Entries tagged with “podcasting” from Tools of Change for Publishing

Web Publicity + Free = A Fighting Chance

Mac Slocum
July 16, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2) | Listen

Sci-fi author Scott Sigler uses podcasts, giveaways and grassroots Web marketing to build interest in his work. We've covered Sigler in the past, but his recent interview with The Independent illustrates the value lesser-known writers can derive from Web-based brand building and free distribution:

Sigler's thinking -- and this is the revolutionary bit -- is that it's worth making commercial sacrifices to secure a fan base, because fans will always want physical copies of the books, even if they've already heard an audio version for free.

"The only way to get people's attention these days is to give them something for free," Sigler says. "If someone walks into a bookstore, why would they pick up a Scott Sigler when there's a Stephen King? They won't. So I give my content away, give readers a chance to try it for free. And if they like my stuff, then guess what: they'll go out and buy the book."

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Podcasts and Web Promotion Boost Authors

Mac Slocum
April 9, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Listen

The San Francisco Chronicle profiles Scott Sigler and Seth Harwood, two authors who have used podcasting, free downloads, blogs and social media to develop audiences and attract attention from publishers. Sigler sees a connection between his efforts and public broadcasting:

Sigler ... likens his distribution method to that of public broadcasting, adding that giving away content pays off even if fewer than 10 percent of the samplers ultimately make a pledge.

Roundup: Green Books, Podcasts by Cellphone

Mac Slocum
March 18, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Listen

Eco-Friendly Children's Books
Simon & Schuster's Little Green Books children's line will be printed in soy ink and manufactured with recycled materials. Debuting this fall, book topics will focus on ways kids can help the environment.

Podcasts by Cell Phone
Silicon Alley Insider says the rise of all-you-can-talk mobile plans opens the door for podcasts and radio programs delivered through cell phones. Foneshow is already tapping the opportunity with its audio service (users subscribe to specific shows, just like traditional podcasting). This could be a new option for brand-conscious authors and publishers looking to expand their reach.