The Publishing Performance Show

Shelby Leigh is a breakthrough mental health poetry author who has masterfully leveraged social media to transform her writing career from self-published obscurity to traditional publishing success. With over 103,000 Instagram followers and viral TikTok content that reaches millions, Shelby has become a case study in how modern authors can use digital platforms to build authentic connections with readers and drive real book sales. Her poetry focuses on mental health, healing, and personal growth, resonating with a generation seeking authentic voices in literature. Through her brand "Marketing by Shelby," she now helps other authors replicate her social media success.In this episode:From zero followers to 103K: Shelby's complete social media growth strategyHow mental health poetry found its massive audience through authentic storytellingTikTok marketing secrets that create viral BookTok content and drive salesContent creation systems that maintain consistency across multiple platformsThe psychology behind converting social media views into actual book purchasesAnalytics and metrics that matter: tracking what really drives book salesTransitioning from self-publishing to traditional deals using social proofBuilding a personal brand that attracts both readers and publishersThe intersection of vulnerability, poetry, and profitable content creationResources mentioned:Marketing by Shelby - Shelby's author marketing consultancy: https://www.marketingbyshelby.com/TikTok Solutions Program - Social media marketing course: https://www.marketingbyshelby.com/marketing-offersBookTok community - Poetry and book discovery platform: https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktokInstagram Marketing by Shelby - Visual content strategies: https://www.instagram.com/marketingbyshelby/YouTube Channel - Extended marketing tutorials: http://youtube.com/@marketingbyshelbyBook Recommendations for Poetry:"I Look to the Mourning Sky" by Liz NewmanWorks by Tristan Mateo - Contemporary poetryNikita Gill - Instagram poetry sensation: https://www.instagram.com/nikita_gill/?hl=enTraditional Poetry Influences:Emily DickinsonRupi Kaur - Modern poetry pioneer: https://rupikaur.com/Atticus Poetry - https://www.atticuspoetry.com/Modern Poetry Recommendations:"Luster" by Raven Leilani"From Sand to Stars" by Shelby LeighAmanda Lovelace - Instagram poetryConnect with Shelby Leigh:Website: https://shelbyleigh.co/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Stuart Grant is the founder of Digital Authors Toolkit, a specialized digital agency that has revolutionized how authors establish their online presence. With over a decade of deep experience in the publishing industry and more than 300 author websites in his portfolio, Stuart has become the go-to expert for writers who want to transform their digital footprint into a powerful marketing tool. His unique approach seamlessly blends technical web development expertise with an intimate understanding of author needs and reader behavior, creating websites that don't just look professional—they convert visitors into loyal fans and customers.In this episode:Why every author needs a professional website and the essential elements that drive resultsSmart website design strategies using your book covers as visual inspirationSEO optimization secrets that get your author site discovered by readersProven email list building techniques that turn website visitors into devoted fansTraffic generation strategies that bring the right readers to your digital doorstepThe most common (and costly) website mistakes authors make and how to avoid themTechnical tools and platforms that simplify author website managementHow to create a website that works as hard as you do to sell your booksReader psychology: designing websites that convert browsers into buyersResources mentioned:Wix - https://www.wix.com/Book Vault - https://bookvault.app/Lulu - https://www.lulu.com/Book Funnel - https://bookfunnel.com/Digital Authors Toolkit - https://www.digitalauthorstoolkit.com/Book recommendations:"Ted Talks" by Chris Anderson"Ultra Processed People" by Chris Van TullikenJD Kirk's Hoon seriesConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Kevin J. Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author and literary powerhouse with over 24 million books in print worldwide. Best known for his groundbreaking work expanding the Dune universe alongside Brian Herbert and his extensive contributions to the Star Wars expanded universe with 54 novels, comics, and young adult series, Kevin has helped shape two of science fiction's most beloved franchises. His unique career spans both traditional publishing giants and innovative indie approaches, making him one of the most versatile and successful authors in the industry today.In this episode:Behind-the-scenes secrets of writing in legendary universes like Dune and Star WarsThe strategic transition from traditional publishing to indie freedom and controlLeveraging Kickstarter and Patreon to build direct fan relationships and fund passion projectsInsider insights into Hollywood: the film and TV adaptation process revealedHow dictation technology can dramatically boost your writing productivityThe networking strategies that build lasting industry connections and opportunitiesPlatform-building advice for new authors entering today's competitive landscapeBalancing franchise work with original creative projectsThe evolution of publishing and what authors need to succeed nowResources mentioned:Wordfire Press (Kevin's publishing company)Kickstarter for Dan Shamble, Zombie PI seriesPatreon for exclusive content and fan interactionWestern Colorado University's graduate program in publishingSuperstars Writing SeminarsMac Whisper for AI transcriptionBook recommendations:"Death Warmed Over" (first book in the Dan Shamble, Zombie PI series)"On Being a Dictator" (Kevin's book on dictation for authors)Connect with Kevin J. Anderson:Website: https://wordfire.com/Patreon: KevinJAndersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/75203293463/?fref=nfX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/TheKJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealkja/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Craig Martelle is a powerhouse in the indie publishing world with nearly 200 published works, including over 110 full-length novels. A retired Marine and former lawyer turned bestselling author, Craig is the visionary founder of the 20 Books to 50K community—one of the largest and most supportive author networks in the world. His journey from military service to literary success has made him a sought-after mentor and speaker in the indie author community.In this episode:From Marine Corps to literary empire: Craig's incredible transformation storyThe productivity secrets behind writing and publishing multiple books annuallyStrategic book pricing that maximizes sales and reader acquisitionBreaking into international markets with German translations and global reachHow author conferences evolved and why they're crucial for indie successBuilding and nurturing thriving online author communities (20 Books to 50K insights)Mastering the balance between fiction series and non-fiction projectsThe mindset shifts that separate successful authors from struggling writersReal-world strategies for sustained long-term author careersResources mentioned:20 Books to 50K Facebook groupAuthor Nation conference (formerly 20 Books Vegas)Self-Publishing Show Live conferenceAmazon ads for authorsFindaway Voices for audiobooksTranslateBooks.com for translationsBooks Mentioned:Ian Bragg thriller seriesCygnus Space Opera seriesEnd Times Alaska seriesFree Trader seriesBattleship Leviathan series"Witten Wisdom""An Author's Legacy"Connect with Craig Martelle:Website: craigmartelle.comFacebook group: 20 Books to 50KConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Isabelle Knight is a celebrity publicist turned author branding expert who has worked with literary icons including JK Rowling and major organizations like the BBC. As founder of Build Your Author Brand, she brings insider knowledge from the world of high-profile publicity to help everyday authors develop powerful personal brands, connect with their ideal readers, and dramatically increase book sales. Her unique background bridges traditional PR with modern digital marketing strategies.In this episode:The celebrity publicist's approach to author branding that actually worksHow to identify and magnetize your ideal readers (not just any readers)Traditional PR vs. digital marketing: when to use each strategyThe newsletter and social media tactics that build genuine fan basesHow to pitch yourself like the pros (without feeling salesy)Strategic partnerships that amplify your book launchesReal case studies from successful author branding campaignsThe consistency secrets that separate amateur from professional authors Why most author marketing fails and how to avoid common pitfallsResources mentioned:Build Your Author Brand courseFacebook groups for author networkingNewsletter platforms for reader engagementBookshop partnerships for book launchesBook recommendations:"Enough" by Dr. Catherine McAleeseBooks by Pauline Tate"The Big Leap" by Gay HendrixConnect with Isabelle Knight:Website: https://buildyourauthorbrand.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/isabelle.knight.pr/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-knight-pr/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@isabelle_knight_prConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Dave Chesson is the founder of Kindlepreneur and creator of Publisher Rocket, one of the most trusted keyword research tools in the publishing industry. With years of experience helping authors crack Amazon's discovery algorithm, Dave has become the go-to expert for book marketing and keyword optimization. His platform Kindlepreneur has helped thousands of authors increase their book visibility and sales on Amazon.In this episode:* How Dave built Publisher Rocket into the industry's leading keyword tool* Decoding Amazon's algorithm: What really drives book discovery* Maximizing your 7 KDP keyword boxes for better rankings* Fiction vs. nonfiction keyword strategies that actually work* Using reverse ASIN research to spy on competitors* Finding profitable niches with low competition* Common keyword mistakes that hurt your book's visibilityResources mentioned:Publisher Rocket Kindlepreneur.com Guides7 Kindle Keywords: Use All 50 Characters or Not?Kindle Keyword Strategy For Fiction AuthorsAmazon KDPKindlepreneur Tools and ServicesBook recommendations:Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt DinnimanConnect with Dave Chesson:Website: https://kindlepreneur.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KindlepreneurContact: https://kindlepreneur.com/contact-me/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Kathleen Sweeney is the COO of Book Brush, a comprehensive design platform specifically created for authors since 2018. Book Brush specializes in helping authors create professional marketing graphics, book covers, 3D book mockups, video trailers, and social media content without requiring design expertise. The platform offers over 300 3D book versions, hundreds of cover templates, and access to 4.4 million stock images and videos through Pixabay integration. Kathleen leads the company's mission to make book marketing accessible and stress-free for indie authors, providing tools that help authors create professional-looking promotional materials that align with genre expectations and build author branding across all social media platforms.In this episode:Why some indie books look like bestsellers and others don'tThe importance of professional cover design for genre alignmentBook Brush's author-specific design platform and toolsCreating 3D book mockups from flat covers with simple clicksUsing templates and graphics designed specifically for different genresFont pairing and color psychology for book marketingAuthor branding strategies and maintaining consistent visual identityVideo creation tools including vertical format for mobile viewingTrope graphics and their effectiveness in reaching target readersCommon cover design mistakes authors makeThe process of creating covers and marketing materialsHidden features and creative ways to use Book Brush toolsGetting started with Book Brush: tutorials, support, and communityResources mentioned:Book BrushPixabayConnect with Kathleen Sweeney:Website: https://bookbrush.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/BookBrushFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BookBrush/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Dan Miller is the founder of The Copy Detectives, a specialized service that helps authors navigate copyright permissions and AI content disclosure requirements. With extensive experience in copyright law and clearance processes, Dan assists authors in understanding when they need permission to use quotes, images, and other content in their books. His expertise has become increasingly important as AI-generated content creates new challenges for copyright registration and protection. Dan works with authors to assess manuscripts for copyright issues, secure necessary permissions, and ensure compliance with both U.S. Copyright Office and Amazon KDP disclosure requirements for AI-generated content.In this episode:How AI content affects copyright ownership and registrationThe new requirement for copyright certificates before filing lawsuitsWhy authors need to register copyrights within 90 days of publicationThe difference between copyrightable and non-copyrightable AI contentAmazon KDP's AI disclosure requirements and potential consequencesWhen quotes require permission versus fair use considerationsThe five different U.S. copyright laws currently in effectPublic domain content and Creative Commons licensingWhy song lyrics and poetry quotes are particularly expensiveThe importance of keeping detailed records of all source materialsInternational copyright considerations under the Berne ConventionHow to work with copyright clearance servicesResources mentioned:U.S. Copyright Office: https://www.copyright.gov/Amazon KDP: https://kdp.amazon.com/Creative Commons: https://creativecommons.org/Berne Convention: https://www.wipo.int/treaties/en/ip/berne/Fair use doctrinePublic domain databasesCopyright registration certificatesConnect with Dan Miller:Website: https://thecopyrightdetective.com/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Kevin Tumlinson is a bestselling author and Chief Brand Officer for Author Anchor, a service that connects authors with trained virtual assistants from the Philippines. With extensive experience managing multiple business ventures while maintaining his writing career, Kevin understands the challenges authors face in balancing creative work with business operations. Author Anchor specializes in providing budget-friendly VAs at $7.50/hour who are specifically trained in author-related tasks including social media management, Facebook advertising, Amazon ads, graphic design, and platforms like BookBrush, Vellum, and Kickstarter. Kevin advocates for strategic delegation that increases revenue potential rather than just removing unwanted tasks from an author's plate.In this episode:Why authors need VAs and what tasks to delegate firstThe Author Anchor model: $7.50/hour trained VAs from the PhilippinesHow to structure your first VA projects for maximum successThe importance of clear communication and process documentationMarketing tasks VAs excel at: social media and Facebook advertisingBuilding trust and working relationships across time zonesWhen to hire additional VAs and scale your author businessThe economics of VA hiring: only when it increases revenue potentialEthical considerations and win-win economics of international hiringSetting up systems, software access, and payment structuresResources mentioned:Author Anchor: https://authoranchor.com/BookBrush: https://bookbrush.com/Vellum: https://vellum.pub/Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/Slack: https://slack.com/DiscordLastPassBookFunnelStoryOriginBook Recommendations:Various Kevin Tumlinson titles mentioned: https://www.kevintumlinson.com/booksConnect with Kevin Tumlinson:Website: https://authoranchor.com/Promo link: https://authoranchor.com/promoConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Matty Dalrymple is a bestselling author with two thriller series: the Ann Kinnear Suspense novels and the Lizzy Ballard thrillers. She's also the host of The Indy Author Podcast, which has been running since 2016 with nearly 270 episodes. As a writing consultant and speaker, Matty helps authors navigate both the craft and business sides of publishing. Her expertise in podcasting for authors stems from years of hosting her own show and appearing as a guest on numerous other podcasts, making her a valuable resource for authors looking to leverage audio content for platform building. In this episode: • Why authors should be podcast listeners before becoming podcast guests • The importance of having expertise beyond just your own book • How to research and identify the right podcasts for your genre • Creating personal connections with podcast hosts for better opportunities • Developing multiple conversation angles beyond "I wrote a book" • Using podcasts for networking and building long-term relationships • The difference between book tour podcasts and expertise-focused shows • Why social media matchmaking services can help beginners practice • Creating effective one-pagers and pitch materials for hosts • How podcast appearances can lead to speaking gigs and consulting opportunities Resources mentioned: • PodMatch for podcast guest/host connections • The Indy Author Podcast (Almost 300 now!) • BookFunnel for cross-promotion strategies • Author Nation conference for networking Book Recommendations: • Podcasting for Authors by Matty Dalrymple • The Podcast Guest Playbook by Matty Dalrymple & Mark Leslie LefebvreConnect with Matty Dalrymple: • Website: theindyauthor.com • Fiction website: mattydalrymple.com • The Indy Author Podcast • Fiction series: Rock, Paper, Scissors (Lizzy Ballard thrillers) • The Falcon and the Owl (Ann Kinnear suspense)Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/