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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome accomplished author and historian Valerie Battle Kenzel. The discussion centers on effective book promotion techniques, including creating compelling media pitches, utilizing talking points, engaging with local media, and leveraging social media. Valerie shares her insights on navigating the various facets of book promotion and emphasizes the importance of a proactive, strategic approach to marketing one's work. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, listeners are equipped with the tools needed to effectively promote their books and advance their writing careers.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Meet Valerie Battle K​ienzel: A Journey in Writing
02:17 Crafting Effective Media Pitches
06:20 The Art of Self-Promotion
10:03 Creating and Using Press Releases
15:22 Building and Maintaining Media Relationships
19:44 Timing and Strategy for Book Promotion
22:32 Targeting Opportunities as an Author
22:49 Building an Author Website
23:05 Engaging with Your Audience
24:22 Community Engagement and Giving Back
25:20 Finding Your Book's Niche
29:31 Balancing Promotion and Writing
31:20 Promotional Strategies for New Authors
36:29 Leveraging Social Media and Traditional Media
39:06 Success Stories and Media Appearances
42:17 Frugal Promotion Tactics
42:58 Latest Book Release
43:52 Conclusion and Farewell

​Valerie Battle Kienzle--find out more!

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​In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer interview Shannon Anderson, an award-winning author and seasoned educator. They explore Shannon's journey from teaching to becoming a prolific author and speaker. She shares valuable tips on transitioning from writing to public speaking, effectively booking speaking engagements, tailoring presentations for various audiences, and managing a busy schedule. Shannon also offers insights into time management and the benefits of joining supportive communities like Toastmasters.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:34 Introducing Shannon Anderson
01:39 Shannon's Journey to Becoming an Author
05:09 Incorporating Speaking Engagements
17:06 Strategies for Booking Speaking Engagements
24:47 Tailoring Presentations for Different Audiences
31:08 Advice for Aspiring Speakers
37:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

S​hannon Anderson--Author, Educator, Speaker

​P​latform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World by Michael Hyatt

​​How to Deliver a TED Talk: Secrets of the World's Most Inspiring Presentations​ by Jeremey Donoval

​​TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking​ by Chris Anderson, curator of TED

L​istserve

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by Carina Licon, Assistant Editor at Henry Holt Books for Young Readers, part of the Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. The discussion navigates through Carina's editorial process—emphasizing the importance of character-driven and voice-y manuscripts, maintaining the author's voice, and offering insights into the revision process. Carina shares her collaborative approach to editing and the criteria she uses for evaluating character motivation, development, and stakes in a story. Additionally, they explore the intricacies of handling revisions, from receiving editorial notes to deciding on rewrites versus targeted edits. The episode concludes with useful tips on making narrative voices more distinctive and engaging, along with practical advice on tracking revisions.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:32 Meet Editor Carina Licon
02:54 Carina's Editorial Approach
04:13 Balancing Author's Voice and Revisions
08:28 Common Revision Mistakes
09:46 The Role of Critique Partners
13:21 Developmental Edits and Author Collaboration
16:23 Revise and Resubmit Process
24:44 Character Development and Stakes
29:24 Refining Narrative Voice
30:58 Conclusion and Farewell

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