Tag: podcasts

Let’s talk #Podcasts

I do realize that many of my readers have no clue what podcasts are, which is just not okay. I am a podcast addict, and I think everyone should love podcasts as well.

What are they?

Podcast are like radio shows, but they’re prerecorded. They may be recorded live (caller-based shows) and edited later, or they may be completely scripted and prepared, or something in between. The nice thing about podcasts is that they’re archived and downloadable, so you can subscribe to a channel on your podcast app (iTunes, or I use Podcast Addict on Android) and download an episode when you want to listen absolutely FREE.

So, what podcast are awesome? I have a list 🙂

This American Life: Stories from all over the country on all kinds of topics

this american life

The Moth: Live storytelling sessions shared on a theme by theme basis

the moth

Beautiful/Anonymous: Beautiful stories from anonymous people with Chris Gethard

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The Skeptic’s Guide to the Universe: Science, superheroes, dumbest stuff, etc.

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Serial: One story told week by week for the whole season

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Kobo Writing Life: Tons of writing topics and interviews

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The Author Hangout: Mainly focused toward indie authors with marketing tips

author hangout

If you’re a podcast listener, tell me what you’re listening to, and if you’re not, try some of these out!

Creating a Marketing Plan: Part 4

To start at the beginning with your marketing plan, check out Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. Keep reading for info on contacting media.

Contacting the Media

old microphoneRadio

  • Local stations are great to announce local events (call, email, FB). Most are very friendly to local authors and have regular community activities announcements they can include your event in.
  • College radio stations are often geared toward academic interests and many are happy to share about your literary events and may have a show about books or writing that might fit your skills.

Internet Radio

Blog Talk Radio is the biggest internet radio service currently and there are many writing/book related shows. Many are interested in author interviews/book news/writing advice.

Podcast LogoPodcasts

Look for ones geared toward author interviews, writing advice, marketing ideas, book news, etc. There are hundreds of writing.book related podcasts and many are looking for authors to participate on a regular basis.

YouTube

Post your own interview or release post about your book. Share an excerpt of your book by reading it yourself or recording your voice to play with images related to the book. Use actors or volunteers to act out a scene from your book. Share advice or tips, or even discuss an event you attended like a video blog.

Blogs

There are thousands of book blogs online. Research what genres each blog is interested in reviewing, what type of posts they are interested in sharing, and what their guidelines are for submitting requests. Cold submissions can work, but you will be more likely to have your book accepted if you’ve done your research and interacted with the blog to build a relationship. This isn’t always possible with every blog, but do make an effort to follow their guidelines and only submit to blog interested in your genre.

Local TV

Not every town has a local TV station (mine doesn’t) but many local stations look for local interest pieces to fill out their broadcasts. Check out your local TV stations website and look for a “Contact” page. Most have an email address or form for “News Tips” or “Story Ideas.” Send them a professional media kit containing formation about your book and/or event and why it might be of interest to their viewers.

Contacting the media sounds scary, but there are many media outlets that are eager for guests/stories. Be professional and polite and take a chance.

WPR Header ImageTo listen to the full podcast on Creating A Marketing Plan That’s Actually Doable, check out the Write. Publish. Repeat. Podcast Part 1 and Part 2.