Publish & Prosper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore how indie authors and content entrepreneurs can use partnerships and collaborations to grow their audience, establish authority, and build long-term relationships that outlast any algorithm. We break down strategies for how to identify the right partners, pitch yourself, and make the most of a mutually beneficial collaboration. Watch this episode on YouTube!You know where you'll have an excellent opportunity to connect with potential collaborators? Content Entrepreneur Expo! Don't miss THE event for creators, authors, and entrepreneurs. Visit cex.events to learn more and use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your ticket

In this episode, Matt & Lauren review how to publish your book in 7 steps! Check out these resources to help you with each one: 

In this episode Lauren is joined by Lulu's Senior Marketing Manager, blog writer, and master of copy, Paul Hobday. Paul responds to episode #53,  How to Create A Writing Habit That Actually Sticks, and offers practical advice for aspiring writers ready to level up their writing habit into a purposeful writing practice. Don't miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators, authors, and entrepreneurs. Visit cex.events to learn more and use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your ticket

In this episode Matt & Lauren debate the value and staying power of audiobooks, especially for indie authors. We take a look at market trends for audiobooks worldwide, different ways for authors and creators to produce and distribute their own audiobooks, and the pros and cons of creating audiobook versions of your books. Don't miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators, authors, and entrepreneurs. Visit cex.events to learn more and use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your ticket

In this episode Lauren & Matt explore the design options available for print books. We review the distinctions between trim sizes, binding types, paper types, ink quality, and cover finish, and popular choices for different product types. Watch the episode on YouTube for visual examples! Don't miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators, authors, and entrepreneurs. Visit cex.events to learn more and use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your ticket

In this episode, Matt & Lauren talk through what you need to know about licensing your book rights with foreign publishers. We debate the merit of reaching out to new markets, what that process looks like, and how to use an agency like DropCap to secure international rights deals. Don't miss Content Entrepreneur Expo, THE event for creators, authors, and entrepreneurs. Visit cex.events to learn more and use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your ticket

We've mentioned, once or twice, the value of selling direct. But how does it actually work? In this episode, Lauren & Matt walk through the direct sales cycle and answer some common questions, including: How do transactions work? Who handles customer issues? What am I supposed to do with my customer data?Dive Deeper

In 2023, Lulu bought Content Entrepreneur Expo, an event for content creators and content entrepreneurs. In this episode, Matt & Lauren share an inside look into why we got involved in CEX, what we've learned about events after owning one, and why we think content creators, entrepreneurs, and authors should join us in Cleveland this August! Use promo code LULU100 to save $100 on your CEX ticket

In this episode, Lauren & Matt dig into what discoverability looks like in a world where generative AI is changing how readers find books online. We look at what generative AI looks at when choosing what to cite or recommend, and share practical tips to help authors & creators appear in AI search results and, more importantly, to build lasting audience connections.Learn more about CEX

Whether you're a food blogger, travel blogger, business blogger, lifestyle blogger, finance blogger, or any kind of blogger, you all have one thing in common: your content would make a great book. In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore the value of publishing your blog as a physical book. We also review the key steps to getting from blog to book, including how to choose the right content to include, outlining and formatting your manuscript, and what tools can help you along the way. Dive Deeper

In this episode of POD Pod, Lauren is joined by Lulu's Education & Community Manager (and YouTube celebrity) Chelsea Bennett! Tune in for a conversation on the value of adding long-form video content to your marketing strategy, how authors can use video to connect with their audience, and getting comfortable on camera (and ignoring the haters).Like & Subscribe!  Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren–who are definitely not lawyers–take on copyright law. We talk through what indie authors need to know about copyrighting their books in the US, why and how authors should register their work for copyright, and how fanfiction and generative AI may impact copyright in the future. Again: we are not attorneys.Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren and Matt are ready to inject new life into your backlist book titles. We share ideas for using your backlist to experiment with new formats and distribution channels, turning your older books into lead magnets, and generating passive income from your content long after launch.Dive Deeper

Recorded Live from London Book Fair! In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore the value of relationship marketing (tailoring your efforts to connect with your audience) versus algorithm marketing (tailoring your efforts to satisfy algorithms). We debate the merits of both strategies and share actionable steps to use them together to grow your brand. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren take a critical look at wasteful practices in the publishing industry. We share insight into what it takes to become a certified B Corp (like Lulu!), how book printing creates both physical and carbon waste, and what we can all do to make publishing more sustainable. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore Lulu's open source Print API. Don't know what an API is? We've got you covered. We also talk through the value of personalized products and creative ways to use Lulu's Print API to power your custom book business. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren are joined by Sarah Franklin, Lulu's Public Relations Manager and expert book publicist! Hear about book publicity simplified as Sarah answers questions like: →  What's the value in hiring a publicist vs. doing your own publicity?→  What exactly is a publicist's role in book marketing? →  How do you make the most of earned publicity once you have it? And more! Listen now or watch Episode #60 on YouTube. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt deep dive into book metadata and how it can better position your book in the market. Maximize your discoverability and reach with tips on choosing bookstore categories and BISAC codes, tools for keyword research, and best practices for making the most of your metadata.  Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren explore different ways print-on-demand technology can support your business. We share ideas for creating books for internal use, brand awareness and loyalty projects, and new product lines to consider. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt make a case for why every indie author should try using a preorder campaign to support their prelaunch marketing efforts and boost their book sales. We talk through how preorder campaigns can help you reach your target audience, different kinds of campaigns, and ways to collect your preorders. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren answer questions about moving your books from Amazon to other ecommerce solutions, including global distribution and direct sales. Learn how to maximize your book's availability, forge stronger connections with loyal readers, and grow your revenue when you go wide. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt share tips for aspiring public speakers. We talk through presenting your best pitch to event organizers, targeting your ideal audience with your session title and description, and representing yourself with your speaker bio. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren tell you why publishing a book can do more for your business than just adding a new revenue stream.. Learn how books can establish your expert reputation, connect you with new audiences, and strengthen relationships with your existing fans.Dive Deeper

Is this the year you're finally going to publish that book? Or maybe you just want to write more than you did last year. In this episode Lauren & Matt share tips for building a writing habit in a way that works best for you… and set a few lofty goals of their own. Let us know what your writing goals are for this year! Email us at podcast@lulu.com. Dive Deeper

In this episode Matt & Lauren recap some of the hottest topics and trends in the publishing industry from 2024, and make a few predictions for 2025.   Thanks for a great year of publishing and prospering with us! Dive Deeper

In this episode Lauren & Matt explore the journey to successful audience growth by finding your content niche, defining your ideal reader, and identifying your target audience. We also discuss the value of learning from other creators, ways to inject new life into your marketing efforts, and the correct way to pronounce niche, among other things. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren tackle some of the most common misconceptions about self-publishing. We debunk myths like: ❌ You won't make any money self-publishing❌ You have to spend a lot of money to self-publish❌ There's no credibility in self-publishingAnd most importantly: fake M&Ms are just as good as real M&Ms. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt discuss the New York Times Best Seller lists. Learn how the lists are decided, what disqualifies a book from being a potential NYT Best-Seller, and why self-published authors rarely make the cut.  Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren have a conversation about Taylor Swift's upcoming book, talking through her decision to self-publish it, and what that says about the future of traditional publishing. Disclaimer: This episode was Matt's idea, not Lauren's. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt review the important metrics you need to be tracking to boost your book sales, grow your brand, and connect with a loyal audience. We take a look at social media, email, website, and customer data and share valuable tools and tips to help you make the most of the data you collect. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren share tips for maximizing your return on investment when you attend a conference. We have our top picks for note-taking, strategies for putting your ideas into action, and using your conference experience to establish yourself as a thought leader. Dive Deeper

It's officially been one year of Publish & Prosper! Join Lauren & Matt for a special Ask Us Anything episode, where we take listener questions about publishing, marketing, Lulu products, and - of course - Disney. We answer questions like: Do you start building your audience first and then write your book, or do you start writing your book first and then build your audience? What trends have you seen from Lulu creators over the years in how they've adapted their businesses to sell more books?When you mentioned releasing the right format in regards to the right go-to-market strategy, what do you mean?Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren review the best ways to repurpose content for social media. They talk through reusing your existing social content, reposting other people's social content, and repurposing your book material as social content. Jump in to hear about Matt's recent appearance at Momentum and upcoming plans for Author Nation - or skip ahead to 13:50 to get right to the social media content strategies. Dive Deeper

Custom and special edition books are more popular than ever - and more accessible than ever. In this episode, Lauren & Matt explore how indie authors can create custom editions of their self-published books. We look at popular customizations like sprayed edges, embellished covers, specialty bindings, and more! Love watching your podcasts? Publish & Prosper is now on video! Check us out on YouTube.Join us at Author Nation, November 11 - 15 at the Horseshoe in Las Vegas, Nevada!Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren help you maximize your book's potential with early readers like beta readers, sensitivity readers, and industry reviewers. We take a look at how and when to engage with them, how they can help your book, and what to offer them in return. Love watching your podcasts? Publish & Prosper is now on video! Check us out on YouTube.Join us at Author Nation, November 11 - 15 at the Horseshoe in Las Vegas, Nevada!Dive Deeper

In this episode,  Lauren & Matt explore creative ways to boost book sales! Learn how limited editions, bundles, personalized products, and more can incentivize new and returning shoppers to buy directly from you - without resorting to discounts. Love watching your podcasts? Publish & Prosper is now on video! Check us out on YouTube. Join us at Author Nation, November 11 - 15 at the Horseshoe in Las Vegas, Nevada! Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren tackle the upcoming holiday season. They'll discuss best practices for getting your books ready, optimizing your site or bookstore, speaking to gift givers instead of your target audience, and reviewing your social media for book promo opportunities.  Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt tackle some common pain points entrepreneurs and ecommerce store owners struggle with. We'll talk through solutions and tips for collecting sales tax, setting up shipping and managing shipping issues, and providing proactive customer service for your shoppers. Dive Deeper

Self-publishing might be a DIY publishing model, but there are plenty of tools and resources to help you get your book from manuscript to market. In this episode, Matt & Lauren discuss a debatable number of tools to help you draft, edit, format, design, market, and ship your book. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt review strategies for getting your self-published book into indie bookstores, including participating in consignment programs, pitching yourself for author events, and making your book available through retail distribution. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt and Lauren take listeners on a journey through self-publishing and traditional publishing. We'll look at where those paths overlap, where they diverge, and what to expect on your publishing adventure. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt dive into what makes a successful go-to-market strategy for your book. Learn how to pick the right launch date and products, choose the best sales and distribution platforms, and craft effective pre-launch and post-launch sales strategies. Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Lauren like to meander through? Email us at podcast@lulu.com to submit your question for our upcoming AMA episode!Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren attempts to convince Matt (and the listeners) of the power of a well-written book description. Listen in to learn how to craft a compelling book description that will help you hook new readers.Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Lauren like to meander through? Email us at podcast@lulu.com to submit your question for our upcoming AMA episode!Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt share ideas for repurposing your existing content. Hint: it's by turning that content into a book. We share ideas for both nonfiction and fiction book projects, including options that require little to no new writing. Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Lauren like to meander through? Email us at podcast@lulu.com to submit your question for our upcoming AMA episode! Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren review five things you'll need to know before you start on your publishing journey! We share insights about knowing your content, knowing your goals, knowing your limits, knowing your audience, and knowing your publisher.  Also featuring a meandering detour into graphic novels and an ongoing discussion about crying (now or later). Have a question about self-publishing, selling direct, Lulu, or any of the weird tangents Matt & Lauren like to meander through? Email us at podcast@lulu.com to submit your question for our upcoming AMA episode! Dive Deeper

In this episode Lauren & Matt talk through the 7 essential steps to building your own online bookstore. From choosing the right platform to launching your site, we'll cover everything you need to know to sell your self-published books directly to your readers.Dive Deeper

In this episode, Matt & Lauren debate the distinctions between author and reader communities, discuss the value of participating in either, and share some suggestions for how to bridge the gap between them. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren & Matt share their insights from attending dozens of author events to set you up for success. Hear tips for preparing sales strategies and inventory, promoting the event to your fans, and maximizing your presence at the event. Dive Deeper

In this episode, Lauren is joined by Joe Solari, Managing Director of Author Nation, for our first-ever Publish & Prosper interview!Get excited for the Author Nation event coming to Las Vegas this November, take an inside look at CEX 2024, and hear Joe's thoughts on the future of indie publishing. Dive Deeper

There's a fine line to balance when you're setting the retail price for your book! Too high, and you might discourage potential new readers. Too low, and readers might question the value of your content - or worse, you wind up losing money on every sale. In this episode Matt & Lauren discuss how to determine the optimal list price for your book and what factors to consider.Dive Deeper

As authors, writers, and creative types, it's easy to get caught up in the perceived importance of customer reviews. But do those reviews actually help you sell more books? In this episode, Lauren & Matt debate the value of book reviews for increasing your sales, boosting your book's discoverability, and providing social proof for new readers. Dive Deeper