Publication of a book or other publications by the author or authors
POPULARITY
Categories
In this episode Mark speaks to author Johnny B. Truant about THE ARTISAN AUTHOR. Prior to the interview, Mark shares comments from recent episodes, a personal update, and a word about this episode's sponsor. This episode's sponsor: This episode is sponsored by an affiliate link to Manuscript Report. Use code MARK5 at checkout and save $5.00 off your own personalized report. In the interview, Mark and Johnny talk about: Johnny's return to this podcast (with neither of them being able to remember how many episodes he'd been on previously). Technically, this is his fourth time. Two previous episodes were interviews, and the other was Johnny's brief guest reflection spot in Episode 300 Why Johnny's new book THE ARTISAN AUTHOR is a much-anticipated and needed book in the industry A definition of what it means to be an artisan author, which is kind of the opposite of being a "rapid release, Kindle-only eBook" author The importance of taking away that stress-cycle of having to pump out so many books as a single prescription "how to do it" answer Remembering an important thing that, just like there is no single "the way" neither is being an artisan author The paradigm shift and mindset change that is required as a fundamental starting point How readers outside of the eBook/Kindle-only marketplace aren't as focused on lower price points and are okay with higher prices The reality of the publishing landscape in terms of the books being sold and money being earned The misinterpretation of the book Johnny and Sean Platt released years ago called WRITE, PUBLISH, REPEAT How there are two kinds of writers. The type who approach the business as trying to solve a puzzle and the type who approach it as a way of telling a story that they really want to share How a call of "go slow and make art" is not nearly as sexy as a "solution" The experience of driving off to meet a couple of long-term fans to sign and sell directly to them Connections and humanity being a key element of the artisan author experience The value of authentic connection, regardless of whether or not it's in person or online That powerful experience Johnny had doing one of his first major live book signing events as an author at Author Nation in Vegas and how that led to doing a lot more in person events The ability to adapt to a customer based on their reactions in person Look at it as connections, and then if sales happen . . . great! Being really generous with your time and attention Some of the logistics of doing an in person book signing A couple of unexpected and amusing anecdotes from selling books in person The Kickstarter that Johnny is doing for this book, which runs July 15 through Aug 14 (johnnybtruant.com/artisan) The additional "continuum of education" that Johnny is including in this Kickstarter (Artisan University) The importance of authors entering into things with conscious decisions rather than just blindly following the generic advice they've found And more . . . After the interview Mark reflects on a few specific points from the discussion. Links of Interest: Johnny B. Truant's Website The Artisan Author EP 424 - Passion From Between and Beyond the Pages with Jessica Rampersad EP 322 - The Art of Noticing with Johnny B. Truant EP 302 - Fat Vampires, Storytelling, and Empathy with Johnny B. Truant EP 300 - Celebrating 300 Episodes with Guest Reflections Manuscript Report (Mark's affiliate link) Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Johnny B. Truant is one of indie publishing's early authorities, having created and co-hosted the original Self Publishing Podcast with Sean Platt and David Wright. He is also the author of the indie cornerstone guide Write. Publish. Repeat, and hosted the Smarter Artist Summit author conference in Austin, Texas from 2015-2018 with the same two partners. On the fiction side, Johnny is the bestselling author of Fat Vampire, adapted by The SyFy Network as Reginald the Vampire. His other books include Pretty Killer, Gore Point, Invasion, The Beam, Dead City, Unicorn Western, and over 100 other titles across many genres. Originally from Ohio, Johnny and his family now live in Austin, Texas where he's finally surrounded by creative types as weird as he is. The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
This week, Mitch Matthews sits down in person with returning guest Chandler Bolt—CEO of SelfPublishing.com, 7-time bestselling author, and viral TEDx speaker. They're in Austin, recording from Chandler's studio, and having a blast. Together, they dive deep into 4 pillars that have fueled both Chandler's 8-figure business growth and inspiring personal success. Whether you're launching a startup, writing your first book, or simply designing a life you love… this episode breaks down the real-world mechanics for building something that truly matters—without sacrificing your values along the way. Read The Full Show Notes Now: https://mitchmatthews.com/423
In this engaging conversation, Steve, Jerry and Brett discuss spirituality and the connections we have with the spiritual realm with author Kevin Hall. They explore the themes of signs, communication from beyond, and the thin veil that separates our world from the spiritual one. Kevin shares insights from his new book, discusses the self-publishing journey, and reflects on the impact of AI on authorship. Personal stories of signs and messages highlight the profound connections we can experience in our lives.
Scopri tante risorse gratuite sul self-publishing su https://scrivofacile.com
Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!In this episode, I sit down with Tiffany Graham Charkosky to talk about her forthcoming memoir, Living Proof (October 21, Little A), a book written and shaped over years of writing and rewriting.At just 11 years old, Tiffany lost her mother. For decades, she believed it was an unexplainable tragedy, until a DNA test unearthed information that changed everything. That discovery didn't just reshape her understanding of her mother's death; it also made her question what she might unknowingly pass on to her own children.INSIDE THE EPISODEThe emotional (and editorial) decision-making around what belongs in a bookHow long it took for her story to find its true shape (and why)The surprising speed of her publishing deal once it all came togetherHow do we process loss as kids versus adults? And what happens when new information forces us to reinterpret our past?Tiffany's story is as deeply personal as it is universally relatable.
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Radish Fiction is officially shutting down by December 2025. NetGalley just launched a consumer-facing discovery site called Booktrovert. And ACX is testing voice replica AI for audiobook narration. In this week's news update, I cover the latest shifts in the self-publishing world—including a deepfake interview warning, AI narration breakthroughs, and a major indie publishing milestone from Spoken.press. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord Check out my main YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DaleLRoberts My Books - https://DaleLinks.com/MyBooks Wanna tip me? Visit https://dalelroberts.gumroad.com/coffee. News Sources: Now in Beta: Narrator Voice Replicas on ACX - https://www.acx.com/mp/blog/now-in-beta-narrator-voice-replicas-on-acx Radish Fiction is shutting down in December 2025 - https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-publishing/radish-fiction-is-shutting-down-soon-in-december NetGalley Launches New Consumer Marketing Site Called Booktrovert - https://publishingperspectives.com/2025/06/netgalley-launches-booktrovert/ When an Interview Isn't Exactly What It Seems: NewYox Media and Its Suite of Magazines - https://writerbeware.blog/2025/07/11/when-an-interview-isnt-exactly-what-it-seems-newyox-media-and-its-suite-of-magazines Spoken Beta: V0.9.4 Release Notes: Natural Cadence, Emotional Precision, and Massive MCMV Level Up - https://www.spoken.press/the-spoken-chronicle/spoken-beta-v094-release-notes-natural-cadence-emotional-precision-and-massive-mcmv-level-up Miblart - https://DaleLinks.com/Miblart (affiliate link) - use promo code MIBLART15 to get 15% off your order (good through July 18) Self-Publishing Made Simple with April Cox - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfPubMadeSimple BookLinker presents: Your Book Deserves Readers: 3 Steps to Smarter Book Marketing - https://booklinker.mykajabi.com/registration-page ALLi Membership - https://DaleLinks.com/ALLi (affiliate link) ALLi Member Q&A: Marketing Your Books Using Video with Dale L. Roberts - https://selfpubconnect.mn.co/events/member-qa-marketing-your-books-using-video-with-dale-l-roberts The Self-Publishing with ALLi Podcast: Building Your Author Platform in 2025 - https://selfpublishingadvice.org/podcast-author-platform/ Kobo Writing Life presents: Busting Indie Publishing Myths with Dale Roberts - https://www.youtube.com/live/6oPXIhuzROg?si=YE7mPAAzFYvuYMCq Author Nation - https://DaleLinks.com/AuthorNation (affiliate link) Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts
Episode 281 brings down the house with a true rockstar in the Indie publishing world, the Fort Knox of Indie-Pub tips & helpful information, Dale L. Roberts! Jason had an absolute stellar time discussing Dale's writing past, his non-fiction books which include a large supply of health and fitness books, and Dale's new jump into fiction! And, man-o-man, the author tips are aplenty throughout. Dale is a fountain of information giving great advice on things like your author bio, writing methods, using AI for managing your time, and so much more! Dale L. Roberts website Dale's YouTube The Self-Publishing with Dale YouTube Dale's books on Amazon Contact the show via email at samplechapterpodcast@gmail.com
The Better Together Podcast with Callie and Rosario "Roz" Picardo
Send us a textForget everything you thought you knew about self-publishing.In this episode of The Better Together Podcast, we sit down with pastor, author, and strategist Chad Brooks to explore what it really takes to self-publish in today's digital world. Chad walks us through how he wrote and released his first book—Is My Church Healthy?—in just 90 days, and why self-publishing is no longer a last resort but a strategic, creative move for writers and ministry leaders alike.From leveraging AI tools to refining content through workshops, Chad shares how self-publishing can be a deeply personal, agile, and community-driven process. You'll hear his behind-the-scenes journey—complete with lessons learned, mistakes made, and unexpected wins—and discover how self-publishing can open new doors for ministry, thought leadership, and impact.Whether you've got a book idea burning inside or you're just curious about the process, Chad offers a transparent, practical guide to getting your message into the world—without waiting for permission.
Everett O'Keefe is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and International #1 Bestselling Author. As the founder of Ignite Press, a hybrid publishing company specializing in helping entrepreneurs, business people, and medical professionals ignite their businesses by becoming bestselling authors, Everett and his team have helped create and launch more than 95 bestselling books for his clients. In addition, Everett loves to speak across the nation on the power of publishing. Sought out as a speaker, coach, and consultant by authors and marketing experts worldwide, Everett has a passion for entrepreneurialism. By helping his clients become recognized experts in their fields through speaking and authorship with their bestselling books in hand, he supports them in sharing their gifts with a growing audience. For more information, visit IgnitePress.us. For a complimentary copy of his "The Power of the Published" click https://mypodcastperk.com/.
Hey hey! Today's we've got CHANDLER BOLT of SelfPublishing.com in the studio to discuss the economics of self-publishing a book.We talk about: - The difference between self publishing and normal publishing. - How much money people make self publishing books. - AI in book publishing, how it's changing (or not changing). - The different forms of monetizing a book: Royalties vs backend. - We go through examples of 10 books and their results. - How Chandler's company did $70,000,000 of revenue so far.Follow Chandler Bolt:
In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Member Q&A podcast, hosts Michael La Ronn and Sacha Black discuss how to find a developmental editor for a nonfiction book that covers complex, controversial, or specialized subject matter. Other questions include: How long should it take to design a book cover, and should the designer read the manuscript? Is it worth creating a series wiki for your books? Should authors release their audiobook at the same time as the ebook and print editions? Do you need an ISBN for an audiobook, and what platforms should you use for distribution? How do you safely publish a book through a foreign company? Why won't Amazon link the hardcover and ebook editions when the hardcover is published through IngramSpark? And More! Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-Publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. Sponsor The Member Q&A podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. About the Hosts Michael La Ronn is ALLi's Outreach Manager. He is the author of over 80 science fiction & fantasy books and self-help books for writers. He writes from the great plains of Iowa and has managed to write while raising a family, working a full-time job, and even attending law school classes in the evenings (now graduated!). You can find his fiction at www.michaellaronn.com and his videos and books for writers at www.authorlevelup.com. Sacha Black is a bestselling and competition winning author, rebel podcaster, speaker and casual rule breaker. She writes fiction under a secret pen name and other books about the art of writing. When Sacha isn't writing, she runs ALLi's blog. She lives in England, with her wife and genius, giant of a son. You can find her on her website, her podcast, and on Instagram.
In der neuen Ausgabe der Speakeasy-Bar beantworten wir wieder viele Publikumsfragen. Zunächst aber sprechen wir über die nun schrittweise eingeleitete Wiedereinführung der Wehrpflicht, der sich nun auch die Jusos nicht mehr in den Weg stellen. Anschließend geht es um die Content-Creator-Plattform OF, die der Gründer aktuell plant zu verkaufen: Angeblich soll der Kaufpreis bei 8 Milliarden Dollar liegen. Sieht man sich die Abonnentenzahlen an, ist OF tatsächlich erfolgreicher als Disneyplus und sogar Netflix. Danach beantworten wir Fragen – etwa zur schwedischen Sozialdemokratie, die einst den Weg in den Sozialismus plante. Wir reden über Angestellte als Kostenfaktoren und Gewinnbringer sowie das Selfpublishing von Büchern. Gefragt werden wir auch nach dem Braindrain und ob es Flüchtlinge in ihrem Herkunftsland nicht eigentlich besser hätten. Außerdem sprechen wir über unsere liebsten Literaturverfilmungen und das Ende des Schlagers. Mehr dazu von Ole Nymoen und Wolfgang M. Schmitt in der neuen Ausgabe der Speakeasy-Bar! Unsere Zusatzinhalte könnt ihr bei Apple Podcasts, Steady und Patreon hören. Vielen Dank! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/wohlstand-f%C3%BCr-alle/id1476402723 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/oleundwolfgang Steady: https://steadyhq.com/de/oleundwolfgang/about
Kollin Kennedy did not grow up thinking that he'd be a poet, but he did grow up with a profound love of language.In this episode, Emmeline sits down with Instagram-famous poet and University of North Texas graduate Kollin Kennedy to talk about his journey into the world of poetry and his love for the written word. Kollin also shares how he was inspired to start writing verse, and how consistent posting on Instagram helped him to create a book of original poetry. He even shares two poems from his new book, As Time Goes By: A Collection of Poetry and Prose. The two swap stories about life as English majors--and discuss the importance of putting one's thoughts into one's own words. To learn more about Kollin Kennedy, or to follow his creative journey, visit his official website or follow him on Instagram. For behind-the-scenes information and more about Journey of an Artist, visit the Journey of Series official webpage, or follow Emmeline on social media at @EmmelineMusic.
Wenn Sie über Drachen spricht, leuchten ihre Augen genauso, wie wenn sie vom Schreiben erzählt. Autorin Liane Mars sprüht vor Leidenschaft! Und diese Drachen- und Schreibliebe brachte sie 2024 mit 'Asrai – Die Magie der Drachen' auf die Spiegel Bestsellerliste.Die Drachenlady erzählt in mitreißender Weise, warum sie Drachen und Weltenbau so sehr liebt, wie ihr Weg bis zum großen Durchbruch war, welche kleinen Schritte und Hürden sie genommen hat, und ob der Drachenhype ihrer Meinung nach weiter anhalten wird.
Kae Wagner shares how she transformed from an anxious introvert into a confident book promoter. Learn how mindset, simple habits, and series strategies helped her grow book sales and visibility. She offers practical tips for daily marketing, overcoming fear, and using Amazon to your advantage.
Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!If you've been chasing the magical marketing strategy that will finally make your book “take off,” welcome to the club. In this episode, I'm addressing the question nearly every author eventually asks: What does it actually take to make a book successful?Spoiler: there's no guaranteed formula. Even authors with six-figure advances, NYT bestsellers, or celebrity blurbs still worry their latest book won't sell. So what are we really buying when we shell out thousands for a publicist? Often, it's access and visibility, not actual sales. You can land your book in front of all the right people, and still... crickets. Why? Because readers are human. Think about how long you've let a book sit in your online cart before clicking “buy,” even if you really wanted to read it.Success usually requires a mix of good writing, staying power, and yes, a little luck. But maybe it's time we stop defining success only by sales numbers. What if it's about writing something you're proud of? Or connecting deeply with a few readers who say, “Your book changed me”?Marketing will always involve experimentation. And when it starts to feel like a full-time job you didn't apply for, you have every right to pause, pivot, or try something wildly different. Your book might find its audience next week—or three years from now—in a way you never expected.
What does it really take to build a lasting author platform in 2025? In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Podcast, host Dale L. Roberts chats with indie author Kerrie Flanagan about what it means to grow and sustain an author brand in today's crowded publishing world. From mastering the tools that matter to balancing multiple genres under different pen names, this conversation offers practical insights for authors looking to deepen their reader connections and expand their reach. Sponsor This podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. About the Host Dale L. Roberts is a self-publishing advocate, award-winning author, and video content creator. Dale's inherent passion for life fuels his self-publishing advocacy both in print and online. After publishing over 50 titles and becoming an international bestselling author on Amazon, Dale started his YouTube channel, Self-Publishing with Dale. Selected by Feedspot and LA Weekly as one of the best sources in self-publishing of 2022, Dale cemented his position as the indie-author community's go-to authority. You can find Dale on his website or YouTube. About the Guest Kerrie Flanagan is an author, writing consultant, and instructor with more than twenty years in the publishing industry. She is the author of The Writer's Digest Guide to Magazine Article Writing, creator of the Magazine Writing Blueprint, and co-author of several series under the pen name C.G. Harris. Her work has appeared in Writer's Digest, The Writer, Alaska Magazine, and Chicken Soup for the Soul. A founder of Northern Colorado Writers, Flanagan teaches for Stanford University and regularly presents at conferences nationwide.
Major news just dropped in the world of AI and copyright, and authors need to pay attention. A federal judge made a surprising ruling about how AI models can use books, and it could change everything. Plus, new opportunities for indie authors with MailerLite, PublishDrive, Bookvault, and more. Catch up on everything happening in publishing this week. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord Check out my main YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DaleLRoberts My Books - https://DaleLinks.com/MyBooks Wanna tip me? Visit https://dalelroberts.gumroad.com/coffee. News Sources: AI chatbots need more books to learn from. These libraries are opening their stacks - https://apnews.com/article/ai-chatbot-training-data-libraries-idi-e096a81a4fceb2951f232a33ac767f53 Federal judge rules copyrighted books are fair use for AI training - https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/federal-judge-rules-copyrighted-books-are-fair-use-ai-training-rcna214766 Amazon Prime Day 2025 - https://www.amazon.com/primeday BookLinker - https://BookLinker.com KDP Royalty Calculator: Free Tool for Authors - https://kindlepreneur.com/kdp-royalty-calculator/?affiliate=selfpubwithdale (affiliate link) Bookvault - https://bookvault.app PublishDrive - https://dalelinks.com/publishdrive (affiliate link) Spotify for Authors - https://authors.spotify.com How Indie Authors Are Doing in 2025: Mid-Year Survey Results - https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/we-asked-indie-authors-how-2025-is-going-heres-what-they-said/ All Call Indie - https://allcallindie.com/ New! Create and sell your digital products directly in MailerLite - https://dalelinks.com/mailerliteproducts (affiliate link) Get Authentic Book Reviews - https://getauthenticbookreviews.com Gemsy - https://dalelinks.com/gemsy (affiliate link) - use code DALE4JULY (good through July 8) BookMARCon - https://bookbrush.com/bookmarcon/ Author Nation - https://DaleLinks.com/AuthorNation (affiliate link) Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts
In this episode of the Production and Distribution stream of the Self-Publishing with ALLi podcast, ALLi nonfiction adviser Anna Featherstone speaks with Brad Andalman, co-founder of Vellum, the popular book formatting software used by thousands of indie authors. They discuss Vellum's origins, its evolution, and how it fits into the book production process—especially for authors looking to maintain control, streamline workflow, and update files efficiently. Brad also shares insights on how authors use Vellum in unexpected ways, recent feature updates, and how the team prioritizes new tools based on author feedback and publishing trends. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-Publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. Sponsors This podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. This podcast is also sponsored by Gatekeeper Press, the all-inclusive Gold Standard in Publishing, offering authors 100% rights, royalties, satisfaction and worldwide distribution. Gatekeeper Press, Where Authors are Family. About the Host Anna Featherstone is ALLi's nonfiction adviser and an author advocate and mentor. A judge of The Australian Business Book Awards and Australian Society of Travel Writers awards, she's also the founder of Bold Authors and presents author marketing and self-publishing workshops for organizations, including Byron Writers Festival. Anna has authored books including how-to and memoirs and her book Look-It's Your Book! about writing, publishing, marketing, and leveraging nonfiction is on the Australian Society of Authors recommended reading list. When she's not being bookish, Anna's into bees, beings, and the big issues of our time. About the Guest Brad Andalman is the co-founder of 180g, the company behind Vellum—the Mac-based software that simplifies professional-grade book formatting for indie authors. He launched the company in 2012 alongside Brad West after more than a decade at Pixar Animation Studios, where he helped build next-generation animation and rendering tools.
Ever struggle to get into a widely popular book? Check out these potential reasons why.In this episode, host Erin P.T. Canning discusses the interesting choices Callie Hart, a successful former indie author, made with her romantasy novel, Quicksilver.Tune in to this unique case study from an editor's and reader's perspective. You will gain valuable insights into the flexibility of publishing guidelines, learning how authors can make informed decisions about manuscript length and structure. You will also uncover the nuanced reasons behind reader engagement and connection with characters, ultimately equipping you with a fresh perspective on the craft of writing and reading. Send us a textLOOKING FOR WRITING SUPPORT & FRIENDS? Join my Patreon to access my Discord writing group, get writing prompts, participate in sprints, download free resources, and more: https://www.patreon.com/erinptcanningeditor
Join us as we explore the transformative journey of Meg Calvin, a remarkable writing and marketing coach who guides authors through the spiritual and intangible challenges of crafting their Amazon bestsellers. Meg's story begins with her roots in ministry, shaped by a life marked by trauma and a quest for unconditional love. Her early exposure to music and preaching laid the foundation for her current path, where she helps writers overcome invisible barriers and find their true calling. Through her experiences, Meg demonstrates the power of self-discovery and transformation, inspiring others to follow their passions and make a lasting impact with their words. We also shed light on the liberating journey from traditional publishing to self-publishing. Frustration with the lack of creative freedom in traditional avenues led to the creation of independent publishing ventures, allowing authors to authentically tell their stories. The episode underscores the importance of recognizing the persistent ideas that signal a book's need to be written, not only as a personal calling but as a way to extend one's business presence beyond the digital world. As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, the authenticity and personal energy of a creator are emphasized as invaluable elements in writing. Connect with Meg:Website: www.megcalvin.com Instagram: @heymegcalvin Facebook: Meg Calvin TikTok: megcalvin Let's keep the conversation going!Website: www.martaspirk.com Instagram: @martaspirk Facebook: Marta Spirk Want to be my next guest on The Empowered Woman Podcast?Apply here: www.martaspirk.com/podcastguest Watch my TEDx talk: http://bit.ly/martatedx Love cozy mysteries? Meet Nora Bardin, a lifelong puzzle solver turned author, who crafts fast-paced, feel-good whodunits. Her stories are packed with charm, suspense, and satisfying twists—whether you're fireside or on your lunch break. Escape into a world where justice always wins. Discover Nora Bardin's books now on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nora-Bardin/author/B0F3Y5BP4R
Advertising on Google, Facebook, Instagram, and various social media sites can be exceptional exposure for your books and possibly lead to more sales, but which platforms are better for garnering sales as compared to visibility, and what types of images and copy work best for each site? Also, how long is the ideal time to run an ad? Ingram Content Group's Senior Manager, Consumer Products & Services Development Erin Cox visits “Inside Independent Publishing (with IBPA)” to answer these questions and more!PARTICIPANTSErin Cox has almost two decades of marketing and development experience, primarily in the book industry. She previously worked with Simon & Schuster and Macmillan, was the director of development for World Book Night U.S., and has a master's degree in publishing from New York University. When Erin relocated to Nashville a few years ago, she experienced the other end of the marketing process while working at Parnassus Books. Since then, she's joined Ingram Content Group to help launch a consumer marketing services program for publishers.Independent Book Publishers Association is the largest trade association for independent publishers in the United States. As the IBPA Director of Membership & Member Services, Christopher Locke assists the 3,900 members as they travel along their publishing journeys. Major projects include managing the member benefits to curate the most advantageous services for independent publishers and author publishers; managing the Innovative Voices Program that supports publishers from marginalized communities; and hosting the IBPA podcast, “Inside Independent Publishing (with IBPA).” He's also passionate about indie publishing, because he's an author publisher himself, having published two novels so far in his YA trilogy, The Enlightenment Adventures.LINKSLearn more about the many benefits of becoming a member of Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) here: https://www.ibpa-online.org/Learn more about how to get a discount on Google, Facebook, and Instagram advertising through the Ingram ID IBPA member benefit at https://www.ibpa-online.org/page/ingramidFollow IBPA on:Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/IBPAonlineX – https://twitter.com/ibpaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ibpalovesindies/
Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.Hey there, Writer—welcome back to another episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show! Today, I'm chatting with author Terra Luft, a speculative fiction writer whose imagination leans toward the dark, twisty, and psychologically thrilling. Terra's been writing since 2008 and just released her first solo short story collection, Nightmares of My Own. If you've ever wrestled with perfectionism, felt like your writing life doesn't look “ideal,” or wondered if your small pockets of time could actually move your book forward—this episode is for you.Terra opens up about her journey from isolated kitchen writing sessions to finding her footing in the writing community—and why that community was the game-changer that kept her going. For over a decade, she's published short stories in various anthologies, always dreaming of someday putting together a collection of her own. That dream became real in December 2024, and in this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of how it happened.We talk about why short stories became her chosen form—spoiler: instant gratification plays a big role! Terra shares how writing short fiction allowed her to sharpen her craft in the midst of a demanding life, including full-time work in healthcare IT, going back to school, and raising a family. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is when Terra shares how attending my Book Finishers Bootcamp shifted everything for her. She let go of the idea that she needed perfect conditions to write and leaned into consistent, realistic goals. She started writing on weekends while camping with her family—yes, literally around the campfire in a folding chair—and that's how her book got finished.Terra also walks us through her first foray into self-publishing, with all its surprises, challenges, and lessons learned. From choosing the perfect cover design to figuring out proofreading order (hint: it's trickier than it seems!), Terra's honest insights will resonate with anyone considering self-publishing. She shares how she curated the stories in her collection—crafting a reading journey from sci-fi to psychological horror to paranormal—and how discovering the unifying theme of “nightmares” helped her land on the perfect title.We also talk about what she's working on now: revising her favorite novel, with a goal of two writing sessions a week and 3,000 words. I loved hearing how the skills and confidence she built through short fiction and bootcamp are now fueling her longer work.So if you're wondering whether it's “too late,” or if you have “enough time,” or if your first book needs to be perfect...this episode will remind you that the real magic is in starting anyway.You can grab Nightmare
Michelle Vandepas of GracePoint Publishing joins Alexa to unpack the world of hybrid publishing, red flags to avoid, and how to align your book with your bigger purpose. Learn what questions to ask, what you're really paying for, and why GracePoint is a great home for mission-driven authors.
In this jam-packed episode of Talking Book Publishing, hosts Kathleen Kaiser and Adanna Moriarty sit down with book marketing powerhouse Penny Sansevieri for a revealing discussion on how Amazon's evolving landscape affects authors today. Penny, a longtime expert in Amazon optimization, returns to the podcast with timely insights on her latest release, The Amazon Author Formula Workbook, and the strategic changes every author needs to understand—especially in light of Amazon's algorithm shift from A9 to A10.From navigating AI-generated book scams to optimizing your author presence for visibility, Penny outlines both the opportunities and landmines in today's digital publishing world. Listeners will get actionable advice on platform building, the ethical use of AI for marketing, and how to prepare for Amazon's tightening restrictions on book uploads. Whether you're self-publishing your first book or looking to refresh your Amazon strategy, this episode is a must-listen.We'd like to hear from you. If you have topics or speakers you'd like us to interview, please email us at podcast@talkingbookpublishing.today and join the conversation in the comments on our Instagram @writerspubsnet.
297. Unlocking Your Creative Potential: The Power of Books In this episode, Mike Brennan discusses the creative process and the journey of writing and publishing books. He emphasizes the importance of creativity in everyone's life and explores various formats for creative expression, particularly through books. Mike shares his personal experiences with creating multiple books, including 'Dear Snow', 'Dear Human', and 'Make Fun a Habit', detailing the inspiration behind each project and the self-publishing process. He encourages listeners to embrace their creativity and consider writing their own books as a means of sharing their unique perspectives and experiences. 3 Key Takeaways:
Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!Author Lori Gold is pulling back the curtain on publishing, in both this interview and her newest novel, Romantic Friction. INSIDE THE EPISODE• Yet another reason bestseller lists aren't what you think (I didn't know this until I read her book!)• A great tip for handing reviews without spiraling (or swearing off Goodreads forever)• What AI is doing to authors' voices, and why it should concern all of us• How writing happens even when you're not writing • How Lori studies the bones of books she loves to make her own writing even stronger
In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Podcast, Matty Dalrymple talks with MaryCatherine Jones of The Audiobook Experience about how authors can set themselves up for audiobook production success during the editing phase. They discuss the growing popularity of audiobooks, the importance of writing with the ear in mind, and how to avoid pitfalls like confusing names or unclear pronunciations. They also offer practical tips on working with narrators and directing listeners to bonus content, all with an eye toward meeting the expectations of today's "ear readers.” Sponsors This podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. This podcast is also sponsored by Gatekeeper Press, the all-inclusive Gold Standard in Publishing, offering authors 100% rights, royalties, satisfaction and worldwide distribution. Gatekeeper Press, Where Authors are Family. About the Host Matty Dalrymple podcasts, writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage as The Indy Author. She has written books on the business of short fiction and podcasting for authors, and her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine. She serves as the campaigns manager for the Alliance of Independent Authors. Matty is also the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with Rock Paper Scissors; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with The Sense of Death; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts, including Close These Eyes. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. About the Guest MaryCatherine Jones is the owner and executive producer at The Audiobook Experience at Voice Over Vermont, an award-winning boutique audiobook recording and production studio. She delights in working with authors in her Vermont studio to bring their stories into the world, either using their own voices or by finding the perfect narrator for their audiobook. You can also find her on Instagram and LinkedIn.
What happens when a college football player gets locked up in Beijing for smoking weed and turns it into a bestselling book empire?Picture this: You're 24, fresh out of college, teaching English in Beijing when three Chinese police officers knock on your door. Within hours, you're locked in a cell with 14 Chinese men you can't communicate with, eating three bowls of soup a day with nothing but a plastic spoon. No one knows where you are. No one's coming to save you.But here's the kicker – Chancellor saw opportunity where others would see only despair.Instead of playing victim, he took accountability. Instead of making excuses, he made plans. And instead of letting this experience break him, he turned those 15 days into a #1 bestselling book that launched a publishing empire.In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Chancellor breaks down:The exact moment he knew his life was about to change foreverHow football taught him the accountability that saved his sanity in prisonWhy he refuses to blame anyone but himself for his decisionsThe transition from athlete to entrepreneur that most ex-players never figure outHow he's now coaching both kids on the field AND aspiring authors to bestseller statusCONNECT WITH CHANCELLOR JACKSON:Instagram: @korlehjLinkedIn: Chancellor Jackson YouTube: @10korleh Book: Welcome to the No BS Wealth Podcast with Stoy Hall, your candid guide to financial clarity. In our third year, we're spicing things up by enhancing community ties and bringing you straight, no-fluff financial insights. Connect with us on NoBSWealthPodcast.com, and follow Stoy on social media for the latest episodes and expert discussions. Tune in, join the conversation, and transform your financial journey with us—no BS!PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For InterviewsAs always we ask you to comment, DM, whatever it takes to have a conversation to help you take the next step in your journey, reach out on any platform!Twitter, FaceBook, Instagram, Tiktok, LinkedinDISCLOSURE: Awards and rankings by third parties are not indicative of future performance or client investment success. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investment strategies carry profit/loss potential and cannot eliminate investment risks. Information discussed may not reflect current positions/recommendations. While believed accurate, Black Mammoth does not guarantee information accuracy. This broadcast is not a solicitation for securities transactions or personalized investment advice. Tax/estate planning information is general - consult professionals for specific situations. Full disclosures at www.blackmammoth.com.
On this episode of the Self-Publishing News Podcast, Dan Holloway reports that audiobook growth continues across major English-language markets, with Spotify claiming a 30 percent rise in listeners and a 36 percent increase in listening hours year over year. Dan also explores Spotify's evolving role in the audiobook industry, the launch of the new UK-based Speakies Awards open to indie authors, and a troubling trend reported by the Wall Street Journal—AI-generated search summaries may be reducing ad revenue by diverting clicks away from content creators. Sponsors Self-Publishing News is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. Self-Publishing News is also sponsored by book cover design company Miblart. They offer unlimited revisions, take no deposit to start work and you pay only when you love the final result. Get a book cover that will become your number-one marketing tool. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. About the Host Dan Holloway is a novelist, poet, and spoken word artist. He is the MC of the performance arts show The New Libertines, He competed at the National Poetry Slam final at the Royal Albert Hall. His latest collection, The Transparency of Sutures, is available on Kindle.
Dr. Alexandra Rogers is a clinical psychologist from California. She recently published Your Journey to Successful Parenting, a project that took her two years to complete. In this conversation, she shares how she did it--what tools and services she used, how much she spent, what she learned along the way, and what she'd do differently next time.If you're planning to self-publish a book, hearing from someone who's been through the process might be well worth your time.Enjoy!***Resources, tools, and services Alexandra used to self-publish her book***Book cover design: 100 Covers https://100covers.com/Editors - Christine Grail - https://www.thescriptconsultant.com/- Kirkus Editing - https://www.kirkusreviews.com/editing-services/Professional reviewers - Kirkus Reviews, for independent publishers- Publishers Weekly, the arm for independent publishers is BookLife ReviewISBNs- BowkerLibrary of Congresshttps://www.loc.gov/programs/preassigned-control-number/about-this-program/Paid Book promotion companies- Fussy Librarian- Hello Books- EreaderIQ- FreebooksyVoice over actor for audiobooks- https://www.voices.com/Audiobook published through: Findaway Voices - https://my.findawayvoices.comAlexandra's website - https://arogersbooks.com/Your Journey to Successful Parenting - https://www.amazon.com/YOUR-JOURNEY-SUCCESSFUL-PARENTING-STRESS-FREE/dp/B0DZQRH5N1Alexandra also mentioned "How to Get Paid for What You Know" by Graham Cochrane ***Join Better Writers - https://fabiocerpelloni.com/private
Every photographer dreams of publishing a book of their photographs. But what exactly does that entail? In today's show, we're going to peek behind the scenes of this complex and daunting process in a chat with two complementary figures who've spent their respective careers helping to redefine what a photo book can be. Starting with three basic questions—Why a book? Why now? And what is the role of a book in your career at this time?—our discussion expands to cover a broad range of concerns. From distinguishing between the many different publishing models available today, to insights on sponsorship and publishing contracts, to tips about marketing and getting people onboard with your project, you'll come away with inventive strategies for publishing your work in book form. We've envisioned this show as an impromptu master class, so get ready to take some notes! Guests: Mary Virginia Swanson & Rick Smolan Episode Timeline: 4:45: Mary Virginia Swanson's basic advice to photographers interested in publishing their photographs in book form, plus the different publishing models available today. 10:22: Rick's start as a freelance photographer and the story behind his shift in roles to launch the Day in the Life book series. 15:04: The importance of sponsorship or in-kind donations, plus innovative strategies for negotiating such deals. 23:04: The two different categories of photo books: greatest hits with the photographer as subject and a book that has a separate subject and overarching story. 27:55: Tips for going on press, advice about publishing contracts, and suggestions for buying back a book before it gets remaindered. 34:54: The issue of vanity presses, and the matter of requiring a subvention from authors to help cover the publisher's costs. 43:03: Publicity and marketing: You are the best salesperson for your book. Tips for getting your book seen and heard about, from magazines to podcasts. 49:08: Episode Break 50:02: Should you create a full mock-up version of a book or just show a publisher a selection of photos? 59:22: Benefits to working with a literary agent when seeking to publish a photo book. 1:01:44: Slicing up the pie by hiring freelaners or finding a partner to share in the work. 1:07:38: The importance of publishing deadlines and many important markers tied to a calendar, plus the cover photo and book blurbs. 1:14:22: Swanson and Smolan on their picks for memorable photo books. 1:25:19: Parting advice about getting other people excited about your project. Guest Bios: Mary Virginia Swanson has spent her career helping artists find the strengths in their work, identify receptive audiences, and present their personal vision in an informed, professional manner. Her broad background as a photo educator, author, entrepreneur and advisor spans areas of exhibiting, collecting, licensing, and marketing photographs. A few career highlights include working with Ansel Adams to manage education offerings at the Friends of Photography in California, heading Special Projects for Magnum Photos in New York, and founding and directing Swanstock as a unique licensing agency for fine art photographers. Swanson is the recipient of many awards, including the Society for Photographic Education's Honored Educator Award and the FOCUS Award for Lifetime Achievement in Photography from the Griffin Museum in Boston to name just two. In 2011, Swanson co-authored Publish Your Photography Book with Darius Himes, which is now in its third edition. Currently, Swanson works independently from her home base in Tucson, offering classes, workshops and consulting services to artists and arts organizations, serving as an advisor for multiple nonprofits, and giving back through other community-minded activities. Rick Smolan is both a photographer and an entrepreneur. A former contributor to Time, Life, and National Geographic, he is perhaps best known as creator of the Day in the Life book series, plus subsequent book projects of massive scope. As CEO of the multi-modal company Against All Odds Productions, Smolan designs and executes crowd-sourced, global projects that combine compelling storytelling with state-of-the-art technology. These projects capture the human face of emerging topics while engaging a wide range of media platforms to result in books, TV specials, social media apps, exhibitions, and hundreds of millions of media impressions. One such project, based on Smolan's 1977 National Geographic cover story about Robyn Davidson's solo travels across the outback has enjoyed continued life in multiple books, plus the feature film Tracks, with Adam Driver cast in the role of Smolan. Other recent projects include The Human Face of Big Data, which looks at how all our devices are creating a planetary nervous system, and The Good Fight: America's Ongoing Struggle for Justice, which became one of Amazon's top 100 books within a week of its release. Stay Connected: Mary Virginia Swanson Website Instagram Rick Smolan Instagram Facebook YouTube Against All Odds Website Host: Derek Fahsbender Senior Creative Producer: Jill Waterman Senior Technical Producer: Mike Weinstein Executive Producer: Richard Stevens
In this episode of the Road to Growth podcast, we are pleased to introduce you to G. Michael Hopf. Michael is a USA Today bestselling author and a leading voice in the post-apocalyptic fiction genre. With over 40 novels to his name and more than one million copies sold worldwide, Michael has captivated readers with his gripping tales of survival, loyalty, and human resilience in the face of collapse. His books have been translated into multiple languages and have consistently topped bestseller charts across North America and beyond. A former U.S. Marine with three deployments and six years of service, Michael draws heavily on his military background to bring authenticity and intensity to his stories. He served in various combat roles, including as an anti-tank missileman and heavy machine gunner, and later worked in executive protection before transitioning to full-time writing. Michael is best known for The New World Series, beginning with the breakout hit The End. The series, spanning multiple volumes, follows the harrowing aftermath of an EMP attack that plunges the United States into chaos. Praised for its realism, moral complexity, and fast-paced action, the series has become a cornerstone in modern survivalist fiction. Beyond his work as an author, Michael is also a respected publisher and entrepreneur. He is the founder and managing partner of both Beyond The Fray Publishing and Free Reign Publishing— two companies that specialize in nonfiction titles in the realms of the paranormal, true crime, cryptids, UFOs, and ancient mysteries. Under his leadership, these companies have published hundreds of titles from new and established authors alike, becoming go-to imprints for readers drawn to the unexplained and unconventional. In addition to writing and publishing, Michael offers coaching and consulting services to authors seeking guidance in the craft of storytelling, book marketing, and self-publishing. His experience as both a creator and a business owner gives him a unique perspective that he generously shares with others through podcast appearances and one-on-one mentoring. G. Michael Hopf lives with his family in San Diego, California. Learn more and connect with G. Michael Hopf. by visiting him on Website: https://www.gmichaelhopf.com/ X: https://x.com/GMichaelHopf1 Be sure to follow us on Twitter: Twitter.com/to_growth on Facebook: facebook.com/Road2Growth Subscribe to our podcast across the web: https://www.theenriquezgroup.com/blog Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2Cdmacc iTunes: https://apple.co/2F4zAcn Castbox: http://bit.ly/2F4NfQq Google Play: http://bit.ly/2TxUYQ2 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKnzMRkl-PurAb32mCLCMeA?view_as=subscriber If you are looking to be a Guest on Podcasts please click below https://kitcaster.com/rtg/ For any San Diego Real Estate Questions Please Follow Us at web: www.TheEnriquezGroup.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKnzMRkl-PurAb32mCLCMeA or Call : 858 -345 - 7829 Recently reduced properties in San Diego County * Click **** bit.ly/3cbT65C **** Here* ************************************************************ Sponsor = www.MelodyClouds.com
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, John Harcar interviews Pharice Brown about her journey in publishing and the importance of having a book for business growth. Faris shares insights on the publishing process, the challenges faced in the industry, and offers advice for aspiring authors. She emphasizes the need for authors to take an active role in marketing their books and the value of being part of a supportive community. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
Authors often ask us for our advice about publishing models and whether traditional is better, or worse, than indie/self publishing. So this week, we're bringing you an interview with writer and podcaster, Matty Dalrymple. Matty also happens to be the Campaigns Manager for ALLi (the Alliance of Independent Authors) and she takes us through what she calls the ABCs of the traditional and indie publishing paths. This interview isn't meant to sway you in one director or another. Rather, we want to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each path, and of course, we want let you know that whichever one you choose, ALLi is an invaluable source of information - much of which is free! - V. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor
Joel Pitney, founder of Launch My Book, joins Alexa to bust common self-publishing myths, from bookstore dreams to Amazon hacks. They dive deep into what it really takes to succeed in publishing—plus, how his company helps authors publish professionally without giving up creative control. This episode is a must-listen for authors navigating the complexities of publishing and looking to make informed decisions about their books.
Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!What started as sharing her story online about living with chronic illness turned into a book deal with Penguin Random House. In this episode, Gigi Robinson shares how she leveraged consistency, relationships, and a clear vision to go from content creator to published author.Here's what we get into:Why she chose to write A Kid's Book About Chronic Illness (and how it ended up getting picked up by Penguin/DK).The ridiculously simple promo strategy Gigi swears by: bring the book everywhere and make it part of the conversation.Why she went the children's book route to make a heavy topic more digestible.Her take on promotion as storytelling, not selling.How she filters advice from all the "experts” while staying aligned with her bigger vision.
In this Self-Publishing Advice Conference highlight, virtual assistant Kayleigh Brindley draws on over 10 years of experience to help authors decide when it's time to hire support. The session covers how outsourcing tasks like marketing and admin can ease the workload, improve productivity, and free up time to focus on writing. It includes case studies and practical advice on finding and working with the right virtual assistant. This is a post from SelfPubCon (The Self-Publishing Advice Conference), an online author event run free twice yearly in association with the Alliance of Independent Authors. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. You can do that at http://allianceindependentauthors.org.
A major shift in the book world is brewing as Everand acquires Fable, signaling a new direction for online book clubs and author-reader engagement. Meanwhile, Amazon has quietly cut more jobs—this time in the books division—raising questions about the future of publishing operations. But it's not all doom and gloom. Authors can tap into a fresh wave of events like the Book Launchers summit, the ALLi podcast, and the upcoming Author Nation conference to stay ahead of the curve. If you're serious about writing, marketing, or selling books, this week's news matters. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord Check out my main YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DaleLRoberts My Books - https://DaleLinks.com/MyBooks Wanna tip me? Visit https://dalelroberts.gumroad.com/coffee. New sources: Everand Acquires Online Book Club Platform Fable - https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/digital/content-and-e-books/article/97975-everand-acquires-online-book-club-platform-fable.html Amazon cuts more jobs, this time in books division - https://www.reuters.com/business/world-at-work/amazon-cuts-more-jobs-this-time-books-division-2025-06-06/ Dibbly Create presents: Guided Book Flow - https://dalelinks.com/guidedbookflow (affiliate link) StoryOrigin: Nonfiction Books: A Guide to Book Launches and Marketing - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/9mjlZ4g0QaOUJNHg1OwXxQ#/registration Book Launchers presents: The Future of Book Marketing Summit - https://DaleLinks.com/AuthorLaunckKit (affiliate link) Authortube Writing Conference - https://www.authortubewritingconference.com/ Author Nation - https://DaleLinks.com/AuthorNation (affiliate link) The Truth About Book Promotions (and Why Authors Get It Wrong): Self-Publishing with ALLi Featuring Dale L. Roberts - https://selfpublishingadvice.org/podcast-book-promotions/ Written Word Media Speaker Series with Dale L. Roberts - https://www.youtube.com/live/bj8wjbSXgJE?si=hJMTc_RXJrJ3YEpx Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts
In this episode of the Self-Publishing with ALLi Member Q&A podcast, host Michael La Ronn discusses whether it's worth an author's time to pursue turning a book into a film or TV series—and why it might be more effective to let the industry come to you. Other questions include: Is it okay to use a book title that's already been used by another author? Should I go wide or enroll in Kindle Unlimited if I only release one book a year? What impact might Donald Trump's proposed tariffs have on UK authors selling eBooks in the US? Should I make manuscript changes while waiting for the cover design? How do I find a print-on-demand service in Italy that works with my author website? What are the legal risks of including memes and screenshots in a published book? And More! Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-Publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. Sponsor The Member Q&A podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. About the Hosts Michael La Ronn is ALLi's Outreach Manager. He is the author of over 80 science fiction & fantasy books and self-help books for writers. He writes from the great plains of Iowa and has managed to write while raising a family, working a full-time job, and even attending law school classes in the evenings (now graduated!). You can find his fiction at www.michaellaronn.com and his videos and books for writers at www.authorlevelup.com. Sacha Black is a bestselling and competition winning author, rebel podcaster, speaker and casual rule breaker. She writes fiction under a secret pen name and other books about the art of writing. When Sacha isn't writing, she runs ALLi's blog. She lives in England, with her wife and genius, giant of a son. You can find her on her website, her podcast, and on Instagram.
On this episode of the Self-Publishing News Podcast, Dan Holloway reports a return to double-digit audiobook growth in the U.S., with revenue up 13 percent and over half of Americans now having listened to an audiobook. He also breaks down new data showing a shift in reader tastes toward darker genres—especially psychological thrillers and dark romance—and reflects on how traditional publishers are just now catching on to the power of direct sales and loyal fan bases, something indie authors have long embraced. Sponsors Self-Publishing News is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. Self-Publishing News is also sponsored by book cover design company Miblart. They offer unlimited revisions, take no deposit to start work and you pay only when you love the final result. Get a book cover that will become your number-one marketing tool. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of nearly 2,000 blog posts and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. And, if you haven't already, we invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. About the Host Dan Holloway is a novelist, poet, and spoken word artist. He is the MC of the performance arts show The New Libertines, He competed at the National Poetry Slam final at the Royal Albert Hall. His latest collection, The Transparency of Sutures, is available on Kindle.
Send us a textWhat does it really take to write and sell a book?
In this episode, Matt & Lauren review how to publish your book in 7 steps! Check out these resources to help you with each one:
Amazon just made a major update that could reshape how your books perform on the platform. In this news segment, we break down what's happening, how it could affect rankings, and what indie authors should keep in mind moving forward. Plus, important updates from Kobo, MailerLite, AppSumo, and more. YouTube for Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/YouTubeBook Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord Check out my main YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DaleLRoberts My Books - https://DaleLinks.com/MyBooks Wanna tip me? Visit https://dalelroberts.gumroad.com/coffee. Sources: The Amazon Algorithm Change You NEED to Know About - https://youtu.be/vfiArlO2UkQ?si=gPFLjwCs8W7pdr6y KDP: Sales Ranking - https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/G201648140 Kobo and AI: Making Reading and Publishing Even Better, Together - https://kobowritinglife.com/2025/05/29/kobo-and-ai/ Amazon Ads: AI-powered Video generator - https://advertising.amazon.com/resources/whats-new/create-high-quality-ai-generated-videos-in-minutes The Bottom Line by Jane Friedman: 8th Note Press closing? - https://janefriedman.com/the-bottom-line-janes-publishing-industry-newsletter/ (subscription required) THE AUDIO PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL SURVEY SHOWS AUDIOBOOK SALES GROW TO 2.22 BILLION DOLLARS - https://www.audiopub.org/surveys NYT: The Times and Amazon Announce an A.I. Licensing Deal - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/29/business/media/new-york-times-amazon-ai-licensing.html Get Authentic Book Reviews - https://getauthenticbookreviews.com You may have received a fake email impersonating MailerLite - https://www.mailerlite.com/help/phishing-in-email-marketing Publisher Rocket Lifetime Deal (...still available???) - https://DaleLinks.com/RocketDeal (affiliate link) AppSumo presents Sumo Day - https://DaleLinks.com/AppSumo (affiliate link) AppSumo LTD: DepositPhotos - https://dalelinks.com/depositphotos (affiliate link) AppSumo LTD: Video to Blog - https://dalelinks.com/videotoblog (affiliate link) AppSumo LTD: PressRanger - https://dalelinks.com/pressranger (affiliate link) StoryOrigin: Amazon Ads Made Simple - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/CGTlyE84Txyf16VGfT8hmA#/registration Written Word Media: The Youtube Author Blueprint - https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/speaker-series/ Book Launchers: The Future of Non-Fiction Book Marketing - https://dalelinks.com/authorlaunchkit (affiliate link) Author Nation - https://DaleLinks.com/AuthorNation (affiliate link) YouTube for Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/YouTubeBook Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1713: Brandon Clements outlines a clear, encouraging path for aspiring authors to self-publish successfully. He emphasizes audience-building, professional quality, and smart marketing to ensure that writers not only finish their books but also connect meaningfully with readers. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://goinswriter.com/self-publishing/ Quotes to ponder: "Self-publishing is a misnomer. You might do a lot of things yourself, but you won't do everything." "Before you even think about publishing a book, you should start building an audience." "Publishing your book is only the beginning. Marketing and selling it is a whole other journey." Episode references: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What does it take to go from U.S. Marine to bestselling author? In this episode, we sit down with G. Michael Hopf—acclaimed writer of dystopian thrillers, military fiction, and Westerns—to discuss his incredible journey from self-published breakout success to a major publishing deal, and how he's now helping other authors do the same.With over 40 books to his name, Hopf's stories dive deep into the human spirit under pressure, shaped by his own experiences in the military and entrepreneurial world. But his success didn't come overnight—it took grit, discipline, and a willingness to bet on himself.We'll explore:
Imagine this: one single book that acts like a 24/7 lead magnet, builds trust with your audience before they even meet you, and quietly funnels dream clients and customers into your world… all while you're off living your life. Yep, that's the magic of what we're talking about today: how a book isn't just a passion project, it can be your smartest business asset. Learn How To Launch Your Book to Bestseller Status in 3 Easy Steps at http://www.selfpublishing.com/jenna! Chandler Bolt is the CEO of SelfPublishing.com, a 7x best-selling author, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and a straight-up wizard when it comes to helping people write and launch books that actually make an impact AND an income. If you're brand new to the idea of writing a book and want to start from square one, be sure to check out our past episodes together: Episode 645 and Episode 759! Today, we're diving into the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make with book funnels, how to use your book to grow your email list (without spending all day on Instagram), and why publishing could be the most leveraged move you make this year! So if you've got a message to share and a business to grow, grab your favorite pen (because yes, this one's a note-taker), and get ready to map out your book funnel blueprint. And if this conversation gets your wheels turning (trust me, it will): be sure to sign up for Chandler's free class at http://www.selfpublishing.com/jenna! Goal Digger Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/goaldiggerpodcast/ Goal Digger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goaldiggerpodcast/ Goal Digger Show Notes: https://www.jennakutcherblog.com/selfpublish3 Thanks to our Goal Digger Sponsors: Get $25 off your first purchase at http://therealreal.com/goaldigger. Sign up for your $1/month Shopify trial period at http://shopify.com/goaldigger. Find a co-host today at http://airbnb.com/host. Move deals faster with an AI powered CRM your team will actually use. Visit https://monday.com/crm to learn more. Deposit or spend $5,000 in 90 days to earn up to $500 in rewards at mercury.com/goal. Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column, N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC. The IO Card is issued by Patriot Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard. Working capital loans provided by Mercury Lending, LLC NMLS ID: 2606284.
Notes from James:Let's be honest: most people who write a book never make money from it. Why? Because they stop at the last page. I want you to go further. In this episode, I show you how I turned my books into speaking gigs, consulting work, investment deals, and more. You don't need a big publisher or a massive budget—just the right strategy.Episode Descriptions:In Part 4 of my 30-day writing series, I tackle one of the biggest questions aspiring authors face: Should you self-publish or go the traditional route? I've done both—some of my books were published by big-name houses, others I put out myself. This episode breaks down the pros, cons, and misconceptions of each approach—and how to make the smartest decision for your goals.You'll also learn exactly what to do after the writing is done. I cover how to market your book, build buzz, land media, grow your audience, and ultimately make your book work for you—financially, professionally, and personally.Whether you're writing your first book or your fifth, this episode lays out the modern publishing roadmap and how to turn your words into real-world results.What You'll Learn:The truth about traditional publishing—what it offers and what it takes awayWhy self-publishing can earn you more money and give you more controlWhat agents, publishers, and bookstore placement actually mean todayHow bestseller lists really work (and why most are just marketing tools)Exactly how to market your book after it's published: newsletters, podcasts, and moreHow to build momentum before your book even comes outTimestamps00:00 Traditional vs. Self-Publishing: The Debate Begins00:41 The Evolution of Self-Publishing01:10 Benefits of Traditional Publishing03:17 Challenges with Traditional Publishing06:58 The Power of Self-Publishing15:09 Steps to Professionally Self-Publish16:34 The Importance of Audiobooks21:15 Marketing Your Book: An Overview21:53 Building and Utilizing an Email List24:48 Leveraging Online Platforms for Book Promotion27:08 The Power of Podcasts and Public Speaking32:31 Maximizing Social Media for Book Sales38:47 Final Thoughts on Book MarketingP.S. Want to go deeper? Check out my full course on Udemy or visit chooseyourselfacademy.com: How to Write and Publish a Book in 30 Days – available now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.