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Should you give away free content on your website, or should readers enter their email to access it? Many authors struggle with this decision. Allison Lane explains why collecting emails isn’t just about growing a list—it’s about delivering value in a way that builds trust and engagement.

You’ll learn the best way to offer free resources so that readers actually use them, stay connected with you, and take the next step toward buying your book or working with you.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ The biggest myth about free content (and why it’s misleading)
✅ How to design an opt-in page that converts without overwhelming readers
✅ Why delivering freebies by email increases engagement and trust

Resources Mentioned:

• Your Bio Package Guide: https://www.lanelit.com/package
• Free Author Branding Checklist: https://www.lanelit.com/checklist2
• Have a question? Email Allison at allison@lanelit.com

Timestamps:

• [00:01:09] What does it mean to require an email for free content?
• [00:03:13] Why readers engage more when content is emailed instead of instantly available
• [00:06:25] The best way to create a sign-up page that encourages downloads

Enjoyed this episode? Take a moment to rate, review, and share the Author’s Edge podcast with fellow authors. Your support helps us bring more actionable strategies to help you succeed. Got a question for our next Q&A? Click the "Send Me a Text" link at the top of the show notes.

Tune in now to discover the best strategy for your author platform. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezgZ6EoW_R0

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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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Are you an author trying to figure out how to market your book and position yourself as a leader in your genre?

Allison Lane sits with Kris Jones, a StoryBrand-certified guide and expert copywriter, and shares the exact steps you need to take to clarify your message, make your book irresistible, and get noticed in today’s crowded market. Whether you're an aspiring author or a published one, these actionable strategies will ensure that your brand not only stands out but also resonates with the readers you want to connect with.

Ready to take control of your author journey? Let’s dive into the episode and unlock the secrets to building a brand that works for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• The #1 mistake authors make when pitching their books—and how to fix it.
• How to craft a clear, compelling brand statement that attracts readers.
• The secret to positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your genre.

Resources Mentioned:

• StoryBrand by Donald Miller: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen. https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781400248872
• RedDoorDesigns.com: Kris Jones’ expert services for author branding.
• From Click to Client by Kris Jones: How to Easily Create a Story-Driven Website that Turns Visitors into Clients. https://www.reddoordesigns.com/book
• Free Video & Worksheet for Author Branding: Download Kris’s free resource to help you craft your concise brand statement. https://www.reddoordesigns.com/profit-stories

Timestamps:

[00:02:00] — The biggest mistake authors make in building their personal brand?
[00:05:30] — How to craft your 2-sentence book pitch that hooks your audience.
[00:15:00] — Why a clear brand statement is your key to success.
[00:20:00] — The importance of embracing the "guide" role in your author story.

If you found today's episode valuable, don't forget to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more authors and experts who need these actionable tips to grow their brands. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them today.

"People need to hear your story and it deserves to be told and it deserves to be heard." - Kris Jones

Tune in now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7FJ22OgKec

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 sending too many emails—or not enough? If you’ve ever wondered how often to email your list and what to include, this episode is your guide. Host Allison Lane breaks down the perfect email strategy for authors, showing you how to stay top-of-mind without overwhelming people.

If you’re ready to make your emails work for you (and not just be another thing on your to-do list), hit play now >>>

What You’ll Learn:

• The ideal email frequency to keep your audience engaged.
• The one thing every author email should include (but most forget).
• How to make your readers want to click your links (without feeling salesy).

Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Allison Lane: https://www.instagram.com/allisonlanelit/

Timestamps:

[00:02:51] — Why a “mishmash” newsletter is killing your engagement.
[00:03:17] — The real reason you should include your link 3 times in every email.
[00:06:11] — The mistake authors make with freebies (and how to fix it).

If this episode helped you, let us know! Your reviews help more authors find The Author’s Edge. Leave a review, share this episode, and let’s grow together. You can also listen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbZl0EwdsEg

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
Facebook @allisonlanelit

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“Successful people do what unsuccessful people are unwilling to do.” – Miriam Schulman

Are you struggling to sell your book or grow your audience beyond social media?

In this episode, Allison Lane sits with bestselling author and creative entrepreneur, Miriam Schulman to reveal a powerful 5-part business framework that applies to authors and creatives alike. Learn how to price, promote, and prospect for book sales without relying on traditional marketing tactics.

If you're an author who wants to get published, launch your book successfully, and increase visibility, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies you don’t want to miss!

🎧 Hit play now and start making your book a success!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The 5-Part Framework helps authors sell more books without social media burnout.
• Why email marketing beats social media for building an engaged audience and increasing book sales.
• How to confidently promote your book without feeling pushy or overwhelmed.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Miriam Schulman’s Book: Artpreneur - https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781400235148
• Miriam’s Podcast: The Inspiration Place - https://www.schulmanart.com/podcast/
• Get Miriam’s Free Gift: Leave a verified Amazon review for Artpreneur and send a screenshot to miriam@theinspirationplace.net to receive her agent query letter! https://www.schulmanart.com/artpreneur-book-bonuses/
• Follow Miriam on Instagram: @schulmanart

Timestamps:
[00:05:00] – How Miriam Schulman transitioned from artist to bestselling author
[00:14:30] – The biggest mistake authors make in marketing their book
[00:26:00] – Why email marketing is more powerful than social media for book sales
[00:38:00] – How to shift your mindset and start seeing success in book promotion
[00:41:00] – Exclusive freebie: Get Miriam’s exact agent query letter

Ready to make your book a success? Listen now & take action! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzPIMQQQhMI 🎧

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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Should your author's email match your book title? Or is it better to use your name?

The right choice can impact your author's brand, book visibility, and marketing success. In this episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison Lane breaks down the email and domain strategies every author should know—so you can avoid common mistakes and create a professional, memorable online presence.

If you're launching a book, growing your author platform, or just starting your writing career, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make the best choice. Tune in now to set up your author brand for long-term success.

🎧 Hit play now to discover the best domain and email strategy for your author career.

What You’ll Learn:

• Whether your author email should match your book title or your name.
• How to set up multiple domains without complicating your branding.
• The biggest mistake authors make when choosing a domain (and how to avoid it).

Resources Mentioned:

• Buy your domain on Squarespace: https://www.squarespace.com/
• Google Workspace for email hosting: https://domains.google/
• Need book marketing tips? Check out Allison Lane’s website: https://www.lanelit.com/
• Ask Allison a question: Email her at allison@lanelit.com

📢 Don’t miss this episode packed with expert tips on choosing the right email and domain for your author brand! Listen to this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_0VSF5vhCDQ?feature=shared

Timestamps Highlight:

• [00:03:00] – Should you buy a domain for your book title? Here’s the answer
• [00:03:51] – How to use a book title domain as a vanity URL that redirects to your main website.
• [00:04:26] – The biggest mistake authors make when choosing a domain—and how to avoid it.
• [00:05:19] – Where to buy your domain and what to expect in terms of cost.
• [00:06:03] – Final advice: Your domain is your online home—make sure readers can find you.

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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Is public speaking the missing link in your book promotion strategy?

In this episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison sits down with Bobbie Carlton, founder of “Innovation Women” and a trailblazer in speaker visibility. Bobbie shares how authorship and speaking go hand-in-hand to amplify visibility, credibility, and even compensation.

Discover practical tips for landing bigger stages, overcoming industry biases, and leveraging your book to open career-changing doors. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with actionable advice to transform your book into an unstoppable marketing tool.

🎧 Tune in to learn how public speaking can be the game-changer your book launch needs!

What You’ll Learn:

• Why public speaking is one of the most effective ways to promote your book.
• Creative compensation strategies for unpaid speaking gigs (and how to still make money!).
• How to leverage your book for high-profile speaking opportunities like TEDx and international stages.

Resources Mentioned:

• Innovation Women Membership: https://shrsl.com/4ps4k
• Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9780062292988
• Cait Donovan’s Podcast: Fried. The Burnout Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fried-the-burnout-podcast/id1469939920
• Allison's Next Chapter Membership https://www.lanelit.com/offers/bzACbCjB/checkout

Timestamps

• [00:02:30] How authorship amplifies public speaking success.
• [00:06:00] Creative ways to get paid for speaking gigs—even without a speaker fee.
• [00:13:00] Why “speaking begets speaking” and how to get started sooner.
• [00:26:00] Real-life success stories of women authors leveraging public speaking.

Bobbie Carlton is the founder of Carlton PR & Marketing, Innovation Nights, and Innovation Women. Known as Boston's "Innovation Den Mother," she empowers startups and women in tech through PR, product launches, and visibility opportunities. An award-winning marketing expert, Bobbie is a passionate advocate for underrepresented voices in innovation.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/9MHsBWWYxic?feature=shared

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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What’s the real key to turning media placements into a book deal? Spoiler alert: It’s not just about landing a big-name feature.

In this episode, Allison answers a listener’s question about pitching magazines and shares expert insights from powerhouse literary agent Sam Hiyate. You’ll learn why visibility, consistency, and audience targeting matter more than ever for authors trying to get published.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or an aspiring author in the world, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to boost your author marketing game.

Tune in now to discover how to pitch smarter and turn small wins into big opportunities!

What You’ll Learn:

• How to evaluate media outlets based on visibility and digital reach—not geography.
• Why pitching consistency (like one pitch per day) can transform your results.
• Tips for amplifying your media mentions to build long-term discoverability.

Resources Mentioned:

• Sam Hiyate’s agency: The Rights Factory https://www.rightsfactory.com
• Magazines referenced: Chatelaine, Toronto Life, Chicago Tribune
• Allison’s email for your questions: allison@lanelit.com

Timestamps:

• [00:02:00] Why one media placement isn’t enough to land a book deal?
• [00:03:00] How to evaluate magazines for their audience reach and digital footprint.
• [00:05:00] Sam Hiyate’s insights on pitching Canadian vs. U.S. magazines.
• [00:06:00] The power of consistency: One pitch a day for 29 days.

Tune in here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1WwJUKJf6I

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 me empower more authors to 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.

@allisonlanelit
LinkedIn @allisonlanelit
Facebook @allisonlanelit

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Have you ever wondered how to find hope and light in the midst of profound loss?

Allison Lane sits down with Jessica Fein—author of Breathtaking: A Memoir of Family Dreams and Broken Genes, TEDx speaker, Psychology Today columnist, and podcast host of I Don’t Know How You Do It. Jessica shares her deeply personal story of caregiving for her daughter, Dahlia, while navigating immense grief, and how writing became her outlet for connection, healing, and hope.

Jessica’s journey highlights resilience, humor, and the power of storytelling. Whether you're an author, caregiver, or seeking inspiration, this episode offers wisdom and practical tools to fuel your creative dreams.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Jessica turned caregiving into a story that resonates universally.
• Why humor and joy are essential tools in the face of grief.
• The ripple effect of sharing your story and connecting with readers.
• Practical tips for authors: querying agents, building a platform, and navigating publishing.
• Why every writer (yes, you!) deserves to embrace their story with “Why not me?”

Resources Mentioned:

• Jessica Fein’s Website: https://www.jessicafeinstories.com/
• Jessica Fein’s Book: Breathtaking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781681151106
• Jessica’s Blog on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/grace-in-grief
• Jessica’s TED Talk on Grief Literacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClaQkyLnAaw
• Jessica Fein’s Podcast “I Don’t Know How You Do It” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-dont-know-how-you-do-it/id1668168226
• Allison Lane’s Compassionate Critique Events: https://www.lanelit.com/cc

Timestamps

• [00:01:41] The story behind Jessica Fein’s sold-out book launch.
• [00:05:30] How Jessica’s memoir found its universal message.
• [00:12:50] From rejection to success: Finding her dream agent.
• [00:21:18] Balancing caregiving, writing, and launching a podcast.
• [00:27:46] Overcoming imposter syndrome as a writer.
• [00:38:18] “Why Not You?”—Jessica’s advice for aspiring authors.

Listen to this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H1MEPTrXz7I?feature=shared

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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