All Things Book Marketing

Smith Publicity

The Smith Publicity 'All Things Book Marketing' podcast explores all facets of book publicity and book marketing, with great expert guests sharing vital information for both authors and publishers.

  1. Crafting Genuine Connections and Building Thought Leadership on LinkedIn with Owen Sammarone

    FEB 5

    Crafting Genuine Connections and Building Thought Leadership on LinkedIn with Owen Sammarone

    Crafting Genuine Connections and Building Thought Leadership on LinkedIn with Owen Sammarone  In this episode of the All Things Book Marketing podcast by Smith Publicity, this episode’s host Marissa Eigenbrood, Smith Publicity’s President, interviews Owen Sammarone, founder of Unleash the Knowledge—a personal branding and ghostwriting agency.  Owen shares his journey from a non-reader to an influential content creator with a 200,000-follower community. The discussion centers on how founders, executives, and authors can leverage LinkedIn to build their brands, emphasizing the importance of authentic, value-driven content and genuine human connections.  Owen also offers practical tips on avoiding automated 'pitch slapping,' using AI judiciously, and nurturing relationships through personalized engagement. As they reflect on their longstanding professional relationship, Marissa and Owen explore actionable strategies to enhance online presence and drive business growth, stressing the significance of maintaining a human touch in the increasingly digital landscape. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:00 Meet Owen Sammarone : Founder of Unleash the Knowledge 04:17 Owen's Journey: From Non-Reader to Book Enthusiast 05:13 Building a Community and Personal Brand 15:00 The Power of Niching Down 18:27 Effective LinkedIn Strategies 24:03 The Value of Giving Without Expectation 25:11 Personalized Outreach Strategies 27:35 The Role of AI in LinkedIn Engagement 29:14 Maximizing LinkedIn's Potential 34:37 Effective Connection Requests 38:33 The Billboard Analogy for LinkedIn Profiles 44:24 Looking Ahead to 2026: Staying Human in a Digital World Owen Sammarone is the founder and CEO of Unleash The Knowledge, a personal-branding and thought-leadership agency that helps B2B founders, consultants, and executives turn their LinkedIn presence into a powerful, consistent driver of authority. He’s become known in the industry as a go-to “LinkedIn Growth Guy,” offering insights on how to turn content into consistent inbound demand, build authority, and scale influence — whether you’re an author, consultant, or executive looking to expand your impact   Smith Publicity is an international book publicity firm specializing in non-fiction, business, lifestyle and thought-leadership projects. Since 1997, they have helped authors and experts amplify their voices, reach the right audiences, and make a meaningful impact through media placements, strategic campaigns, and expert guidance. For more information visit Smith Publicity.

    48 min
  2. Dressing the Part With Kate Breen: The Power of Personal Style in Thought Leadership

    12/04/2025

    Dressing the Part With Kate Breen: The Power of Personal Style in Thought Leadership

    Dressing the Part With Kate Breen: The Power of Personal Style in Thought Leadership In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing with Smith Publicity,' CEO Sandy Smith interviews Kate Breen, the owner of Get Dressed Go, a top personal styling service in Washington, DC. Kate shares her experience styling executives, speakers, and professionals whose work demands an exceptional visual presence on stage and on camera. Discussing the importance of thoughtful clothing choices, Kate highlights common wardrobe mistakes and provides actionable advice on how to dress authentically and powerfully for professional events. Kate's process for working with clients involves deep dives into personal history, brand goals, and practical styling sessions that ensure clients look and feel their best. This episode offers valuable insights for authors, thought leaders, and speakers seeking to elevate their brand through their visual presence. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:30 Meeting Kate Breen: First Impressions 02:36 The Importance of Visual Presence 04:00 Dressing for Your Brand 08:01 Common Mistakes in Professional Attire 17:13 The Power of Authentic Style 19:22 Commanding Attention Through Style 23:18 Introduction to Working with Clients 23:48 The Importance of Understanding Personal Style 25:21 Gathering Client Information and Assets 26:22 Creating a Personalized Style Plan 27:49 Shopping and Outfit Coordination 29:44 The Role of Authenticity in Style 31:53 Empowering Clients Through Style 36:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information About Kate Breen Kate Breen is the owner of GetDressedGo, Washington, D.C.’s top-ranking private personal styling business. She has built a reputation for helping executives, speakers, and high-performing professionals look and feel their best in every setting. Through focused, productive styling sessions, Kate delivers immediate results for all aspects of her clients’ lives—from high-stakes presentations and keynote stages to charity events and casual weekends. About Smith Publicity Smith Publicity is an international book publicity firm specializing in non-fiction, business, lifestyle and thought-leadership projects. Since 1997, they have helped authors and experts amplify their voices, reach the right audiences, and make a meaningful impact through media placements, strategic campaigns, and expert guidance. For more information visit Smith Publicity.

    43 min
  3. From Kitchen to Bookshelf: The Changing Recipe for Cookbook Success

    08/13/2025

    From Kitchen to Bookshelf: The Changing Recipe for Cookbook Success

    In this episode, host and Smith Publicity Vice President Corinne Moulder chats with Sally Ekus, a senior literary agent at JVNLA, about the evolution and specialization of the culinary publishing market. Sally shares her journey growing up in the world of cookbook publishing, her expertise in representing culinary authors, and the shifts in the industry toward niche, hyper-targeted cookbooks. They also discuss the importance of leveraging backlists for ongoing success, the impact of platforms like Substack on the publishing industry, and the future trends in culinary and nonfiction publishing. The episode provides valuable insights for authors, publicists, and anyone interested in the culinary literary space. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:14 Sally Ekus' Background and Career Journey 01:57 The Evolution of Culinary Publishing 04:37 The Shift Towards Niche and Specialized Cookbooks 07:18 Successful Examples of Hyper-Targeted Cookbooks 13:14 The Importance of Backlist Promotion 23:16 Sally Ekus' Role and Future Plans 28:18 The Impact of Substack and Newsletter Platforms 33:06 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts Sally Ekus is a Senior Literary Agent at JVNLA where she spearheads The Ekus Group, a boutique culinary division representing a wide range of culinary, health, wellness, and lifestyle talent. On the non-culinary side, Sally represents books about caregiving and parenting, and is expanding into select other non-fiction genres. From concept to contract, she has brokered over 300 book deals with top publishers including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Hachette, Simon & Schuster, and numerous indie publishers. Sally hosts an online community called How to be a Cookbook Author and writes the bestselling Substack Newsletter, Not So Secret Agent. For more information about book publicity, visit Smith Publicity.

    35 min
  4. Allyship in Action: Lee Wind on Championing Inclusivity and Community in Publishing

    06/24/2025

    Allyship in Action: Lee Wind on Championing Inclusivity and Community in Publishing

    In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' host Smith Publicity's Corinne Moulder talks with Lee Wind, Chief Content Officer for the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA).  Lee discusses his award-winning program 'We Are Stronger Than Censorship,' which counteracts book challenges by donating books to promote freedom to read. He shares insights on creating impactful book marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of allyship and his experiences as an author focusing on queer history and social justice. Lee also introduces his upcoming picture book, Like That, Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally. For more information, visit wearestrongerthancensorship.org and leewind.org. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:19 Lee Wind's Background and Achievements 01:52 We Are Stronger Than Censorship: The Motivation 03:22 Challenges and Strategies in Book Banning 05:32 Program Partnerships and Community Involvement 07:23 Impact and Future Goals of the Program 20:38 The Importance of Allyship 21:51 Lee Wind's New Book: Like That, Eleanor 29:02 Book Marketing Tips and Strategies 38:43 Conclusion and Call to Action For more information visit Smith Publicity, connect with Corinne Moulder and Lee Wind.

    41 min
  5. Building Influence and Community: The Future (and Power) of Author Newsletters

    05/28/2025

    Building Influence and Community: The Future (and Power) of Author Newsletters

    Building Influence and Community: The Future (and Power) of Author Newsletters  In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' the host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity's Vice President of Business Development, interviews Kathleen Schmidt, founder of Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations. They discuss Kathleen's extensive experience in book publishing as a publicist, literary agent, acquisitions editor, and ghostwriter. Kathleen shares the inspiration behind her popular newsletter 'Publishing Confidential,'  on Substack.  She offers advice on creating engaging content, building a newsletter audience, and the evolving role of digital platforms in the publishing industry. Kathleen also touches on future plans, including branded events and a potential podcast. The conversation provides valuable insights for authors, experts, and publicists looking to navigate the ever-changing landscape of book publicity. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Hype 01:35 Kathleen's Journey to Publishing Confidential 03:32 Growing a Newsletter Audience 07:24 Balancing Personal and Professional Content 10:20 The Role of Newsletters in Modern Publishing 15:40 Tips for Publicists and Newsletter Writers 24:31 Starting and Sustaining a Newsletter 34:13 Future Plans and Conclusion For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

    36 min
  6. Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and Advice

    05/28/2025

    Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and Advice

    Authors: Crafting Your Media Presence, Interview Tips and Advice In this episode of 'All Things Book Marketing,' host Corinne Moulder, Smith Publicity's Vice President of Business Development, welcomes back Emmy award-winning television producer, bestselling author, and media training expert Paula Rizzo. Paula shares her journey from TV production to becoming a media trainer, emphasizing the importance of preparation, content creation, and confidence for authors and experts. She discusses common misconceptions about media training, the value of storytelling, the essentials of video creation, and effective strategies to handle interviews. Listeners will gain insights on becoming media-ready, leveraging their book as an extension of their brand, and preparing for media appearances. Paula also introduces her course, 'Media Ready Author,' aimed at helping authors successfully navigate the media landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:22 Paula Rizzo's Background and Journey 02:18 The Importance of Media Training 04:53 Becoming Your Own Producer 07:08 Creating and Leveraging Content 11:35 Tips for Effective Video Content 16:05 Preparing for Media Appearances 17:29 Television Interview Preparation 18:18 The Power of Storytelling in Podcasts 20:39 Essential Equipment for Podcasts 23:16 Handling Controversial Questions 28:32 Long-Term Media Strategy for Authors 31:09 Media Ready Author Course Overview For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.

    33 min
  7. How to Become the Media’s “Go-To” Expert

    04/23/2025

    How to Become the Media’s “Go-To” Expert

    In this episode of the All Things Book Marketing podcast, Sandy Smith from Smith Publicity converses with collegues and industry powerhouses Janet Shapiro, Vice President of Publicity, and Senior Publicist, Sophia Moriarty. They delve into innovative strategies for gaining attention in the book promotion world, emphasizing the crucial role of authors in collaboration with their publicists. Key topics include the shift towards direct media connections with experts, the importance of maintaining active engagement on platforms like LinkedIn, the evolving landscape of publicity, and the power of niche media for book sales and personal branding. The discussion highlights the value of patience and consistent effort in building long-term media relationships and leveraging social media for effective book marketing. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:13 New Strategies in Publicity 02:04 Collaborative Approach with Authors 03:08 Direct Media Connections 06:07 Effective Use of LinkedIn 09:36 Building Long-Term Media Relationships 17:16 Social Media Strategies for Authors 23:51 Establishing Client Relationships 24:07 Success Stories and Client Wins 25:00 The Importance of Persistence 26:23 Leveraging Niche Publications 30:02 Networking and Podcasting 31:26 Exploring Newsletters and Substack 34:24 The Value of Social Media Engagement 35:46 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

    45 min
  8. Navigating Bookscan: Making Your Bulk Book Sales Count and Creative Retail Sales Strategies

    04/23/2025

    Navigating Bookscan: Making Your Bulk Book Sales Count and Creative Retail Sales Strategies

    In this segment of Smith Publicity's 'All Things Book Marketing,' CEO Sandy Smith invites Garrett Perkins, CRO of Givington’s, to discuss effective strategies for authors to maximize their book marketing efforts.  With over 10 years of experience in the publishing and e-commerce industries, Garrett shares insights on leveraging books to build credibility, generate bulk book sales, and increase speaking fees. He explains the importance of partnering with certified retailers like Givington’s to ensure book sales are tracked properly for royalties and future publishing opportunities. Additionally, Garrett emphasizes the significance of starting marketing efforts early, building a direct-to-consumer content engine, and creating ancillary products like workbooks and animated book trailers. Authors are encouraged to think beyond the book and utilize various digital tools to engage their audience and enhance their brand. 00:00 Introduction to Smith Publicity 00:18 Meet Garrett Perkins: CRO of Givington’s 02:42 The Importance of Speaking Engagements for Authors 04:02 Creative Retail Sales Strategies 10:19 Certified Retail Sales and Their Importance 13:56 Planning Your Book Marketing Early 23:05 Building a Direct-to-Consumer Content Engine 27:56 Innovative Book Marketing Strategies 28:40 Case Study: John Mark Comer's Dual Book Release 29:50 The Power of Animated Book Trailers 31:37 Tailoring Marketing Strategies for Authors 33:41 Building a Comprehensive Book Ecosystem 39:36 Realistic Expectations for Book Sales 42:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    52 min
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4.8
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23 Ratings

About

The Smith Publicity 'All Things Book Marketing' podcast explores all facets of book publicity and book marketing, with great expert guests sharing vital information for both authors and publishers.

Information

  • Creator
    Smith Publicity
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    151
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Smith Publicity
  • Show Website
    All Things Book Marketing