Kickstart Your Book Sales Podcast

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Meeting summary for PublishDrive Q and A (09/03/2024)Quick recapThe team discussed the benefits and new features of Publish Drive, a platform that supports authors and publishers, including a free plan, a metadata generator tool, and a royalty splitter tool. They also explored the cost-effectiveness and time-saving aspects of using Publish Drive for catalog management, sales events, and promotions, as well as the potential for using AI-generated audio for book publishing. Challenges and potential improvements were also discussed, with a focus on continuous improvement and better communication within the team.Next steps• Russell to explore using Publish Drive for comic book distribution and connect with Danica for more details.• Monica to investigate using Publish Drive's Abacus tool for co-authored book royalty splitting.• Danica to follow up with Russell and Monica at upcoming conferences to discuss Publish Drive's ecosystem approach.• Publish Drive team to improve communication about their full range of services and tools to authors.• Authors interested in Publish Drive to reach out to Danica at danica@publishdrive.com for more information or personalized assistance.SummaryPublish Drive's New Features and ToolsRussell, Danica, and Monica discussed the recent announcement from Publish Drive, a platform that supports authors and publishers. Danica, the community manager at Publish Drive, explained that they now offer a free plan, allowing anyone to upload a book and try out their services. They also launched a metadata generator tool, which uses AI to create book descriptions and keywords, helping authors improve their marketing efforts. Additionally, Publish Drive introduced Abacus, a royalty splitter tool, designed to simplify the process of splitting earnings among multiple authors. The team expressed excitement about these new offerings and their potential to support authors at different stages of their journey.Discussing Publish Drive Benefits and CostsRussell and Danica discussed the benefits of using Publish Drive for authors, particularly those making less than $5 on a book. They highlighted the cost-effectiveness of Publish Drive compared to other solutions and the time-saving aspect of having a dedicated person, Frushi, who sends out promotional emails for store promotions. Danica also mentioned a tool that allows authors to compare the costs and benefits of using Publish Drive versus competitors. Monica shared her experience of going direct with some of her books, but noted that she still has some books that are not yet published.Discussing PublishDrive for Catalog ManagementMonica and Danica discussed the benefits and challenges of using PublishDrive for catalog management. Monica highlighted the cost-effectiveness of using PublishDrive, especially for large catalogs, and the ability to easily upload content to various platforms. Danica emphasized the importance of author feedback in improving the platform and the support provided by PublishDrive's customer success manager for transferring reviews. They also discussed the potential for future improvements and the platform's role as a software as a service. Monica expressed her need to explore the Abacus feature for co-authored content.Discussing Publish Drive for Sales Events and PromotionsDanica, Russell, and Monica discussed the benefits of using Publish Drive for sales events and promotions. Russell highlighted the convenience of not having to individually find and upload to each store, and the potential cost savings compared to using aggregators. They also discussed the importance of analyzing the effectiveness of their current processes and considering alternatives, such as using Publish Drive for all sales events. Monica emphasized the potential cost savings of using Publish Drive, as it bundles in payments that would otherwise be made separately.Product Integration and User-Friendly Dashboard DiscussionRussell expressed his satisfaction with the integration of various products into a single dashboard, which he found more user-friendly than logging into multiple dashboards. He also appreciated the ability to see all necessary information in one place, especially for promotions and price consistency. Danica agreed with Russell's feedback and mentioned that they occasionally conduct user interviews to improve the user-friendliness of their products. She also highlighted a new feature, the pod template generator, which can convert ebook covers into print covers, a feature that could be beneficial for authors like herself.AI Audio for Book Publishing ChallengesThe team discussed the advantages and challenges of using AI-generated audio for book publishing across different platforms. Danica mentioned that while Apple's AI audio is exclusive to their platform, Google Play's AI audio can be distributed to other stores like Kobo and libraries through Publish Drive. Managing multiple dashboards was highlighted as a challenge, with Danica preferring simpler processes. Moving books to Publish Drive was discussed, with Danica offering assistance from their customer success manager. Monica inquired about Publish Drive's ability to accept and distribute Google Play's AI audio, which Danica confirmed. Danica also mentioned upcoming presentations at author nation conferences to discuss Publish Drive's ecosystem and capabilities.Comic Creator Challenges and Platform SolutionsDanica and Russell discussed the challenges faced by comic creators in uploading their work to various platforms. Danica confirmed that their platform serves the comic community and that one prominent comic creator is making significant profits through their site. She offered to connect Russell with their customer success manager to help him navigate the process. Monica expressed interest in this topic, suggesting it could be a potential episode for their show. The conversation ended with an emphasis on continuous improvement and better communication within the team.Discussing Publish Drive and AI Tools for AuthorsRussell and Danica discussed the benefits of using Publish Drive as a distribution platform for authors. They highlighted the platform's ability to reach a wider audience, including places where other distributors may not have a presence. Danica emphasized the importance of authors being able to control which stores their books are distributed to. Russell also mentioned the challenges of using Apple's system, suggesting that Publish Drive could be a more user-friendly option. The team also discussed the potential for using AI tools to increase author efficiency and the upcoming Author Nation conference where Danica will be speaking about Publish Drive and AI tools. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Meeting summary for Level Up Creators Q and A (07/16/2024)Quick recapAmanda, the CEO of Level Up Creators, discussed the company's mission to empower women and marginalized groups through digital products and services, and the challenges of transitioning from a creator to a CEO. The team also explored best practices for hiring and managing Virtual Assistants, strategies for improving business efficiency, and the importance of building strong relationships with customers. Lastly, they discussed the potential of the Creator economy, the need for developing both creative and business skills, and recommended various books for further education.Next steps•Authors to consider creating a "suck list" of tasks they dislike and could potentially delegate or automate.• Authors to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for tasks they do frequently but dislike.• Authors to explore options for outsourcing personal tasks (e.g. meal planning, cleaning) to free up more creative time.• Authors to document their vision, mission, values, goals, and strategy to help engage potential hires.• Authors to focus on building and owning their email list rather than relying solely on retailer platforms.• Authors to explore options for creating recurring revenue streams (e.g. subscription models, series).• Authors to consider direct sales strategies alongside retailer sales to have more control over customer data.• Interested authors to book a free 30-minute call with Amanda to discuss business strategies.SummaryLevel Up Creators CEO's Mission and ChallengesAmanda, the CEO of Level Up Creators, discussed her mission to help women and marginalized groups build organizations and create opportunities through digital products and services. The group also discussed the challenges of transitioning from a creator to a CEO, with a focus on delegation and the importance of efficiency and systems. They explored the benefits of outsourcing tasks, particularly for women, and the need to hire individuals with a proven track record in the specific role or industry. The use of AI to generate discussion points for interviews was also discussed as a potential tool.Best Practices for Virtual Assistant ManagementAmanda, Russell, and Monica discussed the best practices for hiring and managing Virtual Assistants (VAs). They emphasized the importance of clearly defining tasks and expectations, as well as the need for effective communication and understanding. The team also discussed the challenges of managing and firing employees, with Amanda suggesting a trial period for new hires and stressing the importance of feedback and correction. Lastly, they explored the benefits of their company's creator services, which provide white-glove, high-touch services for those handling their own creative work, and discussed the potential legal protections and focus on unique, proprietary information.Improving Business Efficiency and FunnelAmanda, Russell, and Monica discussed strategies to improve business efficiency and prioritize tasks using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix and the "Do delegate, defer, or don't do" system. They debated the relevance of social media for business and considered ways to monetize it. The team also explored the concept of a "bow tie funnel," emphasizing the importance of email marketing and the need to create initial purchase opportunities to move potential customers further down the funnel. They agreed on the need for a social media manager to help with networking and audience building.Sales Funnel, Recurring Revenue, and EducationAmanda introduced the concept of a sales funnel, emphasizing its role in guiding potential customers towards becoming repeat buyers. She highlighted the importance of offering recurring revenue products and services to the same customer over time, which not only provides a reliable income but also allows for continuous improvement of the existing product. Monica then explained the sales funnel graphic used in their operations, noting its role in deepening relationships with readers. The discussion also touched on the importance of education in the sales and marketing process, with Amanda's presentation and methods highlighting the potential for automation in building trust with potential customers before a purchase.Customer Retention Strategies and Subscription ModelsAmanda emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with customers to encourage loyalty and repeat business. She suggested offering incentives like exclusive content to those interested in the company. Monica and Russell agreed, noting many businesses focus too much on new products instead of retaining existing customers. They discussed subscription models for fiction authors, with Amanda suggesting platforms like ConvertKit and Active Campaign. Russell shared plans to launch three new books and consider using Amazon and Facebook ads focused on his direct store. The team discussed the changing landscape where readers increasingly buy directly from authors.Systematic Business for CreatorsMonica, Russell, and Amanda discussed the importance of building a systematic business for authors and content creators. They emphasized the need for outsourcing tasks, investing in structures and systems, and owning one's audience for recurring revenue. They also highlighted the potential of the Creator economy and the importance of developing both creative and business skills. Lastly, they recommended various books for further education and encouraged the group to make use of a free 30-minute call with Amanda for personalized advice. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Meeting summary for Dana Claire talking about fulfillment (06/18/2024)Quick recapThe team discussed the challenges and strategies of book printing, importing, and marketing, with a focus on crowdfunding campaigns and special editions. They also explored the importance of clear communication with manufacturers, the benefits of pre-production samples, and the potential of Kickstarter for book launches. Lastly, they discussed the different paper types and weights, the services offered by Dana's company, and the need for accurate project details to ensure successful campaigns.Next steps• Dana to provide quotes for special edition printing based on book specifications like page count, size, etc.• Authors to book a call with Dana on theinfluence.com for Kickstarter campaign management or special edition printing services.• Authors to consider getting pre-production samples from Dana's team to review before full production run.• Authors to provide separate files for different printing elements like foil, spot UV, etc. to the printer.• Authors to communicate clearly with the printer regarding paper weight (GSM or pounds), printing techniques, and other specifications.• Authors to explore options like split shipping, different cover variants, and inserts for added exclusivity.• Authors to educate themselves on printing terminology and best practices using resources like Russell's article "How to Print Books for Fun and Profit".• Authors to consider long-term sales strategies for special editions beyond just Kickstarter, such as direct sales, subscriptions, or Amazon FBA.SummaryNavigating Crowdfunding and Book Marketing ChallengesRussell introduced Dana Claire, founder of The Influence, a company that helps authors with marketing, importing, and Kickstarter campaigns. Dana shared her experience navigating the ever-changing landscape of crowdfunding campaigns and the importance of her company's advisory role. The team discussed the challenges of book printing, importing, and shipping, including factory relationships, quality control, and communication issues with foreign printers. They explored cost-saving strategies like gang printing and binding for bulk orders. Dana outlined her company's project management approach, guiding clients through campaign planning, design, and launch without handling fulfillment or advertising. Russell suggested options for simpler campaigns, such as special editions or relaunches, to appeal to existing audiences.Promotional Items, Shipping, and Special EditionsDana shared her extensive experience in promotional items, custom designs, and manufacturing processes, highlighting her plans to launch a new website with about 20 unique, inexpensive items. Russell discussed the challenges and potential solutions for shipping large quantities of plushes, while Monica emphasized the need to develop a strategy for selling special editions, beyond just Kickstarter. Dana pointed out the increasing trend of publishing houses releasing special editions, indicating a potential opportunity for self-publishing authors to follow suit.Exploiting Book Cover Variations for Kickstarter SuccessDana and Russell discussed the benefits of using different covers for the same book on Kickstarter and other platforms, emphasizing the potential for increased sales and exclusivity. They highlighted the strategy of printing a standard interior and utilizing change fees for various cover options, such as different dust jackets or hardcovers, to cater to different markets. They also discussed the option of inserting custom illustrations or signed pages into Kickstarter campaigns for added exclusivity. They shared personal experiences and examples from successful campaigns, underscoring the effectiveness of these methods.Enhancing Communication With Chinese ManufacturersMonica, Dana, and Russell discussed the importance of clear communication, particularly when working with manufacturers in China. Dana emphasized the need to provide detailed instructions and specifications, and to confirm details repeatedly to avoid misunderstandings. She also highlighted the significance of understanding the nuances of paper units, such as GSM and Pounds, to avoid errors in production. Russell suggested carrying a paper thickness sample as a reference when communicating with manufacturers. Lastly, the team touched upon the value of pre-production samples to avoid any unforeseen errors or misunderstandings.Pre-Production Samples and Printing TechniquesDana explained the process and advantages of ordering a pre-production sample for book printing, emphasizing that it could save significant costs in the long run. She also clarified the differences between spot gloss and foil, noting that the latter cannot have shading or gradients. Russell shared his practice of sending detailed files to printers for specific effects. Monica suggested working with designers to understand the technical language and specifications required by printers. The team also clarified that they offer campaign management services but do not handle audio production.Kickstarter Campaign Strategy for Book SeriesRussell sought advice from Dana on the best approach to a Kickstarter campaign for the fifth book in a series. Dana suggested keeping the campaign simple with creative rewards, such as naming a character after a backer or having a virtual Zoom party. Russell proposed offering ebooks and print books of the series, with additional rewards for higher tiers. Dana reassured him about flexibility in ordering and fulfillment, suggesting that they could adjust the quantity based on demand. The team also discussed the long-term planning for future campaigns, with Dana mentioning a friend's successful strategy of setting stretch goals for add-ons.Book Printing Best Practices DiscussedDana, Russell, and Monica discussed the best practices for book printing, focusing on the paper quality and thickness. Dana suggested a 80 lb paper for most books, including special editions, as it strikes a good balance between quality and thickness. However, for more artistic or custom illustrations, a 100 lb paper might be necessary. Children's books, on the other hand, might require thicker paper due to their intended use. Dana also clarified that clients should always provide accurate details about their book, such as page count and size, to ensure an accurate quote.Clarifying Printing Services and Special EditionsRussell asked Dana for clarification on the services her company offers for those who don't require design services but need help with overseas printing. Dana explained that her company has three tiers of service: special editions, production, and campaign management. She also mentioned that they could assist with split shipping, a service that has become increasingly popular. The group further discussed the concept of "special editions," with Russell and Dana emphasizing that these editions should offer something unique to the reader, such as a signed copy. They also touched on the potential of Kickstarter for book launches, with Russell cautioning that not all books need a massive, special campaign.Book Printing, Paper Types, and MeasurementsRussell, Monica, and Dana discussed various aspects of book printing, focusing on paper types and weights. They clarified that GSM and pounds are two different measurements for paper thickness. Dana advised that to understand the measurements, it's best to obtain samples from different companies. Monica suggested that interested parties should book a call with Dana for a discussion on their project, be it a Kickstarter campaign or a special edition. Dana emphasized that inquiries about Kickstarter should go through her, while special edition inquiries should go directly to her. The team also mentioned a useful article on printing books for fun and profit that Russell had shared. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Meeting summary for Sparkloop Writer MBA Membership call (02/20/2024)Quick recapThe team explored various strategies for monetizing their subscribers, such as a partner program, magic links, and referral programs. They also discussed the effectiveness of targeting "whale readers" on Facebook and the potential of combining fiction and non-fiction content. Additionally, they discussed different ways to monetize their book-selling business, including sponsorships, products, and subscriptions. The challenges of earning through referral links and the cost and benefits of subscriber acquisition in the nonfiction space were also discussed.SummaryCross-Promotion and Monetization StrategiesRussell proposed the use of magic links for cross-promotion among fiction authors, highlighting that the earnings could vary depending on the number of subscribers. Monica raised questions about the cost and potential return on investment, which remained unresolved. The team discussed various strategies for monetizing subscribers on their email list, including a partner program and the use of magic links and partner links in emails. The importance of understanding the subscriber's profile, interests, and demographics was stressed. The idea of targeting 'whale readers' was also discussed.Facebook Ads, Network Fee, and Revenue GenerationThe meeting focused on the advantages of targeting "whale readers" on Facebook, emphasizing its effectiveness and potential for generating revenue, particularly for those just starting. The team also discussed the implementation of a network fee model that would generate revenue from advertisers, highlighting no upfront costs and fees from Stripe and a network fee. Monica and Russell also discussed the potential for authors to generate additional revenue through the Earn side, without a focus on growth. They explored the possibility of combining fiction and non-fiction content and the potential for authors to be successful in multiple partner programs. Cole highlighted potential complications depending on the email platform used, but confirmed the possibility with ConvertKit. The group also discussed changes in pricing, with Cole mentioning the removal of platform fees. Russell emphasized the low-risk nature of this strategy, especially for those with a large subscriber base. Monica concluded by summarizing that the Creator Pro account is still required for the referral program, but there is no additional fee.Referral Program and Sparkloop Partner DiscussionThe team discussed a referral program that incentivizes users to share newsletters with friends and family in exchange for rewards. Cole clarified that the program is a growth tool that can be integrated with other vendors, reducing the need for physical merchandise. Monica, new to the platform, found the program names and offerings confusing, but appreciated the clarification. Cole agreed to send out an email detailing the platform's specific offerings. Russell shared his experience with the Sparkloop partner program, highlighting its benefits and the rigorous approval process for platform users. He also emphasized that users are only charged if they meet the set qualifications, and there is no charge for unsubscribed, non-opening, or disqualified users. Cole was about to present Russell's account details on screen for a more detailed discussion.Publisher Onboarding and Ad Spend Cap DiscussionThe team discussed the onboarding checklist for publishers, with Cole explaining the process and setting payment preferences. Russell inquired about the minimum ad spend per month, to which Cole confirmed a $2,000 cap with a light partner program in the works. The conversation also touched on the impact of the cap on lead quality and screening, and Cole explained their strategy to optimize based on performance. Monica asked about recommended screening methods and email campaigns. Cole suggested a sequence of 5 emails to optimize click rates and mentioned that they provide templates for these sequences. The team agreed to continue the discussion via email. They also discussed the potential for fiction authors to benefit from networks like Bookbub and acknowledged the diverse interests of many readers.Subscribe Autopilot Feature DiscussionRussell, Monica, and Cole discussed the functionality of their partner network, focusing on the "Subscribe Autopilot" feature. Cole clarified that this feature automatically adds all publications within their network, allowing users to choose specific ones if they prefer a curated list. The team concluded that this feature is useful for optimizing revenue per subscriber and adaptable to user preferences. The team also discussed setting up and managing accounts on Sparkloop and ConvertKit, with Russell expressing concerns about users not opening important confirmation emails. Cole emphasized the importance of having a dedicated account representative, with the team also discussing the potential of using ConvertKit for cross-promotions among authors.Monetizing Book-Selling Business StrategiesMonica and Cole discussed various ways to monetize their book-selling business, including sponsorships, products, and subscriptions. They also considered the use of a low ticket/high ticket product framework. Russell emphasized the importance of having a large mailing list for sponsorships to be profitable. The topic of using Sparkloop for monetization was also discussed, with Cole explaining how it can automatically reject certain subscribers to avoid costs. The group also explored the idea of a self-liquidating offer as a potential strategy for monetization. However, Cole mentioned that they currently lack data on the timing of when subscribers make purchases.Health, Welfare, Relationships, and Strategic Content PackagingMonica and Cole discussed various categories that fall under the umbrella of health, welfare, and relationships. Cole shared insights from Justin Welsh about these categories, suggesting that content should be packaged strategically, keeping in mind the cost and value it provides. He also emphasized the importance of being specific when solving a variety of problems. Towards the end, Cole invited attendees to reach out to him via email for further discussions and assistance. Russell concluded by highlighting the benefits of Sparkloop for advertising and marketing, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and ability to maximize returns.Subscriber Acquisition and Monetization StrategiesRussell and Monica discussed the cost and potential benefits of subscriber acquisition in the nonfiction space, suggesting that a cost of around 50 to 60 cents per subscriber is reasonable. They also touched on the challenges of earning through referral links, with Russell mentioning that he had a low success rate. Monica emphasized the importance of monetizing their current audience and using advertising to grow. They also discussed the potential of low ticket offers, with Russell suggesting that a series of books could be a good low ticket offer. The conversation ended with Monica emphasizing the importance of creating a self-liquidating offer.Self-Liquidating Offers: Challenges and StrategiesMonica and Russell discuss the challenges of creating successful self-liquidating offers for retailers and the importance of self-optimizing offers for authors. They talk about the difficulty of creating self- liquidating offers and the need to find a way to grow an author's career by becoming revenue-neutral or making a profit from a series. Russell explains that self- Liquidating offers are the only game in town for authors, and he hates audience growth and optimization. Monica shares her experience with this approach and how it can be exhausting for her. They agree that the best way to achieve self-Liquidating offers is to find an offer that is expensive enough to drive traffic for free and keep scaling up until it becomes profitable.Next steps• Cole will share the hub of email templates with Monica for their email after the meeting.• Cole will work on getting data on the timing of when someone joins a newsletter and when they make a purchase. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Quick recapThe conversation among Russell, Monica, and Audrey revolved around the significance of planning in the writing and publishing process, with a focus on various planning and time management strategies. They also discussed the role of AI tools in creating content and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. The conversation highlighted the importance of managing expectations, setting and sticking to priorities, and maintaining a visible presence in business operations. The participants also shared their experiences with sleep cycles and work strategies, and the challenges of delivering quality work. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of process improvement and transitioning into a mentor role.SummaryPlanning in Writing and Publishing ProcessThe conversation among Russell, Monica, and Audrey focused on the significance of planning in the writing and publishing process. Audrey, a planner expert, stressed the advantages of target-setting and planning for authors. The trio also reviewed the success of their author ecosystem efforts and upcoming projects. The discussion highlighted various planning and time management strategies, with Audrey and Monica sharing their experiences, while Russell expressed his struggles with content planning. Audrey and Monica also discussed the importance of time blocking and noted that it can be beneficial in different scenarios. The conversation ended without a definitive conclusion on which method was superior.Writing, Productivity, and AI in Creative ProcessesRussell Nohelty discussed his writing process, highlighting his ability to focus on his work due to not having any dependents. Monica Leonelle brought up the concept of women often being seen as support in others' lives. The conversation then shifted to productivity and Audrey Hughey shared her strategy of dedicating Saturday mornings to brainstorming and building her vision, which she found to be a highly productive time for her. Russell also mentioned the use of AI for writing and noted the recent release of Microsoft 365's Copilot Pro.AI Tools for Presentations and Task DelegationRussell, Audrey, and Monica discussed the benefits and limitations of AI tools in creating presentations and content calendars. Audrey shared her approach to monthly maintenance tasks, which involves using AI for content creation and delegating tasks to her team. The conversation concluded with Russell discussing the concept of 'chaos agents' and how they can disrupt plans, and Audrey bringing up the idea of 'yellow, red, and gray tines'.Balancing Life PrioritiesAudrey shared her top life priorities, which include self-care, family, her writing career, and income generation. She admitted struggling with balancing these priorities, particularly when her writing flow is disrupted and it affects her time with her family. Audrey, Monica, and Russell discussed the importance of setting and sticking to priorities, sharing their personal approaches. The conversation highlighted the challenges of balancing work and personal life, with Monica admitting that her family often takes precedence over her own needs.Managing Expectations in Project PlanningMonica shared her approach to project planning and meeting deadlines, emphasizing the importance of managing audience expectations. Russell expressed concerns over the fulfillment rate of a recent crowdfunding campaign and the need for maintaining a visible presence in business operations. Both Monica and Russell discussed the significance of managing expectations, particularly in terms of project timelines, and the importance of focusing on one goal at a time. The conversation also touched upon the varying expectations from different audiences and the psychological impact of losing supporters.Quality Work Challenges for Small BusinessesMonica, Audrey, and Russell discussed the challenges of delivering quality work, with Monica noting the struggle small businesses may face in balancing time and quality. Audrey emphasized the importance of prioritization, adaptability, and stakeholder communication, while Russell highlighted the subjective nature of quality. Audrey stressed the need for weekly evaluations, holistic planning, and strategic time management. Her suggestions were agreed upon by the team, with Russell and Monica acknowledging the practicality of her approach.Sleep Cycles and Work StrategiesThe participants discussed their experiences with sleep cycles and work strategies, noting how their approaches have changed as they've aged. Audrey emphasized the importance of self-care and limiting commitments to preserve energy. Russell shared how his strategies evolved as he had to adapt to chronic fatigue and reduced physical capacity. Monica mentioned her struggle with sleep deprivation and the need to shift her work habits. The conversation also touched upon the challenges of balancing work commitments and self-care when life circumstances change, such as becoming a parent or caring for a sick relative.Digital Products Income Boost: Planning, Efficiency, ChallengesAudrey Hughey highlighted the significance of planning and efficiency in boosting income from digital products, underscoring the need to balance income generation with personal fulfillment. Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle concurred, discussing their personal approaches to planning and the challenges of running a business, particularly in relation to digital presence and income generation. Russell shared his experience of losing his social media accounts and discussed the potential use of AI in advertising as a solution to regain lost revenue. The trio also explored various strategies such as finding more traffic sources, creating packages of old posts, and providing transformative experiences for clients.Writers Discuss Editing, Teamwork, and Outsourcing.Audrey Hughey shared her plans to package and edit her previously written short stories and flash fiction for her audience who enjoys horror and thriller genres. Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle reflected on the quality of their teams, noting their ability to work independently and deliver the desired experience. They emphasized the importance of hiring a well-suited team who require less oversight. The conversation concluded with the idea of documenting their processes for future reference, particularly in relation to a book project. Monica acknowledged her role as a bottleneck and decided to delegate much of her remaining workload to others. Russell emphasized the importance of investing in outsourcing and hiring professionals when possible.Marketing, Processes, and Leadership DiscussionsRussell, Audrey, and Monica discussed their experiences with marketing tool ConvertKit, with Audrey expressing satisfaction and Russell raising concerns about cost. They underscored the importance of understanding personal processes for improvement or outsourcing. Monica shared the benefits of gaining clarity about her work process and the advantages of outsourcing tasks. Russell introduced a new tool, Scroll, which uses AI for process documentation. The conversation also touched on the need for process improvement in their business ventures and the importance of transitioning into a mentor role, especially after turning 40. Audrey and Monica discussed the challenges faced by individuals who don't make this transition, with potential burnout being a significant concern. Additionally, they talked about the importance of training and leadership in the military, with Audrey emphasizing the potential for dismissal if one stagnates at the same rank.Work Challenges and Priorities: A Team DiscussionMonica, Audrey, and Russell discussed their work challenges and benefits. Monica mentioned an upcoming milestone birthday and the need for better systems. Audrey shared their bi-weekly meetings to focus on important projects and evaluate progress. Russell expressed interest in learning about their systems to avoid burnout and improve operations. Audrey admitted struggles with delegation, indicating a need to improve their system further. They also discussed the importance of having a team to manage and prioritize tasks, with Audrey sharing her strategy of breaking up projects into manageable tasks. Monica and Audrey discussed their respective strategies and priorities, with Monica emphasizing sales and marketing skills, and Audrey focusing on sales for the year. The conversation concluded with the group agreeing on the value of coaching for addressing planning problems and finding solutions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.writermba.com/subscribe

Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.In this episode we break down billionairess Taylor Swift's writing with psychological triggers in mind! Taylor Swift is just one pop culture example that we will use in our new upcoming course, StoryUrge. You can get StoryUrge as a bonus if you are attending our in-person conferences: Writer MBA Conference or the Future of Publishing Mastermind!We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.Listen and subscribe to our new podcast: SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com.You can get your tickets to Writer MBA Conference here:https://writermba.com/conferenceThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo9-oM3DlmII-A_NDZ0pEFHN-0q7v_t9ZpmCX9gHoFV0IgWg/viewform*****Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

We have a new podcast! Listen and subscribe to the SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com.Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.Today, we are answering questions from the community and in the process, going DEEP behind-the-scenes of some of our problems within our own publishing businesses. Let's get vulnerable! We also talk a lot more about the Writer MBA Conference that you should come to.Listen and subscribe to our new podcast: SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com.You can get your tickets to Writer MBA Conference here:https://writermba.com/conferenceThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo9-oM3DlmII-A_NDZ0pEFHN-0q7v_t9ZpmCX9gHoFV0IgWg/viewform*****Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

We have a new podcast! Listen and subscribe to the SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com. Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.Today we are doing something VERY different and cross-posting an episode of our new podcast, The Six Figure Author Experiment. Lee and Russell are joined by Melissa Storm to discuss releasing a NSFW paranormal romance comic book on Kickstarter. They're two days into this launch and are already fully funded. This is the third episode of the podcast, so if you want to catch up the experiment from the beginning, head on over to SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com and listen from the beginning.Content warnings: dirty jokes. It's Lee's fault. Put your headphones in. The basics of Kickstarter projectsPopular genres on Kickstarter  Pros and cons of working with a comic publisher Best practices for collaborating or co-writing with another creator The three stages of a Kickstarter launchThe challenges of publishing a French and English version simultaneously The optimal length of a Kickstarter campaignWhat to include in a Kickstarter campaign A crash course in different types of comic covers (metal FTW) The stages of making a comic Color printing options with Bookvault Russell's most important tip for authors who want to turn their books into comics Listen and subscribe to our new podcast: SixFigureAuthorExperiment.com.Sign up for our virtual summit! It's May 22-24 and free to watch (paid recordings optional):http://writermba.com/virtual2024/You can get your tickets to Writer MBA Conference here:https://writermba.com/conferenceThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo9-oM3DlmII-A_NDZ0pEFHN-0q7v_t9ZpmCX9gHoFV0IgWg/viewform*****Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Have you thought about running an event before? Have you thought about attending one of our events?Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.This particular episode is a raw replay of our recent membership call where we meet with the co-directors of our events, Mel Jolly and Tawdra Kandle, for a recap of the Future of Publishing Mastermind and more on what's to come for Writer MBA Conference, along with the related upcoming virtual conference. We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.Sign up for our virtual summit! It's May 22-24 and free to watch (paid recordings optional):http://writermba.com/virtual2024/You can get your tickets to Writer MBA Conference here:https://writermba.com/conferenceThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo9-oM3DlmII-A_NDZ0pEFHN-0q7v_t9ZpmCX9gHoFV0IgWg/viewform*****Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.This particular episode is a raw replay of our recent webinar called 5 Trends That Are Shifting the Future of Publishing. We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.You can get your tickets to Writer MBA Conference here:https://writermba.com/conferenceThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo9-oM3DlmII-A_NDZ0pEFHN-0q7v_t9ZpmCX9gHoFV0IgWg/viewform*****Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.I (Russell) had a great time at NINC talking about Author Ecosystems and sharing all our findings about how to use them to take your career to the next level. Everyone in the room seemed super excited about it, but that doesn't do much good to people who weren't there, like most of you.We went into way more detail on this call than we could at the in-person talk, and we answered a ton of your questions about Author Ecosystems. We keep learning more about this system every time we talk about it! So even if you saw the talk, this is worth a listen.We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.The Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:Learn more about the event here: https://futureofpublishingmastermind.com/Apply here: https://forms.gle/cj5nj1rY2pZgCVjP9You can chat about whether the Future of Publishing Mastermind is right for you here: https://writermba.com/russell (book a 30-minute session with him for free)Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.This particular episode is a raw replay of our live coaching call with some of our audience members about how to make more money with direct sales by embracing your author ecosystem. We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/joinOr subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/The Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:Learn more about the event here: https://futureofpublishingmastermind.com/Apply here: https://forms.gle/cj5nj1rY2pZgCVjP9You can chat about whether the Future of Publishing Mastermind is right for you here: https://writermba.com/russell (book a 30-minute session with him for free)Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Book a Call With Kathleen: https://writermba.com/hourlyconcepts (limited spots!)Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.Wish you had some affordable help with your Kickstarter campaign, book swag, A+ content, TikTok videos, advertising images and copy, interior page design (for print special editions), and more?We've secured a special presentation from Book Brush to talk about their new program called Hourly Concepts. Learn the secret weapon that's driving authors' success on both retailers and direct sales platforms (like Kickstarter, Patreon, and web stores)!This particular episode is a raw replay of our recent webinar called Book Brush Spills The Details On Hourly Concepts. We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you. There are a few links that might be helpful to you as you listen:Book Brush: https://bookbrush.com/Book a Call With Kathleen: https://writermba.com/hourlyconcepts (limited spots!)Hourly Concepts Portfolio: https://bookbrush.com/hourly-concepts-portfolio/Hourly Concepts Menu Prices: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QDje3701FiiIdfiQB3i-dj6Pkym5d9GH/viewThe Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:Learn more about the event here: https://futureofpublishingmastermind.com/Apply here: https://forms.gle/cj5nj1rY2pZgCVjP9You can chat about whether the Future of Publishing Mastermind is right for you here: https://writermba.com/russell (book a 30-minute session with him for free)Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/

Welcome to the Kickstart Your Book Sales podcast with USA Today bestselling authors Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle, where you'll learn how to supercharge your book sales, go aggressively wide, and take your author career to the next level.This particular episode is a raw replay of our recent webinar called 5 Biggest Publishing Opportunities You're Missing Right Now. We hope you enjoy! Excuse the lack of polish—we just wanted to get this one out into the world for you.The Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:Learn more about the event here: https://futureofpublishingmastermind.comApply here: https://forms.gle/cj5nj1rY2pZgCVjP9You can chat about whether the Future of Publishing Mastermind is right for you here: https://writermba.com/russell (book a 30-minute session with him for free)Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/joinOr subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/The Future of Publishing Mastermind application process is open:Learn more about the event here: https://futureofpublishingmastermind.com/Apply here: https://forms.gle/cj5nj1rY2pZgCVjP9You can chat about whether the Future of Publishing Mastermind is right for you here: https://writermba.com/russell (book a 30-minute session with him for free)Join the Author Ecosystems Membership: http://authorecosystem.com/join Or subscribe to our free email list here: https://authorecosystems.substack.com/