Join me in an engaging conversation with Janica Smith, a seasoned publishing consultant who has helped over 150 authors bring their books to life. From her early days as a Traveling Vineyard wine consultant to becoming a self-made virtual assistant and later a publishing advisor, Janica shares her journey and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. Discover practical tips on how to pitch yourself, focus on your strengths, and free yourself from tasks outside your expertise. We also delve into the importance of showing up, staying open to opportunities, and paying it forward. Plus, get a taste of the Texas Hill Country wine culture and learn about crafting the perfect porch sipper cocktail. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you on your publishing journey.
To connect with Janica or learn more about her Publishing services:https://www.janicasmith.com/
Wineries & Opportunities discussed in this episode:
https://calaiswinery.com/
https://www.frenchconnectionhye.com/
https://www.daviswines.com/
https://www.ewomennetwork.com/
00:00 Introduction to Janica Smith
01:03 Reconnecting After Years
03:17 The Journey to Becoming a Virtual Assistant
08:28 The Leap to Full-Time Entrepreneurship
10:48 Navigating the Publishing World
16:23 Challenges and Successes in Publishing
23:07 The Importance of Professional Publishing
28:40 Supporting Authors and Entrepreneurs
30:09 How Publishing Works for Entrepreneurs
32:02 Building Relationships for Book Endorsements
34:03 The Importance of Book Design
37:07 Navigating Print on Demand
40:43 The Role of Marketing in Book Publishing
42:38 Overcoming Self-Doubt as an Author
43:37 The Value of Unique Perspectives
46:09 The Legacy of Helping Authors
47:42 Wine and Personal Stories
53:09 Exploring Texas Hill Country
When’s the last time you did something just for YOU? 🍷✨
Wine Camp 2026 is your chance to escape, sip fabulous local Rieslings, cruise at sunset, laugh around the fire pit, and soak up the magic of New York’s Finger Lakes.
📍 Dates: July 31–August 2, 2026
🏡 Spots are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/winecamp
Wine Camp 2026 is calling. Are you in?
Join my Insiders crew for weekly updates, tips, inspiration, and fun: https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/insider
Looking for my courses or options to work together? https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/about
Wanna sip with us? Join my Sipper Club here: https://pennyforyourshots.com/sip
Learn More, get on the list, or Register for Wine Camp 2026:
https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/winecamp
To connect with Penny, get notified, or learn more, check out www.pennyforyourshots.com
- Follow Penny on Instagram: @penny4yourshots
- Or Facebook: Penny (Kuhlers) Fitzgerald
