

Before The Bestseller
Alex Strathdee
This show is for book lovers and creators who want to go behind the scenes with their favorite authors to hear about how they were able to not just write a book but create a movement.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 4, 2024 • 29min
BTB87: The 12 Week Year | Michael Lennington
Today, we're thrilled to welcome our new co-host and COO, Laura Briggs, alongside our esteemed guest, Michael Lennington, co-author of the groundbreaking book The 12 Week Year. This book has been a constant companion for Laura for over many years, offering invaluable insights into time management and strategic project planning. Whether you're seeking to enhance your time management skills or looking to approach your projects with a more strategic mindset, this episode promises to be a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom shared by Michael. Get ready for an enlightening journey in this episode, where we uncover the transformative principles of The 12 Week Year. Discover the immense power behind this approach as we delve into its proven strategies, drawn from the successes of countless businesses worldwide. Join us as we explore why traditional annual goals might be holding you back and how embracing 12-week cycles can revolutionize your planning and strategy. Tune in to learn why it's time to ditch the old methods and embrace a more dynamic, effective approach to achieving your goals.Check out The 12 Week Year Website here.Get to know more about the book here.—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Jan 22, 2024 • 22min
BTB86: 100k Followers: TikTok Quality Content and Book Promotion with Colton Dubell
In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of TikTok as a powerful tool for book promotion as I have recently become obsessed with this fascinating platform, details of which you can find in my newsletter and podcast. Join us as we dive into a conversation with Colton Dubell, a TikTok enthusiast, and discuss his remarkable journey to over a hundred thousand followers within six months. Colton shares invaluable insights into overcoming challenges on TikTok, unveiling surprises, navigating psychological biases, and adopting a unique approach that challenges conventional advice. Discover how he defies the norm of posting three videos a day, choosing to prioritize quality over quantity. Colton gives us a unique perspective at using TikTok to promote content by going over his distinct formula for success. Tune in to gain exclusive insights and join us in welcoming Colton to the show.For everyone passionate about drawing anime manga, explore Colton's expertise at drawanimeacademy.com, and don't miss his book, 'Anime Academy! How to Draw Manga.' Explore more and follow their TikTok here.—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Jan 15, 2024 • 22min
BTB85: Blueprint for Podcasting Success with the Top 100 Podcast Strategist Chris Jordan
Chris was kind enough to grace us with his presence again, delving into the captivating domain of podcasting during this episode. If you're an author, you’ve probably heard a million times about the importance of podcasting - getting on podcasts, having and hosting your own podcast, and to put it bluntly, that advice is not completely useful. What truly resonates are actionable strategies and precise insights into approaching figures like Ed Mylett, whom we use as a prime example to secure spots on prominent shows. Ever wonder why you find yourself at the center of attention from influential platforms? Many people struggle with this question, particularly those who are just starting their podcast journey. Chris, our esteemed guest, has dedicated the past two and a half years to producing top podcasts, including 'The School of Greatness' and 'The Daily Motivation,' both by Lewis Howes with second podcast having produced and launched by Chris. Additionally, he collaborated with Dr. Benjamin Hardy on the production of 'The Dr. Benjamin Hardy Show,' and worked with him to get into the top Business podcast charts on apple.Chris has also played a significant role in guiding authors through successful book launches, offering expertise on maximizing book sales and developing effective strategies within the podcasting lens. Chris, our esteemed guest, is set to unfold a detailed narrative—a blueprint that empowers individuals to optimize their time, channel their energy effectively, and make smart financial decisions within the dynamic landscape of podcasting. Get ready for an insightful conversation that delves deeper than meets the eye and paves the way for anyone looking to achieve real success in the fascinating realm of podcasting.Check out Chris' podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/thepodcastgameGet a free consultation with Chris: https://bit.ly/growyourpodFollow Chris:https://www.linkedin.com/in/imchrisjordan/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5fupZwpmzMhttps://www.instagram.com/imchrisjordan/https://twitter.com/imchrisjordanCheck out free content and more of Chris Jordan through this link:https://linktr.ee/thepodcastgame—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Jan 8, 2024 • 24min
BTB84: Working behind the scenes with Lewis Howes, Daymond John, Dr. Benjamin Hardy - Chris Jordan
Today's featured episode spotlights a valued colleague turned close friend, Chris Jordan. While Chris may not be a widely recognized name right now, his influence extends deeply within the inner workings for prominent figures such as Lewis Howes, Daymond John of Shark Tank, Gary Vee, and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. Chris has made a significant contribution behind the scenes to these teams in a variety of roles, from video editing to podcast production and most recently, book launching. Chris has an amazing track record of working with a wide spectrum of personalities, and his extensive knowledge of multiple platforms made me know right away that I had to have him on the show. Chris's wealth of knowledge extends from book marketing to also understanding the intricacies of podcasting and getting on podcasts that contribute to book success and longevity. I am genuinely excited to have Chris as our guest for this episode and he has graciously agreed to come back next time to talk about everything from having your own podcast to navigating the podcasting landscape. It is my pleasure to welcome Chris Jordan. Check out Chris' podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/thepodcastgameGet a free consultation with Chris: https://bit.ly/growyourpodFollow Chris:https://www.linkedin.com/in/imchrisjordan/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5fupZwpmzMhttps://www.instagram.com/imchrisjordan/https://twitter.com/imchrisjordan—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Dec 11, 2023 • 23min
BTB83: Over 200,000 copies sold with 5,000+ Amazon ratings in just 1 year with Joseph Nguyen
Joseph Nguyen, author and content creator behind the bestseller Don't Believe Everything You Think, shares his rapid writing process and how he built massive sales and engagement through solo TikTok marketing. He discusses posting three times daily, pre-launch strategies using excerpts and email, influencer outreach tactics, and why intent and persistence matter in building momentum.

Dec 4, 2023 • 33min
BTB82: Don't Believe Everything You Think | Joseph Nguyen
Joseph Nguyen, author of Don’t Believe Everything You Think and self-help writer, distills how thought patterns shape suffering and success. He recounts immigrant family roots, leaving college to help his family, and learning marketing. Conversations cover letting go of stories, when to seek therapy, setting inspiration-based goals, and feeling desired emotions now.

Nov 13, 2023 • 21min
BTB81: Navigating the New York Times List Criteria with Leading Book Marketer Michael Drew
In this episode, our spotlight is on the coveted New York Times list and the intricate process of securing a spot. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Michael Drew offers a firsthand perspective, and meticulous review of the diverse standards imposed by the New York Times in order to garner recognition fit for a list. Join us as we explore the interesting realm of literary acknowledgment, led by Michael Drew's perceptive analysis of the criteria that propel books to the New York Times list.Check out Michael Drew’s website here: https://promoteabook.com/Subscribe to our newsletter here—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Nov 6, 2023 • 40min
BTB80: Behind the Scenes of Bestselling Books: Expertise from Michael Drew, Leading Book Marketer
Today's guest is Michael Drew, and I've invited him not only because he's an author, but rather due to his extensive work with some of the most renowned authors in the industry. He has collaborated with well-known authors such as John Spoelstra, who has previously appeared on this show, T. Harve Eker, the author of 'Secrets of a Millionaire Mind,' and Marshall Goldsmith—authors who have sold millions and millions of copies of their books. The list continues with notable individuals like Roy Williams and authors that many of our listeners are familiar with. These authors, including Dr. Goldsmith and T. Harve, have achieved remarkable book sales, and Michael played a significant role in their successful promotion.Michael is also recognized for his ability to assist authors in securing coveted spots on prestigious lists such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today. He simultaneously enhances the authors' businesses through essential marketing activities required for a book to attain such distinctions which is indeed intriguing, and our interview delves deeply into it. This is Michael's first time on the show and much of our focus will be primarily on the theory of book marketing.Back when I initially entered this domain, a conversation like the one we're about to have would have been a game-changer for many up-and-coming authors. My goal for you and our conversation is just to be able to absorb as much as you can about the inner workings of the publishing industry and the true factors that keep a book successful over the long haul with our expert, Michael Drew.—Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Oct 9, 2023 • 27min
BTB79: Dr. Michael Rucker’s Marketing Craft -- Selling over 10,000 copies with journalist engagement and book publishing deals
In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Michael Rucker, an accomplished author, to share his insights into the remarkable success of his book, which has sold over 10,000 copies. Dr. Rucker has extensive knowledge in reaching out to journalists, a skill that has landed him in the esteemed newsletters of prominent media outlets like NPR and CNN. Dr. Mike Rucker also did a great job networking his way into a book publishing deal. Join us as we explore his journey and learn insightful wisdom on the craft of marketing The Fun Habit.Make sure to follow our guest on these sites for more of their expert advice.Website: https://michaelrucker.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/performbetterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.rucker.phdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewonderoffunLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelruckerPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mikeruckerphdSimon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Fun-Habit/Mike-Rucker/9781982159054Substack: https://funhabit.substack.comYou can also get his book here. —Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com

Oct 2, 2023 • 25min
BTB78: The Fun Habit | Michael Rucker, Ph.D.
Michael Rucker is an organizational psychologist, behavioral scientist, a charter member of the International Positive Psychology Association, and currently serves in the Active Wellness as a Senior Leader who has been academically published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management and Nutrition Research. His ideas about fun and health have been featured in a variety of publications, including the Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Vox, Psychology Today, Thrive Global, Fast Company, the Telegraph, and many more. He is a remarkable behavioral scientist in addition to being a good author. What sets him apart is how, in a never-ending pursuit of happiness, which I have also come across, Mike is the first self-help author to call out in the book that if you have any mental disorder or depression, then, this probably is not the magic fix for you which is one of the first realistic approaches to a self-help book that I've actually seen making his book truly stand out. Join us as we explore how these components fit into the fun habit and discover its true essence with Mike Rucker.Make sure to follow our guest on these sites for more of their expert advice.Website: https://michaelrucker.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/performbetterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.rucker.phdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewonderoffunLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelruckerPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mikeruckerphdSimon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Fun-Habit/Mike-Rucker/9781982159054Substack: https://funhabit.substack.comYou can also get his book here. —Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.—Get the popular weekly book marketing 3-2-1 and get access to our $299 Amazon Ads course when you subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.comIf you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com


