Episodes

  • Making Your Book's First Year Matter: Insights from Yasmeen Salama

    Making Your Book's First Year Matter: Insights from Yasmeen Salama
    Mar 24 2026

    In this insightful episode, Valerie Morris sits down with author and marketer Yasmeen Salama to explore the vibrant journey of writing, publishing, and marketing books in today's creative landscape. Yasmeen shares her personal story, the lessons learned from her debut novel "The Crimson Run," and the unique ways she’s built a community around her work.

    Episode Highlights
    1. From Writer to Marketer:
    2. With a strong background in marketing, Yasmeen shares how skills like SEO and paid ads made her book launch more impactful, and why she’s grateful for waiting until she was truly ready.
    3. Networking and Community Building:
    4. Discover why writing conferences changed the game for Yasmeen and how connecting with other writers and readers has been her biggest source of support and feedback.
    5. Thinking Beyond the Bookstore:
    6. Yasmeen reveals her creative approach to book promotion—including events at comic book shops, art shows, and festivals—and offers advice for authors looking to think outside the box.
    7. The Power of Newsletters:
    8. Valerie and Yasmeen highlight why building an email list is crucial for authors, how it helps maintain a direct connection with readers, and why it’s never too late—or too early—to start.
    9. The Long Game:
    10. Both speakers discuss the realities of author life, busting the myth of "overnight success" and underscoring the importance of patience, persistence, and building genuine relationships.


    Key Takeaways
    1. Lean into networking: Writing can be lonely, but community is essential.
    2. Get creative with promotion: Book signings aren’t limited to bookstores.
    3. Build your platform: Start that email list, no matter where you are in your author journey.
    4. Plan ahead: Festivals and awards have deadlines—research early.
    5. Marketing is a marathon, not a sprint—celebrate growth at every stage!



    Connect with Yasmeen Salama
    1. Website: yasmeensalama.com (visit for links to her books, newsletter, and music)
    2. The Crimson Run on Amazon



    Thank you for listening to Bound for Bestseller

    If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe, or leave a review.

    For more creative strategies, marketing tips, and inspiring author stories, stay tuned for our next episode!

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    Connect with Valerie Morris

    Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world

    https://www.amazon.com/Were-All-Ears-increase-influence/dp/099839971X?&linkCode=sl1&tag=tintecreat-20&linkId=ec70372607211871944859985956477b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

    LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris

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

    Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.

    https://www.tinteroonline.com/

    Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.

    https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/book-marketing-plan-blueprint/

    Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!

    https://tinterocreative.thrivecart.com/rock-your-next-interview/
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    37 mins
  • Crafting Your Author Brand: Insights from Bob Gentle

    Crafting Your Author Brand: Insights from Bob Gentle
    Mar 10 2026
    In this conversation, Bob Gentle joins the show to dive deep into the art and strategy of building a powerful leadership brand - whether you're an author, an entrepreneur, or someone simply wanting to be more intentional about your impact.Key Topics Covered:Personal Brand vs. Leadership Brand:Bob Gentle explains the difference between the brand we accumulate organically and the brand we build intentionally to lead others.Mindset Blocks on the Journey:Imposter syndrome is called out as a natural part of stepping beyond your comfort zone. Bob Gentle shares helpful ways to reframe it as a beacon for growth rather than an alarm. Other common challenges include the belief that your perspective isn’t unique, and how to overcome that.The Power of Your Story and Perspective:You don’t need to be “extraordinary” for your life to be interesting to others. Bob Gentle and Valerie Morris discuss how stories, personal quirks, and daily realities can build connection—whether you have goats in Colorado or an apartment in Glasgow!Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe:Why authenticity (and a touch of storytelling creativity) goes a long way in attracting the right audience, and how building a “three-dimensional” relationship through content is key.Personal Branding & Character Development:Bob Gentle suggests thinking of yourself as a character, and how appropriate filters and emphasis are necessary depending on the social (or virtual) situation.Choosing Your Content Channels:There’s no one-size-fits-all, whether it’s TikTok, LinkedIn, or something else, the most sustainable platform is the one that aligns with your energy and skill set.Repetition & Strategy:The importance of talking about your book (or project) repeatedly—algorithms and attention spans demand it! But don’t be a one-trick pony; balance content about your book with other buckets of value.Turning Your Book into an Ecosystem:A successful book is just the beginning. Bob Gentle encourages authors to create ways for readers to enter their broader ecosystem, ensuring the book becomes a business asset, not just a calling card.Thinking Bigger Than Your Book:Don’t limit yourself to a single offering; your book can open doors to opportunities at every rung of the value ladder.Best Quotes:"Imposter syndrome is the natural consequence of being on the edge of your comfort zone, of doing things differently, of perhaps trying to be seen as a leader in some way (...) It's what it costs to do what other people won't do."“Imposter syndrome is the natural companion of a leader.”“If you want people to know you in three dimensions, we need to give them structured windows to look in through.”“We need to approach building our personal brand very similar to the way that an actor would play a role.”Whether you’re penning your first draft or launching your next book, your brand is more than a logo—it’s your story, your energy, and the intentional connections you create. Don’t hold yourself back; start building your leadership brand with purpose!Guest Info:Bob Gentle is a leader in personal and leadership branding, working with authors, professionals, and businesses to market and monetize their unique message. He’s active on several books and is known for delivering concise wisdom that sparks transformation.Connect with Bob Gentle:LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgentle/)Bob's Work (https://amplifyme.agency/)Connect with Valerie MorrisBooks: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy worldLinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie MorrisReserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!
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    33 mins
  • Marathon, Not a Sprint: Inside Book Marketing with Andy Storch

    Marathon, Not a Sprint: Inside Book Marketing with Andy Storch
    Feb 24 2026
    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: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.”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.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.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.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!).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: :Books: “Own Your Career, Own Your Life” and “Own Your Brand, Own Your Career” (both available on Amazon).LinkedIn: Daily posts and updates fromAndy Storch.Podcasts: The Andy Storch Show (with daily stories and lessons) and Talent Development Hot Seat.Website: andystorch.comConnect with Valerie MorrisBooks: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy worldLinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie MorrisReserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!
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    38 mins
  • Best Practices for Author Websites & Book Websites

    Best Practices for Author Websites & Book Websites
    Feb 13 2026

    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.
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    45 mins
  • What Publishers Wish Authors Knew with Mike Klassen

    What Publishers Wish Authors Knew with Mike Klassen
    Feb 3 2026
    Key Topics DiscussedMike Klassen’s Journey in PublishingFrom 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.Misconceptions About PublishingMike 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.The Chaos (and Necessity) of Book LaunchesValerie 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.The Role of AI in AuthorshipThe 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.What Makes a 360-Degree AuthorMike 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.Mindset & Overcoming Imposter SyndromeBoth 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 TakeawaysSurround yourself with people smarter than you—embrace collaboration.Understand the entire publishing process—not just writing—to set your book up for success.Embrace technology, but keep your creative and critical thinking muscles in use.Don’t let fear or imposter syndrome keep your book in the drawer—the world needs your story.Plan for the unexpected; even experienced teams run into new challenges every launch.Connect with Mike KlassenWebsite: illumifymedia.comFind resources, set up a call, or sign up for the Power Writers Report newsletter directly on his site.Final ThoughtsThis episode is packed with real-world publishing wisdom and inspiration for authors at every stage. Whether you’re wrestling with your first draft or ready to bring your book to market, the advice from Mike Klassen and Valerie Morris will help you move forward with confidence and clarity._____Connect with Valerie MorrisBooks: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy worldLinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie MorrisReserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!Looking to make your book launch a success? https://tinteroauthorsolutions.com/
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    42 mins
  • From Engineer to Creative Fiction: Writing tips from Jeff Kildow

    From Engineer to Creative Fiction: Writing tips from Jeff Kildow
    Jan 2 2026

    In this episode of Bound for Bestseller, Valerie Morris sits down with author Jeff Kildow to dive deep into the fascinating world of alternative history fiction. Jeff Kildow shares his unique approach to reimagining 20th-century history, the intricate research that fuels his stories, and how his military and engineering background infuses authenticity into his novels.

    Jeff Kildow discusses his hit series, starting with Nazi Menace, which explores World War II and asks “What if?” at a critical turning point in history. He explains how his books blend real events with imaginative departures, all while sticking firmly to the technological and societal realities of each era. The conversation also covers his creative process, the importance of detailed research, and the creative habits that help him bring authentic - and sometimes obscure- details into his fiction.

    Listeners will hear about Jeff Kildow’s inspirations, his favorite techniques for building compelling characters, the challenges of killing off beloved creations, and his advice for aspiring writers of fiction, especially in the alternative history genre. Plus, discover how real-life experiences and travel inspire his stories, and why authenticity is essential in an AI-driven world.

    Highlights
    1. What alternative history fiction really is and how Jeff Kildow creates believable “what if?” scenarios
    2. The landmark moments behind his WWII thriller Nazi Menace and its sequels set during the Korean War and Suez Crisis
    3. How a military and engineering career translates into gripping, authentic storytelling
    4. The importance of research, from historical accuracy to oddball airplane “Easter eggs” in books
    5. Writing habits: capturing inspiration, making notes everywhere, and balancing technical detail with engaging narrative
    6. Crafting memorable characters, their arcs, and the emotional challenge of “killing your darlings”
    7. Advice for new and aspiring fiction writers, including the value of accurate history, avoiding clichés, and leveraging your own unique experiences
    8. The crucial role of authenticity and trust for writers in today’s content landscape

    Connect with Jeff Kildow
    1. Visit Jeff’s website: jeffkildow.com for books, updates, and more!

    Takeaway

    Whether you’re a military history buff, a fiction writer, or just love a good “what if” scenario, this episode is packed with practical advice, entertaining anecdotes, and encouragement to embrace both your left and right brain!

    Connect with Valerie Morris

    1. Books: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy world
    2. LinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie Morris
    3. Reserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.
    4. Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.
    5. Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!
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    33 mins
  • Leveraging Group Programs for Greater Author Impact

    Leveraging Group Programs for Greater Author Impact
    May 8 2025
    Valerie Morris welcomes author community strategist, Kerry Dobson, to discuss how authors can extend their book's impact well beyond the initial launch. Kerry shares valuable strategies for building meaningful communities around your book that allow you to fulfill your core mission and create lasting change in readers' lives.Key Highlights:Beyond the Book Launch: Kerry explains why a book's publication is just the beginning of its journey and how community-building can significantly extend its reach and impactStrategic Community Building: The conversation explores the thoughtful process of creating groups based on a book's content, including:Taking essential breaks after launch to prevent burnoutFocusing on just 2-3 implementable key messages from your bookPositioning yourself as a guide rather than a guru to overcome imposter syndromeCreating a realistic timeline that respects your audience's capacityThe Shift to Authentic Marketing: Both Kerry and Valerie discuss why passive marketing approaches are becoming less effective, while community-based strategies foster emotional connections and loyaltyConnect With UsFollow Valerie on LinkedIn for updates when this episode goes liveLearn more about Kerry Dobson and her work with authors. Check out Kerry's private podcast: "The Great Group Revolution"Gift Guide for Authors:Whether you’re an author yourself, or have an author in your family that you just love to spoil, I’ve got some fun gift ideas to inspire creativity while also helping you stay productive. Sometimes the right tools can help you really get in the mood to write, and some things are simply purely for the whimsical creativity they can spark. Either way, enjoy some of my favorite gift ideas for authors!Fanciful Pen HolderThis typewriter pen/pencil holder is super cute, and surprisingly solid. Whenever I see it sitting on my desk it gives me a small smile. Even though I’m writing on my modern day Macbook, I can imagine the clickety clack of the typewriter keys and the crank as you push the slide back for a new row. Library Card PocketsThese old-school library card pockets with cards are a whimsical small touch. Use them for greeting cards, bookmarks with a handwritten note, or stick them inside your own books at book signings or in-person sales. They add a really fun hint of nostalgia and any bookworm at heart will light up at these! https://amzn.to/4kSvuobWireless SpeakerNo matter where I set up to write, my JBL portable speaker helps me set the tone and get in the zone. Music sets the tone for me. I personally love using Spotify’s Daily Lift playlist which is personally made just for me! Another playlist I love is “Butter.” The quality is great, and it’s so durable with this speaker and if I move around to work from different rooms in the house, or even outside of my home office, it’s easy to move around. https://amzn.to/44JN3lJSupportive Office ChairI love this comfortable office chair. I had chair envy for years after seeing my sister with this same chair until I finally got my own! The wheels roll so well and the chair is easy to adjust. https://amzn.to/44JN3lJMy Favorite PenIf you don’t already have a favorite pen (or even if you do), you’ll want to try these out. We literally keep buying and rebuying these Pentel ballpoint pens. I actually have them in about eight different colors! https://amzn.to/4kLDMy1Water BottleOne writer’s hack is to keep a water bottle for your desk. Then, there’s no excuse to get dehydrated, or have to get up and around to get more water. I’ve found that if I get up from my desk to write, I get distracted and interrupted. I like to keep this Yeti water bottle nearby. It’s durable, practical, and the fun colors add some joy to my life. https://amzn.to/44Hw9EeRing LightGetting out there with video content to share the face behind my writing is so easy with this ring light. It’s lightweight and folds up well, so it’s easy to store. Regardless of what room’s lighting involves, I can supplement the situation with this light!https://amzn.to/4m0ugJ7Jotlet NotepadI have this Levenger Jotlet notepad sitting on my desk everyday! I use it to write down inspirational quotes I come across and then I flip to a new page every week or so and stare at those quotes propped up like a tent just beyond where my mouse hand rests regularly. This one is cute with the book cover design too!https://www.levenger.com/collections/jotlets/products/circa-levenger-library-jotlet?variant=43364466655381Connect with Valerie MorrisBooks: We're All Ears: How to increase your impact, influence, and success online in a noisy worldLinkedIn: Weekly posts and updates from Valerie MorrisReserve your domain name or set up website hosting for your author website ​here​.Build your own marketing plan for your book launch with the ​Book Marketing Blueprint​.Rock your next interview with ​this guide​!Mentioned in this episode:Join the Author Craft Community!Access ...
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    32 mins
  • How to Know You're Ready to Publish a Book

    How to Know You're Ready to Publish a Book
    Oct 16 2024

    How do you know you're ready to take your ideas and put them out to the world? We're diving into this important question on the podcast this episode!

    _______

    Get my gift guide for authors and writers! Here are some of my favorite fun picks for gifts!

    The Book Marketing Goodies:

    Get my FREE guide for book planning if you're still writing your book. Let's get that manuscript finished! 

    Get the book marketing blueprint filled with the framework you need to market your book in a simple, but strategic way before, at, and after your launch!

    Download the launch team building guide and class. (AKA how to enlist others to help your book make a big splash at launch!) 

    A personal brand is vital for an author, AND for selling more books. Today, we're diving in on why a personal brand is helpful for authors and how it can help you sell more books.

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    11 mins