#220. How to Build an Author Platform (Even if You're an Introvert) with Shelby Leigh

Fiction Writing Made Easy | Top Creative Writing Podcast for Fiction Writers & Writing Tips

Learn how to build a focused, authentic author platform to connect with readers early, grow your visibility, and create lasting momentum for your book launch.

In this episode, I’m joined by Shelby Leigh, bestselling author of four poetry books (with over 60,000 copies sold!) and the founder of Marketing by Shelby, where she's helped more than 8,000 authors and creatives learn how to market their books with ease.

Shelby and I talk about how to start building your author platform before your book launches, what to post when you don't have a book out yet, and how to market in a way that fits your personality (even if you’re introverted or allergic to salesy marketing).

Here’s what we cover:

[02:15] How Shelby went from anonymous poet to book marketing educator, and what helped her embrace book promotion as an introvert who once dreaded it.

[05:25] What an author platform actually includes (it’s more than social media!) and how early (or late) you should build one that works.

[12:30] The 3-Part “Show, Sell, Story Tell” content framework for sharing your work online without feeling pushy or performative.

[18:15] The most common author-platform mistakes writers make and the mindset shifts that turn confusing marketing into genuine reader connection.

[20:40] How to set up your first email list, plan a low-stress book launch, and keep growing your readership long after release week.

Whether you're preparing to publish or just starting your first draft, you'll discover simple, sustainable ways to market your book and connect with readers who'll love it.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• Marketing By Shelby Website
• Grab Shelby’s Free List Growth Starter Kit

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Kapitel

1. Welcome And Episode Setup (00:00:00)

2. Meet Shelby Lee And Her Approach (00:01:01)

3. What An Author Platform Really Is (00:03:16)

4. When To Start And Where To Focus (00:06:31)

5. Choosing Platforms And Clear Profiles (00:09:00)

6. Website And Email List Foundations (00:12:00)

7. What To Share Before You Publish (00:15:30)

8. Building Trust With Storytelling (00:19:00)

9. Common Mistakes And Cohesive Branding (00:22:00)

10. Email Lists Made Simple (00:26:00)

11. Launch Strategy And Street Teams (00:29:00)