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What if your book wasn't the final product, but the first step to a six-figure business? Many authors pour their hearts into writing and publishing a book, only to struggle with author marketing and visibility, wondering if it will ever lead to a real, lasting income. Allison Lane and Julie Chenell dive into a new path for authors, one where your book becomes a powerful tool for a scalable business, not just a one-time sale.

Julie, a digital marketer who built a multi-million dollar business without a book, shares her framework for finding your readers and monetizing your expertise without guesswork. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to write a book, launch a book, or publish their work with a clear strategy for success and sustainable income.

In this episode, Allison and Julie discuss:

• [00:02] Why book sales alone won’t create a six-figure income
• [00:06] The “Hawaii journey” analogy for author monetization
• [00:10] How to choose between high-ticket vs. scalable offers
• [00:13] The 3 reflection exercises to design your business model
• [00:17] Why most authors struggle to identify the real problem they solve
• [00:21] How to make six figures with your book before it’s published
• [00:24] The baker’s story: being the best isn’t enough—you need to sell
• [00:26] Julie’s one tip every author must follow

Resources Mentioned:

• Julie’s Website: https://juliechenell.com/
• Book coming out on October 26th: Million Dollar Grit by Julie Chenell (subscribe to the podcast)
• Podcast: Million Dollar Grit: https://milliondollargrit.com/
• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliechenell/
• Get Allison’s Essential Author Bio Package: https://www.lanelit.com/package

If you enjoyed today's episode and learned something new about building your author platform, please take a moment to rate and review The Author's Edge. Your support helps us reach more authors and helps us on our mission to help authors make more money from their books.

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• 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!

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How can you get more done? Allison Lane reveals her no-nonsense approach to productivity for authors, leaders, and entrepreneurs who feel overwhelmed by never-ending tasks. She walks through her personal framework for getting everything done without burning out, missing deadlines, or losing precious writing time. With lots of real-life examples, Allison shows how ditching busy work, building repeatable systems, and knowing when (and how) to delegate can totally change your workflow.

Allison also calls out common mistakes, explains her favorite tools, and emphasizes the one thing nobody else can do for you: write your book. If you're ready to spend less time tinkering and more time sharing your ideas, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Allison covers:

• 00:00 Allison shares how she manages to get everything done without burnout.
• 00:45 She focuses on practical systems instead of a nonstop hustle.
• 01:10 Her framework includes outcomes, priorities, and templates.
• 02:15 Templates save time and prevent starting from scratch.
• 03:00 She explains how smart delegation frees creative energy.
• 04:20 Staying involved ensures quality and consistency.
• 05:00 Descript and Castmagic help her repurpose content fast.
• 06:10 She compares content reuse to making new dishes from the same dough.
• 06:45 Organized folders keep her team aligned and efficient.
• 07:15 Systems protect focus and eliminate wasted effort.
• 07:45 She challenges listeners to turn one task into a system.
• 08:00 Allison ends by urging authors to spend time writing, not editing.

Resources Mentioned:

• Allison Lane’s website: https://www.lanelit.com/
• Kajabi – https://app.kajabi.com/r/XHNMfLXC
• Sneha HireMath’s Kajabi Template Pack: https://www.snehahiremath.com/kajabi-template-shop
• Descript – a tool used to edit podcasts: https://get.descript.com/mew7wqdktfsm
• Castmagic – an AI tool that extracts content: https://app.castmagic.io/
• Connect with Allison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonlanelit/

Ready to get more done without burning out? Tune in to this episode of The Author’s Edge and learn how to use systems, delegation, and templates to keep your author activities running smoothly.

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.

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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.

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“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.

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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 you

Alice 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.

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“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.

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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/proposal
• Connect 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.

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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 features

Marissa 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=2re

If 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.

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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 life

Cait 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.

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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 talking
• 30:00 – 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.com
• B 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
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