·S3 E9
Season 3 Episode 9: Can Media Buzz Alone Make Your Book a Bestseller? The Truth About Publicity vs. Marketing with Corinne Mulder
Episode Description
Have you ever wondered if media coverage alone can drive book sales? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we welcome Corinne Mulder, Vice President of Business Development at Smith Publicity, who is here to unravel the complex world of book publicity. Corinne shares her extensive experience, explaining the crucial difference between publicity and marketing. While publicity can significantly boost an author's credibility and visibility, Corinne emphasizes that it is not the sole driver for book sales. Our discussion highlights the importance of collaborating with digital marketing agents and distribution partners to build a sustainable brand presence.
Corinne dives into the strategic approaches authors can take to make their voices heard through media exposure. We discuss the essential role of author credibility, the importance of writing about personally significant topics, and the vital collaboration between authors and publicists. With compelling examples like Justin Bean's book in Fast Company and Emily Lynn Paulson's memoir, we explore how aligning the right idea with the right media at the right time can create significant impact. Moreover, we tackle how to navigate media engagement and set clear benchmarks for successful book campaigns.
To round out the episode, we arm authors with DIY publicity tips to help them stand out even without a publicist. Learn how to leverage platforms like HARO and Podmatch for media opportunities and maximize social media to maintain momentum post-campaign. Corinne provides invaluable insights into crafting effective media kits and using social platforms to keep your book in the spotlight. Whether you're considering a publicist or embarking on a self-promotion journey, this episode is packed with strategies to elevate your book's presence in the literary world.
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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.
About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.
Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.
When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.
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