The BookFunnel Podcast

BookFunnel
  • 4.2 (5)
  • Books

The official podcast from the team at BookFunnel, hosted by Jack Shilkaitis, Kelli Tanzi, and Emma Alisyn, featuring guest interviews, self-publishing industry discussions, and tips for using BookFunnel to build an author business.

  1. 4d ago

    BookTok: Love it or Hate it? with Kacie Belk, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep, 44

    Learn More About Our Guest Kacie's TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@ladybelkreads?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Kacie's YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@LadyBelkReads Helpful BookFunnel Links Author Knowledge Basehttps://authors.bookfunnel.com/ Jack’s BookFunnel TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@jack.bookfunnel BookFunnel Podcasthttps://bookfunnel.transistor.fm/ BookFunnel Authors Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/BookFunnelAuthors BookFunnel Promos Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/BookFunnelBundles/ Webinar Signuphttps://calendly.com/jack_bookfunnel  Summary In 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.

    BookTok: Love it or Hate it? with Kacie Belk, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep, 44

  2. Jul 10

    Translating Your Books for Global Readers with Maxwell Zachs, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep 43

    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 Takeaway Publishing 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 Zachs Maxwell 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/

    Translating Your Books for Global Readers with Maxwell Zachs, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep 43

  3. Jul 3

    Is Work-Life Balance Attainable as an Author In 2026? with Emma & Jack, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 42

    Summary In 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  Topics Balancing 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  Takeaways There 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. Chapters 01:20 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

    Is Work-Life Balance Attainable as an Author In 2026? with Emma & Jack, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 42

  4. Jun 26

    Crowdfunding for Authors with Max Salzberg of BackerKit, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 41

    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 momentum Key takeaways Crowdfunding 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

    Crowdfunding for Authors with Max Salzberg of BackerKit, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 41

  5. May 4

    Living Your Brand with Main Character Energy with Amanda Traylor, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 40

    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. Chapters 00:00 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

    Living Your Brand with Main Character Energy with Amanda Traylor, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 40

  6. Mar 27

    In-Person Book Sales Mastermind, with Katie Cross, Todd Fahnestock, & Johnny B Truant the BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 39

    About Our Guests Johnny B Truanthttps://johnnybtruant.com/ Katie Crosshttps://katiecrossbooks.com/ Todd Fahnestockhttps://toddfahnestock.com/ Summary This 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 Topics In-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

    In-Person Book Sales Mastermind, with Katie Cross, Todd Fahnestock, & Johnny B Truant the BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 39

  7. Mar 20

    Self-Publishing Aggressively Wide with Mark Leslie Lefebvre, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 38

    Learn more about our guest Websitehttps://markleslie.ca/ Amazonhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07JXYVJ92?ccs_id=d940ac4f-01c6-4885-b4d3-f011eff9a1cd YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/MarkLeslieLefebvre Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/markleslielefebvre/ LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/marklefebvre/ Substackhttps://angeliquemfawns.substack.com/p/the-unfiltered-truth-about-indie SummaryIn this episode, industry expert Mark Leslie Lefebvre shares insights on going wide as an author, the importance of multiple income streams, and creative strategies for marketing and leveraging intellectual property. Discover practical tips for indie and traditional authors to build sustainable careers.

    Self-Publishing Aggressively Wide with Mark Leslie Lefebvre, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 38

  8. Mar 13

    From Indie to Bestseller: Book Marketing Mindset with Lydia Sherrer, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 37

    Guest Links Website -https://www.lydiasherrer.com/ Summary In this episode, Lydia Shearer, a USA Today bestselling author, shares her journey in indie and traditional publishing, her strategies for direct sales, newsletter building, and navigating the evolving landscape of book marketing and AI challenges. In this episode, Lydia Sherrer and the team discuss the future of digital reading, author-reader connections, and the impact of AI on publishing. They explore topics like direct sales, platform independence, and innovative author marketing strategies. Key Topics Lydia Shearer's hybrid publishing modelStrategies for direct sales and owning your audienceThe importance of newsletters and building a mailing listChallenges and opportunities with AI and platform changesThe evolution of book distribution and fulfillment The potential and challenges of platform independence for authorsThe impact of AI and generative tools on publishing and author brandingStrategies for connecting with readers beyond traditional platforms Resources BookFunnel - https://bookfunnel.comMark Dawson's Self-Publishing Course - https://selfpublishingformula.comAmmo Facebook Ads Course by Steve Piper - https://stevepiper.comPirate Ship for shipping labels - https://pirateship.comAuthor Nation Conference - https://author-nation.comAdagio Tea - https://adagio.comCanva - https://canva.comPhotoshop - https://adobe.com/products/photoshopJohn Ringo (Author) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ringo

    From Indie to Bestseller: Book Marketing Mindset with Lydia Sherrer, The BookFunnel Podcast Ep. 37
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4.2
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About

The official podcast from the team at BookFunnel, hosted by Jack Shilkaitis, Kelli Tanzi, and Emma Alisyn, featuring guest interviews, self-publishing industry discussions, and tips for using BookFunnel to build an author business.

Information

  • Creator
    BookFunnel
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 BookFunnel
  • Show Website
    The BookFunnel Podcast

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