Shows
The Written Word PodcastFrom First Book to Sustainable SalesYour first book didn't become a bestseller overnight? You're actually right on track. In this episode, Ricci and Ferol break down one of the most important patterns we see year after year in our reader surveys: authors with bigger catalogs earn significantly more money. But it's not just about writing more books—it's about understanding how your backlist creates sustainable income. Whether you're a one-book author wondering what's next or a seasoned writer looking to understand the business better, this episode will help you think strategically about your author career and the power of your growing catalog.
2026-02-1731 minThe Written Word PodcastWhat 3,000 Readers Want Indie Authors to KnowIn this data-packed episode, Ricci and Ferol dive into the results of Written Word Media's brand-new reader survey with nearly 3,000 responses from across all five brands. This isn't recycled industry advice or third-party reports - it's fresh, empirical data straight from the voracious readers who matter most to indie authors. Together, they unpack surprising stats about reader volume, discovery channels, and what readers genuinely want from the authors they love. From the shocking percentage of readers consuming 100+ books per year to the personal details readers crave (hint: pets came up a lot!), this episode delivers actionable insights that will...
2026-02-0330 minThe Written Word PodcastTop Author Trends in 2026 (Part II)Ricci and Ferol wrap up their 2026 book industry trends analysis by diving into the final two themes: discovery and sovereignty. They explore how book discovery is shifting from algorithm-driven feeds to trusted channels—think celebrity book clubs (Reese Witherspoon, Oprah), BookTok influencers, indie bookstores, and curated newsletters. The conversation highlights how word-of-mouth remains the #1 way readers find books, but the channels amplifying that word-of-mouth are evolving rapidly. Ricci and Ferol then tackle author sovereignty, celebrating the growing control authors have over their publishing journey. From innovative formats (like murder mysteries delivered as weekly letters!) to direct selling and flexible pu...
2026-01-2035 minThe Written Word PodcastTop Author Trends in 2026 (Part 1)It's December which means it’s also trends season – you’ve probably received your Spotify wrapped as well as a wrapped from almost every other app you have! With that spirit, Ferol and Ricci kick off their annual predictions episode by diving into the first three of five major themes that will shape the publishing landscape in 2026. Drawing from industry insights, customer feedback, and broader cultural trends, they explore how trust, reader experience, and connection will define the coming year for authors. This is Part 1 of a two-part series covering 2026 trends for indie authors and you’ll be sure to walk...
2025-12-3040 minThe Written Word PodcastHow to Avoid Scams: What Authors Need to KnowIn this essential PSA-style episode, Ricci and Ferol break down the growing wave of scams targeting authors — and how to protect yourself. From “too good to be true” book club invitations to fake Amazon warnings designed to spark panic, today’s scammers are using AI to craft convincing, personalized outreach. The hosts walk through the psychology behind these tactics, why even savvy authors can get caught off guard, and a simple checklist to help you identify red flags before you click or pay. They also share reputable resources authors can use to stay safe and stay informed. Whether you’ve receive...
2025-12-1623 minThe Written Word Podcast2025 Author Survey ResultsRicci and Ferol break down the newest Written Word Media Author Survey, sharing what more than 1,300 authors revealed about income, catalog size, marketing tactics, and where book sales are really coming from in 2025. They discuss the continued importance of email lists, how packaging influences sales, the realities of KDP Select vs. going wide, and why more authors are exploring direct sales. The episode wraps with a look at overall author sentiment heading into the new year and the communities supporting indie writers along the way.You'll learn:Income brackets and what influences author earningsEmail list effectiveness...
2025-12-021h 00The Written Word PodcastAI Rights and the Future of Publishing with Created by Humans Founder Trip AdlerIn the newest episode of The Written Word Media Podcast, Scribd co-founder Tripp Adler joins Ricci Wolman to explore how his newest venture, Created by Humans, is helping authors navigate the rise of artificial intelligence. When you listen in, you will learn what AI rights are, how they fit into existing publishing contracts, and why this new model could open powerful revenue streams for writers while safeguarding human creativity.You'll Learn:Created by Human’s mission to protect human creativity in an AI worldWhat “AI publishing rights” are and how they differ from tradit...
2025-11-1831 minThe Written Word PodcastHow to Build Courage and Silence Self-Doubt as an AuthorIn this inspiring episode, Ferol sits down with Jonathan Graham, founder of Daily Courage, to explore how creatives can turn fear into fuel. Jonathan shares his journey from Silicon Valley to launching a mission-driven business dedicated to helping people remove fear as a barrier to their potential.Together, they unpack practical tools like the “fear log,” the F.A.C.T.S. framework for fact-checking fear, and the “soup list” for building confidence. Jonathan’s message is clear and empowering: courage isn’t the absence of fear - it’s the willingness to act in spite of it.You...
2025-11-0433 minThe Written Word PodcastThe Future of Indie Publishing: Real Talk with James BlatchThe indie publishing world is moving fast - and the authors who stay curious are the ones who thrive. In this live-recorded episode from the Novelist Inc. (NINC) Conference, Ferol Vernon sits down with James Blatch, co-founder of Self Publishing Formula, to talk about what's working right now for independent authors.From AI translation tools that help you reach global readers to the surprising comeback of Facebook ads, James shares what he's seeing on the front lines. You'll also hear his take on the ethics of AI narration, voice licensing, and why the authors who embrace new...
2025-10-2122 minThe Written Word PodcastHybrid Publishing Lessons with Erica Rooney: From Writing to LaunchIn this special live-recorded episode from Walk West’s Podcast Marathon, Ricci Wolman and Ferol Vernon sit down with author, speaker, and executive coach Erica Rooney to talk about her journey to publishing Glass Ceilings & Sticky Floors. Erica shares why she chose the hybrid publishing route, how she secured endorsements from big names like Mel Robbins, and what it really takes to market a book once it’s out in the world.You’ll Learn:What “sticky floors” are and how they hold us backHow Erica turned her podcast themes into book chaptersThe realities of hybrid publishing...
2025-10-0729 minThe Written Word PodcastProductivity Hacks Every Author NeedsStaying productive as an author isn’t just about writing more - it’s about creating systems that help you focus, avoid burnout, and actually enjoy the process. In this episode of The Written Word Podcast, Ricci Wolman and Ferol Vernon share their favorite productivity hacks, from planning your week with intention to using the Pomodoro technique and batching tasks.We’ll cover:How to set up an environment that keeps you focusedWhy planning your day (or someone else will) is a game-changerTricks for avoiding distraction and managing your energyThe Pomodoro technique and why short breaks boost...
2025-09-2336 minThe Written Word PodcastHow to Grow Your Author Email List (and Why It Matters More Than Ever)Your email list is one of the most powerful marketing tools you’ll ever build as an author. However, getting from zero to thousands of subscribers can feel overwhelming. In this episode of The Written Word Podcast, Ricci Wolman and Ferol Vernon break down practical, proven strategies to grow your list. From adding your first 15 “friendlies” to using lead magnets, giveaways, and back-of-book signups, you’ll learn step-by-step how to start small and build momentum.We’ll cover:The best places to promote your signup linkWhy the back of your book is prime real estate for growing yo...
2025-09-0929 minThe Written Word PodcastHow to Grow Your Author Platform: The Power of Building an Email ListEmail marketing isn’t dead - in fact, it might just be your most valuable tool as an indie author. In this episode, Ricci and Ferol break down why building and nurturing your email list is still one of the smartest and most effective ways to connect with readers and sell more books.You’ll Learn:Why email offers a stronger ROI than social or paid adsThe difference between “owned” and “rented” marketing channelsWhat makes email more personal and reliable than other platformsHow to get started with email marketing (and what to say in your emails)Tips for bui...
2025-08-2641 minThe Written Word PodcastHow to Promote Your Book on Any Budget (and Other Questions You’re Probably Asking)Want to sell more books without breaking the bank? Curious which promos actually work and how to tell?Ricci Wolman, Ferol Vernon, and Emma Boyer answer the most common (and important) questions we get from authors every day.How to promote with a small budget.How to revive a backlist that’s gone quiet.What to do when Amazon throws you a curveball.You’ll walk away with clear, practical strategies for getting more eyes on your books. Whether you're just starting out or managing a full catalog, this conversation will help you take the next...
2025-08-1236 min
Triangle Tweener TalksWritten Word Media's Ricci Wolman on Immigrating to the US, Entrepreneurial Freedom, and the Paradox of ChoiceFrom her upbringing in Johannesburg, South Africa, to a career spanning Wall Street, an Ivy League MBA, and the early days of e-commerce, Ricci Wolman’s journey is a all about problem solving, resilience, freedom, and...the paradox of choice? As the CEO and co-founder of Written Word Media, she has built a bootstrapped and profitable business by solving a problem her own mom faced: book discovery in a crowded market.Tune in to hear:Ricci's immigration story from South Africa to the US and the culture shocks she faced along the way.Why she...
2025-08-071h 24The Written Word PodcastHow Email Promos Actually Work (and Why They Still Sell Books)If you want to sell more books, reach more readers, and spend less time guessing what works, start here.In this episode, Ricci Wolman and Ferol Vernon break down the strategy that helped launch the careers of countless successful indie authors - email promos. They’ll explain what email promos are, when to run them, and why they’re still one of the most effective tools in your book marketing toolkit.You’ll learn:Why email still outperforms social media when it comes to book marketingHow promo sites connect your book to the ri...
2025-07-2932 minThe Written Word PodcastBoost Your Book Sales with the Latest Trends from the Self Publishing Show (SPS) LondonEmma Boyer is back from London and joins Ferol and Ricci to share her key takeaways from the Self Publishing Show (SPS)—Europe’s biggest indie author conference. In this episode, the team breaks down what they saw, heard, and felt at SPS and what it means for indie authors in 2025.You’ll Learn:Emerging trends in streaming vs. subscription audiobook platformsHow Written Word Media supports authors exploring direct sales and new revenue streamsHow Subscriber Surge Giveaways (SSG) can grow your email list fastTips on budgeting for book promotions that actually move the needleFeat...
2025-07-2940 minThe Written Word PodcastHow Free Promos Can Grow Your Author BusinessWelcome to the very first episode of The Written Word Podcast.This show is for people who write stories—and want them to be read. Authors. Indie or traditional. Aspiring or ten books deep.Each week, we dive into the business of being an author—marketing strategies, growing your audience, and selling more books. What’s working, what’s not, and what’s coming next.In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most controversial strategies out there: Giving your book away for free.Sounds risky? It might be...
2025-07-2930 min
Stark Reflections on Writing and PublishingWritten Word Media with Clayton NoblitMark has a chat with Clayton Noblit, a senior marketing manager at Written Word Media. Prior to the interview, Mark thanks Patrons, welcomes a few new Buy Me A Coffee buddies, shares a personal update, and shares a word from this episode's sponsor. episode's sponsor. Learn more about this self-publishing/WIDE-publishing focused cruise. In the interview Mark and Clayton talk about: What Written Media is (a book marketing/promotions company) Clayton's personal background as a marketer, and a big reader, but not an author The purposeful design of...
2024-06-2854 minStark Reflections on Writing and PublishingWritten Word Media with Clayton NoblitMark has a chat with Clayton Noblit, a senior marketing manager at Written Word Media. Prior to the interview, Mark thanks Patrons, welcomes a few new Buy Me A Coffee buddies, shares a personal update, and shares a word from this episode's sponsor. episode's sponsor. Learn more about this self-publishing/WIDE-publishing focused cruise. In the interview Mark and Clayton talk about: What Written Media is (a book marketing/promotions company) Clayton's personal background as a marketer, and a big reader, but not an author The purposeful design of...
2024-06-2854 min
The Creative Penn Podcast For WritersThe Marketing Mind Shift And The Power Of Ad Stacking With Ricci WolmanHow can you shift your mindset in order to reach more readers with your books? How can you leverage the tools available for authors to sell more copies? Ricci Wolman from Written Word Media gives her tips.
In the intro, The Hotsheet useful newsletter; Book publishing is broken; In the US, the Federal Trade Commission is about to launch the antitrust lawsuit against Amazon [Politico] and a thought experiment; The Authors Guild trains authors on AI tools, and so does the IPG, and so does Publishers Weekly. Google rolls AI writing into Docs and Gmail.
...
2023-08-071h 06
The Self Publishing ShowReach More Readers with WWM & Hello Books - with Ricci WolmanRicci Wolman explains the various services Written Word Media offers plus the recent partnership with Hello Books.
2023-07-1447 min
Scaling Up Business with Bill GallagherBuild the Fort — Chris HeivlyBuild the fort! Ideas that seemed simple when you were a kid may seem insurmountable as an adult, but scaling up and building out your dreams really doesn’t have to be that hard. Dubbed “The Startup Whisperer” by startup community enthusiasts, Christopher Heivly is a life-long entrepreneur and multifaceted investor who spent forty years working as, for, and with entrepreneurs. Prior to becoming a successful startup community builder and consultant, Chris co-founded MapQuest — which sold to AOL for $1.2 billion. He currently serves as a managing director of The Startup Factory and is a highly sought-af...
2023-06-1443 min
The Kuderna Podcast#92- Ferol Vernon of Written Word Media-Archived ContentFerol Vernon is the Co-Founder and COO of Written Word Media, a tech-enabled platform connecting authors to millions of readers. Vernon has an MBA from Duke University and since 2009 has been using software to empower Creatives. His entrepreneurial journey includes helping lead startups like ReverbNation to founding Written Word in 2014 with his wife, Ricci Wolman. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS or Guardian. This material contains the current opinions of the speakers but not necessarily those of PAS, Guardian or its subsidiaries and su...
2022-09-0958 min
Small Business DigestSmall Business Digest - Mike Stickler & Ricci WolmanMike Stickler's publishing company helps entrepreneurs expand marketing efforts by building book proliferationRicci Wolman's company helps small business leaders market their books to increase sales
2022-05-1857 min
The Friday NoonerA Bobblehead Surprise, Written Word Media’s Ricci Wolman Says HelloPete, Joe and Chantal discussed recent developments on the Triangle tech scene before welcoming featured guest Written Word Media CEO and Founder Ricci Wolman.
2022-05-0645 min
Marisa's Wicked Word NoshOffering Your eBook for Free on KDPThis is an edited version of an episode I originally posted on Patreon in January 2021. In it, I explain why I think periodically offering your eBook for free is a good option for writers who are enrolled in Amazon KDP (or for those who may one day publish through KDP).
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Email: marisadellefarfalle@gmail.com
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I'd also really appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate and review this podcast on Apple Podcasts (or your favorite podcasting app), as it'll help a...
2021-05-0915 min
SPA Girls PodcastInterview with Ricci Wolman of Written Word MediaThis episode we are delighted to welcome Ricci Wolman to the SPA! Ricci is founder and CEO of Written Word Media, the company that created author promo providers Freebooksy, BargainBooksy, Red Feather Romance, NewInBooks, and Reading Stacks. Ricci holds an MBA from Harvard and has over 10 years of experience building online audiences using data-driven customer acquisition techniques. (Which means she's really good at building newsletters and connecting with customers!) She says that the philosophy of Written Word Media has remained unchanged from the day they launched their first site – to provide authors and publishers an af...
2020-04-011h 11
Kobo Writing Life PodcastRicci Wolman of Written Word MediaIn this episode, Chrissy chats to Ricci Wolman the founder and CEO of Written Word Media. Ricci talks about why she created Written Word Media, the services she offers authors and she tells listeners about her newest site, Reading Stacks. Ricci discusses the different types of information they are able to gather from their readers and how authors can use this information for promotional opportunities. Ricci also reflects on the marketing changes that have occurred in 2018.
2019-01-0136 minKobo Writing Life PodcastRicci Wolman of Written Word MediaIn this episode, Chrissy chats to Ricci Wolman the founder and CEO of Written Word Media. Ricci talks about why she created Written Word Media, the services she offers authors and she tells listeners about her newest site, Reading Stacks. Ricci discusses the different types of information they are able to gather from their readers and how authors can use this information for promotional opportunities. Ricci also reflects on the marketing changes that have occurred in 2018.
2019-01-0136 min
The Smarty Pants Book Marketing PodcastEpisode 100 - Pop the CorkIn this podcast Chris and Becca toast the first 100 episodes of the Smarty Pants Book Marketing Podcast by reminiscing about their favorite guests and shows, talking about where the podcast is headed in the next 100 episodes, and celebrating a nod from Digital Book World. The podcast closes with an invitation for listeners to give input about where the next 100 episodes should go. And don't miss the special announcement at the end of the show notes. Show Notes & Links: Nominees for Best Use of Podcasting for Book Marketing Award (Digital Book World annual awards...
2018-09-1626 minStark Reflections on Writing and PublishingIt's Not You, It's Your Crappy Book CoverIn this solo episode, Mark talks about two specific examples from his own publishing experience, where having a crappy cover didn't help sales. He walks through the back-story for the eBooks in question, his reasoning behind the initial crappy cover as well as the positive results that came after he recognized his mistake and created a better cover. He explains that he is using personal examples for a few reasons, which include: the fact that it's easier to see fault in someone else's mistakes - perhaps seeing the mistakes Mark made makes it easier for an...
2018-08-3134 minStark Reflections on Writing and PublishingIt's Not You, It's Your Crappy Book CoverIn this solo episode, Mark talks about two specific examples from his own publishing experience, where having a crappy cover didn't help sales. He walks through the back-story for the eBooks in question, his reasoning behind the initial crappy cover as well as the positive results that came after he recognized his mistake and created a better cover. He explains that he is using personal examples for a few reasons, which include: the fact that it's easier to see fault in someone else's mistakes - perhaps seeing the mistakes Mark made makes it easier for an...
2018-08-3134 minThe Smarty Pants Book Marketing PodcastEpisode 87 - How to Run Successful Book PromotionsIn this episode we visit with the founder of Written Word Media Ricci Wolman and discuss all things book promotions: when to do them, why to do them, how to do them, and more. Show Notes & Links -Meet Ricci Wolman, the founder of Written Word Media. -How Written Word's two main programs, BargainBooksy and FreeBooksy, are different and when you might want to use each. -What kind of return do authors get from a free book promotion? Is making money the only reason to run a promotion? -What is t...
2018-04-3040 minStark Reflections on Writing and PublishingStark Reflections on Writing and Publishing EP 008 - Author Promotions with Ricci Wolman from Written Word MediaFeaturing an interview with Ricci Wolman, founder and CEO of Written Word Media about the challenge that authors face with the most common questions they often have when first starting out; questions that include the following: How do I get the right people to discover my new book? Where can I find people to review my book on Kindle and the other retail websites? Is there a way for me to increase my visibility and my sales on multiple retail platforms? --------- This episode has been sponsored by Findaway Voices. Findaway Voices provides all the tools that...
2018-02-2343 minStark Reflections on Writing and PublishingStark Reflections on Writing and Publishing EP 008 - Author Promotions with Ricci Wolman from Written Word MediaFeaturing an interview with Ricci Wolman, founder and CEO of Written Word Media about the challenge that authors face with the most common questions they often have when first starting out; questions that include the following: How do I get the right people to discover my new book? Where can I find people to review my book on Kindle and the other retail websites? Is there a way for me to increase my visibility and my sales on multiple retail platforms? --------- This episode has been sponsored by Findaway Voices. Findaway Voices provides all the tools that...
2018-02-2343 min
Hack the Process: Mindful Meaningful Progress on Your Plans2017-11-20 Process Hacker News from Hack the Process PodcastProcess Hacker News for November 20, 2017
Welcome to the Process Hacker News, a quick weekly roundup of useful news and updates from Process Hackers who have been guests on Hack the Process with M. David Green. For links to anything mentioned in this episode, please check out the show notes, and to join the community and receive expanded updates weekly, sign up for the mailing list at HacktheProcess.com/contact/.
For all the links in this episode, take a look at the show notes at http://www.hacktheprocess.com/process-hacker-news-for-november-20-2017/
Events
Interested in supporting diversity and inclusion? The last AlterConf...
2017-11-2003 minHack the Process: Mindful Meaningful Progress on Your Plans2017-11-20 Process Hacker News from Hack the Process PodcastProcess Hacker News for November 20, 2017
Welcome to the Process Hacker News, a quick weekly roundup of useful news and updates from Process Hackers who have been guests on Hack the Process with M. David Green. For links to anything mentioned in this episode, please check out the show notes, and to join the community and receive expanded updates weekly, sign up for the mailing list at HacktheProcess.com/contact/.
For all the links in this episode, take a look at the show notes at http://www.hacktheprocess.com/process-hacker-news-for-november-20-2017/
Events
Interested in supporting diversity and inclusion? The last AlterConf...
2017-11-2000 min
The Publishing Profits Podcast Show | Writing | Marketing | Books | eBooks | Audiobooks | Authors | Entrepreneurs163: How Book Promotion Sites Work and Data-Driven Online Marketing Strategies with Ricci WolmanRicci Wolman is the founder and CEO of Written Word Media. You may not have heard of Written Word Media before, but I’m sure you’ve heard of some of their brands, including Free Booksy, Bargain Booksy, and Red Feather Romance, all of which are very popular book promotion websites. Ricci has more than 10 years […]
The post 163: How Book Promotion Sites Work and Data-Driven Online Marketing Strategies with Ricci Wolman appeared first on TCK Publishing.
2017-11-1725 min
2017-11-1325 min
The Self Publishing ShowSelf Publishing Success through Book Promotions – With Ricci WolmanThe book promotion piece is one of the most vital but neglected aspects of being a self published author. Today's guest, Ricci Wolman, is not an author herself but IS a marketing specialist who has made a career (and a business) out of helping authors successfully promote their books. She is founder and CEO of […]
2016-04-2944 min[Ferol Vernon] In which we sell books and gain readers<![CDATA[<p>I run across a lot of marketing folks. Their sensibility, demeanor and genuine empathy for audiences tell me that times have changed: marketing is no longer a filthy bag of tricks. We can substitute “marketing” with acts of telling story or encouraging revolutionary change or feats that enable creatives to perform their universe-given work. Today’s advice revolves around providing <em>value</em> to human beings who <em>need</em> it. I don’t know—that feels like a worthwhile mission to me.</p>
<p>Writi...
2016-02-1700 min