Episode 354 - Social Media Strategy for Authors with Dan Blank
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Where should authors show up online when social media feels fragmented, algorithms keep changing, and AI-generated content makes authenticity harder to recognize? Dan Blank joins Matty Dalrymple to explore a more human-centered social media strategy for authors—one built around clear messages, genuine stories, and sustainable connection rather than chasing every platform.
Dan explains how the breakup of Twitter’s central role changed online communities, why imperfect and personal content can stand out in the age of AI, and how algorithms can help a new creator reach readers from a standing start. He and Matty discuss the appeal of simple story structures, the importance of capturing attention immediately, and the value of learning directly from readers, librarians, and booksellers.
The conversation also offers practical guidance for authors at different stages: defining core themes before a first book launches, resetting an established but uninspiring social presence, choosing channels that serve distinct purposes, and using long-form content as a home base for shorter social posts. The central takeaway is simple: choose one place where sharing feels comfortable, show up consistently, and learn through real conversations and experimentation.
Dan Blank is the founder of WeGrowMedia, where he helps writers develop their author platforms, connect with readers, and launch their books. He is the author of the book Be the Gateway: A Practical Guide to Sharing Your Creative Work and Engaging an Audience. He has worked with thousands of writers, and amazing organizations who support creative people such as Penguin Random House, Sesame Workshop, Hachette Book Group, Writer’s Digest, Library Journal, and many others. You can find Dan on at https://WeGrowMedia.com, his weekly newsletter at https://danblank.substack.com or on social media @DanBlank.
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