Did You Mean to Send That?
“Here’s a Very Professional Note You Can Send…”? Um, did you mean to send that? Not long ago, I received a pitch from an author who wanted to be interviewed on the podcast I help
Joanne McCall
June 16, 2025
Savvy Blog
Can You Say That In 10 Seconds?
Remember this quote? “If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter.” — Blaise Pascal Some attribute it to Mark Twain, but whether it was said by Twain or Pascal, it is
Joanne McCall
June 9, 2025
AI Everywhere. Help, Hype, or Headache?
Back in the day when social media first came on the scene (remember those days?), I was traveling the country speaking to groups about how to use it to promote their books and businesses. And
Joanne McCall
June 2, 2025
Why Being Your Own Publicist Feels Empowering—Until It Doesn’t
I was teaching a class on how to become your own publicist—something I love doing, because I do believe it’s empowering to know how the media works and how to advocate for your own book(s).
Joanne McCall
May 26, 2025
4 Surprising Takeaways from the Nonfiction Writers Conference
If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, then you know what a fan I am of book conferences. For writers and authors, there is nothing like being surrounded by your peers and industry
Joanne McCall
May 19, 2025
You’re More Ready Than You Think
Not long ago, I worked one-on-one with an author who reached out for media training. She told me right up front, “I don’t think I’m ready. I’m not polished enough for interviews.” Fair enough. Many
Joanne McCall
May 12, 2025
How to Keep the Media Momentum Rolling
Not long ago, I was talking with a colleague who had just helped an author land a terrific interview on a well-known national podcast. The author (Matt) nailed it by delivering a fabulous interview. He
Joanne McCall
May 5, 2025
What the Media Wishes You Knew
Several years ago, I was on a call with a morning show producer, discussing potential guests for an upcoming segment on workplace wellness. I had a few ideas in mind, and I pitched one of
Joanne McCall
April 28, 2025
Confidence Starts Before the Camera Rolls
I’m in the middle of leading a media training course for the Nonfiction Authors Association and a fantastic group of authors. At the very beginning, during introductions, I asked a simple question: “What do you
Joanne McCall
April 21, 2025