Author's Edge: Smart strategies for book marketing, publishing, and visibility that actually work

Allison Lane
  • 5.0 (17)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Author’s Edge is the go-to podcast for authors ready to learn to turn their ideas into bestselling books, build platforms that reflect their authority, and grow lasting visibility.  Hosted by nonfiction book coach and marketing strategist Allison Lane, this show gives you clear, honest insight into what actually works in publishing and platform growth. Each week, you’ll get practical guidance and straight talk from the people who move the needle including Daniel Murray of The Marketing Millennials, bestselling author and TEDx speaker Ashley Stahl, literary agent Sam Hiyate, national TV host Dr. Partha Nandi, marketing strategist Rich Brooks, behavioral expert Nancy Harhut, and bestselling author Tracy Otsuka. Get clear, no-fluff insight on what actually works - whether you’re writing your first book, pitching agents, launching your platform, or growing long-term influence. this podcast will show you how to do it right. If you’re ready to be known for what you know, The Author’s Edge will give you the tools to grow your visibility, attract opportunity, and lead with authority. Your book is the smartest marketing move you’ll ever make.  Listen, learn, and lead with The Author’s Edge - your go-to marketing podcast for publishing.

  1. 14H AGO

    Pitch Your Potential: The Secret to Unlocking Your Career with Dr. Vicki Johnson | Ep. 81

    Send me a text! Are you dreaming of a book deal, a keynote speech, or a fellowship but feel like those opportunities are out of reach? What if the secret to getting published and boosting your author visibility has nothing to do with your social media metrics or resume? This episode is all about reverse engineering your author marketing to get chosen for the rooms you belong in.  Join host Allison Lane and guest Dr. Vicki Johnson, author of Pitch Your Potential, as they reveal the biggest mistake authors make when pitching themselves and the mindset shift you need to make to land your dream opportunities. You'll learn how to stop comparing yourself to others, overcome imposter syndrome, and get clear on your mission so you can attract the right opportunities without guesswork.  Tune in to discover how to create a compelling vision of your future and unleash your full potential. In this episode, Allison and Dr. Vicki discuss: [00:01:45] Discover the #1 mistake authors make when pitching their work.[00:05:00] Learn the mindset shift you need to build real authority.[00:09:20] Find out why you need to stop waiting for permission and create your own opportunities.[00:15:20] Understand how focusing on a mission, not just the opportunity, changes everything.[00:22:00] Get actionable tips on how to use LinkedIn to find book deals and get noticed.Dr. Vicki Johnson, a speaker, author, and four-time fellowship winner, helps ambitious professionals secure elite opportunities by teaching persuasive communication strategies. As the founder of ProFellow and a social entrepreneur, her methods have helped her community win over $500 million in merit-based funding awards. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Vicki’s Site: https://www.drvickijohnson.com Pro-Fellow: A platform with a free database of fellowships and fully-funded graduate programs: https://www.profellow.com/ Dr. Vicki’s Book: Pitch Your Potential: The Formula for Winning Dream Jobs, Awards, and Elite Opportunities: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781394328260 Connect with Dr. Vicki on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vjohnson1 If you found value in today's episode and feel inspired to go bolder in your author journey, please share this with a fellow author who needs this message. Don’t forget to rate and review the podcast; your support helps us reach more authors just like you. Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    29 min

  2. OCT 7

    5 Proven Ways to Land High-Impact Podcast Interviews with Alice Draper | Ep. 80

    Send me a text! What if the fastest way to grow your author visibility had nothing to do with social media?  Allison Lane is joined by podcast pitching expert Alice Draper, who shares why landing podcast interviews is one of the most effective book promotion strategies for authors. And how you can start pitching yourself even if you don’t have a book yet. If you want to reach more readers, position yourself as an authority, and make podcast guesting part of your book launch strategy, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply right away. Tune in and learn how to pitch smarter, show up better, and grow your audience through podcasts. In this episode, Allison and Alice discuss: [0:00] Why podcast guesting is more effective than social media for authors[2:00] The biggest mistake authors make when pitching themselves[6:00] What makes a great interviewee that hosts love to invite back[8:00] How to find podcasts that actually want to hear from you[11:00] Essentials of a strong pitch (and what to avoid)[15:00] Why a clear strategy beats a “spray and pray” approach[18:00] How to craft a simple, effective call to action[20:00] The truth about time, priorities, and pitching consistently[24:00] Why podcasting only works if it feels good for youAlice Draper is the founder of Hustling Writers and host of My Rejection Story, where bestselling authors share how setbacks shaped their success. She’s on a mission to make publicity accessible, has placed clients on top 0.5% podcasts, and her work appears in HuffPost, Business Insider, VICE, and Refinery29. Resources Mentioned: Alice Draper’s Website: https://hustlingwriters.com/ Alice Draper’s Pitch Template: https://hustlingwriters.com/template/ Connect with Alice on IG:https://www.instagram.com/alicedraper/ If you enjoyed today’s tips, please take a moment to rate, review, and share The Author’s Edge. Your support helps us reach more authors who want to market their books with confidence and clarity. Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    27 min

  3. SEP 30

    From Corporate Life to Book Coach: Getting Book Deals + Building Platforms with Allison Lane | Ep. 79

    Send me a text! In this episode of Author’s Edge, host Allison Lane swaps seats and becomes the guest. Interviewed by Victoria Meyer, host of The Chemical Show, Allison shares how her 25+ years in global brand marketing with companies like Unilever, Burt’s Bees, and The Body Shop shaped her approach to helping authors land book deals, launch bestsellers, and build platforms that last. She breaks down everything from the role of a book proposal to the reality of author-led marketing. You’ll discover why writing a full manuscript isn’t the first step to landing a book deal, what agents and publishers really want to see, and the proven steps Allison uses to help women experts publish successfully. She also reveals how authors can build platforms that attract opportunities - from bestseller launches to media features and paid speaking. In this BONUS episode, Victoria and Allison discuss: [00:00–04:00] Early career lessons: How journalism and PR taught Allison the power of saying “yes with enthusiasm.”[04:00–07:50] Corporate insights: What working with global brands revealed about the bigger marketing puzzle.[10:30–13:00] Breaking free from limits: Why corporate systems often hold women experts back - and how to claim your authority.[15:00–16:30] Publishing truths: Why a strong book proposal matters more than a finished manuscript.[18:45–21:00] Publishing options: Traditional, self, hybrid, and university presses - and how to choose the right path.[21:00–24:00] Marketing reality: Why even big publishers expect authors to drive their own marketing.[25:00–26:20] Next steps: Clear guidance if you’ve ever thought about writing a book.Resources Mentioned: Allison Lane’s website: https://www.lanelit.com/Book Deal Blueprint: https://www.lanelit.com/proposalConnect with Victoria Meyer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-king-meyer/ Victoria’s podcast: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/If you’ve wondered how to go from expert to published author, this episode gives you the roadmap - straight from someone who’s helped countless women experts secure book deals and amplify their visibility. Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    27 min

  4. SEP 23

    Getting Ready for Publicity with a Publicist’s Must-Haves: with Marissa Eigenbrood | Ep. 78

    Send me a text! Many authors believe a publicist or publisher will guarantee sales, but the truth is, your book’s success depends on you. In this episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison Lane and Marissa Eigenbrood of Smith Publicity share the essential foundations every nonfiction author needs before investing in publicity. From building a platform and creating an author-centered website to choosing the right social media channel, this conversation gives you the tools to set up lasting visibility and momentum. If you want your book to be more than a launch-day splash, tune in for practical strategies to grow your audience and make publicity work for the long haul. In this episode, Allison and Marissa discuss:  [00:01] Why publicity is only one slice of book marketing[00:04] What “platform” really means for authors[00:08] The website mistake that stalls publicity efforts[00:12] Why your name—not your book title—should be your brand[00:16] How to focus on the right audience without diluting your message[00:19] Why publication day is just the beginning[00:22] How hybrid and self-published authors can land major media[00:25] The mindset shift: book costs as business investments[00:27] Why contributor content can be more powerful than featuresMarissa Eigenbrood, President of Smith Publicity, is a passionate advocate for authors, specializing in crafting long-term publicity strategies that transform literary voices into influential, enduring brands. Resources Mentioned: Smith Publicity Website: https://www.smithpublicity.com/Smith Publicity Podcast: https://www.smithpublicity.com/podcast/Connect with Marissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meigenbrood/ Book Reco: Quick Confidence: Be Authentic, Boost Connections, and Make Bold Bets on Yourself by Selena Rezvani: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781038707833 Quick Leadership: Build Trust, Navigate Change, and Cultivate Unstoppable Teams by Selena Rezvani: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781394339792 Smarterqueue: https://smarterqueue.com?afmc=2reIf you enjoyed these tips, take a moment to rate and review The Author’s Edge. Your support helps us reach more authors ready to grow their visibility and share their work with the world. Sh Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    28 min

  5. SEP 16

    How to Recover from Burnout and Reclaim Your Energy with Cait Donovan | Ep. 77

    Send me a text! Burnout isn’t a personal failure; it’s a signal. Why does your energy crash just when you need it most? … during a book launch, while writing your manuscript, or building your platform. Author and burnout expert Cait Donovan joins Allison to share how we can recognize the hidden drivers of burnout and rebuild our energy without guilt.  They explore practical self-care strategies, the neuroscience behind exhaustion, and how to channel frustration into the bold next chapter of your career. Tune in and learn how to reclaim your energy so your publishing journey feels sustainable, not draining. In this episode, Cait and Allison discuss: [00:00] Intro & Setup: Why burnout isn’t a failure but a signal for change[02:00] Burnout Triggers: Perfectionism, people-pleasing, and hyper-independence[04:00] The Science: Why your brain misses burnout signals + how stress narrows vision[14:00] Recovery Tools: Two starting points — foundational self-care and resentment journaling[08:00] Career & Growth: Why high achievers get stuck and can’t see new possibilities[16:00] Mindset Shifts: Using resentment as a superpower + rebuilding trust with your body[20:00] Cait’s Story: From thriving in Prague to realizing it was time to pivot[25:00] The Takeaway: Burnout isn’t your fault — recovery leads to a bolder, bigger lifeCait Donovan, keynote speaker and burnout strategist, helps leaders and teams deliver results without burning out through science-based, practical systems. Host of FRIED: The Burnout Podcast and author of The Bouncebackability Factor, she brings a clear, blame-free, outcome-focused approach to every stage and organization. Resources Mentioned: Cait Donovan’s website: CaitDonovan.com Podcast: FRIED: The Burnout Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fried-the-burnout-podcast/id1469939920 Book: The Bouncebackability Factor: End Burnout, Gain Resilience, and Change the World by Caitlin Donovan: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781735194905 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitdonovanspeaks/ Book Reco: The Lady Hardcastle Mysteries by T E Kinsey: https://www.tekinsey.uk/ If you enjoyed today’s tips, please take a moment to rate and review The Author’s Edge. Your support helps us reach more authors who are ready to build visibility and share their work with the world. Don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow writer who may Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    28 min

  6. SEP 9

    Social Media Success: Conversations Over Content with Brooke Sellas | Ep. 76

    Send me a text! Feeling overwhelmed by social media, content calendars, and algorithm games?  Allison Lane welcomes Brooke Sellas, award-winning business leader and author, to discuss why authentic conversation, not just endless posting, creates a deeper impact for authors, marketers, and thought leaders. Brooke shares tangible ways to lighten your social load, use AI as your creative sous-chef, and build a community that feels connected well before your next book launch. In this episode, Allison and Brooke discuss: 04:00 – 10:00: Brooke on why chasing algorithms and content quotas leads to burnout, and why content isn’t the point, conversation is.10:00 – 16:30: The magic of messy, vulnerable posts and imperfect shares: how real human moments fuel engagement.16:30 – 24:00: Using AI as your creative partner (not your replacement): Custom GPTs, idea sparring, and keeping your voice intact.24:00 – 30:00: How to spark debate, gather “voice of customer” data, and run low-stakes controversies that get people talking30:00 – 36:00: Ditching “ghost and post” habits: Why real back-and-forth comments matter more than perfectly scheduled content.36:00 – 44:00: Integrating book writing and marketing into real life - embracing slow seasons, using micro-moments, and lowering the pressure to be perfect.Brooke Sellas, CEO of B Squared Media and author of Conversations That Connect, is an award-winning strategist redefining digital marketing by proving that when brands prioritize conversations, they win. Resources Mentioned: Brooke Sellas website: brookesellas.comB Squared Media: https://bsquared.media Brooke’s book: Conversations That Connect: How to Connect, Converse, and Convert Through Social Media Listening and Social-Led Customer Care: https://www.amazon.com/Conversations-That-Connect-Listening-Social-Led/dp/B0B457G51F Book Recos: Secret Tradecraft of Elite Advisors: Covert Techniques for a Remarkable Practice Paperback by David C. Baker (Author), https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Tradecraft-Elite-Advisors-Techniques/dp/1605440884 Connect with Brooke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookebsellas/ Everyone can be a better connector, online and off - by being more vulnerable, more human, and more curious. Start the conversations that matter. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FwYPl8HVhA Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    35 min

  7. SEP 2

    Rewriting Motherhood: Real Stories on Memoir, Identity, and Connection with Nicole Graev Lipson | Ep. 75

    Send me a text! What happens when you stop performing the “perfect mother” role and start telling the truth?  Nicole Graev Lipson shares how writing about the raw, unpolished sides of motherhood not only shaped her memoir but also built a genuine connection with readers. If you’ve ever wondered how to write your personal stories without oversharing, how to get published without a massive platform, or how to promote your book in a way that feels authentic, this conversation is for you.  Tune in to discover how honesty, community, and choosing the right strategies can spark visibility and book sales. In this episode, Allison and Nicole discuss: 04:10 – How motherhood opened the floodgates for Nicole’s writing12:35 – Writing about taboo topics without oversharing22:50 – Why her memoir succeeded without a huge platform33:40 – The marketing strategies she focused on (and skipped)47:15 – Nicole’s go-to trick for starting when you don’t know what to writeNicole Graev Lipson is the author of the USA Today bestseller Mothers and Other Fictional Characters: a memoir in essays.  Resources Mentioned: Nicole’s Website: www.nicolegraevlipson.com "Thinkers Who Mother" newsletter signup: https://nicolegraevlipson.com/contact Nicole’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nglipson Nicole’s book: Mothers and Other Fictional Characters: A Memoir in Essays: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781797228563 Book Reco: The End Is the Beginning: A Personal History of My Mother by Jill Bialosky: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781451677928 If today’s episode inspired you, please take a moment to rate and review The Author’s Edge on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps us reach more authors and bring you honest strategies that actually work. And if you know a writer who needs encouragement, share this episode with them today. Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    47 min

  8. AUG 26

    Amazon Ads: Choose Keywords + Categories Boost Book Sales with Jai Heer | Ep. 74

    Send me a text! What if you could sell more books on Amazon without spending a fortune or wasting hours learning ads?  Amazon ads strategist and founder and CEO of AMSPPC.com, Jai Heer, shares the exact steps nonfiction authors can take to boost discoverability, grow book sales, and make their book stand out in a crowded marketplace. You’ll learn how to choose the right keywords, set realistic sales expectations, and run ads that actually work, even if you’ve never touched the Amazon dashboard before.  Whether you’re traditionally published, with a hybrid, or self-published, this conversation will help you turn your book into a long-term visibility asset. In this episode, Allison and Jai discuss: 02:15 — The #1 mistake authors make with Amazon ads10:30 — Why your book title needs the right keyword in the first half24:40 — How to set a realistic Amazon ads budget that works38:50 — Turning your book into a long-term visibility asset50:20 — Jai’s one tip for every author using Amazon adsJai Heer is the founder and CEO of AMSPPC.com, an Amazon Certified KDP AMS consultant, and author of KDP Amazon Ads for Non-Fiction Authors: Basic and Advanced KDP AMS Strategies for Non-Fiction Authors to Sell More Books, Reduce Spend, and Align Your Goal with Your Advertising Resources Mentioned: Connect with Jai Heer: https://amsppc.com/ Connect Jai on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jai-singh-profile/ Book reco: The Undiscovered Self: The Dilemma of the Individual in Modern Society by C. G. Jung: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9780316476942 If you enjoyed today’s tips, take a moment to rate and review The Author’s Edge. Your support helps us grow and reach more authors ready to share their message. And don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow author who wants to sell more books. Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge “So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully. Here’s how: Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars. Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode! And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now. LinkedIn @allisonlanelit Facebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!

    51 min
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The Author’s Edge is the go-to podcast for authors ready to learn to turn their ideas into bestselling books, build platforms that reflect their authority, and grow lasting visibility.  Hosted by nonfiction book coach and marketing strategist Allison Lane, this show gives you clear, honest insight into what actually works in publishing and platform growth. Each week, you’ll get practical guidance and straight talk from the people who move the needle including Daniel Murray of The Marketing Millennials, bestselling author and TEDx speaker Ashley Stahl, literary agent Sam Hiyate, national TV host Dr. Partha Nandi, marketing strategist Rich Brooks, behavioral expert Nancy Harhut, and bestselling author Tracy Otsuka. Get clear, no-fluff insight on what actually works - whether you’re writing your first book, pitching agents, launching your platform, or growing long-term influence. this podcast will show you how to do it right. If you’re ready to be known for what you know, The Author’s Edge will give you the tools to grow your visibility, attract opportunity, and lead with authority. Your book is the smartest marketing move you’ll ever make.  Listen, learn, and lead with The Author’s Edge - your go-to marketing podcast for publishing.

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