In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Member Q&A podcast, hosts Michael La Ronn and Sacha Black discuss creative strategies for getting books into independent bookstores, including sending signed copies, bookmarks, and promotional materials to stores that stock your books.
Other questions include:
- How can authors monetize a new podcast beyond just encouraging listeners to buy their books
- When should traditionally published authors make the leap to self-publishing if their agent hasn't secured a publisher
- What options exist for self-publishing a Chinese translation of a book in Hong Kong and reaching that market
- How can authors evaluate whether a publishing service is legitimate or making too many promises
- What technical settings with distributors like Gardners might prevent bookstores from ordering indie books
And more!
Listen to the Podcast: Building Bookstore Relationships Through Goodwill
Have a Question?
If you're a member of ALLi and have a question for the Member Q&A Podcast, you can sign in and ask here!
About the Hosts
Michael La Ronn is ALLi’s Outreach Manager. He is the author of over 80 science fiction & fantasy books and self-help books for writers. He writes from the great plains of Iowa and has managed to write while raising a family, working a full-time job, and even attending law school classes in the evenings (now graduated!). You can find his fiction at www.michaellaronn.com and his videos and books for writers at www.authorlevelup.com.
Sacha Black is a bestselling and competition winning author, rebel podcaster, speaker and casual rule breaker. She writes fiction under a secret pen name and other books about the art of writing. She lives in England, with her wife and genius, giant of a son. You can find her on her website, her podcast, and on Instagram.
Thoughts or further questions on this post or any self-publishing issue?
If you’re an ALLi member, head over to the SelfPubConnect forum for support from our experienced community of indie authors, advisors, and team. Simply create an account (if you haven’t already) to request to join the forum and get going.
Non-members looking for more information can search our extensive archive of blog posts and podcast episodes packed with tips and advice at ALLi's Self-Publishing Advice Center.
And if you haven’t already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally.




