In this episode of Don’t Build on Borrowed Land: Smarter Content Strategies for Authors, Alyssa takes an honest and balanced look at platforms like Substack and social media. Are they worth using? Should authors go all in—or avoid them altogether? Alyssa shares the pros and cons of Substack, why platforms should be tools instead of foundations, and how to use them strategically without losing control of your content or audience. Learn how to build a content ecosystem that supports long-term growth while still taking advantage of the visibility and connection platforms can offer.

In this episode of our series Don’t Build on Borrowed Land: Smarter Content Strategies for Authors, Alyssa shares what every author should be building and owning in today’s online world. Learn why your website and email list are the true foundation of long-term growth, how a content library can continue working for you years after you hit publish, and why SEO matters more than short-term visibility on social media. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re starting over every day online, this episode will help you think differently about the content you create—and where it should live.

Most authors think they need to create more content, but the real issue is often where that content lives. In this episode, Alyssa kicks off a new series, Don’t Build on Borrowed Land: Smarter Content Strategies for Authors, by unpacking the biggest mistake she sees—building on platforms you don’t own. Learn why your website and email list matter more than ever, and how to create content that keeps working for you long-term.

Consistency doesn’t mean doing more—it means doing what matters. In this episode, Alyssa shares how to create a simple, sustainable marketing rhythm that helps you grow your audience without burnout.

Think you need to “be ready” before starting an email list? Think again. In this episode, Alyssa breaks down why your email list is one of your most valuable assets as an author and gives you simple, practical steps to start building it today—no overwhelm required.

In this episode, Alyssa shares why reaching 50 Amazon reviews is a key milestone for authors and how it can significantly impact your book’s credibility, visibility, and sales. She also walks you through simple, authentic ways to ask for reviews and create a system that keeps them coming—without feeling pushy or awkward.

Most authors don't have a marketing problem — they have a clarity problem. In this kickoff episode of our April series, The Few Things That Actually Matter in Book Marketing, Alyssa reveals why unclear messaging silently sabotages your marketing and shares a simple framework to fix it:

"I help ___ go from ___ to ___ so they can ___."

This one statement becomes the foundation for all of your content, emails, speaking, and offers. Tune in and walk away with the clarity your book marketing has been missing.

More visibility means more opportunities, more ideas, and more temptation to pivot, add, or chase something new. In this episode, Alyssa shares how to expand your business in a way that feels aligned — not chaotic. From recognizing shiny object syndrome to knowing exactly when (and when not) to add a new offer, this episode will help you scale with clarity, stay rooted in your calling, and keep your message strong as your audience grows.