Book Marketing Mentors

What makes a reader trust you enough to buy your book, recommend it, or see you as the expert to follow?This week’s guest is Scott Carley, known as the Trust Energizer and creator of the Trust Credit Score. Scott reveals why trust may be one of the most overlooked assets in an author’s marketing strategy and how it influences everything from credibility to book sales.Every reader is sizing you up, often without realizing it. They’re asking silent questions about who you are, what you stand for, and whether your ideas deserve their attention.Scott breaks down the signals readers look for, the mistakes capable authors make without realizing it, and why visibility alone won’t build authority if trust is missing.You’ll also hear how AI is changing the trust equation and what authors can do to make their voice, ideas, and expertise feel unmistakably their own.Key TakeawaysWhat are readers silently asking about you? Discover the questions influencing whether someone trusts your ideas before they ever buy your book.

Are you spending more money marketing your book than you’re making from it?This week’s guest, Kevin M. Hall, author of Book Marketing on a Budget: Simple Steps for New Authors, shares practical ways to increase visibility, connect with readers, and create opportunities without spending a fortune.Kevin proves some of the most effective book marketing strategies are often the simplest ones.Key TakeawaysCould one tiny change help you sell more books? Discover overlooked marketing opportunities you may already have at your fingertips.What happens when you stop marketing and start connecting? Learn why genuine conversations can open doors no marketing plan could predict.How many opportunities are you missing because you never asked? See how a simple question can turn an assumed “no” into a surprising “yes.”Who in your own community could help spread the word? Explore how libraries, organizations, fellow authors, and local connections can expand your reach.Why do some authors gain traction while others disappear? F

Want to use AI to write and market your book more effectively without losing your voice?This week, bestselling author and AI expert Karin Volo shares practical ways authors can use AI throughout the book-writing process.You’ll learn how to use AI to brainstorm stronger ideas, organize your thoughts, speed up research, improve your prompts, and refine your writing without handing over control of your book.Karin also explains how to train AI to better understand your voice, what information you should always verify, and where human judgment and editing still matter most.Key Takeaways:Use AI without losing your voice. Learn where AI can help and where you need to stay firmly in control.Write better prompts. Discover how clearer instructions lead to more useful and authentic results.Research faster. Use AI to uncover sources, ideas, and information while knowing what to verify.Organize your ideas. Learn how AI can help turn scattered thoughts into a clearer structure.Edit more effectively. Understand where AI can

What if a book could do more than simply be read?This week, I’m talking with Ahmed Kamel, technology entrepreneur, AI innovator, CEO of Sinai AI, and co-founder of YOUXEL Technology.Ahmed shares how AI is beginning to change the reading experience itself, creating new ways for readers to interact with books and new opportunities for authors to extend the value of their work.You’ll learn how AI-powered books can offer features such as translation, audio, summaries, customized navigation, and interactive learning tools. We also explore what these changes could mean for accessibility, reader engagement, royalties, and the way authors understand their audiences.Ahmed also explains how authors and publishers can protect their rights while taking advantage of emerging AI technology.Key Takeaways:Create a more interactive reading experience. Learn how AI can add audio, translation, summaries, and other features to a book.Reach more readers. Discover how multilingual and adaptive formats can make books more accessibl

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 isHow to challenge the sto

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 m

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

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 th

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 gre

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 b

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 immedi

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 TakeawaysWhy a Small Community Can Outsell a Large AudienceDiscover why a handful of engaged supporters often generates more book sales, referrals, and opportunities than thousands of passive followers.T

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 TakeawaysWhy a Book Can Become Your Biggest DifferentiatorDiscover 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 MakeLearn why tryin

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 bookWhat happens when people hear you speak before they buy your book? Why do some authors gain momentum while others stay invis

Could using AI in your book create a legal problem you never saw coming?What if parts of your manuscript are not actually protected by copyright? And what should authors know before using AI for research, outlines, editing, or content creation?In this eye-opening conversation, legal expert Elissa Hecker breaks down what nonfiction authors need to understand about AI, copyright, contracts, and protecting their intellectual property in a fast-changing publishing world.This episode answers the questions many authors are afraid to ask.Key TakeawaysCan You Copyright AI Content? The surprising truth about what parts of AI-assisted work may not be legally protected.Are You Using AI Safely? Smart ways to use AI without risking ownership, credibility, or control of your content.The Contract Clause Authors Cannot Ignore Why publishers are paying attention to AI use and what disclosures may soon become standard.Your Biggest Competitive Advantage in an AI World Why your voice, experience, and originality matter more than

Are you undercharging without realizing it?What if the biggest thing standing between you and higher-value clients has less to do with talent and more to do with how you see your own expertise?In this eye-opening conversation, business advisor and author John Ray challenges some common assumptions about pricing, generosity, confidence, and the role your book should play in growing your business.If you’ve ever questioned your value, struggled to price your services, or wondered why your book is not creating bigger opportunities, this episode may shift how you think about expertise altogether.Key TakeawaysAre You Being Too Generous? Why giving more is not always the smartest move and what actually builds trust with clients.The Pricing Mistake That Quietly Hurts Credibility What your fees may be signaling about your value and why cheaper rarely wins.Why Smart Experts Still Feel Like Frauds A simple mindset shift that can quiet self-doubt and help you own your expertise.Is Your Book Working Hard Enough? Why your

Do you know why some authors struggle to market their books even when they have a powerful message?This week’s guest expert is April Adams Pertuis, award-winning journalist, producer, and founder of Light Beamers. After conducting more than 10,000 interviews over a 30-year career, April has learned one truth most authors miss: storytelling is not separate from marketing. It is the marketing.In this eye-opening conversation, you’ll discover how to use your personal stories to build trust, spark curiosity, and create stronger connections with readers. April also shares how AI can help uncover and organize your stories without replacing your authentic voice.If marketing your book feels forced, awkward, or exhausting, this episode may completely change the way you think about promoting your work.Key Takeaways: Storytelling makes marketing feel human. When you stop “selling” and start sharing meaningful stories, people pay attention.  Your “why” matters more than your pitch. Readers connect with the reason behind

Do readers judge a book by its cover? Absolutely. And if your book looks self-published, readers notice before they read a single word.This week on the podcast, book designer extraordinaire Victoria Wolf pulls back the curtain on what makes a book look polished, credible, and impossible to ignore.With more than 30 years in the industry and 500+ books designed, Victoria shares the design choices that separate books people buy from books people scroll past.We talk covers that instantly signal quality, interiors that keep readers engaged, and the subtle design mistakes that quietly kill credibility. You’ll also hear why many nonfiction authors sabotage their authority with amateur visuals without even realizing it.If your book is supposed to open doors, your design can’t afford to whisper.Key takeways from this week's episode; Why interior design matters far more than most authors think  The typography and layout choices that make books easier to read and harder to put down  The real job of a book cover and

Are you actually stuck… or are you hiding behind perfection?Most nonfiction authors say they’re “not ready.” Kristin Bentley calls that out for what it is.As founder and CEO of EP House, Kristin has spent 25+ years helping leaders, experts, and change-makers turn lived experience into books that matter. In this conversation, she breaks apart the idea that confidence comes first… and replaces it with something far more uncomfortable and far more effective.Because the truth? You don’t think your way into writing a book. You write your way into clarity.What This Episode Will Challenge:“Ready” is a moving target. If you’re waiting for it, you may be waiting forever.Clarity doesn’t come before the work. It shows up because of it… and only if you start.Outlines can help… or quietly stall you. There’s a fine line between structure and avoidance.Writer’s block isn’t random. It’s usually pointing to something deeper you’d rather not face.Your voice gets lost the moment you try to please everyone. And most authors don’

Are you writing a novel… or quietly hoping people will magically find it later?This week’s guest, Olivia Zugay, isn’t here for that fantasy.As a marketing and sales strategist for self-published fiction authors and founder of Story Flow Solutions, Olivia helps writers stop treating marketing like an afterthought and start building real reader demand before the book even exists.If you want loyal readers rather than one-time buyers, this conversation will challenge the way you think about publishing from day one.Key Takeaways:Stop waiting to be “ready.” Your audience-building window opens the moment you decide to write. Miss it, and your launch gets a lot harder.Your readers will tell you what to write… if you ask. Surveys, conversations, and feedback loops aren’t extras. They’re your unfair advantage.One book is a gamble. A series is a strategy. Thinking beyond a single title changes everything about sales, visibility, and momentum.Confused authors don’t sell books. Understanding the publishing landscape upfro