The BookFunnel Podcast

BookFunnel CEO Damon Courtney interviews author and BookFunnel author support specialist Jack Shilkaitis to discuss the economics and practicalities of selling books in person, including Jack’s mall kiosk. They cover how local TikTok promotion creates repeat visits, why direct reader relationships and series sales can compound beyond an initial purchase, and how to price and prepare for events without taking on unnecessary costs.

SummaryIn this episode, Jack and Christina discuss the evolving landscape of direct sales for authors, sharing recent survey data, platform insights, and practical tips for building a successful direct sales strategy amidst industry changes.Key TopicsThe rise of direct sales and its impact on authorsSurvey data on author sales strategies and industry trendsPlatform integrations and tools for in-person and online salesThe importance of authentic engagement and face-to-face eventsOvercoming challenges like AI and platform changesPractical tips for signing books and bundling contentThe role of social media and personal branding in sales

SummaryIn this episode, Dani Collins shares her journey from traditional publishing to indie success, explores the power of reader magnets, author commentary, and effective marketing strategies for authors. Discover practical tips on building your author platform, leveraging social media, and optimizing pre-orders to grow your readership and sales. In this episode, Dani Collins shares her approach to creating engaging author commentary podcasts, monetization strategies, and content repurposing tips for authors looking to grow their audience and boost book sales.TakeawaysReader magnets are a powerful tool for building an email list and engaging readers.Author commentary and audio content can deepen reader connection and boost discoverability.Start with small, targeted ads and use pattern interrupts to capture attention.A well-crafted pre-order campaign can significantly impact long-term sales.Consistent communication through newsletters keeps your audience engaged and loyal.Diverse tactics, including social media, ads, and reader magnets, complement each other for maximum reach.Building a starter library helps new readers explore your work and find their favorite genre.Authentic, behind-the-scenes content fosters a stronger connection with fans.

SummaryIn this episode, Greg from Curios discusses the realities and misconceptions of direct sales for authors, the evolving industry landscape, and practical strategies for building a sustainable author career through direct sales and community engagement. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of book marketing, advertising strategies, and the future of direct sales for authors. Our guests share insights on Amazon algorithms, ad platforms like Reddit and Facebook, and innovative tools to streamline author success.Key TopicsMisconceptions about direct salesThe evolution of the book industryStrategies for indie authorsThe role of community and word-of-mouthTools and platforms for direct salesIndustry shifts from top-down to grassrootsAuthor branding and marketing tacticsThe importance of craft and feedback Amazon's genre and sales algorithmsEffective advertising platforms for authorsThe role of direct sales and author controlInnovative tools for book promotion and salesThe importance of reader experience and support

Learn More About Our GuestKacie's TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@ladybelkreads?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcKacie's YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@LadyBelkReadsHelpful BookFunnel LinksAuthor Knowledge Basehttps://authors.bookfunnel.com/Jack’s BookFunnel TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@jack.bookfunnelBookFunnel Podcasthttps://bookfunnel.transistor.fm/BookFunnel Authors Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/BookFunnelAuthorsBookFunnel Promos Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/BookFunnelBundles/Webinar Signuphttps://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel SummaryIn this episode, we explore the dynamics of the BookTok community, how authors can engage effectively, and the dos and don'ts of social media marketing for writers. In this episode, we explore the realities of author marketing, the importance of authentic content, and strategies for building a loyal reader base on platforms like TikTok. Our guest shares insights on review manipulation, content creation, and genre-specific marketing tips.

What if your next audience is waiting in another language?In this episode of the BookFunnel Podcast, Jack Shilkaitis and Emma Alisyn sit down with Maxwell Zachs, CEO of Translation Review and a longtime indie author, to explore how authors can bring their books into international markets without sacrificing quality, voice, or reader trust.Max explains how hybrid translation combines the speed and affordability of AI-assisted translation with the judgment, cultural knowledge, and nuance of professional human translators. The conversation goes far beyond simply translating the words on the page, covering everything from genre-specific terminology and localized marketing to foreign-language newsletters, international pricing, cover design, reader expectations, and long-term publishing strategy.Authors will also learn why a translated edition should be treated as a new publishing venture rather than an ancillary product—and why the translation itself is often only the beginning.Key TakeawayPublishing in translation is not simply a matter of converting a manuscript into another language. Each translated edition is a new book entering a new market, complete with its own readers, expectations, marketing opportunities, cultural context, and publishing strategy.Authors who approach translation with research, patience, professional support, and a willingness to engage with readers may discover opportunities well beyond the English-language market.About Maxwell ZachsMaxwell Zachs is the CEO of Translation Review and an independent author with nearly twenty years of publishing experience. After using AI-assisted translation to bring his own backlist into Spanish and other languages, Max recognized the need for professional human review to correct grammatical errors, preserve author voice, localize language, and improve the reader experience.Translation Review now works with a growing team of native-language translators to help authors prepare AI-assisted translations for publication across a wide range of international markets.Learn more about Translation Review and connect with Max through the company’s website.https://translationreview.ai/

SummaryIn this episode, Jack and Emma explore the realities of balancing full-time work and writing, the importance of motivation, setting boundaries, and the journey of building a sustainable author career. They share personal insights, practical tips, and the mindset needed to succeed as a part-time or full-time author. Key  TopicsBalancing full-time work and writingThe myth of work-life balanceSetting boundaries and managing crazyMotivation and accountability in writingLeveraging small wins and systemsThe importance of community and supportTime management and productivity hacksThe long journey of author success TakeawaysThere is no such thing as perfect work-life balance when you love your roles.Motivation often comes from systems, accountability, and enjoyment of the process.Tracking your time reveals how much actual work you can do in a day.Delegating tasks and learning new processes can free up creative energy.Progress is incremental; consistency over time leads to success.Understanding your true motivators helps sustain your writing journey.Life events can impact your writing schedule, and that's okay.Slow and steady wins the race in building an author career.Chapters01:20 Work-Life Balance for Authors04:53 Motivation and Accountability in Writing07:59 Finding Your Unique Motivation11:43 Time Management and Energy Awareness15:02 The Importance of Delegation18:41 High Leverage Opportunities22:20 Embracing Life's Challenges25:37 The Journey of Becoming an Author

In this episode of The BookFunnel Podcast, Damon Courtney sits down with Maxwell Salzberg, CEO of BackerKit, to talk about why crowdfunding has become one of the most exciting opportunities for authors today.Max shares how BackerKit grew from managing the “back of the house” for crowdfunding campaigns into a full crowdfunding platform, and why authors are especially well-positioned to use crowdfunding as part of a long-term publishing career. Damon and Max also discuss the rise of special editions, superfan-driven campaigns, direct reader relationships, and why a successful campaign starts long before launch day.Whether you’re thinking about your first campaign or looking for ways to turn your existing readers into a stronger community, this episode breaks down what authors should understand before they crowdfund.In this episode, we talk about:Why crowdfunding is really another form of direct salesHow authors can use crowdfunding to serve their superfansWhy your mailing list is the foundation of a successful campaignThe importance of “pre-live” campaign buildingHow to reduce the fear of public campaign failureWhy special editions, audiobooks, and premium products work well for crowdfundingHow smaller authors can think about campaigns without comparing themselves to Brandon SandersonWhy peer collaboration can help authors reach new readersWhat Bonkers Romance did well with community-driven campaignsHow BackerKit’s instant access rewards work with BookFunnelHow authors can use back catalog ebooks, audiobooks, bonus material, and samples to build campaign momentumKey takeawaysCrowdfunding is not just for massive authors with giant audiences. Max and Damon emphasize that authors can start small by focusing on the next realistic milestone: one fan, ten fans, one hundred fans, and so on.The most successful campaigns are not simply preorders. They become an event, a community experience, and an extension of the author’s world.Authors should not wait until launch day to find out whether people are interested. A pre-live landing page gives authors a quieter, lower-risk way to measure demand, build momentum, and know whether they are ready to launch.Mailing lists matter, but only if authors actually use them. Readers need to hear from authors regularly, not just when there is something to buy.Superfans are the core of a campaign. When authors create something specifically for the readers who love their work most, those fans often help bring the crowd to the crowdfunding campaign.Useful Links:The Author's Guide to Crowdfunding webinar with Bonkers Romance: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/bonkers-romance

In this episode, Amanda Traylor shares her journey of rebranding as June Patrick, the importance of authentic branding, and practical tips for authors to connect with their audience through in-person events, social media, and unique branding strategies.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:52 Amanda Traylor's Journey in Writing and Branding04:35 The Transformation into June Patrick07:20 Reinventing the Author Brand10:08 Embodying the Pen Name12:41 Connecting with Readers through Branding15:33 Navigating Goodreads and Author Reviews18:44 Building a Brand Through Newsletters26:43 Authenticity in Author Branding28:36 Understanding Your Audience35:21 In-Person Engagement and Reader Reactions39:10 Creative Branding Strategies for Authors41:10 Unique Promotional Items and Their Impact44:42 Connecting with Modern Audiences47:28 Finding Your Authentic Brand Voice50:38 Navigating Branding in Different Contexts

About Our GuestsJohnny B Truanthttps://johnnybtruant.com/Katie Crosshttps://katiecrossbooks.com/Todd Fahnestockhttps://toddfahnestock.com/SummaryThis episode explores the art and business of selling books in person at events like conventions and fairs. Authors share their experiences, strategies, and insights on how face-to-face sales can boost visibility, build community, and generate revenue. This episode features a lively discussion on in-person book sales, pitching strategies, and overcoming introvert/extrovert challenges at events. Johnny B Truant, Katie Cross, and Todd Fahnestock share practical tips, personal stories, and innovative ideas to boost author success at conventions and markets.Key TopicsIn-person book selling strategiesEvent selection and audience targetingBundling and pricing tacticsPitching and presentation skillsNetworking and brand building In-person book sales strategiesEffective pitching techniquesOvercoming introvert/extrovert challenges in marketing