In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Rebecca sits down with children’s author Tammy Gegel, the creative force behind KC Gegel Publications. A former teacher, baker, and mom of four, Tammy shares the moving story behind her debut children’s book—written in loving memory of her son, Austin, a passionate biology major with dreams of becoming the next Jack Hanna.

Tammy’s first book in the series introduces young readers to sloths, blending education, humor, and interactive QR codes to make learning come alive. From zoo visits to poop dances, you'll laugh, learn, and maybe even tear up as Tammy reveals how Austin's legacy continues to shape her storytelling journey.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• How Tammy’s background as a first-grade teacher helps her write educational yet engaging stories
  

• Why she chose sloths for her debut—and the delightful surprises she uncovered during research
  

• • The touching story of Austin’s passion for animals and how his memory lives on through the series
    Creative ways she engages young readers, including QR codes for sloth sounds and a hidden fox “Easter egg”
    
  • Insight into her next book featuring red foxes—and why her characters choose her
    
• • Why grief and creativity are deeply connected in her writing journey
    
  • Bonus: What sloths and poop dances have to do with kids’ favorite fun facts

  
  

  🔗 Resources + Links:

  • Order Tammy’s book: https://amzn.to/3FYPQxB

  • Visit Tammy's author site:https://linktr.ee/tscgegel8

  • Follow Tammy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566772323486

  • Sign up for updates on the next book and get the FREE coloring pages HERE: https://mailchi.mp/c6486d790e2f/coloring-pages-kcgegel

  
  

  💬 Connect with Us:

  Share this episode with a teacher, parent,author or animal-loving friend 💗

  Authors’ Allies RoundTable and the blog can be found on our website.

  Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that ⁠HERE.⁠

  Email us: info@authorsallies.com

  ⁠Follow us on the⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

  Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

  I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.
  

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most powerful, underutilized marketing strategies for authors: promo stacking.

Recorded live at a writing retreat by Wandering Creative Life, Rebecca shares how authors can combine strategic promotions to boost visibility, increase sales, and—most importantly—own their audience instead of relying on rented platforms like Amazon or social media.

Whether you're launching a new book or reigniting interest in your backlist, this session is packed with actionable gems that will help you take control of your marketing and create sustainable momentum.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• What promo stacking really is—and why it works like marketing rocket fuel.
  
• How to choose a focus date and build a marketing timeline around it.
  
• Why freebies and lead magnets (especially in your back matter!) are essential to grow your email list.
  
• Smart ways to combine social media, email, ads, and partnerships for maximum impact.
  
• How to make Amazon’s algorithm work for you—even if you're not spending a ton.
  
• Ideas for bonus content and direct offers to keep readers coming back to you.
  
• The value of collaboration with other authors, podcasts, and reader networks.

✨ Want to go deeper? Check out the free worksheets, promo calendar, and planning templates mentioned in the episode

🎁 And don’t forget—you can join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable for a free month to get support and live feedback on your marketing! Authors’ Allies RoundTable and the blog we did on AI can be found on our website.

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that ⁠HERE.⁠

Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠Follow us on the⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

Feeling torn about using AI in your author business? You're not alone. In today’s spicy episode, Rebecca tackles the controversial topic of how authors can ethically and creatively use AI—without losing their voice, their art, or their integrity.

This isn’t about letting AI write your book. This is about saving time, brainstorming better, and finally tackling that marketing to-do list with help from your new assistant: AI.

Key Topics:

• • The 3 ethical ways authors can use AI without compromising their creativity
  • How to use AI to write captions, hashtags, and carousels for social media
  • Smart ways to brainstorm book titles, blog posts, or launch ideas using AI
  • Why AI is perfect for generating email subject lines and newsletter ideas
  • What NOT to use AI for (hint: it’s still your book)
  • Where to get free AI resources, prompts, and tools mentioned in the episode

  
  

• Other Links & Resources

  Get the prompt worksheet mentioned in the show HERE.

  Find Martha Brown’s “Time Savvy Mom’s Secret Stash” HERE

  Get Martha Brown’s AI Prompt App HERE.

  Authors’ Allies RoundTable and the blog we did on AI can be found on our website.

  Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that ⁠HERE.⁠

  Email us: info@authorsallies.com

  ⁠Follow us on the⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

  
  

  Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

  I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

In this episode of Authors’ Allies, host Rebecca Hallbach Paciorek introduces Nellie Corriveau, the founder and CEO of the Wealthy Mama Movement and author of 'Your Journey to Six Figures'.

Nellie shares her mission to help 1 million moms build successful online businesses they love. The discussion delves into Nellie's background, including her experiences with motherhood and working in the pediatric cancer space, which inspired her mission.

Nellie offers insights into overcoming limiting beliefs, the importance of enjoying the journey of entrepreneurship, and the significance of self-care. They also discuss strategies for scaling a business and Nellie's innovative approach to writing her new book with the involvement of her community.

03:06 Nellie's Journey and Mission

05:26 Building a Supportive Community

14:01 Strategies for Business Success

18:12 Personal Growth and Self-Care

22:51 Future Plans and New Book

30:20 Behind the Scenes with Nellie

32:14 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

36:00 The Comfort Zone Challenge

38:52 Lessons from Previous Books

Where to find Nellie Corriveau and the Wealthy Mama Movement:

Nellie’s Website: https://wealthymamaboutique.com/

The Wealthy Mama Movement on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWealthyMamaMovement

The Wealthy Mama Movement on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWealthyMamaMovementChannel/featured

Other Links & Resources

Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠

Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

In today's episode of Authors' Allies,things are a little different. I'm thrilled to be in the spotlight as I'm interviewed by my visibility mentor, Crissy Conner, also known as The Visible CEO.

With over 20 years of marketing experience and a rich background in magazine publishing, not to mention my lifelong obsession with books, I'll be sharing my journey into the specialized world of content creation for authors, coaches, and speakers.

Join me in this insightful conversation where I dive into my strategic approach to author visibility, discuss the evolving landscape of publishing, and offer some invaluable tips for both aspiring and seasoned authors.

Whether you're working on your first manuscript or just love to read, this episode promises to shed light on crafting a successful book marketing journey. So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let's dive into this enlightening conversation with Crissy.

Highlights from this Episode:

• Dive into Rebecca's journey and find out why she has a special passion for helping authors. Her love for reading began with Nancy Drew books, and now she wants to give back and be an ally for authors everywhere.

• Discover the step-by-step strategies Rebecca uses to help authors achieve top rankings on Amazon.

• Learn about the evolving world of author visibility—from the transition of walk-in bookstores to the digital space—and the techniques that remain timeless, like in-person events and the power of email.

• • Find out why getting visible even before your book is finished is crucial and how to leverage your personal story to connect with potential readers.

  
  

  Where to find Crissy Conner, The Visible CEO and Her Books:

  The Content Creation Machine Journal: https://amzn.to/4iH3VO4

  The Visible CEO Planner and Guide: https://amzn.to/4bP4Bic

  Crissy’s website: https://thevisibleceo.com/

  Crissy’s podcast: https://thevisibilityqueen.com/podcastepisodes/

  
  

  Other Links & Resources

  Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠

  Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠

  Email us: info@authorsallies.com

  ⁠⁠Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

  
  

  Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

  I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

  
  

  
  

In this episode of Authors Allies, host Rebecca Paciorek is joined by Halina Schafer, an inspiring author with a unique background in medical pathology, social work, and now children's literature.

Halina shares her journey of overcoming childhood illness, transitioning careers, and eventually channeling her love of science and human emotions into writing children's books.

The episode dives into the themes and processes behind her books, including how she turned a family scrapbook into her first published work, 'Fiona and the Extra Special Invisible Gifts,' and her ventures into topics like climate change with STEM books.

Listeners will also hear practical advice for aspiring authors, anecdotes about self-publishing, and the importance of constantly learning and adapting, regardless of age. Whether you’re an aspiring author or simply a lover of books, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in for a captivating conversation that proves it’s never too late to pursue your passions.

Where to find Halina Schafer and Her Books:

Halina’s website & books: https://www.third-careerpress.com/

Get Halina’s FREE activity book at the bottom of her website home page.

Halina’s books: Fiona & The Extra Special Invisible Gifts https://amzn.to/4i5uRan

Who Found Who? https://amzn.to/4kti57e

Halina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Halina-Schafer-Author-310149686130015/

Other Links & Resources

The other book discussed was A Window Into The Ocean Twilight Zone by Michelle Cusolito

Authors’ Allies RoundTable can be found on our website.

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that ⁠HERE.⁠

Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠Follow us on the⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

💬 Keywords

Authors Allies podcast, storytelling, celebrated authors, book reviews, literary marketing, medical pathology, mental health, clinical social worker, children's books, STEM book, climate change, lupus, autoimmune disease, self-publishing, illustrator, easy reader, adult literacy, dementia, emotions, cognitive behavioral therapy, developmental process, social work, illustrator collaboration, creative storytelling, eBook, technology challenges, turning pages, career change, retirement.

Welcome to the Authors Allies podcast. Today, I dive into the crucial topic of branding for authors, a vital step on your literary journey. I'll break down the process of brand building, taking you from understanding your goals and purpose as an author to identifying and connecting with your ideal reader. I'll share practical insights on developing your brand voice and creating a cohesive visual identity, including color palettes and fonts. I'll guide you on applying these tools effectively across social media, websites, and marketing materials, enabling you to elevate your author brand and stand confidently alongside top publishers. Plus, I'll tell you how to get your hands on my free 43-page branding workbook to help you along this journey. Join me for valuable tips to help you write and sell your books while maintaining a balanced life. Happy branding!

Key Topics:

1. Branding for Independent Authors

2. Understanding Author Goals

3. Knowing Your Reader

4. Developing a Brand Voice

5. Visual Aspects of Branding

6. Creating Consistency in Branding

7. Avoiding Overwhelm in Branding

   
   

Other Links & Resources

Get the branding workbook on my Template Shop. Use the coupon code BRAND to get it for free.

Authors’ Allies RoundTable can be found on our website.

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that ⁠HERE.⁠

Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠Follow us on the⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.