Exposing the Marketing Myths That Waste Your Money

Hard truths about fake credentials, useless advice, and how to find real help that doesn’t break the bank

Aug 10, 2025

The biggest problem I have with the invasion of marketers on Substack is the dishonesty. It was the same when I was on Medium. People claim they know how to market or write, but when you look at their profiles, it’s clear they haven’t had the success they’re claiming.

This week I released my book. Yes, I know I keep going on about it, but I’m trying to get people to read it. So get a copy and I will shut up. 😂

The Water Plague

While I was trying to promote it, I had a scout around Substack for people who might be able to offer some marketing advice. I found several claiming to be bestselling authors and marketing experts, so I did some research.

Here’s the first thing to understand:

“Bestselling author on Amazon” is not always what you think.

They could be a bestseller in such an obscure category that no one else is writing in. Pretty easy to be a bestseller then, isn’t it?

If you want to check their potential, look at how many reviews they have on that book. If it’s under five, it’s likely an obscure category and not worth boasting about.

On Medium, there used to be writers who claimed to make thousands a month. But when you looked at the stats, it didn’t add up. This is the same principle.

Now I’m all for a bit of positive marketing. But not when it’s costing people money. That really grates on me. Life is hard enough without people getting scammed out of their hard-earned cash by someone promising them their dream, with no actual skill to deliver it.

If you’re going to sign up for a newsletter or service that offers a course or something similar, please do your homework. Make sure you are not wasting your money.

Here’s what I can recommend:

A free option is me. I’m not an expert in writing, but I’ve built a decent following on Substack through hard work, and I’ve written and released six books with mixed success. I’ve learned through trial and error, and I can offer honest advice. My DMs are open. Got a question? Drop it in there – I will answer.
Need help advertising your book? I’ve got an Indie Bookshop here. Subscribe to the free tier of The Book Chronicles, and I’ll add your book to the shop: Subscribe here
Go to YouTube and other sites such as Skillshare and see if you can get the advice and help you need there. Hey, even pick up a book.

Have a burning question? Drop it in the comments. I guarantee I’ll answer every single one.

Until next week, keep hold of your cash and ask for help.

And remember: Read to learn. Read to escape. Read to smile.

Sam 😊