health after the next deadline. But what if those habits are quietly draining your creativity, focus, and productivity? This week, I'm joined by Kelly Lutman , certified health coach, founder of Pursue Wellness for You, and author of Thriving Through Cancer: A Holistic Approach to Your Journey . Kelly shares practical, science-backed strategies that help busy authors and entrepreneurs fuel their bodies, sharpen their minds, and avoid burnout without following another restrictive diet. You'll discover why hydration matters more than you think, how small changes create lasting results, and why taking care of yourself may be the smartest marketing strategy you never considered. In This Episode, You'll Discover: Why dehydration could be stealing your focus, energy, and creativity. The surprising reason Kelly says, "Food is information." How simple food choices can improve both your health and your productivity. Why editing your habits works better than following another diet. The overlooked connection between sleep, stress, and creative performance. How investing in your health today helps you finish your book and grow your business tomorrow. If you've been putting your well-being on hold until your next launch or project is finished, this conversation may change the way you think about success. Here's how to connect with Kelly: Website Check out Kelly's book: T hriving Through Cancer, A Whole-istic Approach for Your Journey. FaceBook https://facebook.com/PursueWellnessForYou LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylutman/ Instagram https://instagram.com/kelly_lutman/ ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

July 29, 2026Episode 53629 min

How to Define Success as an Author and Write a Book Readers Trust - BM536

What if the biggest obstacle to your success isn't your book—it's the definition of success you've been chasing? In this episode, author, brand strategist, and "What's the Point?" podcast host Bill Ellis challenges conventional thinking about success, authenticity, and the stories we tell ourselves. You'll discover why lived experience is often more valuable than expertise alone, how vulnerability creates lasting trust with readers, and why asking one simple question— "What's the point?" —can change the way you write, market, and live. If you've ever wondered whether your story is enough, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective. In this episode, you'll discover: How to define success on your own terms instead of chasing someone else's. Why authentic storytelling creates deeper reader trust than polished perfection. The surprising difference between expertise and lived experience—and why you need both. How mentors can help you uncover the story only you can tell. Why failure is often the beginning of your most powerful message. The mindset shift that helps authors grow with confidence instead of comparison. How asking "What's the point?" can sharpen your message and make your book more meaningful. If you're ready to write with greater purpose, connect more deeply with readers, and measure success by what truly matters, this episode is for you. Here's how to connect with Bill: Website: https://billellis.com Podcast: What's the Point? Discover Your Purpose LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wcellis/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wcellis/?hl=en FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.ellis https://www.facebook.com/BillEllisCoach/ ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

July 22, 2026Episode 53532 min

How to Use Storytelling to Inspire Readers and Sell More Books - BM535

Why do some authors instantly capture attention while others struggle to be remembered? The answer isn't better marketing. It's better storytelling. In this episode, writing coach and Writer's Craft Summit founder Kevin Johns reveals why storytelling is one of the most overlooked book marketing tools. Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, the ability to create emotional connection can turn readers into loyal fans and clients. You'll discover why facts alone rarely inspire action, how authentic stories build trust in an AI-driven world, and why every memorable book revolves around one thing: transformation. If you want readers to remember your message long after they've finished your book, don't miss this conversation. In this episode, you'll discover: Why emotion—not information—is what readers remember. How nonfiction authors can use storytelling without writing a memoir. The secret to building trust by sharing authentic stories while protecting your privacy. Why every great book and marketing message is built around transformation. How understanding your audience's expectations leads to stronger reviews and more book sales. The storytelling mistake that weakens many authors' marketing without them realizing it. Simple ways to make your ideas more memorable, persuasive, and shareable. If you've ever wondered why some books spread by word of mouth while others disappear, this episode will change how you think about storytelling—and your marketing. Here's how to connect with Kevin: Download Kevin's free listener gift: The Busy Writer Method Website: https://www.kevintjohns.com The Writing Coach podcast: https://www.kevintjohns.com/thewritingcoach/ Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Amazon Author Centra l Youtube ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

July 15, 2026Episode 53430 min

Why Smart Authors Get Stuck—and How to Break Free - BM534

You know what to do. So why aren't you doing it? You want to finish your book. Pitch podcasts. Reach out to organizations. Speak on more stages. Yet somehow, something keeps getting in the way. It's easy to blame a lack of time, confidence, or motivation. But what if the real obstacle is hidden beneath the surface? This week's guest is Nancy Linnerooth , Harvard-trained attorney, licensed therapist, and EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) expert. She explains how subconscious beliefs formed years ago can quietly influence your decisions today, keeping you stuck, invisible, and playing smaller than you're capable of. If you've ever wondered why you procrastinate, second-guess yourself, or hesitate to promote your book, this conversation may give you the missing piece you've been searching for. In this episode you'll discover: Why you keep procrastinating even when you know exactly what to do. The answer may have nothing to do with discipline. The hidden beliefs that stop authors from becoming visible. Fear of criticism isn't the only reason many writers stay in the background. Why success can feel just as frightening as failure. Discover the subconscious fears that can quietly sabotage your best efforts. How tapping (EFT) helps break the cycle of self-sabotage. Learn why this simple technique has helped thousands move past limiting beliefs. How to stop fighting yourself and start moving forward with confidence. Sometimes your subconscious isn't trying to hold you back. It's trying to protect you. If marketing your book feels harder than it should, this episode may help you understand why—and show you a path forward with greater confidence, clarity, and ease. Tune in now to find out. Here's how to connect with Nancy: Download your complimentary Procrastination Breakthrough Kit Website: https://UnblockResults.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-linnerooth/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancy.linnerooth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eftbreakthroughs/ ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

July 8, 2026Episode 53329 min

How to Unlock the Secret to Reaching Readers You're Missing - BM533

Your ideal readers may already be looking for your book. So why aren't they buying it? The answer may surprise you. Most authors write and market to people who think just like they do. It feels natural. Unfortunately, it also means they're unintentionally overlooking a large part of their audience. This week's guest is Sheila Glazov , award-winning author, internationally recognized personality expert, and creator of the Brain Color Method. She shares how understanding the different ways people think, communicate, and make decisions can completely change the way you market your book. Imagine knowing why one reader is motivated by facts, another by relationships, another by creativity, and another by action. When you understand these differences, your marketing becomes more effective because you're speaking your readers' language, not just your own. Whether you're writing website copy, networking, speaking, or promoting your book, Sheila offers practical ideas you can start using immediately. In this episode you'll discover: Why your marketing may only be attracting people who think like you. Learn how to spot the readers you're unintentionally leaving behind. The simple shift that helps your book appeal to more people without changing your message. Reach different personality types while staying authentic. How the four Brain Colors influence buying decisions. Discover why some readers want facts, others want stories, and others want possibilities before they say yes. Why knowing your own Brain Color could become your greatest marketing advantage. Your strengths can help you shine, but they can also create blind spots. How to build stronger relationships everywhere you market your book. Sheila shares a memorable strategy that can improve networking, conversations, and even difficult situations. If you've ever wondered why your message resonates with some people but falls flat with others, this conversation could change the way you think about book marketing forever. Tune in for a fresh approach to audience connection and actionable advice you can use today. Here's how to connect with Sheila: Buy your copy of What Color Is Your Brain? Website: https://www.sheilaglzov.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheilaglazov/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-n-glazovaa96237 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheilaglazov/ Blue Sky Social:https://bsky.app/profile/authorsheilaglazov.bsky.social ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

July 1, 2026Episode 53231 min

How Authors Can Build a Community That Buys Books - BM532

What if the secret to selling more books isn't reaching more people, but building deeper relationships with the right people? This week's guest is Elizabeth Henson, CEO of Elizabeth Henson Inc. and founder of the Community Growth Lab. Elizabeth has helped entrepreneurs and creators grow thriving businesses by focusing on one thing many marketers overlook: community. In this conversation, Elizabeth shares why authors don't need massive audiences to make a meaningful impact. Instead, they need genuine connections, consistent engagement, and a willingness to bring readers along for the journey. If you're tired of chasing algorithms, struggling to grow your platform, or wondering how to create loyal readers who eagerly support your work, this episode offers a refreshing and practical approach. Key Takeaways Why a Small Community Can Outsell a Large Audience Discover why a handful of engaged supporters often generates more book sales, referrals, and opportunities than thousands of passive followers. The Book Launch Strategy Most Authors Miss Learn how inviting readers into your writing journey long before publication can create anticipation, trust, and a ready-made launch team. The Surprising Power of Showing Up Imperfectly Find out why polished marketing isn't always the answer and how sharing real stories and struggles can strengthen your connection with readers. Stop Chasing Every Platform Learn how to identify the platform that best fits your personality and strengths so you can build momentum without spreading yourself too thin. The One Question That Sparks Better Conversations Discover how asking thoughtful questions can turn followers into participants and create a community that actively engages with your message. The Elevator Pitch Test Every Author Should Pass Learn how to talk about your book in a way that sparks curiosity, starts conversations, and makes people want to know more. Tune in now! Here's how to connect with Elizabeth: Download Elizabeth's your free gift from Elizabeth Website: https://elizabethhenson.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethhensonco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethHenson.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.henson/ ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

June 24, 2026Episode 53128 min

How You Can Successfully Market a Debut Novel - BM531

Ever wonder how a debut novel can open doors far beyond book sales? This week’s guest is Kailey Holbrook, award-winning filmmaker, author, and film student at USC. Kailey published her first 500+ page novel while still in high school. Since then, she's built an engaged online following, navigated the worlds of publishing and filmmaking, and learned firsthand what it takes to connect with readers in a crowded marketplace. In this conversation, Kailey shares how she found her audience, built a creative community, and leveraged storytelling skills across multiple platforms. Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, you'll discover practical lessons on visibility, audience growth, and creating opportunities that extend well beyond your book. Key Takeaways Why a Book Can Become Your Biggest Differentiator Discover how publishing a book can create unexpected opportunities, boost credibility, and help you stand out in ways most people never consider. The Audience Mistake Many Authors Make Learn why trying to reach everyone often leads to reaching no one, and how identifying the right readers can transform your marketing results. What Social Platforms Are Really Telling You Find out how Kailey uses TikTok, Instagram, and Goodreads to learn what readers care about and build genuine engagement without feeling promotional. The Hidden Power of Creative Community Explore how surrounding yourself with fellow creators can spark new ideas, fuel motivation, and help your work reach a wider audience. What It Takes to Turn a Book into a Screenplay Get an inside look at the biggest differences between writing a novel and writing for the screen, plus the skills every aspiring screenwriter should develop. Why Successful Authors Stay Flexible Learn how adapting your writing, marketing, and creative process can help you stay relevant as your audience and goals evolve. Tune in now! Here's how to connect with Kailey: Tik Tok: @kaileyholbrookauthor Youtube: @KaileyHolbrookAuthor Instagram: @kaileyholbrook LinkedIn: Kailey Holbrook ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************

June 17, 2026Episode 53028 min

How Nonfiction Authors Get Speaking Gigs to Sell More Books - BM530

Want more book sales, visibility, and credibility? Speaking may be one of the fastest ways to get there. But how do you land speaking opportunities if nobody knows who you are? Do you need a polished keynote? A speaker reel? A big platform? In this episode, I sit down with Steve Markman, founder of Markman Speaker Management and a respected insider with more than 35 years in the speaking and conference world. Steve pulls back the curtain on what really gets authors booked and what quietly ruins opportunities before they begin. If you’ve ever thought, I’d love to speak, but where do I start? this conversation is for you. Steve shares practical advice on how nonfiction authors can use speaking to grow authority, open doors, sell more books, and create new opportunities without feeling pushy or self-promotional. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why speaking can change the trajectory of your book What happens when people hear you speak before they buy your book? Why do some authors gain momentum while others stay invisible? The surprising truth about getting your first speaking gig Do you need to get paid right away? Where should you start? Steve explains why some of the smartest opportunities may not pay a fee at first. What meeting planners secretly look for What makes someone an easy “yes”? The small details that can move you from overlooked to booked. The mistake that can kill speaking opportunities fast One habit turns audiences and planners off almost instantly. Are authors making this mistake without knowing it? The simple assets that make you look more credible Do you really need a speaker one sheet? A video reel? A polished bio? Steve shares what matters and what may not. If speaking has been sitting on your someday list, this episode may change how you think about what’s possible. Here's how to connect with Steve: Email Website ************************************************************************* What Should I Do When Book Marketing Feels Overwhelming? You poured your heart into writing your book because you wanted to make a difference. It deserves to be discovered. If marketing feels confusing, frustrating, or like you're spinning your wheels, the Author Influencer Circle will help you build authority, attract opportunities, and market your book with clarity and confidence. Learn more about the Author Influencer Circle and discover how your book can open doors to speaking, clients, partnerships, and meaningful income. *************************************************************************