by G.P. Gottlieb

This week, for the first time in a decade as a podcast host, an author declined my invitation to be interviewed for the New Books Network.

I’ve conducted more than 280 author interviews, my New Books in Literature channel gets hundreds of downloads, and I’m constantly on the hunt for beautifully written novels, including mysteries.

I receive a steady stream of pitches from publicists, publishers, and authors. I wish I had time to read more than two or three books a month, but each book requires hours of reading, preparation, the interview, and submission to the editors. The following week, I always splash the podcast across the internet. It’s time-consuming, but I love it and consider it part of my job as a good literary citizen.

Over the years, I’ve learned that a rich author bio helps drive downloads, which can help drive book sales. So, imagine my surprise when this author said she’d “rather not share more of her personal life.”

Here’s my public service takeaway: if a podcast host asks you to spice up your bio with hobbies, interests, or passions, remember that you don’t have to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Let me say that more delicately: if you don’t want strangers to know you love pottery and gardening, say you relish craftwork and being outdoors. If you’d rather not reveal your devotion to your Golden Doodle, write that you’ve always had a dog. And if you volunteer as a firefighter but don’t want to broadcast it, say that you enjoy community service without getting specific.

The point isn’t to invent your credentials. You’re either a molecular biologist or you’re not, but nobody’s checking whether you’re truly passionate about climate change or just said so because it sounds good. And there’s nothing wrong with being strategically vague.

If you’re a novelist trying to reach new readers and you’re invited onto a podcast, don’t let worrying about revealing personal details get in the way. Just share what you want and obfuscate the rest.

About G.P. Gottlieb:

G.P. Gottlieb is the author of the Whipped & Sipped Mysteries and a podcast host for the New Books Network. She’ll be giving a seminar on podcasting at Killer Nashville 2026.

For More Information:

Website: https://gpgottlieb.com

Instagram: @whippedsipped

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorgottlieb

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