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Matt Briel Podcasts

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In the Limelight: Lynette Greenfield Shares Her Passion for Publishing
59:13
59:13
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59:13In this episode, Matt & Lauren sit down with our friend Lynette Greenfield, author and founder of Limelight Publishing. Learn how Lynette turned her prolific writing career and passion for helping aspiring authors into a successful hybrid publishing company. Dive Deeper 💡 Meet Lynette & Learn More About Limelight Write Publish Repeat Lynette Greenf…
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In this episode, Lauren & Matt chat with old and new friends live from the show floor at Content Entrepreneur Expo! Tune in to hear from five industry experts about content creation and strategy, content entrepreneurship, book publishing, and most importantly, the great niche vs. niche debate. 3:42 → Austin L. Church on Writing a Book (and What He’…
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Maximizing Your First Impression in the Attention Economy
53:02
53:02
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53:02You only get one shot to make a first impression when inviting new guests into your brand–don’t scare them away before they even make it to the front door! In this episode, Lauren & Matt share essential tips for capturing attention quickly, maximizing your ‘curb appeal,’ and making your first look count. We talk through nailing your elevator pitch,…
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Maintaining Momentum After Your Book Launch
53:34
53:34
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53:34In this episode, Matt & Lauren share tips for making the most of your post-launch marketing and extending the sales cycle of your book. We talk through how to maintain the momentum of your brand growth, professional growth, and book sales by: Exploring new ways to approach earned promo opportunities Reinforcing your relationship with your existing …
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Understanding Your Audience with Reader Personas
49:40
49:40
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49:40Reader personas are a powerful tool for understanding your target audience! In this episode, Lauren & Matt explain the value of niching down into your target audience, how to create your ideal reader personas, and applying those to inform every step of your publishing journey. Whether you’re still drafting your first book or looking to inject new l…
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Calendars Are Still Cool (We Can Prove It)
49:51
49:51
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49:51In 2024, Lulu printed almost 57,000 calendars for creators and customers worldwide. In this episode, Matt & Lauren examine why wall calendars are so popular, the ROI on calendars, and different ways calendars can support your brand efforts. We also share calendar ideas for different types of creators, and our tips for making an awesome project. Don…
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The Email Marketing Podcast with Laurie & Lauren
45:21
45:21
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45:21In this episode Lauren is joined by Laurie Shipley, Lulu’s Email Marketing Manager, to explore the value of email marketing…beyond just newsletters! Laurie shares insights into growing and segmenting your email lists, using automated emails to increase revenue, and creating personal connections with your subscribers. Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur…
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Printing Money: How to Turn Subscription Content into Books
44:55
44:55
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44:55In this episode, Matt & Lauren review the power of print-on-demand books for subscription-based creators. Whether your content is behind a paywall, time-boxed, frequently updated, or even just spread out over multiple channels, print books can be a great way to support your fans, reach new subscribers, and further establish your expertise and autho…
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Scaling Up: What to Know About Bulk Book Printing
40:35
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40:35With print-on-demand, you can print just one copy of your book… But you can also print 100. Or 500. Or 1,000. Or 3,159. You do you. In this episode, Lauren & Matt talk bulk book orders; when you need them, how they work with print-on-demand, and all the logistics (and discounts!) you should know about. Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE even…
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Book Launch Blueprint: How Justin Moore Sold Over 1,000 Books in 90 Days
48:52
48:52
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48:52In this episode, Matt & Lauren break down one of Tilt Publishing's most successful book launches of the year. Meet Justin Moore, author of Sponsor Magnet and founder of Creator Wizard, and hear how he’s used proven strategies to successfully (and profitably) release his book. Justin will be at Content Entrepreneur Expo this August… will you? Don’t …
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How to Use Generative AI to Sell More Books
55:44
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55:44In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore different ways generative AI tools like ChatGPT can help you sell more books (without creating any public-facing copy or content). We share so many tips for using AI, including ways to: Help you brainstorm, refine, and execute marketing strategies. Facilitate your market research to better position and promote…
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Lauren Finally Gets to Talk About Fanfiction
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50:50
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50:50In this episode, Lauren finally gets to explain the intricacies and impact of fanfiction to Matt. Listen now for a slightly chaotic dive into fanfiction origins, the evolution of fanfiction as we know it today, the legal gray area of transformative works, and how fanfiction has impacted modern publishing. Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE e…
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Making the Most of Partnerships to Grow Your Audience
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51:53
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51:53In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore how indie authors and content entrepreneurs can use partnerships and collaborations to grow their audience, establish authority, and build long-term relationships that outlast any algorithm. We break down strategies for how to identify the right partners, pitch yourself, and make the most of a mutually benefic…
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In this episode, Matt & Lauren review how to publish your book in 7 steps! Check out these resources to help with each one: 💡 Step 1: Brainstorm Your Book Idea → [6:06] Listen to: Ep #32 | 5 Things to Know Before You Start Publishing Read: Turning Your Content Into a Book 💡 Step 2: Write & Organize Your Book → [9:46] Listen to: Ep #38 | 5+ Tools to…
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Paul's Pod: Your Guide to Taking Your Writing Habit to the Next Level
57:07
57:07
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57:07In this episode Lauren is joined by Lulu’s Senior Marketing Manager, blog writer, and master of copy, Paul Hobday. Paul responds to episode #53, How to Create A Writing Habit That Actually Sticks, and offers practical advice for aspiring writers ready to level up their writing habit into a purposeful writing practice. Don’t miss Content Entrepreneu…
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Audiobooks 101 for Indie Authors & Creators
56:00
56:00
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56:00In this episode Matt & Lauren debate the value and staying power of audiobooks, especially for indie authors. We take a look at market trends for audiobooks worldwide, different ways for authors and creators to produce and distribute their own audiobooks, and the pros and cons of creating audiobook versions of your books. Don’t miss Content Entrepr…
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Build Your Own Book: Design Choices for Print Books
52:30
52:30
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52:30In this episode Lauren & Matt explore the design options available for print books. We review the distinctions between trim sizes, binding types, paper types, ink quality, and cover finish, and popular choices for different product types. Watch the episode on YouTube for visual examples! Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators,…
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International Book Rights for Indie Authors
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49:00
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49:00In this episode, Matt & Lauren talk through what you need to know about licensing your book rights with foreign publishers. We debate the merit of reaching out to new markets, what that process looks like, and how to use an agency like DropCap to secure international rights deals. Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators, author…
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We’ve mentioned, once or twice, the value of selling direct. But how does it actually work? In this episode, Lauren & Matt walk through the direct sales cycle and answer some common questions, including: How do transactions work? Who handles customer issues? What am I supposed to do with my customer data? Don’t miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE e…
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We Love Content Entrepreneur Events So Much, We Bought One!
51:44
51:44
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51:44In 2023, Lulu bought Content Entrepreneur Expo, an event for content creators and content entrepreneurs. In this episode, Matt & Lauren share an inside look into why we got involved in CEX, what we’ve learned about events after owning one, and why we think content creators, entrepreneurs, and authors should join us in Cleveland this August! Use pro…
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Maximizing Your Chances of Discoverability in Generative AI Search
50:54
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50:54In this episode, Lauren & Matt dig into what discoverability looks like in a world where generative AI is changing how readers find books online. We look at what generative AI looks at when choosing what to cite or recommend, and share practical tips to help authors & creators appear in AI search results and, more importantly, to build lasting audi…
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Whether you’re a food blogger, travel blogger, business blogger, lifestyle blogger, finance blogger, or any kind of blogger, you all have one thing in common: your content would make a great book. In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore the value of publishing your blog as a physical book. We also review the key steps to getting from blog to book, i…
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How Authors Can Use Long-Form Video to Build Their Brand
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54:42
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54:42In this episode of POD Pod, Lauren is joined by Lulu’s Education & Community Manager (and YouTube celebrity) Chelsea Bennett! Tune in for a conversation on the value of adding long-form video content to your marketing strategy, how authors can use video to connect with their audience, and getting comfortable on camera (and ignoring the haters). Lik…
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In this episode, Matt & Lauren–who are definitely not lawyers–take on copyright law. We talk through what indie authors need to know about copyrighting their books in the US, why and how authors should register their work for copyright, and how fanfiction and generative AI may impact copyright in the future. Again: we are not attorneys. Watch this …
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Extend Your Books’ Shelf Life with Backlist Book Marketing
42:57
42:57
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42:57In this episode, Lauren and Matt are ready to inject new life into your backlist book titles. We share ideas for using your backlist to experiment with new formats and distribution channels, turning your older books into lead magnets, and generating passive income from your content long after launch. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Boo…
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Beyond the Algorithm: Relationship Marketing for Authors & Publishers [Live From London Book Fair]
30:38
30:38
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30:38Recorded Live from London Book Fair! In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore the value of relationship marketing (tailoring your efforts to connect with your audience) versus algorithm marketing (tailoring your efforts to satisfy algorithms). We debate the merits of both strategies and share actionable steps to use them together to grow your brand. …
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Sustainability in Publishing: Reducing Waste One Print Book at a Time
42:37
42:37
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42:37In this episode, Matt & Lauren take a critical look at wasteful practices in the publishing industry. We share insight into what it takes to become a certified B Corp (like Lulu!), how book printing creates both physical and carbon waste, and what we can all do to make publishing more sustainable. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Resour…
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Creating a Custom Book Business Using Lulu's Print API
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48:01
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48:01In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore Lulu’s open source Print API. Don’t know what an API is? We’ve got you covered. We also talk through the value of personalized products and creative ways to use Lulu’s Print API to power your custom book business. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Learn more about Lulu’s Print API 💡 Sponsor Magnet b…
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Book Publicity Simplified with Sarah Franklin
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51:55
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51:55In this episode, Matt & Lauren are joined by Sarah Franklin, Lulu’s Public Relations Manager and expert book publicist! Hear about book publicity simplified as Sarah answers questions like: → What’s the value in hiring a publicist vs. doing your own publicity? → What exactly is a publicist’s role in book marketing? → How do you make the most of ear…
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Mastering Book Metadata to Maximize Market Reach
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45:13In this episode, Lauren & Matt deep dive into book metadata and how it can better position your book in the market. Maximize your discoverability and reach with tips on choosing bookstore categories and BISAC codes, tools for keyword research, and best practices for making the most of your metadata. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Comp…
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Creative Ways to Use Print-On-Demand to Support Your Business
50:17
50:17
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50:17In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore different ways print-on-demand technology can support your business. We share ideas for creating books for internal use, brand awareness and loyalty projects, and new product lines to consider. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Listen to These Episodes Episode #22 | Using Customer Data to Grow Your …
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How to Use a Preorder Campaign to Boost Your Book Launch
54:18
54:18
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54:18In this episode, Lauren & Matt make a case for why every indie author should try using a preorder campaign to support their prelaunch marketing efforts and boost their book sales. We talk through how preorder campaigns can help you reach your target audience, different kinds of campaigns, and ways to collect your preorders. Watch this episode on Yo…
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The Indie Author's Guide to Going Wide With Your Book Distribution
49:22
49:22
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49:22In this episode, Matt & Lauren answer questions about moving your books from Amazon to other ecommerce solutions, including global distribution and direct sales. Learn how to maximize your book’s availability, forge stronger connections with loyal readers, and grow your revenue when you go wide. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Wide for…
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How to Hit Your Perfect Pitch for Speaking Engagements
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54:59
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54:59In this episode, Lauren & Matt share tips for aspiring public speakers. We talk through presenting your best pitch to event organizers, targeting your ideal audience with your session title and description, and representing yourself with your speaker bio. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Learn About CEX 2025 💡 Joe Pulizzi on LinkedIn 💡 …
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Can Books Add Value to Your Business (Beyond Just Revenue)?
46:14
46:14
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46:14In this episode, Matt & Lauren tell you why publishing a book can do more for your business than just adding a new revenue stream.. Learn how books can establish your expert reputation, connect you with new audiences, and strengthen relationships with your existing fans. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 The Tilt Newsletter 💡 The Busines…
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How to Create A Writing Habit That Actually Sticks
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47:09
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47:09Is this the year you’re finally going to publish that book? Or maybe you just want to write more than you did last year. In this episode Lauren & Matt share tips for building a writing habit in a way that works best for you… and set a few lofty goals of their own. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Lulu Blog | Writing & Editing, Software …
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Did Indie Authors Publish and Prosper in 2024?
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49:52In this episode Matt & Lauren recap some of the hottest topics and trends in the publishing industry from 2024, and make a few predictions for 2025. Thanks for a great year of publishing and prospering with us! Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Written Word Media | 2024 Indie Author Survey Results: Insights into Self Publishing for Autho…
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Finding Your Niche, Your Ideal Reader, and Your Target Audience
46:22
46:22
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46:22In this episode Lauren & Matt explore the journey to successful audience growth by finding your content niche, defining your ideal reader, and identifying your target audience. We also discuss the value of learning from other creators, ways to inject new life into your marketing efforts, and the correct way to pronounce niche, among other things. W…
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Debunking Myths and Misconceptions About Self-Publishing
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44:39
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44:39In this episode, Matt & Lauren tackle some of the most common misconceptions about self-publishing. We debunk myths like: ❌ You won’t make any money self-publishing ❌ You have to spend a lot of money to self-publish ❌ There’s no credibility in self-publishing And most importantly: fake M&Ms are just as good as real M&Ms. Watch this episode on YouTu…
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What Keeps Self-Published Books Off the New York Times Best-Seller Lists?
46:10
46:10
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46:10In this episode, Lauren & Matt discuss the New York Times Best Seller lists. Learn how the lists are decided, what disqualifies a book from being a potential NYT Best-Seller, and why self-published authors rarely make the cut. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 The New York Times | About the Best Sellers 💡 Novlr | The New York Times Bests…
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What Does Taylor Swift Know About Book Publishing?
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45:00In this episode, Matt & Lauren have a conversation about Taylor Swift’s upcoming book, talking through her decision to self-publish it, and what that says about the future of traditional publishing. Disclaimer: This episode was Matt’s idea, not Lauren’s. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Target Press Release 💡 Related Episodes Ep #2 | Is…
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Metrics That Matter: A Guide for Authors & Creators
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47:50In this episode, Lauren & Matt review the important metrics you need to be tracking to boost your book sales, grow your brand, and connect with a loyal audience. We take a look at social media, email, website, and customer data and share valuable tools and tips to help you make the most of the data you collect. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive D…
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In this episode, Matt & Lauren share tips for maximizing your return on investment when you attend a conference. We have our top picks for note-taking, strategies for putting your ideas into action, and using your conference experience to establish yourself as a thought leader. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Otter.AI 💡 Ecamm Live 💡 An…
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Ask Matt (and Lauren) Anything: Answering Your Questions
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44:42It’s officially been one year of Publish & Prosper! Join Lauren & Matt for a special Ask Us Anything episode, where we take listener questions about publishing, marketing, Lulu products, and - of course - Disney. We answer questions like: Do you start building your audience first and then write your book, or do you start writing your book first and…
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How to Repurpose Your Book (and Other Content) for Social Media
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57:40In this episode, Matt & Lauren review the best ways to repurpose content for social media. They talk through reusing your existing social content, reposting other people’s social content, and repurposing your book material as social content. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Listen to These Episodes Episode #12 | Social Media Marketing f…
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Make Your Self-Published Books Stand Out with Custom Details
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51:23Custom and special edition books are more popular than ever - and more accessible than ever. In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore how indie authors can create custom editions of their self-published books. We look at popular customizations like sprayed edges, embellished covers, specialty bindings, and more! Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive De…
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Should Self-Published Authors Use Beta Readers and Sensitivity Readers?
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49:57In this episode, Matt & Lauren help you maximize your book’s potential with early readers like beta readers, sensitivity readers, and industry reviewers. We take a look at how and when to engage with them, how they can help your book, and what to offer them in return. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Check These Resources The Editorial …
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How to Drive Book Sales Without Offering Discounts
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48:13In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore creative ways to boost book sales! Learn how limited editions, bundles, personalized products, and more can incentivize new and returning shoppers to buy directly from you - without resorting to discounts. Watch this episode on YouTube! Dive Deeper 💡 Read These Blog Posts What Are Product Variants & Why Do Aut…
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Getting Your Bookstore Ready for the Holidays
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51:36In this episode, Matt & Lauren tackle the upcoming holiday season. They’ll discuss best practices for getting your books ready, optimizing your site or bookstore, speaking to gift givers instead of your target audience, and reviewing your social media for book promo opportunities. Dive Deeper 💡 Check These Resources Make Books Make Bank PDF Downloa…
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Pain Point Solutions for Your Ecommerce Store
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45:27In this episode, Lauren & Matt tackle some common pain points entrepreneurs and ecommerce store owners struggle with. We’ll talk through solutions and tips for collecting sales tax, setting up shipping and managing shipping issues, and providing proactive customer service for your shoppers. Dive Deeper 💡 Sales Tax Lulu Knowledge Base | How Do I Con…
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