Episodes

  • Episode 77: Scaling with Social Media with Lauren Tickner

    Episode 77: Scaling with Social Media with Lauren Tickner
    Jan 13 2025

    In this episode, Chris sits down with Lauren Tickner, founder of Scale Systems, to dive into the world of organic marketing and her experience with self-liquidating funnels. Lauren shares her journey of building a strong personal brand and how simplifying messaging and leveraging authority in content can drive significant sales results.

    The conversation also explores Lauren's plans to write a book, which she intends to use as a key component of her marketing strategy to enhance her funnels and scale her business further. Packed with actionable insights and practical advice, this episode is perfect for anyone seeking to grow their lead generation efforts and boost sales through organic or paid strategies.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors!

    00:18 – Reconnecting with Lauren
    Chris shares how he and Lauren first connected in 2017 during her fitness journey and early funnel experiments.

    02:01 – The Evolution of Organic Marketing
    Lauren discusses her transition from fitness to helping businesses leverage organic marketing effectively.

    05:44 – Why Authority Intros Matter
    The importance of establishing credibility in content to build trust and attract the right audience.

    07:50 – The Power of Proving Expertise
    Lauren explains how showcasing evidence and storytelling enhances authority with prospects.

    11:22 – Simplifying Messaging for Sales
    Why overcomplicated offers fail and how direct, clear messaging can drive better results.

    19:08 – Mastering a Niche for Business Success
    Lauren emphasizes the importance of specialization and mastering one area for scaling effectively.

    20:44 – The Magic of Low-Ticket Funnels
    Exploring the scalability, profitability, and potential of self-liquidating offers.

    24:30 – A Scientific Approach to Book Funnels
    Lauren’s plan for testing topics and titles before committing to a book project.

    29:34 – Books as High-Quality Lead Generators
    How books attract action-oriented, high-quality leads and outshine other marketing assets.

    35:51 – The Future of Marketing Assets
    Combining organic, paid, and low-ticket offers to create a powerful multi-channel strategy.

    42:14 – Evaluating Ad Spend and ROI
    Tips for scaling ad spend while mitigating risks like refunds and low-quality leads.

    49:06 – Thank you for listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Connect with Lauren:

    - https://www.facebook.com/@lauren.tickner

    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    54 mins
  • Episode 76: Publicity 101 for Authors with Leah Paulos

    Episode 76: Publicity 101 for Authors with Leah Paulos
    Dec 16 2024
    In this episode of The Smart Author Podcast, Chris is joined by Leah Paulos, founder of Press Shop PR and Book Publicity School. Leah shares her journey from journalism to becoming a leading book publicist and provides invaluable insights on leveraging PR for your book. Learn how to craft compelling pitches, build effective media lists, and secure media coverage for your book—without breaking the bank. Discover actionable strategies for promoting your book pre- and post-publication and explore how Book Publicity School empowers authors to navigate the complex world of media and publishing. Whether you're new to PR or looking to amplify your book's reach, this episode is packed with practical advice. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors! 01:13 – Meet Leah PaulosLeah discusses her background in PR, running both Press Shop PR and Book Publicity School. 01:38 – Leah’s Journey to PRFrom journalism to PR: Leah’s career evolution and how it shaped her expertise in publicity. 02:19 – The Journalist’s PerspectiveHow Leah’s experience as a magazine editor helped her understand and excel in PR. 03:13 – Starting Press Shop PRLeah shares the story of transitioning from consulting to founding her own PR agency. 04:11 – Breaking Into Book PublicityLeah’s first author client and how it led her to specialize in book publicity. 06:20 – Demystifying Publicity for AuthorsWhy Leah focused on making PR accessible and jargon-free for authors through her website. 07:05 – The Birth of Book Publicity SchoolHow Book Publicity School was created to help authors access affordable, effective PR resources. 08:17 – The Changing Role of PublishersWhy modern authors need to take charge of their own publicity efforts. 09:30 – Navigating Media and PublishingHow Book Publicity School equips authors to manage these often opaque industries. 11:19 – The Core of Book Publicity SchoolLeah explains the key elements of the school, including crafting pitches and building media lists. 13:09 – Tailored PR Strategies for AuthorsHow Leah helps authors refine their messaging and target the right audiences. 15:14 – Building Feasible and Effective CampaignsThe importance of balancing ambitious goals with realistic outreach strategies. 17:00 – Leveraging Media PlacementsUsing initial media wins to snowball into larger opportunities. 19:27 – The Book as a Long-Term ProductWhy authors should view their book as a long-term investment, not a short-term project. 20:26 – Big Name CampaignsLeah reflects on high-profile projects, including Neil deGrasse Tyson and Representative John Lewis. 23:16 – The Puzzle of Book PublicityWhy Leah finds working with lesser-known authors and books especially rewarding. 24:15 – Giving Journalists a StoryHow crafting compelling angles for journalists leads to media coverage. 27:13 – A Unique Approach to PublicityWhy Book Publicity School fills a gap in the market with practical, campaign-based workshops. 28:03 – Where to Find Leah and Her ResourcesDetails on accessing Book Publicity School, Press Shop PR, and Leah’s monthly free workshops. 30:05 – Thank you for listening If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share! Connect with Leah: Book Publicity School- https://www.bookpublicityschool.com/ Press Shop- https://www.pressshoppr.com/ LinkedIn:- https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahpaulos/ Resources: - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat Subscribe: - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple Connect with Smart Author Media: - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    31 mins
  • Episode 75: From Wedding Photographer to 8-Figure Coaching Business with Stephen Diaz

    Episode 75: From Wedding Photographer to 8-Figure Coaching Business with Stephen Diaz
    Dec 9 2024

    Join Chris in this episode of The Smart Author Podcast as he sits down with Stephen Diaz of The Rainmaker Family. Stephen shares his incredible journey from wedding photography to building an 8-figure coaching business that helps moms create financial freedom through Amazon businesses. The conversation dives deep into marketing strategies, including the power of live and evergreen challenges, how to turn those into books, and the systems behind scaling a successful coaching program. Stephen also reveals how his team tracks milestones, ensures client success, and continues to innovate. Whether you’re looking for marketing insights or inspiration to scale your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice and valuable lessons.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Intro

    01:53 – From wedding photographer to $10M+ business owner

    05:22 – The bigger the problem you solve the more $$$ you make

    12:13 – The shift after the pandemic hit

    14:16 – Challenges catapulted the business

    19:37 – Leveraging assets that work for the audience

    21:31 – Moms hit 6-figures every 14 days

    24:06 – Challenge to client conversion rates

    29:33 – Why market awareness in marketing is important

    33:59 – Where to find Stephen

    34:48 – Thank you for listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Connect with Stephen:

    - https://rainmakerfamily.com/

    - https://www.instagram.com/steezdiaz/

    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    36 mins
  • Episode 74: What It Takes to Win at Amazon Ads with Alex Strathdee

    Episode 74: What It Takes to Win at Amazon Ads with Alex Strathdee
    Dec 2 2024
    In this episode, Chris welcomes Alex Strathdee, founder of Shelf Life and host of the Before the Bestseller podcast, to dive deep into the world of Amazon ads and book marketing. With over $4 million in ad spend under management, Alex shares insights on what makes Amazon ads effective, how to determine if they’re right for your book, and the common pitfalls authors face when entering the platform. He also discusses grassroots marketing tactics, navigating the creative limitations of Amazon ads, and setting clear goals for book marketing success. Whether you're a first-time author or looking to scale your book sales, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors! 00:02 – Meet Alex Strathdee Introduction to Alex Strathdee, Amazon ad expert managing $4 million+/ year in ad spend. 00:23 – The Power of Amazon Ads Diving into the success stories and key strategies behind Amazon book advertising. 00:40 – Why This Episode Matters Why authors should tune in for actionable marketing lessons. 01:15 – Alex’s Background and Journey How Alex went from starting in 2019 to managing over 120 accounts and $1M in yearly ad spend. 02:50 – Navigating the Changing Amazon Landscape Why book marketing is more competitive than ever and how Alex has adapted. 03:45 – From Software Sales to Free Flights Alex’s leap from software sales to travelling the world—and finding his passion for book marketing. 04:38 – Solving the Marketing Problem for Authors How Alex identified the gap in book marketing and built his business to fill it. 05:49 – Building a Global Team The growth of Shelf Life: from a solo venture to a 14-person powerhouse. 07:26 – Are Amazon Ads Right for You? Who should (and shouldn’t) invest in Amazon advertising. 08:44 – Breaking Down Amazon Ad Goals Understanding the three types of authors leveraging Amazon ads: passion projects, break-even campaigns, and lead generators. 10:19 – The Holistic Marketing Approach Why Amazon ads are only one part of a successful book marketing strategy. 11:46 – The Unicorn Book Phenomenon Why some books thrive on Amazon while others struggle—and what to do about it. 12:39 – The Cost of Testing and Learning How to dip your toes into Amazon ads without breaking the bank. 16:08 – Free vs. Paid Resources Alex’s take on leveraging free courses and avoiding overpriced scams. 19:07 – The Creative Challenge on Amazon How to overcome title and subtitle limitations in ad visibility. 23:34 – Strategies for Vague Titles How to navigate marketing when your book title lacks clarity. 27:06 – Setting Clear Goals for Your Book The importance of defining success before launching a marketing campaign. 30:06 – Scaling with Systems and Teams Why authors shouldn’t try to do it all themselves—and how to hire effectively. 33:06 – Avoiding Comparisonitis The danger of comparing yourself to high-budget creators like Alex Hormozi. 35:13 – Grassroots Book Marketing Lessons Alex’s experience in grassroots marketing and why persistence matters. 39:11 – The Truth About Bestseller Campaigns The reality behind Amazon and Wall Street Journal bestseller strategies. 41:15 – Beware of Collaboration Book Scams Why contributing to compilation books may not deliver on promised business growth. 42:23 – Final Book Marketing Advice Alex shares his best tips for authors looking to thrive in the competitive publishing world. 43:36 – Where to Find Alex Links to Alex’s free course and resources for Amazon advertising. 44:55 – Thank you for listening If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share! Connect with Alex: - https://www.advancedamazonads.com/ Resources: - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat Subscribe: - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple Connect with Smart Author Media: - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    45 mins
  • Episode 73: How Ryan Deiss Markets and Uses His Book to Qualify Leads & Create Clients

    Episode 73: How Ryan Deiss Markets and Uses His Book to Qualify Leads & Create Clients
    Sep 16 2024

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 Intro

    02:18 Launch and long-term approach to marketing Get Scalable

    07:39 Ryan's giving away 10,000 FREE copies of Get Scalable

    11:48 Books vs tools for front-end marketing

    16:07 Your book helps someone self-identify with your solution

    19:30 You need to get your audiobook out ASAP

    21:33 Pillar content shortens the lead to client cycle

    29:34 The ascension model (as we know it) is dead

    33:07 Where to get your free copy of Get Scalable

    35:06 Thank you for listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Get your FREE copy of Get Scalable:

    - https://www.getscalable.com/free/

    Watch Ryan's Pillar Content video:

    - https://youtu.be/nSJL_q5PSE0?si=jklv9iZtmgv4lDsy

    Watch my breakdown of Ryan's Pillar Content:

    - https://youtu.be/6BdCxMYV-mQ?si=WtIvYRvB0OHbKtmj

    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    - Send your enquiries or drop by to say hello: support@smartauthormedia.com

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    36 mins
  • Episode 72: The Business Behind Writing Your Book In 7 Days with Dave Thompson

    Episode 72: The Business Behind Writing Your Book In 7 Days with Dave Thompson
    Sep 9 2024

    In this episode of the Smart Author Podcast, Chris Benetti sits down with book coach Dave Thompson to discuss the art of writing and launching books quickly and effectively. Dave shares his journey from law to book coaching, his "Write Your Book in a Week" system, and how he's helped authors transform their books into successful businesses. They also dive into the evolution of his business model, the power of book funnels, and how live events and digital strategies can work together to maximize book sales. If you're an aspiring author or looking to take your book beyond just sales, this episode is packed with actionable insights.



    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors!

    02:35 – How Did Dave Become a Book Coach?
    Dave shares his background, how childhood experiences led him to books, and his journey from law to book coaching.

    06:51 – Dave’s System for Writing Books Fast
    How Dave developed his "Write Your Book in a Week" system and why speed matters in book publishing.

    08:38 – How the Business Developed Over Time
    Dave explains the evolution of his book coaching business, from in-person retreats to a scalable online model.

    12:32 – The Natural Progression of Working with Dave
    How his clients move from book writing to publishing and launching with his team’s support.

    15:06 – What’s Next for Dave’s Mastermind and Inspirational Book Writers?
    Dave discusses the growth of his Beyond the Book Mastermind and how he’s helping authors turn their books into businesses.

    17:01 – Are Live Events Back?
    The role of live events in book coaching and Dave’s vision for future retreats.

    20:01 – Without Tools and Resources, Authors Get Stuck
    Why many authors struggle after writing their books and how structured marketing systems can help.

    22:34 – Where to Find Dave
    Dave shares where listeners can connect with him and learn more about his programs.

    23:30 – Thank You for Listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Get Dave's book on writing books:

    - https://portal.inspirationalbookwriters.com/write-publish-launch-book

    Connect with Dave:

    - https://inspirationalbookwriters.com/

    - https://www.facebook.com/inspirationalbookwriters

    - https://www.facebook.com/DavoDome

    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    24 mins
  • Episode 71: Write Your Book With One Big Idea Using AI with Sean Vosler

    Episode 71: Write Your Book With One Big Idea Using AI with Sean Vosler
    Sep 2 2024

    In this episode of the Smart Author Podcast, Chris Benetti chats with Sean Vosler, creator of Movable Type, an AI-powered book-writing platform designed to help authors generate high-quality books with structure, coherence, and a personalized touch. They dive into the evolution of AI in writing, how Movable Type works, and why traditional book writing methods are being disrupted. Sean shares insights into how AI can extract expertise, simplify complex topics, and even create multiple book versions for different audiences—all while preserving an author's unique voice. If you’re looking to write a book faster, with less friction, and more strategic impact, this episode is packed with actionable insights.


    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors!

    03:26 – About Sean and His Journey to Movable Type
    Sean shares his background, from copywriting to AI-powered book creation, and what led him to build Movable Type.

    05:24 – Going Deep on AI (Not Just Jumping on the Bandwagon)
    Why Sean is obsessed with AI’s capabilities and how it can be leveraged for real impact instead of just hype.

    08:44 – How AI Produces Excellent Book Outputs
    Chris and Sean discuss common mistakes when using AI to write books and how Movable Type structures content effectively.

    14:50 – The Evolution of AI for Books
    How AI is revolutionizing book creation, allowing authors to focus on ideas while AI handles structure and coherence.

    21:24 – Not Advertising Your Book Is a Waste
    Why writing a book isn’t enough—marketing it effectively is key to getting your message out.

    23:57 – How Movable Type Works
    A breakdown of the AI-powered book-writing process, from idea generation to structured manuscripts.

    27:52 – Producing Multiple Book Angles for Effective Split-Testing in Marketing
    How Movable Type enables authors to create variations of their books for different audiences and test what works best.

    31:18 – Licensing Your Book as a Business Model
    How authors can create niche-specific versions of their books and license them for maximum impact.

    32:05 – Using Movable Type to Simplify Complex Content
    Sean explains how AI can take highly technical or academic content and transform it into an easy-to-read book.

    33:40 – Give AI a "Tone & Style Guide" for a Better Output
    How Movable Type personalizes AI-generated content to sound like the author’s authentic voice.

    39:06 – The Real Benefits of Using Movable Type
    Chris and Sean discuss why structured AI writing is a game-changer compared to traditional AI text generators.

    46:55 – The Success Behind Movable Type
    How Sean and his team have built a thriving platform that’s helping more authors get their books into the world.

    50:00 – Capturing Life Stories Using AI-Powered Interviews
    How Movable Type is evolving to help people document autobiographies and life stories using conversational AI.

    57:54 – Thank You for Listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Get your copy of the "7 Figure Marketing Copy" book:

    - sean.co/copy

    Sign up for MoveableType:

    - https://chrisapproves.com/moveabletype

    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    59 mins
  • Episode 70: 2 Man, 2 Day a Week, $200K/M+ Consulting Business with James Kemp

    Episode 70: 2 Man, 2 Day a Week, $200K/M+ Consulting Business with James Kemp
    Aug 12 2024

    In this episode of the Smart Author Podcast, Chris Benetti sits down with James Kemp, creator of The Sovereign Consultant, to break down his ultra-efficient business model that generates millions in revenue while operating as a lean, one-person consulting business. They dive into how James turns book buyers into high-value clients, why customer acquisition through books is more effective than lead generation, and how his hybrid offer model maximizes both time and income. James also shares the early success of The Sovereign Consultant book funnel, how it’s driving revenue without paid ads, and the next steps for scaling its impact. If you're looking for a smarter way to monetize your expertise without building a bloated team, this episode is packed with insights.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Welcome, Smart Authors!

    01:35 – The Journey of James Kemp
    James shares his background, past successes with book funnels, and what led him to create his current model.

    05:05 – James' "Daily Client Machine" Book Funnel Strategy
    How his first book funnel proved that a customer is 40x more valuable than a lead.

    07:46 – Consumption = Clients
    Why getting people to consume your book, emails, and workshops naturally leads them to becoming high-value clients.

    11:53 – The Overview of "The Sovereign Consultant" System
    Breaking down James’ solo consulting model and how it efficiently converts customers into long-term clients.

    15:47 – Books as Customer Offers
    Why selling a book creates better clients than giving away free PDFs and lead magnets.

    19:25 – The Hybrid Offer Maximizes Asset Efficiency
    How James repurposes client trainings into customer offers to generate revenue while reducing extra work.

    22:13 – Customer Offer Money Funds Client Acquisition
    How James reinvests revenue from book sales and workshops to grow his client base.

    23:48 – How Has "The Sovereign Consultant" Book Performed? (Real Stats)
    A look at the book’s early performance—over 500 copies sold and $25K in revenue without ads.

    27:26 – Books Are Evergreen Assets (Especially When You Teach Fundamentals)
    Why The Sovereign Consultant book will remain relevant for years and how it continuously drives sales.

    32:11 – What's Next for "The Sovereign Consultant"?
    James’ plan for scaling the book funnel and optimizing conversions into clients.

    35:41 – Where Can You Get the Book?
    James shares where to grab The Sovereign Consultant and how it can help transform your consulting business.

    36:30 – Thank You for Listening

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share!

    Get James' new book:

    - https://thesovereignconsultant.com/get


    Resources:

    - Smart Author Media: https://smartauthormedia.com

    - Book your free book marketing chat with Chris here: https://smartauthormedia.com/chat

    Subscribe:

    - Subscribe on YouTube: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/youtube

    - Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://links.smartauthormedia.com/apple

    Connect with Smart Author Media:

    - Get notified when new episodes release: https://smartauthormedia.com/podcast

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    38 mins