Zack Teperman is known to many as one of America’s top publicists who is the President of the popular firm, ZTPR (www.ZTPR.net), based out of Los Angeles, CA and Nashville, TN. And while he deals with all sorts of personalities and clients on a day to day basis, it's his blunt attitude and out of the box thinking that has really set him apart from others in his industry.
With that in mind, it is no coincidence that his first graphic book, “Cut The Bull$hit: A Quick Guide To Getting Your Name Or Product Out There, Somewhere!” was a complete success. The book, which launched in late 2018, but has still been making it onto various Top Seller Lists worldwide, is a quick guide to getting your name or product out there, as the title reads. According to Zack, “In today's society, there is a lot of complete bullshit going around. From people in power communicating through their asses, to self-labeled marketing "gurus" giving total nonsense advice - it's time to cut the bullshit! "Cut The Bull$hit" gets right to the point in helping to narrow in on what's important, while at the same time giving you valuable tips and advice to help market yourself, product or business. This is the real world and there is no time to waste reading pages and pages of how-to books, while others are gaining ground on what could be your own success. With funny, easy-to-read poems filled with quick tips and words of action, you will walk away feeling ready to take on what comes next... and most importantly, how to cut the bullshit!”
We just had to speak to Zack to find out more, as his bluntness is very refreshing!
1. What is the key to success in the book industry you have found?
I don’t know if I have really found any keys. I think authenticity is the most important. People can tell if you are faking it, so just be yourself and write about what you know. Those always make the most compelling types of books in the non-fiction or how-to world.
2. What authors and books are on your top reading list?
I would highly recommend The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck to anyone who hasn’t read it yet. Mark Manson just nails it!
3. Can people really learn how to PR themselves by reading your book?
My book is more of a quick guide on some facts that people should keep in mind when trying to get themselves out there. Of course, it takes strategy and proper planning to reach different levels of success, but you need to first know the key elements in order to lay the right groundwork to launch off of. Plus, if you like photos, my book has some great graphics by legendary artist Willie Pena that you won’t want to miss!
4. Why is public relations important for the success of a business, product or person?
I always say, you can be the best actor, best singer, have the best product or idea, but if nobody knows about it, is it really the best?! Public relations and marketing help get your story or item out there, and people talking!
5. Will you be doing any follow-up books?
For sure! I have some ideas already in my mind. It may not involve sheep, but maybe another animal?! All jokes aside, books are great tools, and I love being able to share what I’ve learned in life so far with others who have a passion to learn. Additionally, I’d love to write a children’s book one day… my little daughter may have to help me with that one though!
