Stop Chasing the Algorithm: A Better Marketing Mindset for Writers (Story, Trust, Promise)
Marketing doesn’t have to feel slimy. In this conversation with Jelan Gundis (Editor-in-Chief at One Brilliant Arc), Scott Perry reframes marketing for writers and creatives as a craft: telling true stories to the people whose lives are better when they collide with your work.
You’ll also hear a sharp (and practical) take on the authenticity trap, the “formula vs vibes” debate, and Seth Godin’s Marketing Trifecta—three questions that clarify what you’re really doing when you create, publish, and invite people to engage with your work.
If you’re an author, freelancer, or purpose-driven creative who wants to market with integrity—without living on the digital hamster wheel—this one’s for you.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro + why creatives hate marketing
01:10 Scott’s story: AltMBA → Akimbo workshops → Creative on Purpose
05:39 The reframe: marketing = telling true stories to the right people
08:12 Authenticity as a trap (and what to do instead)
17:00 “Formula vs vibes” and why both can go wrong
20:26 First principles + systems thinking for marketing that works
24:51 Common pitfalls: chasing the algorithm isn’t a strategy
26:33 Seth Godin’s Marketing Trifecta: change / who / promise
30:06 Make and keep small promises (so selling gets easier)
33:42 Advice to your younger self: trust yourself, trust the process
39:19 Where to learn more + Scott’s book “Intrepid: Dare to Make a Difference”
Subscribe+ Next Steps
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