The Shocking Truth About Author Interviews (And Why Most Writers Waste Them)

“What if I told you that one interview could sell more books than weeks of posting on social media, and you don’t even need a big budget to do it?”

Sounds too good to be true, right? But here’s the secret: interviews are not just for celebrities or bestselling authors. They are for you too. Yes, even if you’re a brand-new indie author with a small budget.

This blog is here to show you, step by step, how to use any interview, whether it’s with GBN, Spotlight, a podcast, or even a small local channel, to make your book shine. You will learn how to turn one conversation into a powerful marketing tool, without spending big money.

By the end, you will see that an interview is not just about answering questions. It is a chance to build trust, reach new readers, and give your book the spotlight it deserves.

What is an Interview and Why Does it Matter?

An interview is just a conversation. Someone asks you questions about your book, and you answer. That’s it.

It may sound small, but it’s actually a big deal. Why? Because an interview puts you in front of people who might never have heard of you or your book before. Think about it: every reader starts as a stranger. The moment they see you talk about your story, they start to get curious.

The truth is, people don’t usually buy books from strangers. They buy from people they know, like, and trust. An interview helps readers feel like they know you. They hear your voice, your passion, your story, and suddenly, you’re not just “some indie author.” You’re their author.

This is where online platforms come in. When authors land interviews on book-focused channels, or even general platforms like Facebook Live, YouTube, or podcasts on Spotify, they suddenly get access to audiences far beyond their usual circle.

For example:

• A YouTube interview lives forever, meaning new readers can still find you weeks, months, or even years later.

• A Facebook Live session lets you interact directly with readers in real time, building trust on the spot.

• Sharing that same interview link on LinkedIn or Instagram helps you connect with readers who may not even be in “book groups,” but are curious about your story.

  
  

That’s why interviews matter: they don’t just fill air time. They open the door to new readers, new communities, and ultimately, new book sales.

The Power of “As Seen On…”

Have you ever noticed how big companies say things like “As seen on CNN” or “Featured in The New York Times”? It makes you stop and think, “Wow, they must be important.”

You can do the same as an indie author. If you’re interviewed on a podcast, YouTube channel, Facebook Live, or by a recognized host, you can proudly say: “As seen on [name of platform].”

Why does this matter? Because being featured, even on digital platforms, instantly adds credibility. An appearance on a podcast, a streaming channel, or a popular social page doesn’t just live in a small corner of the internet. It puts your name in front of new audiences and gives your author brand a layer of legitimacy.

It may feel small to you, but to readers, it looks like you are a trusted, serious author. Trust makes people feel safe. And when people feel safe, they’re more likely to buy your book.

How to Use Your Interview Again and Again (Recycling Magic)

Don’t let your interview sit and gather dust. Use it again and again, it’s free marketing material! Here are simple ways to recycle it:

• Post the link on your Facebook, Instagram, or author page.

• Cut small clips (30 seconds to 1 minute) and share them as videos on TikTok, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts.

• Take one sentence you said in the interview and turn it into a quote image. Example: “This book was born out of my childhood dream…”

• Send the link to your email list or even friends and family.

  
  

One interview can give you weeks of fresh content if you use it wisely.

New Eyes on Your Book

The best part of an interview is that it introduces you to people who don’t know you yet.

Maybe someone watching TV or scrolling YouTube stumbles upon your interview. They hear your story, they like what you’re saying, and they decide to look you up. That’s one more potential reader who never would have found you otherwise.

These interviews aren’t just hidden on a single page. They can be streamed across major channels and shared on social media, giving indie authors a much wider reach than they could get on their own. Whether it’s a podcast, YouTube, Facebook Live, or another platform, each appearance puts your book in front of fresh audiences.

Every interview is a door to new eyes, new ears, and new readers. And the more places your story appears, whether that’s on YouTube, a podcast, or a streaming channel, the more chances you have of finding readers who connect with your book.

Tell Your Story, Not Just Your Book

Here’s a secret: people love people, not just products.

Of course, you want to talk about your book. But don’t forget to share your personal journey. Why did you write this book? What inspired you? What do you hope readers feel when they turn the last page?

When readers like you, they’ll want to support you. And the easiest way to support you is by buying your book.

Don’t Forget the Magic Words (Call to Action)

Many authors forget this part, and it’s the most important!

Always tell people where to get your book. Make it simple and easy. For example: “You can find my book on Amazon. Just search my name.”

Say it clearly, say it slowly, and if possible, repeat it. If you don’t tell people where to buy your book, they might forget, even if they loved your interview.

Build Your Author Power (Step by Step)

Think of each interview as a stepping stone.

• Your first interview may be small.

• But the next one will be easier, because you can say, “I was interviewed on GBN / by Logan Crawford / on this podcast.”

• Over time, you collect more and more interviews.

• Soon, you have a list of media appearances to show on your website or author page.

  
  

Each interview makes you look more professional. And the more professional you look, the easier it is to get noticed, by readers, bookstores, or even bigger media outlets.

Easy Action Steps for Indie Authors (No Cost Needed)

Here’s a simple checklist you can follow right away:

1. Write down a short sentence about your book (what it is and who it’s for).

2. If you do an interview, save the video or link.

3. Share that link everywhere you can (social media, website, email).

4. Cut small clips or quotes from the interview. Use them again and again.

5. Always, always tell people where to buy your book.

   
   

These steps cost nothing, but they can help you sell more books than you think.

But Wait…Does This Really Work?

Some authors roll their eyes at interviews. They’ll tell you it’s a waste of money, that it doesn’t move books, or that networks are just bleeding authors dry. And honestly? Their frustration is real. Many writers have tried interviews and walked away disappointed.

But here’s the truth: an interview is not a magic button. It won’t turn you into a bestseller overnight. What it does give you is:

• Credibility — being able to say “Interviewed by a famous celebrity” makes you look serious and trustworthy.

• Content to reuse — clips, quotes, and links you can share for weeks or even months.

• Connections — new readers and media opportunities that grow over time.

  
  

The authors who say “it doesn’t work” are usually the ones who stop at the broadcast and never reuse the content. The real value comes when you repurpose it, share it across your platforms, and keep it working for you long after the cameras stop rolling.

Yes, some outlets do overcharge and underdeliver, but trusted networks with hosts such as Logan Crawford, Paul Ryden, Flobo Boyce, and more also stream their content widely, including platforms like Roku, YouTube, and social media. That means your interview lives on in multiple places where readers can keep discovering you.

The key is knowing how to use it. If you see interviews as tools, not quick fixes, they can be one of the smartest marketing moves in your indie author journey.

Your Story Deserves the Spotlight

You do not need to be rich, famous, or backed by a big publisher to market your book. An interview, even just one, can give your book a bigger stage.

Think of it like planting a seed. Every interview is a seed that grows into trust, attention, and book sales. Use your interviews wisely, and watch your book find new readers all around the world.

So, the next time you get the chance to be interviewed, remember: it’s not just a chat. It’s your chance to shine, connect, and sell more books.