EPISODE 92: Mastering Beta Readers with Author Cherie Postal

For a deeper dive into creating a win-win scenario for you and your beta readers, see the EPISODE 92 DEEP DIVE article here!In this episode of ‘Way-Word Writers,’ hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome guest Cherie Postill to discuss training beta readers and selling more books. Cherie, author of How to Train a Beta Reader and Sell More Books, shares her insights on the importance of beta readers, the process of creating and using a beta reader toolkit, and how to collect valuable feedback. She also explains how to recruit the right beta readers, the significance of their feedback, how to address conflicting feedback, and her unique approach to nurturing a community of knowledgeable and engaged beta readers. Cherie’s practical advice aims to help writers refine their manuscripts based on actionable insights and ensure that their books resonate with their target audience. 00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers 00:59 Meet Cherie Postill: Author and Speaker 03:08 Cherie’s Writing Journey 04:14 The Importance of Beta Readers 13:06 Training Your Beta Readers 13:45 Building Your Beta Reader Toolkit 14:33 Gathering and Utilizing Feedback 18:53 Incentives for Beta Readers 20:12 Finding Your First Beta Readers 22:53 Setting Beta Reader Expectations 24:02 Critique Partners vs. Beta Readers 25:28 Handling Conflicting Feedback 27:48 Stages of Beta Reading 29:47 The Importance of Genre-Specific Feedback 33:33 Finding and Qualifying Beta Readers 35:48 The Role of Beta Readers in Crafting a Story 38:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement​Find out more about Cherie Postill HERE!O​rder your copy of How To Train A Beta Reader and Sell More Books by Cherie Postill HERE! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com