Creatively Speaking | Weller Smith Design LeAnna Weller Smith

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding, we unlock the secrets to writing impactful, must-read books with renowned author, co-writer, and book strategist AJ Harper. Known for her work on best-sellers like "Profit First" and "Clockwork," AJ brings invaluable insights from her rich experience to help you transform your approach to book writing. Join us as we delve into AJ's proven methodologies for identifying and connecting with your ideal readers, ensuring your book connects with your desired audience. Learn how to gather and utilize audience feedback through social media and informal polls, and hear real-life success stories like Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier's "The Resilience Plan." AJ teaches listeners practical tips for overcoming writing challenges and maintaining creative momentum. AJ also shares her personal journey from ghostwriting to teaching, including the emotional and professional hurdles she has faced. As our conversation continues, we explore the benefits of platforms like Substack for content experimentation and gain the empowering belief that anyone with a book idea can bring it to fruition. So, whether you're just starting or looking to refine your craft, this episode is your guide to creating life-changing, reader-centered books. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with AJ Harper!

Key takeaways:


Understanding your readers' needs and preferences is crucial for creating impactful content. Learn to pinpoint and connect with your target audience to ensure your book resonates deeply and inspires recommendations.


Gather insights through social media and informal polls to shape your writing. This feedback helps address your readers' perceived obstacles and aligns your book with their expectations.


Discover practical tips for maintaining creative momentum and tackling common writing hurdles. From food bloggers to seasoned authors, anyone can benefit from AJ's advice on staying motivated and productive.


Authenticity and transparency are key in collaborations. AJ's experiences, including her work with Mike Michalowicz, highlight the importance of genuine partnerships in the creative process.


Platforms like Substack offer opportunities for experimenting with content and building a community. Utilize these tools to refine your ideas and engage with your audience effectively.



Connect with AJ!

Website: www.ajharper.com

Facebook: @AJHarperAuthors

Substack: @WriteAMustRead

LinkedIn: @Anjanette "AJ" Harper

Listen to the Podcast, Don’t Write That Book with co-host Mike Michalowicz: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dont-write-that-book/id1713598466

Buy AJ’s Book, Write a Must-Read: https://amzn.to/3xsC0j2



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: 

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding, we chat with Bekah and Nikki, the masterminds behind Method Agency. During our discussion, Bekah and Nikki share the background of their unexpected friendship, born out of a mutual love for Twilight. This friendship ultimately led to a professional partnership that landed their first major client, Stephenie Meyer herself! Bekah and Nikki share their journey from college students to digital marketing pioneers in the early 2000s. In this episode, Bekah and Nikki delve into the impact of AI on content creation; the surprising phenomenon of "BookTok;" and strategies for authors to leverage social media, providing a helpful guide for setting effective goals to propel writing careers. There are even some encouraging and inspiring success stories sprinkled in along the way! Whether you’ve already completed your novel, are still in the beginning phases of writing, or haven’t even begun, Bekah and Nikki provide tips for authors at every stage!

Key takeaways:


Turning personal interests and hobbies into professional opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths!


Staying current with industry trends, like the shift from written content to visual platforms, is essential for maintaining relevance and competitiveness. Flexibility and willingness to embrace new mediums can significantly boost your marketing efforts.


Social media platforms, such as TikTok, can have a significant impact on sales and brand visibility. Understanding and utilizing these platforms effectively can help you reach new audiences and drive engagement!


The rise of AI in content creation presents both challenges and opportunities, and learning how to incorporate new technologies into your strategy can enhance productivity and creativity! 


Setting clear goals and treating your career with a business mindset are crucial for long-term success. Personalized support, community connections, and strategic planning can propel your professional growth and help you achieve your objectives.



Connect with Method Agency!

Instagram: @methodagency

Website: https://methodagency.com/

Interested in working with Bekah and Nikki? They’re currently enrolling in their Ink to Influence author marketing program! Method Agency is offering a 2-week bonus in the program (a $399 value!) PLUS anyone listening to the podcast who mentions Creatively Speaking will get $150 off the first payment!*

*Through 8/31/24. Payment plans only.



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: 

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc



#Marketing Agency #DigitalMarketing #BookSales #ContentCreation #CoachingGroup

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding, we welcome Althea Brown, author of "Caribbean Paleo." Althea's transformation from food blogger to published author is a story of cultural preservation and community building. During our discussion, Althea shares her journey from exploring her Guyanese culinary roots to adopting a gluten-free lifestyle, not just for her health, but to preserve her heritage for her American-born children. Her gluten-free adaptations of Guyanese and Caribbean cuisine have resonated with a community seeking wellness through culturally-rooted recipes. As Althea recounts the publicity her cookbook received and her efforts to promote it, she highlights how bringing on a publicist, along with word of mouth and valuable industry connections led to her book’s promotion on an international scale. Listeners will be inspired by Althea's experiences promoting her book, from book signings to her strategic use of social media. Her commitment to community-building shines as she shares tips for creating an engaging online presence and the importance of authenticity. This episode is a call to action for anyone looking to infuse authenticity into their culinary endeavors!

Key takeaways:


Embrace and adapt your cultural traditions to fit modern lifestyles, ensuring they are preserved and appreciated by future generations.


Dedication and meticulous attention to detail are essential when embarking on any complex project, such as publishing a book. Stay committed to your vision despite the challenges.


Successful promotion requires a mix of in-person events and a strong online presence. Engage your audience authentically to build meaningful connections and drive interest in your work.


Use social media strategically to create and nurture a community around your passions. Authenticity and consistent engagement are key to building a loyal following.


Sharing personal health journeys can resonate with and inspire others. Be open about your experiences to create a supportive community around wellness and lifestyle changes.



Connect with Althea!

Instagram: @metemgee

Website: www.metemgee.com



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: 

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc



#Guyanese #Caribbean #Paleo #Whole30 #BookPromotion #Publicity

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding, we have not one, but two amazing guests join us! Tessa Arias, culinary blogger behind HandletheHeat.com and author of The Ultimate Cookie Handbook, along with Amanda Bond, “The Ad Strategist,” discuss the  self-publishing success and turning your written masterpiece into an Amazon bestseller. Tessa recounts her journey from culinary school to authoring her second cookbook, while Amanda offers expert advice on using Facebook ads to boost your book’s visibility. We delve into Amazon's fulfillment options, discussing the benefits of Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) and navigating profit margins across platforms. Learn how to prepare your products for Amazon's standards and streamline your logistics. Our discussion covers strategic pricing, paid campaigns, and enhancing customer experience to expand your book-selling empire.

With insights from Tessa and Amanda, you’re one step closer to making your self-published work an Amazon bestseller!

Key Takeaways


Leverage the power of Facebook ads to increase your book's visibility and reach a larger audience, making your marketing efforts more effective.

Learn about the benefits and logistics of using Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA), including Prime eligibility and customer satisfaction, to streamline your book sales and distribution.

Get tips on how to prepare your products for Amazon’s marketplace, compare profit margins across different platforms, and make informed decisions to boost your revenue.

Utilizing business tools such as ManyChat can energize and retain your audience

Diversifying your sales channels can enhance your overall revenue streams.



Connect with Tessa Arias!

Instagram: @handletheheat

Website: ​​https://handletheheat.com/



Connect with Amanda Bond!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theadstrategist

Website: https://theadstrategist.com/



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: 

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc

#SelfPublishing #FacebookAds #RevenueStream #AmazonFulfillment #DirecttoConsumer

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding,  we sit down with Nicole Gabai, a professional organizer turned author, who is reshaping the world of organizing. In this episode, Nicole shares her journey from designing textiles to pioneering virtual organizing services and writing her self-published book, "The Art of Organizing: An Artful Guide to an Organized Life.”

During our conversation, Nicole recounts the meticulous nine-year process of creating her book, where she collaborated with an illustrator and Weller Smith Design’s team to blend whimsical art with practical advice. Nicole’s experience with translating intuitive organizing strategies into enchanting art and practical advice serves as a helpful guide for others hoping to turn their own expertise into a marketable skill. Nicole also delves into the challenges and triumphs of marketing a self-published book, from mastering social media to hosting charming book signings. Whether you're an aspiring author, organization enthusiast, or curious about turning passion into a legacy, Nicole’s story offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn how to maintain creativity while meeting the demands of a professional organizer.

Key Takeaways


Continue to develop innovative approaches to your craft so you can stay inspired and excited about your work.


Putting together a book can be a long, but rewarding process. Nicole’s nine-year journey of writing and designing “The Art of Organizing” is an excellent example of just how worthwhile the process can be!


Utilize social media and engaging book signings to market your self-published book.


Understand how to maintain creativity while managing the meticulous demands of honing your craft.


Through persistence and adaptability, you too can turn your passion into a tangible and successful legacy through self-publishing!



Connect with Nicole!

Instagram: @nicolegabai

Website: https://www.b-organized.net/



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: 

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc

#ProfessionalOrganizer #SelfPublishing #BookMarketing #DevelopmentalEditing

In this episode of Creatively Speaking: Beyond the Binding, we are joined by Stephanie Moon, Founder, Strategist, and Consultant at Steph Moon Co, as we uncover the key components of successful book marketing. Our conversation helps listeners learn how authors can play a crucial role in their own book's success, and move beyond sole reliance on assistance from publishers. This episode covers promotion strategies, self-publishing challenges, and hybrid model opportunities to boost your book's profile. Additionally, Stephanie explains how authors can build an online presence that goes beyond just social media. By developing a platform that fosters real connections and engagement, authors can curate earnest interest in their book while connecting with the readers who are most likely to enjoy their work. We also address common marketing challenges like visibility and perfectionism, and how to overcome them with authenticity and strategy. We also discuss how authors can use their book as a springboard for opportunities, from strategic collaborations to leveraging digital platforms for growth. Sp, whether you're new to marketing or seeking to revive interest in your titles, Stephanie's insights provide a roadmap for sustained success in book promotion.

Key Takeaways:


Authors play a crucial role in their book's success, beyond what publishers do, by actively promoting their work.


Authors should focus on setting individual goals, maintaining consistency, and being authentic to build a strong online presence.


Consistency, repurposing content, and incorporating personal elements are essential strategies for enhancing marketing efforts for both business owners and authors.


Authors can achieve success through strategic marketing, partnerships, events, and a strong digital presence within the publishing world.


Maintaining marketing momentum after publication is key, and having multiple books can be beneficial.



Connect with Stephanie:

Website:  https://www.stephmoonco.com

Instagram: @stephmoonco



Interested in self-publishing work of your own? 

Visit www.wellersmithdesign.com to learn more, or fill out our intake form here: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/647bac60c6b9c132390049fc

#BookMarketing #SelfPublishing #BookPromotion #CommunityEngagement