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This was great. While I was an early adopter of Social Media, there's a part of my psyche that is slightly over it. Because that is true, I haven't gotten on the TikTok train. And while I've heard of BookTok, I really didn't know what it was. Well that has changed! BookTok brings "purpose" to TikTok, and now, I'm in. I also loved the bits about staying true to your own writerly vision versus jumping on the "trend bandwagon"--and Cait's philosophy of engaging with diplomacy on Social Media generally--as in, the people whose books you are reviewing, may end up being your colleagues--is refreshingly spot on. Thank you for this interview and for unpacking the BookTok puzzle!

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It's always so interesting to hear your perspectives, Diana. I particularly liked that you were on social media quite early but skipped out on TikTok but are now re-thinking that. The question of what social media (if any) writers should be on is always a fascinating one. I'm glad you got some great takeaways from this conversation!

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You know, I realized after I wrote this that Substack is Social Media—and so I guess as I’m thinking about my “framework” going forward—I’m drawn to things that have purpose and intention. Writing/books—because I’m working on a novel. Health & Wellness—because I love the science of lifestyle interventions versus Big Pharma—and sometimes, I just want to look at pretty design pictures on IG. And I guess it all goes back to authenticity—engage in the things that feel right, further your purpose, and help you grow. Evelyn—I so appreciate the time you take to engage with your community—and me. Thank you!

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💛 🥰 🤓 !!!

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Except that I was not an early adopter of social media, I second everything you just said! 😂 I appreciated this interview for exactly these reasons. Way to go, Evelyn, bringing us a refreshing conversation.

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What a fun conversation! I have heard the whispers of BookTok for a while now, but have not ventured into the TikTok space in any meaningful way :) This was really fun to learn more about and getting to learn about her was a treat!! Thank you for introducing us to her! :)

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I’m so glad you enjoyed it and learned all about BookTok!

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Loved this! Social media feels so overwhelming and Cait really bolstered my courage with their last comment about just doing what feels right and finding my audience. I always worry that I'm being old-fashioned or outdated if I'm not keeping up with all the trends, but now I feel better about just being me. 😀

And so cool that they have a book coming out after being such a wonderful part of getting people reading more. 😀

Are you on TikTok Evelyn? Is it scary there? I'll admit I'm intimidated. 😬😂

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I was on TikTok last year but I recently deleted it because it’s just a bit too much for me in terms of the speed/chaos. I think it’s a generational thing and I’m a little too old for it! I am on Instagram, though. I think both communities have their own vibes and you just have to see where you fit in, and if you even want to be on socials, you know? Personally, Substack is my favorite—it’s the perfect pace.

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What a lovely interview. I’ve heard of BookTok but I always live under a rock when it comes to trends 😅 but it’s so exciting for Cait to get published finally. 🫶🏻🤩

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Ah, then I'm glad you got to learn a little more about BookTok, Elaine! And I agree, I'm really happy for Cait. You just never know which path will lead you to your dream, you know?

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Lovely interview as always. I don't have tiktok myself, but have heard of booktok, and it's pretty cool to learn about its origin story!

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Thank you for tuning in, Sophie! I’m glad you enjoyed getting to “meet” Cait!

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I can't say I combine the words "charming" and "useful" very often, but this interview is both. It's nice to meet Cait at this stage of her career while it still feels "surreal." And it's nice to learn more about what BookTok is and how it started. Now I want to check it out. :-)

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Oh my, what a wonderful combination of compliments, thank you, Tara! I’m really thrilled to introduce you to Cait and also pull back the curtain a bit on BookTok. Thank you for watching/listening!

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