Podcasts about self publish

Send a textIn this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I'm joined by Michele DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design and a publishing industry veteran with more than 50 years of experience. We dive into the realities of book publishing—what most people get wrong, what actually matters, and how a well-done book can completely transform your business.From traditional publishing to self-publishing and hybrid models, Michele breaks down the landscape with clarity and candor, helping authors avoid costly mistakes and disappointing outcomes Why Most Self-Published Books Miss the MarkWhy skipping market research is one of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes authors makeHow treating a book like a passion project instead of a business asset leads to poor resultsThe danger of cutting corners on editing, design, and production quality Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing vs. Hybrid ModelsWhy landing a traditional publishing deal is harder than ever (and what publishers really want now)How Amazon changed publishing forever—and where things went sidewaysThe hidden downside of hybrid publishers that charge upfront and take royaltiesWhat “true” self-publishing was originally meant to be What It Actually Costs to Publish a Professional BookThe difference between real editing and running a manuscript through GrammarlyWhy nonfiction books cost more to produce than fictionWhat goes into professional cover design (and why it's never a “5-minute job”)Realistic investment ranges for publishing to traditional industry standards One-Stop Shop vs. Piecing It Together YourselfWhy project management matters just as much as creative talentThe risks of hiring freelancers without knowing what to look forCommon problems authors face after using bargain services or template-based designsHow working with an experienced team protects both your book and your sanity How a Small Book Can Create Big Business ResultsHow Michele's 88-page guide became a powerful lead generator—unexpectedlyWhy books make exceptional lead magnets in an overwhelmed digital worldHow publishing can lead to speaking opportunities, authority positioning, and new revenue streamsWhy a book doesn't need to be long to be impactful A Marketing Lesson That Still Holds TrueMichele closes the episode with a timeless reminder that applies to publishing, marketing, and business as a whole:Listen to your customers. Even when the feedback is uncomfortable—especially then.It's a lesson that has guided her work for decades and continues to pay dividends today If you've been sitting on a book idea, a half-finished manuscript, or the sense that a book could open doors for you—this episode will help you think about publishing strategically, not emotionally.

D2D's CEO Kris Austin joins the D2D team to reflect on our 2025 and another year in publishing, and to look ahead to what is on the horizon in 2026. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

It's official! Draft2Digital and Bookshop.org have announced our partnership to bring indie ebooks to Bookshop.org! Join us as we talk to Bookshop.org. CEO Andy Hunter and D2D CEO Kris Austin about this exciting new partnership. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

In this episode, I break down my exact journey to my first $1,000 in book sales - from publishing to pricing, audience building, and grassroots promotion that still works today.I share the story behind my first book release while I was still a middle school teacher, the mistakes I made, and the strategies I used to sell books long before AI, before social media selling was common, and before I knew what online business really looked like.In this episode, I cover:→ How pricing your book too cheaply can hurt your revenue→ Why pre‑sales and audience momentum matter→ Grassroots, organic strategies that worked→ How a launch party became a sales strategy→ Why promotion continues after warm market exhaustion→ How selling books leads to expanded offers, talks, and digital products→ The mindset shift from creation to intentional monetization→ Why your authentic voice will outlast AI duplication (for now)Whether you're a coach, author, consultant, or business owner, this episode shows you that books are business tools - not just accomplishments.Takeaways:- Price your book based on value, not comparison- Pre‑sell and build momentum before launch- Consistent promotion builds long‑term sales- Warm markets are good - but new audiences grow revenue- Your story plus strategy = influence + profit- Monetization requires intention and consistency- Authentic voice connects deeper than AI aloneSound Bites:“Books don't sell by themselves - you do.”“Your warm market only takes you so far.”“Price it for profit, not permission.”“Promotion begins before launch and continues after.”“Your book should open doors - not just sit on shelves.”Links: Join the Monetize Your Book Challenge: A 5-Day (virtual) sales accelerator workshop for experts using your future or current thought leadership book to grow your coaching, speaking or consulting business! - https://www.jasminewomack.com/monetizeBOOK: Purchase a copy of Published and Paid®: Write, Self Publish, and Launch Your Nonfiction Book in 90 Days or Less - https://a.co/d/95ckzMx COMMUNITY: Published and Paid®: The Community - Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/publishedandpaidfree Socials:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thejasminewomack IG: instagram.com/thejasminewomack FB: facebook.com/authorjasminewomack Youtube: youtube.com/thejasminewomack

Orna Ross is co-founder and director of the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) and a passionate advocate for self-publishing and author empowerment. Her motto is: “When in doubt, be braver.” Orna joins us to discuss the results of the ALLi Indie Author Income Survey and what we can learn about our industry.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Self-publishing isn't a shortcut nor a consolation prize. It's a publishing model that works well for some writers and not at all for others.Today, I'm joined by Libby Waterford, a prolific romance author and self-publishing educator with more than twenty books published across pen names.We break down what self-publishing actually involves: the costs writers don't always anticipate, the level of control and responsibility it requires, and how marketing, timelines, and long-term goals factor into whether it's a good fit for you.This episode is about education and understanding your options, asking questions, and making intentional decisions about your writing career based on your long-term goalsTimestamps01:43 Meet Libby Waterford05:28 Why Libby chose self-publishing after being with a traditional publisher08:47 Pros and cons of self-publishing16:38 The advantages of being your own publisher23:09 Budgeting and essential costs27:09 Marketing, ROI, and sustainability38:53 Advice for new authors41:07 What Libby's working on next and education resourcesGuest Bio:Libby Waterford is the author of Sawyer's Cove, the Reboot, and The Never A Bride Contemporary Romance Series, and under her other pen name, Elle Waters, writes steamy Small Town Gay Romance. A former president of the Connecticut Chapter of Romance Writers of America, Libby is also a self-publishing coach and instructor at the Westport Writers Workshop in Westport, Connecticut, where she teaches classes on genre fiction and self-publishing.Linkshttps://libbywaterford.com/, https://www.instagram.com/libbywritesromance/, https://ellewatersbooks.substack.com/https://westportwriters.org/ Have a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy: Email: Stacy@writeitscared.co https://www.writeitscared.co/wis https://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/ Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

Self-publishing expert Rodney Miles reveals proven strategies for entrepreneurs ready to publish their first book without traditional gatekeepers. After helping create 300+ books over 14 years, Rodney shares insider knowledge on Amazon KDP, realistic publishing costs, and critical launch mistakes that kill book success before it starts. Busy entrepreneurs can complete professional business books in weeks instead of years using strategic interview methods and content repurposing. Rodney breaks down the complete self-publishing process: choosing between ghostwriters and collaboration models, navigating ISBN requirements, copyright registration, and Library of Congress cataloging. You'll understand why your email list matters more than social media followers, how to generate authentic Amazon reviews without violating terms of service, and the psychology behind book covers that convert browsers into buyers. This episode covers essential publishing infrastructure including Kindle Direct Publishing, IngramSpark for wide distribution, and audiobook production economics. Perfect for entrepreneurs, coaches, and consultants who recognize that business books open doors to speaking engagements, premium client acquisition, and industry authority. Rodney addresses beta reader strategies, advance review coordination, forward selection for credibility, and modern book launch strategies that work in the digital age.

Lee Wind joins us to talk about the IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association) Boot Camp for Author Publishers, and how to bring all the pieces together when publishing to find your success.Lee Wind is the Chief Content Officer for the IBPA. He is also an author, who writes the books that would have changed his life as a young Gay Jewish kid. Lee was recently awarded BISG's Industry Champion Award for co-founding We Are Stronger Than Censorship, a program that buys and donates two books to offset every one book challenge.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Welcome to 2026! Each new year brings the opportunity to begin anew, yet that can be daunting. Rather than start the new writing year feeling overwhelmed out of the gate, Mark Leslie Lefebvre provides encouragement on how to set realistic goals to keep you and your book publishing aspirations on track in 2026.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Autumn A. Arnett joins us to talk about the EFA and what you should keep in mind when looking for the right editor for your book.The Editorial Freelancers Association is a nonprofit organization that advances excellence among a dynamic community of freelance editorial professionals by providing opportunities for business development, learning, and networking. EFA members are editors, writers, indexers, proofreaders, researchers, desktop publishers, translators, and others who offer a broad range of skills and specialties.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Thomas Dean Donnelly has been a professional screenwriter for over 30 years. In that time he has written on major projects, from Voltron to Uncharted, and from Marvel's Doctor Strange to The Walking Dead. During the Hollywood writers strike he wrote his first novel: YEAR OF THE RABBIT and just release its sequel YEAR OF THE HORSE, both spy thrillers. T.D. Donnelly joins us to share practices he has used in his writing to build memorable characters and stories for the screen.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

This special Christmas Day 2025 episode is a pre-recorded one with Mark Leslie Lefebvre who introduces a series of clips that highlight just 14 of the amazing episodes that have been brought to you every week in this past year.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

The way readers search for their next book is changing dramatically. With Google's generative search and Amazon's upcoming AI-driven recommendation engine, authors face a completely new landscape for book discovery. But how exactly will these changes affect your books' visibility? Reedsy's Ricardo Fayet joins us to share practical steps to make sure your books remain discoverable and compelling to readers in this rapidly shifting landscape.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Today is a special episode featuring Christine Cloninger, who is the founder of Becoming Whole in Christ Ministries. Christine is dedicated to serving the Lord, which she does through counseling, ministry, leading Bible study, and speaking. Through the ministry, she has been able to create resources and partner with others in the faith dedicated to guiding others into the wholeness and healing that only God provides. Her desire is that God receive the glory for any changes made in a person's life as a result of her efforts.Links:http://Bwicministries.comThe 1 Minute Writing Tip podcast is a weekly show featuring tips on how to conquer writer's block, self-doubt, time, and other challenges in order to get clarity on your content, write and publish your bestseller, and use it as a tool for impact, authority, and purpose.#writeyourstorty #writersblockbegone #makeanimpactLearn more at: https://www.wewritebooks.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wewritebooksThe Writer's Club: ...

Cameron Sutter is a sci-fi/fantasy author and the inventor of Plottr – the popular visual story planning software. As a friend of the show, he joins us again to talk about new Plottr features, their Virtual Beta Readers, and the charity work they are supporting with their Plot for Good campaign. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

In episode #121 we bind you into a conversation about chapbooks—what they are, why they matter, and how we can bring them into the world together through self-publishing and small-press routes. We read from our own self-published haibun crown, Did You See the Moon Honey, and share what we learned about shaping a manuscript, editing, design, printing, and finding readers. If you've ever dreamed of holding your own chapbook in your hands, this episode is a friendly, practical guide to help you take the next step.At the Table:Katie DozierTimothy Green

Becca Syme, founder of the Better-Faster Academy and Host of The Quitcast, joins us to talk about what habits and practices we need to focus on in this brand new day of publishing, and which don't serve us anymore. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Bekah Brinkmeier is a USA Today bestselling author and ghostwriter of more than 90 novels. She works with AutoCrit as an instructor and author coach, leading Team Plantser in the Novel 90 Writing Challenge. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

CLASS SLIDES HEREYou're on the audio version. Wanna watch it instead? It's streaming — with nearly 100 more Free classes, join here The Rebel AcademyIn this free class, I'm spilling everything I've learned from self-publishing three bestselling books on Amazon — both .com and .ae.I'll walk you through the full process: how to build your manuscript, how to design a book cover that looks straight out of the New York Times list, and exactly how to use Amazon KDP to get your book out into the world.I'm sharing all the hidden tricks, tools, and behind-the-scenes secrets most authors miss — so you don't have to.By the end of this class, you'll know exactly how to hit publish on your own book with confidence (and maybe even see that “bestseller” tag next to your name).⚡️JOIN MY FREE REBEL ACADEMY 80+ FREE COURSES https://www.alexhouseofsocial.com/freerebelacademy

Hannah Jacobson is the founder of Book Award Pro, the industry-trusted platform for getting reviews and awards. The company operates the world's largest database of legitimate book accolades, serving thousands of authors globally. Hannah is the recognized authority on literary accolades and prestigious book recognition. She joins us to talk about book awards and how authors can benefit from them.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Books written or translated into Hmong are relatively rare. It's estimated there are no more than 1,000 different book titles in Hmong. A new initiative called the Untamed Roots Collective is trying to change that in an effort to sustain and revitalize the language.This weekend, Untamed Roots Collective is launching self-published books in Hmong from more than a dozen authors. Kha Yang Xiong is an author and leader of the project. She joined MPR News host Nina Moini to share more.

Are you ready to self-publish your nonfiction book?Are you 100% certain?Maybe the deadline is looming and you're scurrying around, trying to do all the last-minute things. But have you taken the time to honestly evaluate the big-picture things that can make or break your book's success?Anyone can learn how to write a book. You need to create one that stands out.And the majority of authors (both traditional and self-published) sell fewer than 100 copies. Ever. Not just on launch day, but cumulatively across the months and years after launch.Don't be that author.Be the Christian writer God's called you to be - one willing to do the necessary work and glorify Him in the process.So on today's episode, I'm going to share 6 critical questions you need to ask yourself before you self-publish your nonfiction book. RESOURCES:Ep. 85 -  The 2 Worst Times to Publish a Book as an Indie Author YouTube video - The Best Times to Publish a Book Christian Authors in Action membershipCONNECT WITH DALENE:Contact - > info@inkandimpact.comPodcast -＞www.inkandimpact.comConnect -＞ Join the free Facebook group Publish Like a ProFB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickelNEXT STEPS:Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro.Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching What additional topics would you like to learn about?Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!

Nicole Bross is a certified book coach, editor, and the author of A Novel Approach: Strategies for ADHD Writers, a writing guide for neurodiverse authors whose ADHD is getting in the way of finishing their books. As a neurodiverse writer herself, Nicole is excited to share the strategies and tools she's developed with others. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

How do you market your book if you don't like social media or public speaking? What makes a nonfiction book stand out when there are already thousands on the same topic?How do you get real, unbiased book reviews? I invited Sarah Bean, an experienced book marketing specialist from the US, to have a chat about tips and strategies to market a nonfiction book. Enjoy the conversation!Links, books, and stuff we mentioned:Book Launchers: https://booklaunchers.com/Author Launch Kit software: https://authorlaunchkit.com/"Your Music and People" by Derek Sivers"On Writing" by Stephen King"Self-Publish & Succeed" by Julie BroadBook review services Sarah recommended: Get Books Reviewed: www.booklaunchers.com/gbrGet Authentic Book Reviews: https://getauthenticbookreviews.com/Gemsy: https://gemsy.io/Join Better Writers: https://fabiocerpelloni.com/privateTime stamps00:26 - Intro & guest: Sarah Bean (Book Launchers)03:25 - What a book marketing specialist does04:30 - Success vs failure: prep wins (+ Amani Roberts case)06:49 - Prep essentials: UVP, target reader, positioning08:02 - Foundations: website + ongoing content08:50 - If you're shy/off social11:29 - Unconventional tactics tied to passions14:12 - Start with goals18:22 - “I'm a writer, not a marketer”: audit your assets & network (Ellen story)22:53 - Tool: Author Launch Kit (AI plan, assets, media list)24:24 - Differentiate beyond personal story28:42 - “Outcome of the outcome”32:19 - Reviews = lifeblood; Amazon dynamics37:24 - Getting reviews41:27 - Self-Publish & Succeed43:52 - Practical AI uses46:35 - Audiobooks48:42 - Format strategy: offer print + ebook + audio50:28 - Why a unified team beats piecemeal freelancers51:49 - Book recommendations

Send us a text! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.If you've ever wondered whether self-publishing is “worth it,” or felt overwhelmed by all the moving parts—editing, design, distribution, marketing—this episode is for you. I'm joined by Leanne Janzen of FriesenPress, the author-services arm of Friesens Corporation, a century-old Canadian printer trusted by traditional publishers and indie authors alike. Leanne has worn multiple hats—from publishing specialist to leading a sales team—and she's passionate about demystifying today's publishing landscape so writers can make informed, confident choices.We start by clearing up an old term—“vanity publishing.” In 2025, it's out of date. Leanne breaks the indie space into two practical paths: DIY self-publishing and service-provider self-publishing. With DIY, you're the project manager: you learn what you can, hire freelancers (editor, formatter, cover designer), and quarterback the whole timeline. It can be empowering—but also time-intensive and overwhelming, especially for first-timers. With a reputable service provider, you still retain creative control (yes, you can reject a cover or choose your price!), but you also get a dedicated project manager, pre-vetted editors and designers, and quality checks at each stage so you don't miss critical steps.We dig into costs and transparency. Expect a range: a basic path without editing at FriesenPress sits around $2,200, while a premium, all-in “masterpiece” path (specialty cover, three rounds of editing, promo coaching, social planning, promos) can reach $15,000. Industry-wide, a commonly cited average to produce a quality book is $5–6K—and if you're spending in that zone with a service provider, Leanne says at least one round of editing should be included. 

Award-winning Detroit Author & Founder of Motown Writers, Sylvia Hubbard has independently published over 65 romance suspense books over 25 years. Sylvia joins us to talk about the opportunities authors could be missing out on if they aren't making the most of library distribution. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Watch as a full video episode on YouTube!Self-publishing has become a serious and viable route for many authors who can't or don't want to find a traditional publisher. But can it work for everyone? We discuss why some genres are more suited than others, and also talk about all the extra work that is needed to make a real success of self-publishing.Drafting Notes is a series in which one award-winning writer (Tariq) and one hopefully soon-to-be-published writer (Marco) discuss various writing issues as they occur to them!Drafting Notes episodes are available early if you join our Patreon - check it out and get this and other great benefits!Drafting Notes and Page One - The Writer's Podcast are brought to you by Write Gear, creators of Page One - the Writer's Notebook. Learn more and order yours now: https://www.writegear.co.uk/page-oneFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on BlueskyFollow us on ThreadsDrafting Notes is part of STET Podcasts - the one stop shop for all your writing and publishing podcast needs! Follow STET Podcasts on Instagram and Bluesky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Self-publishing gives authors incredible freedom—but it's not the right fit for everyone.In this episode of Your Path to Book Publishing, we'll look at a real-world example of an author who seemed ready to self-publish—until it became clear that wasn't the best path for their goals.You'll learn:When self-publishing might hurt your author brand instead of helping it What to consider before investing time and money into publishing on your own How hybrid or traditional publishing could better align with your long-term goals The key questions to ask before choosing your publishing pathThe truth is, publishing a book is more than a creative project—it's a business decision.And sometimes, the smartest move is to pause, reassess, and choose the path that gives you both credibility and longevity.

Banned Books Week spotlights stories that some try to erase—but indie publishing ensures your voice is never silenced. In this episode we'll explore how the freedom to publish empowers marginalized voices to bypass gatekeepers and reach readers worldwide. Lee Wind is the Chief Content Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and an author of frequently challenged books. He has been part of leading the charge in this conversation leading http://wearestrongerthancensorship.org/ Discover what it means when the power to publish rests in the hands of the author, and the decision of what to read rests with the reader.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Phil Marshall is a technologist, entrepreneur, and storyteller who thrives at the intersection of imagination and execution. He is the founder and CEO of Spoken, a platform that empowers authors to create immersive single, dual, and multi-voice audiobooks. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Lauren Lacey is a Southern storyteller who crafts heartfelt romances filled with the complexities of love and resilience. Her writing, often set in small towns, explores the depths of commitment and second chances. Her goal is to create stories that make readers laugh, cry, and believe in the beauty of happily ever afters. Lauren joins us to talk about the success of Black Romance Book Fest, as well as the rise of indie authors and how that that has uplifted marginalized voices.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

What fuels indie author success beyond the page? In this conversation with Joe Solari of Author Nation, we explore how connection, insight and inspiration shape the heart of indie author culture. From building authentic community to sharing hard-won knowledge, discover why gathering together—online and in person—empowers authors to thrive.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

 Self-publishing offers a host of benefits, including - and most importantly - that you get to retain all the rights to your content and you have full access to all of your marketing analytics. But in order to actually sell books and make the kingdom impact you want to make, you have to self-publish strategically. In today's episode, I'm sharing 5 things you should NOT do in order to self-publish a book that sells. Go grab a pen and notebook and let's dive in! RESOURCESSnag a free copy of Your Path to PublishingEp. 127 - Is Fear of Success Holding You Back? Ep. 125 - Cultivating Your Message: Maximizing Impact without Compromising ValuesEp. 40 - Overcoming Fear as a Writer with Jenn Hand CONNECT WITH DALENEContact - > info@inkandimpact.comPodcast -＞www.inkandimpact.comConnect -＞ Join the free Facebook group Publish Like a ProFB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel NEXT STEPSStep 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro.Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching What additional topics would you like to learn about?Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!

M.K. Williams is the author of multiple science fiction books, short stories, and self-publishing guides. A truly all-American author, she has lived and worked across the country and now finds herself beneath the sunny, and often rainy, skies of Tampa. Because she has found so much joy in helping others realize their dreams of becoming an author, M.K. Williams has launched Author Your Ambition. This is your go-to location for all the things you need to be a success self-published author with FREE email courses, books, and more. M.K. joins us to share the lessons she's learned from the last decade as an author who helps other authors.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

For Christian authors worried about publishing costs, the path to sharing your God-given message might be more affordable than you think—especially when you know which expenses to prioritize and which "essentials" you can skip entirely. To learn more, visit https://www.the1andonlypublishing.com/ The 1 and Only Publishing City: Lanham Address: 4500 Forbes Blvd Website: https://www.the1andonlypublishing.com/

In this episode, Jim and Mark sit down with Dale L. Roberts, the voice behind the hugely popular Self Publishing with Dale YouTube channel. Dale has helped countless indie authors navigate the world of self-publishing with practical, no-nonsense advice. We talk about his brand-new book, Email Marketing for Authors, why building a mailing list is a game-changer, and how he's bringing his next big project to life through Kickstarter. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, Dale shares insights that will help you grow your readership and take control of your publishing journey.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

In this episode of PhotoWork with Sasha Wolf, Sasha is joined by legendary photo critic, curator, and collector Vince Aletti. Vince reflects on his early days as a music critic for Rolling Stone before joining the Village Voice as an arts editor, where he also began writing about photography. Later, as the photography critic at The New Yorker, Vince became a deeply admired voice in the field. Photographers hoped he would write about their work because his reviews were always perceptive, beautifully written, and profoundly generous of spirit. Sasha and Vince also revisit a personal milestone: Vince was the first critic to review an exhibition at Sasha's gallery, featuring photographs by the late Paul McDonough—a review that helped launch both Paul's career and Sasha's as a gallerist. In addition, they explore Vince's unparalleled collection of photo ephemera, a lifelong passion that has not only preserved vital archives of lesser-known work but has also inspired acclaimed photobooks and exhibitions. https://www.newyorker.com/contributors/vince-aletti https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vince_Aletti Vince Aletti is a writer and curator based in New York City. His writings on music and photography have been published widely. Between 1973 and 1978 Aletti wrote a highly prescient weekly column on the emerging disco scene for Record World magazine, and between 1987 and 2005 he was the art editor and photography critic for The Village Voice. His writings have also appeared in The New Yorker, Artforum, and Vogue Italia, among many other publications. His book Issues: A History of Photography in Fashion Magazines was published by Phaidon in 2019. The Drawer was published by Self Publish, Be Happy in September 2022 and went on to win the 2023 Aperture/Paris Photo Photobook of the Year award.  An exhibition at White Columns inspired by The Drawer in 2024 was Aletti's fifth collaboration with the gallery, following on from his 2008 exhibition Male: Work from the Collection of Vince Aletti; the 2014 exhibition of Robert Kitchen's work, and the 2019 exhibition of Ed Baynard's work (both curated by Aletti); and the 2008 White Columns publication of Aletti's collected writings on disco, Disco File, which was subsequently republished in an expanded edition by DJ History/D.A.P. Born 1945, Philadelphia  Rolling Stone contributor (1970–1989); first mainstream writer on disco (1973)  Record World weekly disco columnist (1974–1979) Senior Editor,  Photo Critic & Art Editor, The Village Voice (~1987–2005) Contributor, The New Yorker (2005–2016): weekly exhibition reviews in Goings on About Town Various publications: Artforum, Aperture, Photograph, Vogue Italia, FOAM, System

Debut romantasy author Ang T. Dalton joins us to share the inspiring story behind The Scars Within—a novel born from resilience, mental health struggles, and the highs and lows of social media culture. After 80 rejections, Ang landed an audiobook deal with Simon Maverick, Simon & Schuster's newest imprint. In this episode, she opens up about what worked, what didn't, and what she'd do differently as an indie author. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Did you know scammers are publishing fraudulent books online? Tune in as we take a deep dive into the rise of fraudulent books online, how this has affected one top author, and what every reader, author, and publisher needs to know to avoid them.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comMarianne Pestana is a nationally recognized radio show host, literary publicist, book awards judge, and expert in the publishing and publicity industry. She hosts the nationally syndicated radio program Moments with Marianne on KMET 1490AM & 98.1FM, an ABC News Radio affiliate. With more than three decades of experience, Marianne partners with authors, speakers, and brands to expand their visibility, reach wider audiences, and create lasting impact.For more show information visit: https://www.mariannepestana.com/

Did you know scammers are publishing fake books online that look just like your favorite author's book? Tune in as we take a quick dive into a personal account dealing with a fake book online, how this has affected one top author, and what every reader, author, and publisher needs to know to avoid them.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.com Marianne Pestana is a nationally recognized radio show host, literary publicist, book awards judge, and expert in the publishing and publicity industry. She hosts the nationally syndicated radio program Moments with Marianne on KMET 1490AM & 98.1FM, an ABC News Radio affiliate. With more than three decades of experience, Marianne partners with authors, speakers, and brands to expand their visibility, reach wider audiences, and create lasting impact.For more show information visit: https://www.mariannepestana.com/

The D2D Team is back again, answering author questions! Jim, Nick, and Tara talk about publishing and the questions your fellow authors have about Draft2Digital.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back! Season 7 of Off the Grid officially kicks off next week.

Adrienne Giordano is a certified life coach and USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels. Adrienne's experience from over 30 years in writing, marketing and client service helps her empower clients with personalized coaching that fosters growth and accountability. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer is an author, writing instructor, and host of The Confident Fiction Author podcast. She's published nineteen books–eleven of which were written solely by dictation. She hosts two author courses, Fiction Writing: American Indians, which equips authors to write authentic stories that honor Native American history and culture, and Fictation™ Digital Course, which takes authors through the exact process of mastering dictation to write fiction. Join us as she talks about how authors can use dictation in their writing process and the benefits it offers!//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Jason Jones is the founder of Jones Literary, a longtime Nashville publicity firm, working with authors, experts, publishers and media around the world. With over twenty five years of experience in public relations, Jason joins us to talk about how authors should be using public relations, as well as his Local PR Toolkit. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

We are talking about self-publishing. Learn how to write a book, promote a book, and publish a book as a self-published author.  Our guest Julie Broad is the founder of a self-publishing services firm called, Book Launchers (https://www.booklaunchers.com). Her popular YouTube channel, Book Launchers TV, and author of a book called More Than Cash Flow, which topped Amazon, and another book called The New Brand You. Her latest book from 2021 is called Self-Publish and Succeed, and has now won 13 different Indie publishing awards. She is an expert on writing a book with marketing in mind and teaches those approaches on how to get results, make an impact, and ultimately make more money. This is the Brands On Brands Podcast with Brandon Birkmeyer Don't forget to get your own personal branding scorecard at: https://www.brandsonbrands.com/scorecard CONNECT WITH ME Connect with me on social media: https://www.brandsonbrands.com/mylinks READ MY BOOK - FRONT & CENTER LEADERSHIP I launched a new book and author website. Check it out here. https://www.brandonbirkmeyer.com/fcl CHECK OUT MY COURSES Get tactical trainings and access to one-on-one coaching! https://www.brandsonbrands.com/courses SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER Get the latest news and trends on all things personal branding and the creator economy. https://www.brandsonbrands.com/newsletter

Walt Mussell is an award-winning historical fiction author who has used his love of history to build his author career, his social media presence, and his Substack, The Chrysanthemum and The Cross. He joins us to talk about the ways authors can use social media to their advantage, even if they haven't gone mega-viral. //Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Prolific author and poet Kala Jordan-Lindsey visits the podcast. She has released 9 books inlcuding her latest book Thriving Boldly. Kala shares with us insight into her writing process and her inspiration. Then, Kala reads some affirmations and poetry for our listeners. Kala is a one-of-a-kind talent and her inspirational words and wisdom should be part of your life, too. Listen in to TWC and check out Kala Jordan-Lindsey. Thank you, Kala!

Episode Summary In this inspiring episode, I sit down with one of our powerhouse Published and Paid clients, Gwendolyn “Cody” Davis—a speaker, coach, and multi-time author who proves that it's never too late to walk boldly in your purpose. Miss Gwendolyn joined one of my programs after retiring from her federal government career, and since then she's written a powerful thought leadership book (Finishing Strong), launched a coaching program, published a workbook, and guided others through writing their own books. What moved me most about this conversation is how she reminds us that dreams don't have an expiration date. She talks openly about overcoming the fear of pricing, building confidence with each cohort of coaching clients, and leaning into her God-given calling—even after 50. If you've ever felt like time has passed you by, this episode will remind you that now is the perfect time to start.

Episode Summary: In this powerhouse episode, I sit down with my friend and corporate speaking expert, Dr. Jinneh Dyson Williams, to unpack what it really takes to sell books in bulk, secure six-figure contracts, and build a corporate brand without relying on social media. Dr. Jinneh shares how she went from flying across the country with a newborn to closing long-term partnerships with school districts and organizations that generate predictable income—all by leaning into value, relationships, and purpose-driven messaging. She also breaks down how she became a bestselling author without chasing bestseller status and why speaking for free can actually be your most powerful marketing strategy when done the right way. This episode is a masterclass in positioning, packaging, and showing up boldly as the solution decision-makers are looking for. Key Takeaways: Stop pitching—start building relationships. Corporate contracts come from trust and connection, not cold pitches. Know your value. Speak with clarity about the impact you bring, not just the services you offer. Sell the solution, not the speech. Understand the problems you solve inside organizations and how to structure your offer accordingly. Speak for free—strategically. When the room is full of decision-makers, your free speech can become a six-figure opportunity. Bulk book sales are a positioning tool. Package your book with your speaking offer—and don't be afraid to license your content. Memorable Quotes: “Opportunities of a lifetime must be seized in the lifetime of the opportunity.” “Don't chase exposure. God is your PR.” “I've never had the program ready before I sold it—because why would I build something no one asked for yet?” “People don't buy what you do—they buy the problem you solve.” Secure your spot for the Monetize Your Book Challenge (Aug 4 - Aug 8): A sales accelerator workshop for thought leaders who want to turn their future or current book into a business asset and profit producing machine! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER: www.monetizeyourbooknow.com Connect with Jasmine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasminewomack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjasminewomack YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejasminewomack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejasminewomack Website: https://www.jasminewomack.com Work with Me: Grab a copy of my book - Published and Paid: Write, Self-Publish, and Launch Nonfiction Book in 90 Days or Less: https://www.jasminewomack.com/published-paid-book Apply to the Published and Paid®️ Mastermind: https://www.jasminewomack.com/mastermindapplication