In this episode of Bound for Bestseller,Valerie Morris sits down with author, speaker, and personal development expert Andy Storch. Known for his relentless book marketing strategies and his distinctive “Own Your…” book series, Andy Storch offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he writes, launches, and promotes his books, plus valuable insights into successful collaborations and building a personal brand. He also shares insider experience on co-authoring a book and the process around that!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

1. Marketing Mindset for Authors: Andy Storch shares why consistent visibility is crucial for book marketing, debunking the myth that “you’re talking about your book too much.”
2. Journey to Authorship: Andy Storch walks through his career evolution, from consulting and training to entrepreneurship and podcasting, explaining how his first book “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” was inspired and written, and why building a business around a book was always part of his plan.
3. Co-Authoring and Group Projects: Hear what it’s really like to write a book with a partner. Andy Storch discusses his collaboration with Mike Kim on “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career,” the highs and challenges of group projects, and why communication and clearly defined roles are essential for success.
4. Leveraging Strengths and Knowing Limitations: Both Valerie and Andy Storch share personal experiences about how understanding your work style (dreamer vs. executor) or hiring the right support can make or break creative partnerships and book projects.
5. Book Launch Strategies That Work: Dig into Andy Storch’s playbook for successful launches, including building an early reader team, recruiting influential endorsers, and following up persistently for Amazon reviews (for both yourself and for others - hello, karma bank!).
6. The Value of Reciprocation in the Author and Business Community: Find out why leaving reviews and supporting other authors is both good karma and solid strategy.

Connect with Andy: :

1. Books: “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” and “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career” (both available on Amazon).
2. LinkedIn: Daily posts and updates from
3. Andy Storch
4. .
5. Podcasts: The Andy Storch Show (with daily stories and lessons) and Talent Development Hot Seat.
6. Website: andystorch.com

Connect with Valerie Morris

In this episode, Peter Brissette, of DM Dude, joins the show for a deep dive into author websites, personal branding, and online presence. Geared toward authors, speakers, coaches, and thought leaders, this conversation explores why your website is not just a digital brochure, but the hub of your brand and business.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Peter Brissette’s two-decade journey in digital marketing and web design
2. Cautionary tales about phishing scams and protecting your online identity
3. How and when authors should start building their website
4. Why your author site should be focused on YOU, your brand, and your expertise, not just your book
5. Insights on building an email list early and why waiting until after launch is a big mistake
6. Overcoming perfection paralysis
7. The importance of branding, images, and professional assets for a standout site
8. The business and marketing mindset every author needs to succeed online
9. Domain name tips: what to do when your ideal name is taken

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Start your website as soon as you commit to writing a book or building a personal brand
2. Invest in your online “hub.” Your site should tell your story, offer resources, collect emails, and connect you to your audience
3. Don’t wait for perfection: launch and improve over time. Your website can always evolve!
4. Build your audience and email list early; these are your true marketing power
5. Add clear calls-to-action so your website actually works for you 24/7
6. Don’t stress if your ideal domain is gone, get creative with initials or modifiers

Resources & Links:

1. Peter Brissette - dmdude.com

Connect With Your Host:

Find more creative marketing tips and personal brand strategies at Tintero Creative Content.

https://tinteroauthorsolutions.com/

Connect with Valerie on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerielmorris/

Loved This Episode?

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with an author or friend who wants to boost their online presence!

Special thanks to Peter Brissette for sharing his expertise and actionable advice for authors and thought leaders.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Mike Klassen’s Journey in Publishing
2. From his unexpected start as a pastor-turned-bestselling ghostwriter to founding Illumify Media, Mike Klassen emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with authors and maintaining a people-first approach.
3. Misconceptions About Publishing
4. Mike Klassen highlights two common mistakes authors make: believing they can do everything themselves, and underestimating the specialized skills required to produce a professional book. He shares anecdotes about the pitfalls of DIY publishing and the importance of having a knowledgeable, responsive team.
5. The Chaos (and Necessity) of Book Launches
6. Valerie Morris and Mike Klassen discuss the unpredictable technical glitches involved in book launches, the necessity of having experienced support, and why a publishing team can alleviate stress and setbacks.
7. The Role of AI in Authorship
8. The conversation turns to the ethical and practical implications of AI in publishing—from using AI to brainstorm and organize content to the ongoing debates about authenticity and creativity. Both guests agree that boundaries and discernment are crucial as technology evolves.
9. What Makes a 360-Degree Author
10. Mike Klassen introduces his vision for the “360-degree author”—someone educated in every facet of the book creation process, from story craft and typesetting to marketing and leveraging social media. He explains why thinking holistically leads to a more successful and professional book.
11. Mindset & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
12. Both guests address the mental hurdles that keep manuscripts stuck in drafts. Mike Klassen offers direct advice for writers struggling with self-doubt, encouraging them to “get over it” and focus on the message, not personal anxieties.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Surround yourself with people smarter than you—embrace collaboration.
2. Understand the entire publishing process—not just writing—to set your book up for success.
3. Embrace technology, but keep your creative and critical thinking muscles in use.
4. Don’t let fear or imposter syndrome keep your book in the drawer—the world needs your story.
5. Plan for the unexpected; even experienced teams run into new challenges every launch.

Connect with Mike Klassen

1. Website: illumifymedia.com
2. Find resources, set up a call, or sign up for the Power Writers Report newsletter directly on his...