Episodes

  • SPTT 083 – Unlock Your Self-Publishing Success with StoryOrigin
    Feb 15 2025

    Episode 083

    Released on: February 15, 2025

    On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join us for an insightful conversation with Evan Gow, founder of StoryOrigin, as he shares the driving force behind his all-in-one platform designed for authors. From solving the problem of fragmented author tools to introducing innovative features like audiobook review distribution and beta copy management, Evan dives deep into the unique ways StoryOrigin is helping authors streamline their marketing and publishing efforts, like building an effective email list with enticing reader magnets. We also dive into actionable strategies for crafting email welcome sequences, explore emerging trends in self-publishing and direct sales, and uncover what sets StoryOrigin apart in today’s competitive publishing landscape. Tune in for practical tips and fresh insights designed to help you simplify your workflow and connect more deeply with your readers.

    CONNET WITH STORYORIGIN & EVAN GOW:

    🌟 StoryOrigin: https://storyoriginapp.com/?via=s-d(affiliate link)

    🌟 Evan Gow, Indie Developer: evan@storyoriginapp.com

    🌟 Evan Gow, indie developer of StoryOrigin, on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storyoriginapp

    ✨Shanon’s Kickstarter will launch on February 25th! Even if you can't buy anything later, following helps with the algorithm! 👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems/

    YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist

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    CONNECT WITH US!

    ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston

    ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write

    ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write

    ▶Jamie’s (J.M. Celi): Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jm.celi.54,YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorjmceli,Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jm_celi,Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jmceli.bsky.social,Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jm_celi

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    #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt

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    55 mins
  • SPTT 082 – When Scripts Become Sagas
    Feb 1 2025

    Episode 082

    Released on: February 1, 2025

    Join us for a heartfelt conversation with epic fantasy author H.L. Bernabe as she reveals her transformative journey from script writing to crafting expansive fantasy epics amid personal challenges. In this candid episode, Holly shares how channeling her experiences into writing became a powerful, cathartic release, and she offers practical insights—from embracing extended timelines for launch plans to leveraging essential software tools in self-publishing. Discover her unique perspective on the importance of attitude in marketing and how industry summits helped shape her path. Tune in for inspiration, real-life lessons, and invaluable tips that every writer can relate to.

    WEBSITES/ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

    🌟Shanon’s Kickstarter will launch on February 25th! Even if you can't buy anything later, following helps with the algorithm! 👉https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems/

    🌟 Miblart: https://miblart.com/

    🌟 Storytellers Rule the World Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdPLFc4z-u1ZlmNYW_MWpigUnabkfr1kn

    YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist

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    CONNECT WITH HOLLY, H.L. HERNABE!

    📸Holly’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author.hlbernabe/

    📧Holly’s Newsletter: https://hlbernabe.com/author 📗Holly’s Book, By Her Grace: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BTCH8V7Q

    CONNECT WITH US!

    ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston

    ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write

    ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write

    ▶Jamie’s (J.M. Celi): Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jm.celi.54, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorjmceli, Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jm_celi, Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jmceli.bsky.social, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jm_celi

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    #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt #authortube

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    31 mins
  • SPTT 081 – Batman & Serial Fiction? J.M. Celi Explains + Our 2025 Goals
    Jan 15 2025

    Episode 081

    Released on: January 15, 2025

    Welcome to Season 6 of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast! In our season premiere, we introduce our new co-host, Jamie, author of the gripping Lisa Cooper vampire series and a dark and urban fantasy writer under the pen name J.M. Celi. Jamie shares his unexpected journey into self-publishing, revealing how a now-ending platform, Kindle Vella, sparked his success and how a classic TV series influenced his writing style. We also share our writing goals for 2025, discuss platforms we’re excited to explore, and reveal our wild card ambitions for the year. Join us for a fresh start and inspiring insights for the year ahead!

    WEBSITES/ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

    🌟 Jamie’s (J.M. Celi) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorjmceli

    🌟 Jamie’s (J.M. Celi) Website: https://www.jmceli.com/

    🌟 Jamie’s (J.M. Celi) Newsletter: https://www.jmceli.com/newsletter

    YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist

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    CONNECT WITH US!

    ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston

    ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write

    ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write

    ▶Jamie’s (J.M. Celi): Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jm.celi.54, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorjmceli, Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jm_celi, Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jmceli.bsky.social, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jm_celi

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    #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • SPTT 080 – One Last Story Before We Begin Again (Five Seasons, Countless Lessons Learned)
    Dec 15 2024

    Episode 080

    Released on: December 15, 2024

    Join us for a bittersweet but celebratory episode as we reflect on five incredible seasons of Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks! In this special farewell episode, we explore the highs and lows of our self-publishing journeys, sharing hard-won lessons about time management, overcoming obstacles, and the crucial importance of self-care. We delve into our biggest accomplishments, biggest struggles, and offer invaluable advice for fellow authors. Discover what we'll take away from this amazing experience and hear what the future holds for each of us. Plus, join us in saying a heartfelt goodbye to Morgan Lee as she embarks on her next chapter. Tune in for inspiration, practical tips, and a celebration of the connections that make the writing journey worthwhile!

    YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist

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    CONNECT WITH US!

    ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston

    ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write

    ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write

    ▶Morgan’s Links: https://linktr.ee/authormorganlee

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    #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt #authortube

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • SPTT 079 – Is Kickstarter Right For You? Get Your Book Selling on Kickstarter
    Nov 15 2024
    Episode 079 Released on: November 15, 2024 Join Shanon, Rita, and Devon as they delve into “Get Your Book Selling on Kickstarter” by Russell P. Nohelty and Monica Leonelle. Discover how Kickstarter can transform your author career, even if you’ve never considered crowdfunding. This episode explores the book’s key takeaways, including identifying the most beneficial Kickstarter scenarios, leveraging exclusivity, and mastering campaign design, budgeting, and marketing. The authors also discuss the power of psychological triggers in driving sales and address their own biggest questions and concerns about the platform. Whether you’re a Kickstarter novice or a seasoned pro, this discussion will provide valuable insights and inspire you to consider new possibilities for connecting with readers and boosting your book sales. Tune in to learn how Kickstarter can become a powerful tool in your self-publishing arsenal. 🎧WHERE TO FIND THE BOOK FREE IN AUDIO: https://youtu.be/Qwq9wl0blI0 📘WHERE TO FIND THE BOOK TO BUY ONLINE: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Book-Selling-Kickstarter-Profitability-ebook/dp/B09TQ4G5S6 ✨Find out about Kickstarter updates by Russell and Monica since they’ve published this book! 👉 https://www.theauthorstack.com/p/whats-new-on-kickstarter-since-get IMPORTANT LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE: 🌟 “Get Your Book Selling on Kickstarter” campaign on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lovelightlioness/kickstarter-for-authors 🌟 2025 Authortube Writing Conference website to find applications and more: https://www.authortubewritingconference.com/ 🌟 Shanon’s first successful Kickstarter campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/acurseofscaleandfeathers 🌟 Shanon’s Kickstarter for A Curse of Wings & Gems: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems 🌟 Shanon’s video about doing Kickstarters: https://youtu.be/CWtWoJzXz_I YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ CONNECT WITH RITA SLANINA! 🎥 Rita’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitaSlanina 🌐 Rita’s Website: https://www.ritaslanina.com 📸 Rita’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritaslanina 🐦 Rita’s Twitter: https://x.com/ritaslanina 📱 Rita’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ritaslanina/ CONNECT WITH DEVON GAMBRELL! 🎥 Devon’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@devongambrell 🌐 Devon’s Website: https://dgambrell.com/ 📘 Devon’s ALL CALL INDIE: https://dgambrell.com/allcallindie/ 💜 Devon’s Social Links: https://dgambrell.com/links/ 📚 Devon’s book The Witch's Crystal: https://books2read.com/u/mgYGGR CONNECT WITH US! ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write ▶Morgan’s Links: https://linktr.ee/authormorganlee ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt
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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • SPTT 078 – The Art of Editing with The Story Grid
    Oct 15 2024
    Episode 078 Released on: October 15, 2024 In this episode, four authors dive into Shawn Coyne's book, The Story Grid, a comprehensive editing tool that breaks down the structure of a story to reveal what works and what doesn't. We explore the key analytical tools Coyne introduces, including the Story Grid Spreadsheet and the Five Commandments of Storytelling, and discuss how the book reshapes our approach to editing. We also talk about why understanding genre expectations is essential and agree that this book is especially helpful for writers tackling revisions after completing their first draft. 📘WHERE TO FIND THE BOOK ONLINE: https://store.storygrid.com/books/ IMPORTANT LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE: 🌟 The Story Grid website: https://storygrid.com/ 🌟 Writing into the Dark by Dean Wesley Smith: https://www.amazon.com/Writing-into-Dark-without-Outline/dp/1561466336 🌟 Anatomy of Genres by John Truby: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Genres-Story-Forms-Explain/dp/0374539227 🌟 Shanon’s Kickstarter for A Curse of Wings & Gems: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ CONNECT WITH CATHARINA STEEL! 🌐 Catharina’s website: https://catharinasteel.com 📗 Catharina’s Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/catharinasteelauthor/vanishings-the-wythic-wood-mysteries-series-book-one 📸 Catharina’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catharina_steel_author/ 📱 Catharina’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatharinaSteel.Author CONNECT WITH RITA SLANINA! 🎥 Rita’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RitaSlanina CONNECT WITH A ADESHILE! 🎥 Adeshile’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@adeshile.writes CONNECT WITH US! ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write ▶Morgan’s Links: https://linktr.ee/authormorganlee ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt
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    57 mins
  • SPTT 077 – The Smell of Death & Marketing
    Sep 15 2024

    Episode 077

    Released on: September 15, 2024


    On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join us as we dive into the dark and thrilling world of Jay Darkmoore, a UK bestselling author of horror, crime, and dark fantasy dystopian fiction. In this gripping episode, Jay reveals how his background in crime and investigation lends authenticity to his macabre storytelling, from capturing the unique smell of death to crafting realistic scenarios. Discover the intriguing backstory of his journey into self-publishing, sparked by a creative act of revenge at a dinner party. Jay shares his philosophy on engaging readers, saying that readers are vampires, and they like it when you open your personal wounds and bleed on the page. He also offers valuable marketing insights, particularly on creating effective point-of-view videos for platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for authors looking to delve into darker genres and boost their book marketing strategies. WEBSITES/ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:


    🌟 Shanon’s Kickstarter for A Curse of Wings & Gems: ⁠https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems⁠

    🌟 K-lytics Reports: ⁠https://k-lytics.com/dap/a/?a=19545⁠ (affiliate link)

    🌟 The 1-Page Marketing Plan: Get New Customers, Make More Money, And Stand Out From The Crowd (Lean Marketing Series) by Allan Dib: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/1-Page-Marketing-Plan-Customers-Money-ebook/dp/B01B35M3SM⁠

    🌟 Catch Ben’s Monthly Monday Writing Sprints: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write⁠

    YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 ⁠https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist⁠

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    CONNECT WITH JAY DARKMOORE!

    🌐 Jay’s website: ⁠https://www.jaydarkmooreauthor.com/⁠ 🌴 Jay’s Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/Jaydarkmoore⁠

    CONNECT WITH US!

    ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/sdhuston⁠

    ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write⁠

    ▶Ben Pick Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/running2write⁠

    ▶Morgan’s Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/authormorganlee⁠ ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~


    #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt

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    50 mins
  • SPTT 076 – Monetizing Stories in the Digital Age: Ream Strategies
    Sep 1 2024
    Episode 076 Released on: September 1, 2024 On this episode of the Self-Publishing Tips & Tricks podcast, join Shanon, Ben, and several guests as we explore the innovative world of Ream, a subscription platform that's reshaping how fiction authors connect with and monetize their readership. We dive into our personal strategies for leveraging Ream's unique features, from offering exclusive content to gamifying the reader experience. Learn how to set up your Ream presence for success, bypass traditional retail barriers, and build direct relationships with your most devoted fans. We also explore the vibrant, supportive Ream community and share insider tips on making the most of this innovative platform. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in the evolving landscape of digital publishing. WEBSITES/ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 🌟 Shanon’s Kickstarter for A Curse of Wings & Gems: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sdhuston/a-curse-of-wings-and-gems 🌟 Ream: https://reamstories.com/ 🌟 Inka York’s episode about Ream on SPTT, Ep. 038: https://youtu.be/mxFrmyWRIuM 🌟 Ben’s Merch: https://my-store-d1a772.creator-spring.com/ 🌟 World Anvil: https://www.worldanvil.com/ 🌟 Ream’s Help Center: https://help.reamstories.com/ 🌟 Ream’s Facebook, “Subscriptions for Authors”: https://www.facebook.com/groups/subscriptionsforauthors 🌟 Ream’s Podcast, “Storytellers Rule the World”: https://storytellersruletheworld.com/podcasthome/ 🌟 Elana Johnson’s Podcast episode with Ream: https://youtu.be/yoXY7U0yUlA FOLLOW EVERYONE’S REAM FOR FREE & GET BONUSES! ✨ Rachel D. Adams, Magical Mischief: https://reamstories.com/magicalmischief ✨ Devon Gambrell, Dark Realms & Portals: https://reamstories.com/devongambrell ✨ Elaine Canyon: https://reamstories.com/elainecanyon ✨ A. Dani, In Luridity: https://reamstories.com/inluridity ✨ Willow Bern: https://reamstories.com/willowbern ✨ Shanon (S.D. Huston): https://reamstories.com/sdhuston YOU CAN STILL CATCH ALL THE FREE REPLAYS FOR THE 2024 AUTHORTUBE WRITING CONFERENCE👉 https://bit.ly/2024-AWC-Playlist ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ CONNECT WITH RACHEL D. ADAMS! 🌐 Rachel’s website: https://racheldadams.com/ 🎥 Rachel’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RachelDAdams 📧 Rachel’s Aggressively Helpful Writing Advice: https://racheldadams.substack.com/ CONNECT WITH DEVON GAMBRELL! 🌴 Devon’s Links: https://dgambrell.com/links/ 📧 All Call Indie Newsletter: https://allcallindie.substack.com/ 🌐 All Call Indie Website: https://dgambrell.com/allcallindie/ 📗 Buy Devon’s Book: https://books2read.com/The-Witchs-Crystal 📧 Devon’s Newsletter with Free Book: https://bit.ly/TheWitchsCrystal 🎥 Devon’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@devongambrell CONNECT WITH ELAINE CANYON! 📸 Follow Elaine on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/elainecanyon 📧 Sign Up for Elaine's Newsletter! https://subscribepage.io/elainecanyon 📙 Read Love, Ships & Sea Serpents! https://books2read.com/u/b5Y0XR 🎥 Get Author help on Elaine's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@elainecanyon CONNECT WITH A. DANI! 🗨️ A. Dani’s Discord: https://discord.gg/u6rhf33 📸 A. Dani’s World Anvil: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/luridity 🎥 A. Dani’s Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/daniadventures/about 🌐 A. Dani’s Website: https://www.luridity.com CONNECT WITH US! ▶Shanon’s (S.D. Huston) Links: https://linktr.ee/sdhuston ▶Ben Pick’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Running2Write ▶Ben Pick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/running2write ▶Morgan’s Links: https://linktr.ee/authormorganlee ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ #selfpublishingtipstricks #sptt
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    35 mins