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Iron Age Marketing

Iron Age Marketing

By: NIcky P
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 Conversations with creators just like you about the part of creation they hate most: GETTING PEOPLE TO PAY ATTENTION.2024 Art Economics Literary History & Criticism Marketing Marketing & Sales
Episodes
  • Melissa J Cave: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 051

    Melissa J Cave: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 051
    Mar 24 2025
    In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Melissa J Cave, author of the fantasy novel Traitor's Son. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Melissa J Cave Melissa J Cave is a project manager and a veteran who has spent most of her life traveling, first as a military brat and then in the Air Force and Department of Defense. She has always been fascinated by new places, cultures, languages, and history, and there is no better place to indulge that interest than in fantasy writing. She currently lives in Virginia, where she is failing to grow strawberries for the third year running. Exploring Fantasy Writing with Military Veteran Melissa J Cave In this first of three segments of episode 51 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest Melissa J Cave, a military veteran and debut author, to discuss her new fantasy series 'Traitor Son: First Book of the Empire of the Stars.' Melissa shares her background as a 'military brat' and soldier, and how these experiences have informed her writing. They delve into the misconception that military discipline stifles creativity and discuss the importance of diverse life experiences in storytelling. Melissa also talks about the themes in her series, such as post-war promises and hope, in contrast to the grimdark genre. With six books written before publishing the first, Melissa explains the advantages of completing an entire series ahead of time for tighter storytelling. The Intersection of Romance, Family, and Marketing: An Author's Journey In this second of three segments of episode 51 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & author Melissa J Cave dive into the writing and marketing journey of an experienced author who has been crafting stories since childhood. Beginning with a simple romance idea in 2019, the story expanded into a multi-book family saga, including elements of action and politics. The author discusses the importance of romance in storytelling, particularly in appealing to male readers. She shares insights on marketing strategies, using platforms like Net Galley and Book Sirens to gather feedback and generate buzz. The episode also covers building an audience through email lists and maintaining an online presence, focusing on marketing primarily to romance readers. Navigating Self-Publishing and Gender Dynamics in Historical Fantasy Literature with Melissa J Cave In this third and final segment of episode 51 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest Melissa J Cave., who discusses her unique approach to writing fantasy literature, focusing on realistic character development and gender roles in historical contexts. The conversation explores Melissa's decision to self-publish her books, driven by a desire to maintain creative control and effectively target different audiences on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Melissa further delves into how she handles negative reviews, the limitations of traditional publishing, and the importance of showcasing the complementary roles of men and women in her medieval city-building narrative. Hopefully, today's episode with Melissa J Cave serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Melissa J Cave Resources & Extra Media
    • https://melissajcave.com/
    • https://geni.us/traitorson-global (Amazon link)
    Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com
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    36 mins
  • C S Johnson: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 050

    C S Johnson: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 050
    Mar 17 2025
    In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to C S Johnson, genre-defying novelist of multiple young adult series'. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator C S Johnson C. S. Johnson is the award-winning, genre-hopping author of several novels, including young adult sci-fi and fantasy adventures such as the Starlight Chronicles series, the Once Upon a Princess saga, and the Divine Space Pirates trilogy. With a gift for sarcasm and an apologetic heart, she currently lives in Atlanta with her family. Navigating Indie Publishing with Author C. S. Johnson In this first of three segments of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest C. S. Johnson as she shares her extensive experience in writing, discussing her journey from vanity press beginnings in 2007 to crafting a vast collection of 40 books and multiple audiobooks. She delves into her strategies for maintaining creative control, her perspectives on traditional versus indie publishing, and the importance of genres in making money as a writer. The conversation also touches on balancing being a homeschool mom with writing, the challenges of staying disciplined, and the need for hopeful characters in fiction. Don't miss insights into her favorite genres, particularly romance, and her views on the evolving landscape of modern storytelling. The Power of Independent Writing & Crowdfunding: A Conversation on Creativity In this second of three segments of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & author C S Johnson discuss the significance of the "Iron Age" ethos coined by RazörFist and how it benefits all writers, regardless of political leanings. The dialogue touches upon the downsides of the 'story by committee' approach and why individual creativity matters. The conversation highlights Brandon Sanderson's remarkable Kickstarter success, underscoring the potential of self-publishing. They delve into the importance of character connection in storytelling and the emerging popularity of graphic novels among younger readers. The discussion wraps up with insights on the critical role of family support and the value of investing in one's creative vision, despite the associated financial risks. Navigating Your First Book Release: Insights for Aspiring Authors In this third and final segment of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest C S Johnson her advice for authors who are gearing up to release their first book. They discuss common pitfalls to avoid, such as lack of passion and poor character development, emphasizing the importance of writing what you believe in. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by new authors, comparisons with established names like Stephen King, and the significance of creating relatable protagonists. The speaker also reflects on their own journey, including lessons learned from their initial publication and the influence of cultural phenomena like Marvel and Harry Potter on their writing. The discussion concludes with thoughts on staying true to oneself and engaging with social media in the post-COVID era. Hopefully, today's episode with C S Johnson serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. C S Johnson Resources & Extra Media
    • https://www.csjohnson.me
    • https://www.substack.com/@writercsjohnson
    • https://www.x.com/writercsjohnson
    • https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/writercsjohnson/slumbering-the-starlight-chronicles-1-the-graphic-novel
    Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com
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    33 mins
  • Joseph Battaglia: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 049

    Joseph Battaglia: Iron Age Marketing Podcast Episode 049
    Jan 16 2025
    In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Joseph Battaglia, novelist, IT professional and writer of The Dunce Whisperer. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Joseph Battaglia Joseph Battaglia started writing shortly after being medically discharged from the Marine Corps for a vascular disorder resulting from lifting too many weights and being entirely too swole. His normal human body wasn’t capable of withstanding the weight that his soul was capable of lifting. This condition led to the removal of one of his ribs. It’s interesting to think that Adam the first person had also been removed of a single rib. Adam was created in the image of God which is just something interesting to think about, not drawing any conclusions. Joseph’s first book was Planet of Babel: Dawn Edge. Perhaps the most intelligent Sci-Fi book ever penned. Some individuals claim it's the book Einstein wished he'd wrote. Fun fact, Albert Einstein was a late talker and didn’t say his first word till he was three. Joseph was four when he started talking. Some people may draw the conclusion that talking late correlates to intelligence. Who knows? Probably though. Joseph Battaglia has worked in the I.T. field since 2011. Dealing with customers has always been painful for him to say the least. Now his horror for the past ten-plus years has been converted into the perfect story for you to be able to experience the same pain. An Interview with Jarhead, Author and IT Professional, Joseph Battaglia In this first of three segments of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest, writer, Joseph Battaglia, an Italian-American from New Jersey with a background in the Marine Corps and over a decade of IT experience. Joseph discusses his transition to civilian life, his work in the government sector, and his passion for writing. He shares insights into his creative process, the role his wife plays as a co-author, and the humorous approach he takes to promote his books. The episode delves into the making of his latest book trailer and the persona he adopted for marketing purposes. Joseph also touches on the differences between his previous works in sci-fi grim dark and his current project in comedy fantasy. Exploring Fantasy Comedy Writing with Author Joseph Battaglia In this second of three segments of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & Joseph Battaglia talk about the unique approach in writing comedy within a fantasy setting. Battaglia shares insights into the premise of his new book, describing it as 'Harry Potter meets Office Space,' and how it integrates magical tools in a bureaucratic fantasy world. They touch upon the importance of audience connection, relatable character experiences, and the balance of humor and narrative in writing. The discussion also highlights the target audience, the impact of customer service experiences on character development, and the importance of research, especially in genres like sci-fi. Embracing Humor and Self-Awareness: An Interview with AuthorJoseph Battaglia In this third and final segment of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest, Joseph Battaglia, his approach to creating a character that embodies self-awareness and stupidity. Joseph elaborates on the importance of being able to laugh at oneself, his YouTube persona, and the significance of developing a strong author identity to connect with the audience. They touch on the evolving nature of publishing and marketing in the digital age, the role of social media in building a following. The conversation concludes with reflections on the charm of being 'lovably stupid' and the journey of character development. Hopefully, today's episode with Joseph Battaglia serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Joseph Battaglia Resources & Extra Media
    • https://mailchi.mp/7ad1665776e0/tale-of-the-dunce-whisperer
    • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeDktB7GM6ok8tmWuzO73FA
    • More when I get the book live

    Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com
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    29 mins
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