As an indie author, having spaces and platforms that can catapult your work to a new audience is so incredibly important. We never know where our next reader is or how they’ll find us. It’s why exposure opportunities are so important, everything from conferences and signings to reviews and interviews.
As a poet? It’s even more vital. Poetry as a genre is a “hard sell”. The general populace “isn’t” reading it. At least, that’s what some people would have you to believe. However, I would argue the genre is stronger now more than ever. But, it’s all about connecting poets, artists, to their audience. And when you don’t have large followings, or a substantial readership, it can be hard to find those places and spaces that can help you tap your next reader.
It’s one of the reasons why I’m such a big fan, proponent really, of media and forums like podcasts. No, it’s not because I have my own, although shameless plug, you can take a listen to Daily Dose with Dre Hill wherever you listen to yours. I’m such a big proponent because there are so many podcasts out there, especially in the literary space, for writers, readers, and everyone in-between. This is free media and access instantly available to you. As an author, this is some of the best free promotion you may ever get. With today’s technology and innovations, podcasts can be done anywhere, without you needing to be in-studio, or in the same space as the host(s). You’re not paying to go anywhere, lugging a heavy stack of books around, or having to worry about the logistics of travel to and from the airport.
Even better, I feel, is that podcasts essentially will always exist. Unless the show is wiped/deleted, your episode (or episodes) will always be there waiting for listeners, new and old, to come hear what you have to say about yourself, your journey, your craft, or whatever kinds of discussions you have with the hosts. I did my first author interview for a podcast, Once Upon a Write, back in April of 2024. You can find the Spotify link for that episode here.
I am incredibly grateful to Megan for the conversation we had on her show, a series dedicated to propping up fellow authors and artists like herself. I had the great pleasure of being the first guest poet, which felt incredibly special. We talked all things process, projects, and my writing journey so far (at least up until the point of recording). While I share as much as I can on social media, and even here, I can’t possibly share everything. So, if you’re interested in learning more about me and my work in anyway, I highly recommend you giving it a listen.
And, if you yourself host a podcast, or even handle guest outreach or booking for a show, feel free to reach out. I would love to connect.
Dre Hill 