Podcasts for Authors: 5 Types of Shows to Add to your Podcast Listening Library

by Penny Sansevieri | Jan 7, 2025 | Being in Business as an Author

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Stepping into the world of podcasting as an author is like finding a library with a voice.

Podcasts offer a blend of advice, inspiration, and insider knowledge that can fuel your journey from writing to publishing success.

Whether you’re trying to navigate the nuances of book marketing, improve your craft, or understand the publishing landscape, there’s a podcast out there to help you along the way. But there are hundreds (maybe thousands) of industry podcasts, so where do you start? In this post, I’ll highlight five essential types of podcasts every author should listen to, along with my top show recommendations for each.

Let’s dive in.

1. Marketing and Promotion Podcasts

Yes, I admit – I’m leading these recommendations off with our own podcast but trust me – you won’t be disappointed. Amy and I created this podcast because we know, firsthand, that book marketing can feel like a maze, and not just for new authors but truly for anyone. This show focuses on book promotion, book publicity, Amazon optimization and getting more reviews, influencers, and media for your book.

Top Pick: The Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast
Hosts Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell break down actionable book marketing tips, industry trends, and strategies that can make a real impact on your book sales. With insight, advice, and an honest appraisal of what works and what doesn’t – this show should be in every author’s toolkit.

2. Interviews with Authors

Sometimes, the best advice comes from those who have walked the path. Author interview podcasts offer firsthand experiences and insights that can motivate and educate you, helping you avoid pitfalls and replicate success.

Top Pick: Writer’s Routine
Ever wondered about the daily habits of successful authors? In each episode, this podcast dives into an author’s workday, routine, and creative process, offering a unique perspective on how different authors approach writing and productivity. Tune in! It might inspire some ideas to help your workday run smoother!

3. Genre-Specific Shows for Readers

Understanding your audience is crucial, and there’s no better way to do that than by listening to genre-specific podcasts geared toward readers. These shows give insight into what readers love, which can help you better tailor your book to their needs.

Top Pick: What Should I Read Next?

Hosted by Anne Bogel, this podcast invites book lovers to discuss what they’re reading and what they should pick up next. It’s an incredible resource for getting into the minds of readers, especially if you’re looking to tap into current genre trends.

4. Production Professionals: Editors, Cover Designers, and More

As you may already know, it really does take a village to create a book, and podcasts focused on production can introduce you to the professionals who make it all happen. From editors to cover designers, these shows offer insights into the often-overlooked aspects of book production.

Top Pick: The Self-Publishing Show

Mark Dawson and James Blatch talk to industry professionals—editors, cover designers, and audio producers—giving authors a peek into the behind-the-scenes world of book production. This show offers tips to make your book look and feel professional.

5. Publishing Tips and Advice

Let’s face it, writing a book is one thing but trying to figure out how to publish it is quite another. Whether you’re aiming to self-publish or traditionally publish, understanding the publishing process is essential. Podcasts that offer essential advice on navigating the publishing world can be invaluable as you consider which path to take.

Top Pick: Print Run Podcast

This show, hosted by two literary agents, provides honest and sometimes hard-hitting advice on the ins and outs of the publishing industry. From trends in traditional publishing to what agents are really looking for, it’s a treasure trove of publishing insight.

Podcasts can be an incredibly helpful way to add more knowledge and explore new ways of succeeding. Finding the right podcasts can turn your daily commute, exercise time, or coffee break into a learning session that propels your author career forward. So go ahead, queue up these shows, and let their advice and inspiration fuel your next big move. Happy listening!