Episodes
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Ever feel like you're banging your head against a wall trying to get your Amazon ads approved? You're not alone. When a mystery thriller author's cover featuring a bloody knife was rejected because it looked "too menacing" and appeared to be "pointing at the consumer," we knew we had to address this frustration head-on.
The absurdity reaches new heights when you discover Amazon approved the print version with the identical cover but rejected the ebook ads. This is just one example of Amazon's maddening inconsistency across its various platforms and departments. While the ads team remains vague and often contradictory, other Amazon departments like A-plus content provide clear, specific feedback. Romance authors face similar arbitrary judgments about how much skin is acceptable on covers, with guidelines that seem to shift without warning.
Our battle-tested advice? Channel your inner toddler. Be persistent, submit multiple support tickets, provide examples of similar approved books, and don't take the first "no" as final. We've seen countless cases where persistence pays off, including our mystery thriller author who eventually got approval after multiple attempts. Whether you're dealing with ad rejections or even having your book mysteriously pulled from the platform, advocacy works. Remember: Amazon's only consistent trait is its inconsistency.
Are you struggling with a specific publishing or marketing challenge? Email us and we'll dedicate a show to solving your problem! We prioritize listener questions because we know how crucial timely answers can be when you're in the trenches. And if you've implemented our advice successfully, we'd love to hear about it and give you a shout-out on our next episode.Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Demystifying Kindle Unlimited might be one of the most requested topics from our podcast audienceâand for good reason. The confusion between Amazon's KDP platform and the Kindle Unlimited subscription service continues to trip up both new and experienced authors alike.
After five years hosting this podcast, we've noticed certain questions appear in our inbox repeatedly: "Should my book be in Kindle Unlimited?" "What's the difference between KDP and KU?" "Will I make more money in KU or by going wide?" Today's episode tackles these questions head-on, cutting through the noise to help you make strategic decisions about your book's distribution.
What many authors don't realize is that Kindle Unlimited enrollment can dramatically improve Amazon advertising performance. We've consistently observed that ads convert significantly better for KU books, particularly in genres where subscription readers are abundant. This alone might justify exclusivity for some authors.
As with all marketing decisions, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Kindle Unlimited is simply another tool in your publishing arsenalânot a magic solution for books that aren't selling elsewhere. Think strategically about your genre, audience, and overall publishing goals before making your decision.Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Episodes manquant?
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Should you start your own publishing company? Word seems to be getting around in author circles that this may be the key to unlocking greater credibility, bookstore access, or even âjumping the lineâ beyond the self-published category.
But is that really true? In this episode, we break down the myths and realities of becoming your own publisher, exploring when this strategy worksâand when it doesnât. Weâll also lay out what truly makes an author successful, so you can make the best decision for your publishing journey. If youâve ever wondered whether launching your own imprint is worth the effort, donât miss this insightful episode!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Pricing your book isnât just a numbers gameâitâs a strategy that can make or break your success on Amazon. In this episode, weâre busting the biggest pricing myths, like whether your eBook really needs to be $0.99 or free to gain traction. Weâll dive into the realities of price positioning, share savvy strategies to make your book competitive, and reveal how the right pricing can fuel sales, visibility, and long-term profits. Whether you're launching your first book or fine-tuning your backlist, this episode is packed with insights to help you price with confidence. Tune in and learn how to make your pricing work for you!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Amazon Author Central just made a quiet but significant changeâno more URLs in author bios. What does this mean for your author platform, and how can you make sure your website still gets traffic? We break down why keeping your bio fresh matters more than ever and share a simple, proven workaround to keep your readers connected.
Plus, we dive into emerging shifts in search result trends, particularly impacting genre fiction authors. Could this be a sign of bigger changes ahead for book discoverability across all categories? Tune in for the latest updates, strategies, and what you can do right now to stay ahead of the curve!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Success as an author isnât just about writing a great bookâitâs about making smart marketing and business decisions. But what if youâre unknowingly getting in your own way? In this eye-opening episode, weâre unpacking the sneaky ways authors sabotage their own success, from marketing missteps to mindset traps that hold you back. Youâll discover the subtle mistakes that could be costing you book sales, visibility, and career momentumâplus, weâll share actionable strategies to help you course-correct before itâs too late. Donât let self-sabotage derail your successâtune in and take control of your author journey!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Every author hits a point where they wonder: Should I just give up? If your book isnât selling, your marketing efforts feel like a dead end, and hope seems lostâdonât throw in the towel just yet. In this episode, weâre digging into the real deal-breakers that can make or break a bookâs success, but more importantly, weâre exploring powerful ways to turn things around.
Sometimes, itâs not about giving upâitâs about making the right adjustments. From common pitfalls to creative solutions, weâll help you assess whatâs really going on with your book and what steps you can take to salvage its success. Before you walk away, tune in for fresh strategies, a new perspective, and a much-needed reality check on whatâs possible for your bookâs future.
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
An investment in book marketing and publicity is an investment in all the hard work you've poured into your book. But why is book marketing so expensive? And are those cheaper, one-off services really worth it? In this episode, we're breaking down the true cost of book marketingâwhat youâre really paying for, what actually moves the needle on book sales, and whether a big budget always equals big results. Is it a case of "you get what you pay for," or is there more to the story? If youâve ever wondered whether to spend a little or a lot on marketingâand which options deliver real impactâthis deep dive is for you!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
We spend a lot of time talking about Amazon (and that matters) but when was the last time you searched for your name or book on Google? Did your website show up? Or is your author website getting lost in the vast expanse of the internet? While Amazon visibility is crucial, Google matters just as much when it comes to connecting with readers and maintaining relationships with them beyond the purchase. This is especially critically if you plan to release more than one title. In this episode, weâll explore how to play nice with the Google machine using straightforward SEO strategies. Forget the confusing jargonâweâre breaking down SEO into simple, actionable steps that will help you boost your online presence. Whether youâre building your brand or trying to drive traffic to your books or business, this episode will give you the tools and roadmap you need to ensure your site stands out where it counts most! Grab a pen or pencil and be prepared to take notes!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Ever gotten on Amazon to search for your book andâBAMânothing? If your title isnât appearing for search terms you think should be working, youâre not alone. In this eye-opening episode, weâre lifting the curtain on Amazonâs elusive algorithm to explain why some books get prime visibility while others remain hidden in the shadows. Weâll walk you through the key factors that influence Amazon search results, reveal common challenges that can keep your title from being discovered, and share proven strategies to secure the spotlight your book deserves. Tune in to learn how to snag crucial Amazon visibilityâand keep it!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Is your book lost in a sea of titles on Amazon? If you feel like your title is dead in the water, youâre not alone. In this episode weâre digging into the horror of feeling rudderless on Amazonâwhy it happens and, most importantly, how to fix it. We chat about the telltale signs of a lost book and proven strategies that can reignite your engagement. Donât waste anymore time hiding in the shadowsâtune in and learn how to resurrect your bookâs visibility!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Dreaming of seeing your book featured in librariesâand even appearing there in person to meet eager readers? This episode is for you! Weâre unlocking the secrets to getting your title onto library shelves, plus sharing insider tips on securing author events right where your audience is waiting. Discover how to approach librarians, learn what makes your book appealing to them, and leverage strategies that position you as a must-invite guest. Whether youâre looking to boost your bookâs visibility or create memorable, community-driven author events, this episode will help you master the library market from every angle. Tune in and start building your library presence today!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Everyone wants to guest on podcasts these daysâbut landing the spot is just the beginning. In this episode, weâre going beyond pitching and diving into the art of being a truly unforgettable podcast guest. Discover how to prep effectively, calm your nerves, and bring your A-game to the mic. Weâll share insider tips on what hosts and audiences really value, plus a few last-minute adjustments that can give you that extra edge. Whether youâre brand new to the podcast scene or looking to level up your guest appearances, this episode will help you shine and leave listeners hungry for more!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
In a crowded digital landscape, authors are always on the hunt for new ways to reach readers. Substack has risen as a newsletter platform that promises creative freedom and direct audience connectionâbut is it right for you? In this episode, weâre diving deep into Substackâs features, benefits, and challenges. Weâll explore who itâs best suited for, how it can fit into your existing marketing strategy, and what kind of commitment it requires. If youâve been wondering whether this platform could help you grow a loyal readershipâand maybe even earn some extra incomeâdonât miss this informative, no-fluff conversation. Tune in to find out if Substack is the next big thing for your author career!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Itâs almost time to flip the calendar and embrace a brand-new yearâand with it comes the perfect opportunity to refresh, reset, and reinvigorate your author brand. In this episode, weâre sharing a step-by-step checklist to help you usher in the next twelve months with confidence. From the one thing authors almost always forget to update on their website, to easy âhousecleaningâ tasks that ensure your books and brand are poised for success, weâve got you covered. Tune in, get inspired, and letâs make sure youâre ready to hit the ground running when the clock strikes midnight!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Ready to supercharge your bookâs visibility on Amazon? In this episode, weâre revealing some of the best-kept secrets for optimizing your Amazon retail page to drive traffic and boost salesâjust in time for the holiday shopping season! From insider tips to easy-to-implement strategies, youâll learn how to fine-tune your page, attract more readers, and stand out in the crowded marketplace. If youâre eager to take advantage of the busiest buying season of the year, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to make your book shine and watch the traffic roll in!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Whatâs the secret to writing a book readers canât wait to pick up? In this episode, weâre uncovering the overlooked strategies that make a book not only fit its market but also compel readers to buy. From crafting the perfect book idea to aligning your work with reader expectations, weâll deep dive into the steps most authors miss when creating and bringing their books to market. And if your book is already out, donât worryâthis episode is for you, too! Weâll share actionable tips to identify whatâs not working and how to fix it to get your book back on track. Whether youâre starting your next project or trying to breathe new life into an existing title, this is a must-listen episode packed with insights to set you up for success!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Weâve got something truly special for you in this episode and we're launching it on Small Business Saturday!
We've just launched a program created by and for *you*, our amazing listeners! After four years of incredible questions, feedback, and requests, weâre thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new mentorship program. If youâve loved the insights and advice shared on this podcast, youâre going to adore this opportunity to dive deeper, get personalized guidance, and take your author journey to the next level. Tune in for all the details about how this program came to life, what you can expect, and how you can join. Donât miss this quick but exciting announcement!Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
Weâre closing out the year with a bang in this special episode where Amy and Penny answer some of the best book marketing questions weâve received all year! From âHow many books do I need to write to be successful?â to predictions for next yearâs trends, and even âWhatâs the most successful marketing strategy youâve ever seen?ââweâre diving into it all. Plus, weâll share insights on how much authors can realistically earn from their books and reveal our favorite strategies that truly work. This fun and informative episode is also available in video format, so donât miss our candid reactions and in-depth answers. Check the YouTube link and join us for this must-listen (and must-watch), end-of-year show packed with actionable tips and insights!
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast -
In this unabashedly honest episode, weâre pulling back the curtain on the rookie mistakes that can make authors look like amateursâand even open them up to being taken advantage of. From networking missteps to pitching for reviews or media consideration, weâre covering the blunders that cost time, money, and reputation. Everyone starts as a newbie, but you donât have to look like one! If youâre attending events, presenting your book, or putting yourself out there, tune in to learn the essentials for making a polished, professional impression. This episode is packed with the insights and tips you need to put your best foot forward every time.
Send us your feedback!
Check out our new Publishing Consulting service that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/publishing-consulting/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you're willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we'd love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at [email protected] for more information.
Buy Penny's new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we'll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can't leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we'll put it on our website: [email protected].
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast - Montre plus
