Shows
The Publishing Performance ShowNicholas Keating-Casbarro – Creating Factions, Religion, and Government for Your Fictional WorldNicholas Keating-Casbarro is the author and creator of the Vitilarium Universe, a far-future sci-fi series following humanity after becoming multi-planetary. With seven books planned, Nicholas crafts character-focused stories exploring themes of power, corruption, government structure, and humanity's potential futures. A former medical professional turned author, Nicholas writes in an omniscient perspective similar to Frank Herbert's style, focusing on meaningful dialogue and immersive action scenes. He's expanded the Vitilarium world beyond books into comic book adaptations for Comic-Con audiences, working with illustrators Francisco Nilo, colorist Chandran Panusamy, and graphic designer Ahmed Gitar. Published through hybrid publisher Atmosphere Press, Nicholas maintains...
2025-12-1748 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDale L. Roberts – The Complete Guide to Publishing Wide Across Multiple PlatformsDale L. Roberts is an award-winning author and self-publishing educator with over a decade of experience in the indie publishing industry. He's the author of "Wide Publishing for Authors," a comprehensive guide that helps authors break free from Amazon-only publishing and expand their reach across multiple platforms. Dale is known for his conversational writing style and practical, actionable advice that comes from real-world experience managing his own wide publishing business. Through his website SelfPublishingWithDale.com, he provides resources, tutorials, and direct support to help authors navigate the complex world of multi-platform publishing while maximizing their royalties and reader reach.
2025-10-3044 minThe Publishing Performance ShowEddie Rice - Why Fiction Authors Are Missing Out on Podcast GoldminesEddie Rice is the founder of Eloquent Mind and author of the bestselling book "Toast: Short Speeches, Big Impact." With a background in PR and public relations, Eddie specializes in helping authors transition from invisible to in-demand through strategic podcast appearances and speech writing. His "Your Book, Your Voice" approach focuses on helping authors leverage their written expertise into spoken word opportunities, whether through podcast guesting, keynote speeches, TEDx talks, or virtual speaking engagements. Eddie believes that appearing on 100 episodes of other people's podcasts is far more effective than starting your own podcast with 100 episodes.In this...
2025-06-1941 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDamon Courtney of BookFunnel - From Free Books to Lifetime Readers: Mastering the Author Book FunnelDamon Courtney is the creator of BookFunnel, a platform that helps authors deliver digital books to readers and build marketing funnels. A former self-published fantasy author who published a trilogy in 2011, Damon created BookFunnel to solve the problem of easily delivering free books to readers' devices. What started as a simple solution for getting ebooks onto Kindles has evolved into a comprehensive platform that now delivers approximately 150,000 books per day and offers tools for author collaboration, group promotions, and building reader relationships.In this episode:What a book funnel is and how it differs from traditional...
2025-05-2743 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNat Eliason - The Entrepreneur's Approach to Self-Publishing: Direct Sales, Premium Products, and MarketingNat Eliason is a writer, entrepreneur, and founder of multiple successful online businesses who is now pivoting to science fiction writing. After securing a $275,000 advance for his traditionally published non-fiction book "Crypto Confidential" with Penguin Random House, Nat has chosen to self-publish his debut science fiction novel "Husk." His entrepreneurial approach to book publishing includes a strong focus on professional production quality, direct sales through his own website, and leveraging his existing audience while building new channels specifically for his fiction work.In this episode:Nat's transition from traditional publishing to self-publishingCreating a high-quality self-published book...
2025-05-2451 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJoanna Penn - Multiple Income Streams for Authors: Beyond Just Book Sales - The Creative PennJoanna Penn is an award-winning author, New York Times and USA Today bestseller, and host of The Creative Penn podcast. With experience spanning both fiction (under J.F. Penn) and non-fiction, Joanna has built a sustainable writing business over nearly two decades. After leaving her IT consultant career in 2011, she's created multiple income streams from her writing and writing-adjacent activities while publishing over 50 books. Her latest fiction release is "Death Valley," and she's currently working on the 4th edition of "Successful Self-Publishing."In this episode:Joanna's journey from IT consultant to full-time authorHow her definition of...
2025-05-2248 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAurora Winter of SamePage Publishing - Turn Words Into Wealth: 7 Blueprints for Creating 7-Figure Income from Your BookAurora Winter is the founder of SamePage Publishing and author of "Turn Words into Wealth." With a background as a film and television executive producer and award-winning screenwriter, Aurora now helps entrepreneurs, experts, and business leaders leverage books to grow their businesses. Her "Spoken Author Method" helps clients create high-quality books faster by speaking their content, which is then polished by her team. Aurora focuses on strategic book creation that can generate a 10X return on investment through backend products, speaking opportunities, and premium client acquisition.In this episode:Seven blueprints for creating...
2025-05-1539 minThe Publishing Performance ShowReady, Set, Launch: A Live Panel on Taking Your Book to the World with Craig Martelle, Dale L Roberts, Julie Broad and Alexa BigwarfeI had the pleasure of hosting this special panel edition of The Publishing Performance Show, bringing together four brilliant publishing industry experts to discuss book launch strategies. The conversation covered everything from hard vs. soft launches to advertising strategies, review acquisition, and genre-specific approaches. Our incredible panel featured:Craig Martelle - A publishing veteran with over 200 books published who runs some of the largest indie conferences in the world. Craig shared his unique approach of soft-launching a 10-book series in just 9 months, selling a quarter million dollars worth of books with minimal m...
2025-05-131h 09The Publishing Performance ShowH.H. Rune - Sending Books Across America: The 25-Year Journey of an Interactive Literary ExperimentH.H. Rune is the author of the "Find Me" series, a unique "fiction-ish" or autofiction work that blends real-life experiences with fictional storytelling. After conceiving the idea at age 30 while a stay-at-home mom, H.H. spent 25 years developing this five-book series before finally committing to publication during the pandemic. The series follows a creative social experiment where the author writes five books containing personal memories about people from her life, then sends them to random individuals across the country in hopes that someone she wrote about will recognize themselves and return a book to her.
2025-05-0928 minThe Publishing Performance ShowEmily Crookston of Pocket PhD - The Business Case for Your Book: Strategic Publishing for Thought LeadersEmily Crookston is the owner and "decider of all things" at Pocket PhD, where she specializes in ghostwriting and developmental editing for business books. With a PhD in philosophy and background as a professor, Emily transitioned to content writing, starting with blog posts before moving to longer formats like business books. Her focus is helping thought leaders and business owners create books that serve as effective tools for lead generation, authority building, and speaking opportunities. Emily recently published her own book, "Unwritten: The Thought Leaders Guide to Not Overthinking Your Business Book," which guides business owners through the process...
2025-05-0728 minThe Publishing Performance ShowSheryl Bass of Be Kind Publishing - Self-Publishing Success: How PR Skills Transformed a Children's Book LaunchSheryl Bass is a children's author and book PR expert with a master's degree in social work and journalism. Her Baby Dragon series focuses on social emotional learning for children, teaching important life lessons through engaging stories. Starting from a flash of inspiration during a sneeze 15 years ago, Sheryl brought her first book "Baby Dragon's Big Sneeze" to life through self-publishing after traditional publishing routes proved unsuccessful. She runs Be Kind Publishing, emphasizing kindness and social emotional development in children's literature.In this episode:Origins of "Baby Dragon's Big Sneeze" from a sneeze inspirationImportance of social...
2025-05-0126 minThe Publishing Performance ShowChris Wallace of WrittenWell - Cracking Amazon's Algorithm: From Poker Player to Self-Publishing ExpertChris Wallace is a professional poker player, author, and co-founder of WrittenWell.com. With a background in guitar building before developing an allergy to exotic hardwoods, Chris transitioned to professional poker, which led to writing opportunities during the poker boom. He began writing for poker magazines and blogs, eventually publishing several poker books including a strategy guide and "Short Stacked Ninja." After helping famous poker players increase their book sales through his understanding of Amazon's algorithms, Chris expanded into consulting with authors across all genres before co-founding WrittenWell.com with Adam Stempel and other publishing experts.
2025-04-2945 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMitch Carson - Media Mastery: Crafting a One Sheet Media Pitch That Gets You BookedMitch Carson is a bestselling author, TV host for NBC in Las Vegas, and international speaker who specializes in helping people build their personal brands and increase their media exposure. With decades of experience in television and media, Mitch has mastered the art of getting authors and entrepreneurs featured on major platforms. He shares his expertise on creating compelling pitches, building credibility through strategic media appearances, and leveraging visibility to achieve greater success in business.In this episode:The importance of continuous marketing and "omnipresence"Creating a professional one-sheet to secure media appearancesHow...
2025-04-2446 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAndrew Wallner & Phil Marshall of Spoken - Revolutionizing Audiobooks: How Spoken Combines AI Narration with Author MonetizationAndrew Wallner and Phil Marshall are co-founders of Spoken, an innovative platform that combines AI narration technology with a streaming network for audio content. Coming from backgrounds in healthcare technology where they developed conversational AI systems, they sold their company in 2021 before turning their attention to the audiobook market. Phil, as a sci-fi writer and audio-only reader, recognized the need for better tools to create, publish, stream, and monetize audio content, which became the genesis of Spoken.In this episode:Origins of Spoken from healthcare technology to audiobook innovationHow Spoken combines AI narration...
2025-04-2239 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJohnathan McClain - Narrating 200+ Audiobooks: Secrets from an Award Winning Multi-Genre Voice ActorJohnathan McClain is a multi-talented creative professional working as a screenwriter, narrator, actor, and novelist. With a background in theater and television, Johnathan transitioned to audiobook narration in 2012, coinciding with Amazon's acquisition of Audible when the demand for narrators exploded. His first major audiobook projects included narrating several Jack Reacher novels, and he has since recorded over 200 books across various genres including sci-fi, fantasy, lit-RPG, mystery thrillers, and romance.In this episode:Journey from child actor to audiobook narratorTheater experience as preparation for narrationTransition from TV to complete performance controlWhy voice quality alone...
2025-04-1753 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJD Barker - Co-Writing Thrillers with James Patterson and Indie vs Traditional PublishingJD Barker is a New York Times bestselling author who has experienced various publishing paths including traditional, indie, and hybrid publishing. With a background as a book doctor and ghostwriter for over 20 years, JD transitioned to writing his own novels and has since collaborated with James Patterson among other notable authors. His unique publishing journey includes a special relationship with Simon & Schuster that combines the advantages of indie publishing with the distribution power of a major publisher. JD's expertise spans multiple genres within the thriller and suspense categories, and he has numerous works optioned for film and television.
2025-04-1544 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAryn Van Dyke - LinkedIn for Authors: Unexpected Strategies to Grow Your ReadershipAryn Van Dyke is a book marketing expert and the founder of Book Rockstar, specializing in LinkedIn marketing strategies for authors. With extensive experience helping both fiction and nonfiction writers leverage LinkedIn as a powerful platform for book promotion, Aryn has developed proven methods for building professional networks, crafting engaging content, and connecting authors with their target audiences. Despite LinkedIn's reputation as a purely professional platform, Aryn demonstrates how authors can transform it into a dynamic marketing channel that drives book sales, speaking engagements, and business opportunities.In this episode:Why LinkedIn is...
2025-04-1030 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNicola Kinloch - Balancing Art and Education: The Craft of Children's Book IllustrationNicola Kinloch is an artist and illustrator with a background in fine art photography and textile design who recently ventured into children's book illustration. Her first illustrated book, written by her mother Patricia Lang, is about bees and beekeeping, combining adventure storytelling with educational content. The book uniquely presents the world from a bee's perspective, teaching children about beekeeping while engaging their imagination. With a passion for visual storytelling, Nicola has developed her own illustration techniques and is now working on additional books for the bee series as well as her own projects.In...
2025-04-0825 minThe Publishing Performance ShowLeah Paulos - The Pitch Perfect Formula: How to Get Media Coverage for Your BookLeah Paulos is the founder and director of publicity for Press Shop PR and Book Publicity School. With a background in journalism as a writer and magazine editor at Condé Nast, Leah brings a unique perspective to book publicity, having been on the receiving end of pitches. After transitioning from journalism, she founded Press Shop PR to help authors navigate the challenging world of book promotion, especially as publishing houses provide less marketing support than in the past. Her team has worked with nearly 350 authors, from bestsellers like Neil deGrasse Tyson to debut novelists with small independent presses.
2025-04-0345 minThe Publishing Performance ShowFlora Qian - Breaking Censorship Through Language: One Writer's Journey from Shanghai to New YorkFlora Qian is a writer born and raised in Shanghai who later lived in Hong Kong for over a decade before relocating to New York City. Her novel "South of the Yangtze" won the Proverse Prize, an international award for unpublished works in fiction and poetry. Drawing on her experiences growing up in 1980s China and living across multiple cultures, Flora's work explores themes of identity, language, censorship, and cultural displacement through the coming-of-age story of a young Chinese woman navigating complex political and personal landscapes.In this episode:Flora's background and journey...
2025-04-0133 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMarco Moutinho of Dibbly - From Idea to Book in 24 Hours: How Dibbly's AI Tools Streamline Book CreationMarco Moutinho is the founder and CEO of Dibbly (formerly The Urban Writers), a comprehensive content creation platform that combines AI tools with freelance writing services. The rebranding from The Urban Writers to Dibbly reflects their expansion beyond just writing services to include a suite of AI-powered content creation tools. With Dibbly Create, their collaborative document editor, and an extensive freelancer marketplace, Dibbly aims to streamline the book creation process from research to publication-ready files.In this episode:The evolution from The Urban Writers to DibblyOverview of Dibbly Create's AI-powered content creation toolsUsing...
2025-03-2730 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJohn DeMato - The Book Boudoir: Professional Photography that Sells More BooksJohn DeMato is a visual storytelling expert and professional photographer who specializes in creating compelling visual content for entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, and consultants. After transitioning from a career as a television field producer, John found his niche in branding photography, which eventually led him to develop Book Boudoir - a specialized service creating high-quality, strategic photographs of books for marketing purposes. With his background in visual storytelling, John helps authors elevate their brand presence through professional imagery that showcases not just their book covers, but the valuable content inside.In this episode:John's...
2025-03-2528 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCarol Kabaale - Facebook Ads Made Simple: Cost-Effective Marketing Strategies for New AuthorsCarol Kabaale is a Facebook ads expert based in South Africa who transitioned from a corporate hospitality career to digital marketing after seeking more freedom and fulfillment in her work. With eight years of experience specializing in Facebook and Instagram advertising, Carol helps clients develop strategic marketing campaigns that build community and convert leads into customers. Her data-driven approach focuses on understanding audience demographics and creating targeted content that resonates with specific reader personas.In this episode:Carol's journey from corporate hospitality to Facebook ads specialistThe three "seasons" of marketing: visibility, nurturing, and...
2025-03-1829 minThe Publishing Performance ShowHannah Parry - The Hero's Journey: Building Historical Fiction with Classic Story StructureHannah Parry is an author of both adult and young adult fiction who came to writing later in life after initially training as a nurse. With a family background in writing (her parents were copywriters in advertising), Hannah discovered her passion for storytelling in her late twenties. After experiencing several personal losses, she found herself writing more frequently as both an emotional outlet and a form of escape. Her young adult historical fiction series follows the adventures of Isabella Rockwell, while her adult fiction explores darker psychological themes.In this episode:Hannah's journey...
2025-03-1535 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAlexa Nazzaro - Launch Like a Pro: Customized Marketing Strategies for Fiction, Nonfiction, and Children's BooksAlexa Nazzaro is the founder of Axel Author Group, a publishing services company with the memorable tagline "we won't let you publish crap." With a background in writing and business communications, Alexa transitioned into author services after helping a client with an ebook project. Her passion for the creative process led her to support authors across various genres, while also working on her own fiction writing.In this episode:What makes an effective book launch strategyThe importance of marketing preparation before publicationCreating a "street team" of early supportersObtaining advanced reviews through various channelsOptimizing...
2025-03-1335 minThe Publishing Performance ShowBarbara Boyd - The Book Coach Approach: Finding Your Idea, Audience, and ObjectiveBarbara Boyd is a book coach and author who has guided over 100 authors through the publishing process. With a specialty in nonfiction writing, Barbara helps experts transform their knowledge into well-structured, reader-focused books. As a certified book coach through Author Accelerator, she uses proven frameworks like the Blueprint for a Non-Fiction Book to help authors clarify their ideas, identify their target audience, and achieve their publishing objectives.In this episode:The Venn diagram concept for books (idea, audience, objectives)Identifying and narrowing your target audienceTranslating complex expertise into reader-friendly contentStorytelling techniques for nonfictionCreating logical reader journeysValue...
2025-03-1137 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRay Hartjen - Writing Your Truth: How Personal Memoirs Create Connection and HealingRay Hartjen is an author, musician, and cancer patient advocate who has written several books including "Me, Myself and My Multiple Myeloma" - a memoir about his journey with blood cancer. After being diagnosed in 2019, Ray transformed his experience into a platform to help others, with all proceeds from his book benefiting the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Beyond his cancer memoir, Ray has co-authored "Immaculate: How the Steelers Saved Pittsburgh" and writes about his other passions including auto racing with his upcoming book about the Indianapolis 500.In this episode:Ray's journey from cancer...
2025-03-0849 minThe Publishing Performance ShowGene Mollica and Sasha Almazan - Beyond Basic Covers: How Professional Design Drives Book SuccessGene Mollica and Sasha Almazan are the creative duo behind GNS Cover Design Studio, a premium book cover design company specializing in photo-based, high-impact covers for authors. With over 15 years of experience working with both traditional publishers and indie authors, they bring their backgrounds in photography, digital art, and styling to create covers that help books stand out in competitive marketplaces. Their unique collaborative approach has helped countless authors transform their sales and careers through strategic visual branding.In this episode:The evolution from traditional publishing to working with indie authorsWhy professional book...
2025-03-0652 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDale L. Roberts - Beyond Amazon: The Strategic Approach to Publishing WideDale L. Roberts is an award-winning writer and the author of "Publishing Wide," a comprehensive guide for authors looking to expand their book distribution beyond Amazon. With over a decade of experience in self-publishing, Dale shares valuable insights on how authors can maximize their reach and revenue by strategically publishing across multiple platforms, while maintaining control of their publishing business.In this episode:The concept of "wide publishing" and why it matters to authorsThe advantages and limitations of Amazon KDP SelectStrategic approaches to distributing your books across platformsThe importance of understanding platform overlap...
2025-03-0442 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMike Capuzzi - The Magic of Short Books: Turning Expertise into Effective MarketingMike Capuzzi is the founder of Byte Size Books and creator of the "shook" concept – short, helpful books designed as powerful marketing tools for business owners. With almost 30 years in the marketing industry, Mike has developed a specialized approach to help entrepreneurs, professionals, and local business owners establish authority and generate leads through concise, impactful books typically around 100 pages in length.In this episode:The concept and benefits of "shooks" (short helpful books)Why shorter books are often more effective than 300-page tomesHow local businesses can use books as marketing toolsThe po...
2025-03-0135 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJay Styles - The Book Funnel System: How Authors Can Generate Consistent BusinessJay Styles is an Amazon bestselling author, coach, and former radio personality who helps entrepreneurs and business owners leverage books as powerful marketing tools. After pivoting his career during COVID-19 by transforming his documentary "Become Inspired" into a book, Jay discovered the untapped potential of using books for lead generation and business growth. Through his coaching program, he guides clients through the book creation process while helping them develop effective sales funnels and marketing strategies.In this episode:How Jay transitioned from entertainment to author coachingThe process of transforming a documentary into a...
2025-02-2732 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRodney Miles - The Three Pillars of Self-Publishing Success: Product, Platform, and PublicityRodney Miles is the author of "The Book Dude's Guide to Self-Publishing" series and a self-publishing consultant with over 14 years of experience in the industry. Having worked on more than 300 book projects, Rodney has developed systematic approaches to help authors navigate their publishing journey. His background as a writer, ghostwriter, and editor evolved into a comprehensive consulting business where he helps authors through custom publishing projects while sharing his expertise through his books.In this episode:Rodney's journey from real estate to writing and publishingThe evolution of self-publishing over the past 15 yearsUnderstanding the "...
2025-02-2535 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRami Jandali - The Art of Children's Storytelling: Writing and Illustrating with PurposeRami Jandali is a children's book author and illustrator who combines his love of storytelling with artistic talent to create engaging books that spread messages of kindness and acceptance. Through his brand "Rami Stories," he has published books including "An Almond All Alone" and "Blueberry Fairy," which blend colorful illustrations with meaningful themes for young readers. As both an author and artist, Rami creates his own illustrations and brings his characters to life through his unique storytelling style.In this episode:The journey from natural storyteller to children's book authorCreating engaging characters and...
2025-02-2230 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMartyn Ellington & Steven Stiefel - From Novel to Screen: Mastering Multi-Format StorytellingMartyn Ellington and Steven Stiefel are trans-Atlantic writing partners who blend British and American sensibilities in their collaborative works. Through their production company MESS Productions, they create multi-format content spanning novels, TV scripts, and podcasts, with their international bestseller "Tomorrow's Flight" showcasing their ability to craft compelling cross-cultural narratives.Martyn Ellington is the author of five published novels, including "The End of Everything," "Devolution of a Species," and the "Thirstonfield Halt" series. Steven Stiefel is a veteran of script development, having analyzed over 1,500 scripts and books. He's the co-author of "Making Rumours" about Fleetwood Mac's i...
2025-02-2158 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNicky Billou - Beyond Book Sales: How Podcast Guesting Can Transform Your Author BusinessNicky Billou is a business coach and author who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and authors maximize their impact through podcast guesting. As the author of "Get Booked and Get Paid" and "Finish Line Thinking," he has appeared on over 1,500 podcast episodes and helps clients generate significant revenue through strategic podcast appearances. Coming from an immigrant background, Nicky's passion for entrepreneurship and helping others stems from his father's example of generosity and business acumen.In this episode:The importance of viewing your book as a branding toolHow to leverage podcast appearances to generate leads and salesUnderstanding commercial...
2025-02-1840 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRussell Nohelty - Why Your First Book Launch Should Be on KickstarterRussell Nohelty is a USA Today bestselling author who has successfully navigated both fiction and non-fiction publishing. Starting his career with aspirations in filmmaking, he transitioned to comics and eventually found his way to self-publishing. As the co-founder of Writer MBA, he helps authors build sustainable careers through innovative marketing strategies and business approaches. His expertise spans from successful Kickstarter campaigns to building author ecosystems.In this episode:The evolution from filmmaking to writing comics and booksHow to effectively use Kickstarter as a publishing platformUnderstanding value proposition in book marketingThe challenges of selling fiction vs. non-fictionStrategies...
2025-02-151h 06The Publishing Performance ShowDr. Nicole Janz - Breaking Through Writer's Block: A Coach's Guide to Productive WritingDr. Nicole Janz is a social scientist and a book coach with over 20 years of experience as a journalist, academic, and writer. After leaving academia four years ago, she transitioned into creative writing and book coaching. She created The Write Habit Planner, a specialized tool designed to help writers maintain consistency and productivity in their writing journey. As both a writer and coach, Nicole combines her extensive experience to help authors overcome procrastination and develop sustainable writing habits.In this episode:Understanding the deeper psychological aspects of writing procrastinationBreaking down large writing goals...
2025-02-1341 minThe Publishing Performance ShowLouise Harris - The Complete Guide to Book Editing and DevelopmentLouise Harris is the founder and president of LAST Research and Editing, specializing in comprehensive editing services for authors. With over 30 years of experience in editing and journalism, she has edited numerous manuscripts, authored four novels, and ghost-written multiple books including cookbooks and a book on addiction. Her expertise spans both fiction and non-fiction editing, from developmental work to final proofreading.In this episode:Different types of editing explainedThe importance of developmental editingWorking with editors at different stagesTips for authors on a budgetBook compilation servicesCommon editing mistakesFlow and structure techniques
2025-02-1135 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNick Thacker - How to Become a Full-Time Author in One YearNick Thacker is a bestselling author in multiple genres who turned his hobby into a full-time writing career. Having written 45 books, he now helps other authors transition to full-time writing through his Book Career in a Year program.In this episode:The journey from hobby to full-time writingBuilding a sustainable author careerCreating effective email marketing strategiesDeveloping multiple income streamsSetting realistic author goalsMarketing strategies for new authorsBuilding an author platform from scratchResources mentioned:Book Career in a Year program: https://www.bookcareerinayear.com/Scrivener: https://scrivener.app/Email...
2025-02-0650 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRebekah Haskell - The Art and Science of Book Cover Design (+ How to Find Amazing Done-For-You Covers)Rebekah Haskell is the owner and lead designer at Vivid Covers, specializing in speculative fiction book covers. With expertise in both illustration and photo manipulation, she helps authors create genre-appropriate covers that connect with their target readers.In this episode:Genre-specific cover design principlesDifferences between traditional and indie publishing coversResearch methods for effective cover designPre-made vs custom cover optionsVisual tropes and genre expectationsWorking process with authorsThumbnail visibility importanceResources mentioned:Vivid Covers: https://www.vividcovers.com/Pre-made cover collections: https://www.vividcovers.com/shop/"Cover Your Book" by...
2025-02-0546 minThe Publishing Performance ShowSarah Bullen of The Writing Room - Literary Matchmaking: How Books Find Their Perfect Publisher with a Book AgentSarah Bullen is a multi-published author, writing coach, and literary agent, leading international writing mentorships. She is the author of Write your Book in 100 Days and works with authors as a book coach and agent. Over the last two decades, she has had over 180 books published by writers she has mentored. She has held editorial roles across books, magazines, and literary agencies. Her expertise in writing and publishing provides invaluable guidance to aspiring authors, helping them develop their craft, structure their stories, and navigate the publishing world.In this episode:The insider secrets...
2025-01-3053 minThe Publishing Performance ShowLucy McCarraher of Book Magic AI - The $100,000 Book: The AI-Powered Secret to Writing Your Business Book in Record TimeLucy McCarraher is the Founder of Rethink Press, BookMagic AI, the book-writing app, and the Business Book Awards. She also hosts the ABOO – A Book of One's Own – women writers' network. She is the author of 13 books including three novels, four self-help books and six books on writing books. Lucy mentors non-fiction and fiction authors through planning and writing their books and is the UK's most experienced business book mentor. She recently won a Stevie Award for Women Helping Women in Business; and the Great British Businesswomen's Award for Creative Industries Businesswoman of the Year for her work supporting more...
2025-01-2844 minThe Publishing Performance ShowEllen Erikson - How to Make Money from Classic, Public Domain BooksEllen Erikson is a publisher of over 30 books, combining self-authored works and public domain publications. Her expertise lies in identifying, updating, and successfully marketing classic works for modern audiences.In this episode:Understanding public domain books and copyright lawsGuidelines for publishing on Amazon KDPStrategies for standing out in the marketFinding and selecting profitable titlesFormatting and production considerationsMarketing and advertising approachesCommon pitfalls and how to avoid themResources mentioned:Project GutenbergMany BooksWikipedia copyright tablesKDP publishing guidelinesConnect with Ellen:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com...
2025-01-2329 minThe Publishing Performance ShowTom Wilde of ProWritingAid - Why Your Grammar Checker is Holding You Back from Writing a Best SellerTom Wilde is the Head of Partnerships at ProWritingAid, a comprehensive toolkit for storytellers that helps authors improve their writing through advanced analysis and AI-powered features. With a background in English teaching, he brings deep insight into how writers can elevate their craft through technology.In this episode:Evolution of ProWritingAid from grammar checker to complete writing toolkitUnderstanding passive vs active voiceKey reports and features for writersAI-powered tools for story developmentIntegration with popular writing platformsPrivacy and security considerationsResources mentioned:ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com/Writers Week events: https://prowritingaid...
2025-01-2137 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAudrey Hughey - Write Your Book in One Year: A Busy Author’s Complete GuideAudrey Hughey is a planner and workbook creator, and a multi-genre fiction author. She uses her B.A. in English and M.A. in Ancient and Classical History to research and craft riveting horror and thriller stories brimming with cultural nuance and rich with lore. She lives in the hills of Appalachia with her family and sweet-but-bossy felines.In this episode:The importance of holistic life planning for authorsBreaking down yearly writing goalsCreating effective daily routinesManaging productivity with family commitmentsSetting authentic and meaningful goalsUsing time-blocking techniquesMonthly review and progress tracking...
2025-01-1744 minThe Publishing Performance ShowEvan Gow of StoryOrigin - The Power of Author Newsletters: Inside StoryOriginEvan Gow is the founder of StoryOrigin, a platform designed to help authors grow their readership through newsletter marketing, review management, and cross-promotions. With a background in tech entrepreneurship and creative writing, he created StoryOrigin to streamline the essential tools authors need for success.In this episode:Benefits of author newslettersCreating effective reader magnetsNewsletter content strategiesCross-promotion techniquesBuilding subscriber listsNewsletter monetization optionsPlatform features and integrationsResources mentioned:StoryOrigin: https://storyoriginapp.com/MailerLite recommendationNewsletter swap directoryGroup promotionsUniversal book linksReview copy landing pagesBook recommendations:He...
2025-01-1645 minThe Publishing Performance ShowOriana Leckert from Kickstarter - How Authors Are Raising Millions Through CrowdfundingOriana Leckert is the Head of Publishing at Kickstarter, where she helps creators bring a marvelous array of literary projects to life. She's written and edited for Vice, MTV News, Slate, Hyperallergic, Gothamist, Atlas Obscura, and many more. Her first book, Brooklyn Spaces: 50 Hubs of Culture and Creativity (Monacelli, 2015), grew out of a multi-year project chronicling the rise and fall of under-the-radar creative places across New York City.In this episode:Understanding Kickstarter's role in publishingCreating successful crowdfunding campaignsSetting realistic funding goalsDesigning compelling rewardsBuilding community before launchingCase studies of successful book campaignsCommon mistakes to...
2025-01-0939 minThe Publishing Performance ShowThe Publishing Performance Show: Our 2024 in Review & Future PlansHey everyone! What a wild ride 2024 has been. From welcoming a new baby (and realizing two kids is WAY more than double the work) to watching this show grow beyond my wildest dreams, I want to share the highs, lows, and everything in between of this incredible year.In this episode, I'm diving into:Life as a publishing dad The amazing guests who've joined us - from Susie Quinn to Kevin J AndersonMy Vegas adventure at Author Nation (what happens in Vegas... gets recorded!)Growing my own book empire to 22 titlesHow Publishing Performance's AI i...
2025-01-0714 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMichele DeFilippo - The Art of Professional Book Production: Inside 1106 DesignMichele DeFilippo is the owner of 1106 Design, providing comprehensive book publishing services for indie authors since 2001. With over 52 years in the publishing industry, she brings extensive expertise in book design, typesetting, and project management.In this episode:Journey from Crown Publishers to founding 1106 DesignEvolution of book formatting from manual typesetting to digitalCommon mistakes authors make in self-publishingImportance of professional book design and formattingWorking with print-on-demand platformsProject management essentials for authorsResources mentioned:KDP (Amazon): https://kdp.amazon.com/IngramSpark: https://www.ingramspark.com/1106 Design services: https://1106design.com/services/
2024-12-3126 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCathy Lewis - The Power of Publicity: Crafting Author Success StoriesCathy Lewis is president of CS Lewis Publicity, a boutique PR firm specializing in non-fiction authors. With over 26 years of experience, she helps authors build their platforms through strategic media outreach.In this episode:Evolution from publishing to boutique publicityEssential author platform elementsMedia outreach strategiesSocial media tactics for authorsImportance of core messagingChanges in book marketing landscapeLocal bookstore resurgenceResources mentioned:Website essentialsSocial media platformsMedia contactsPress materialsLocal bookstore eventsVirtual seminarsBook recommendations:Media Darlings by Joanne McCall: https://www.amazon.com/Media-Darling-Shine-Through-Interview/dp/1736095005Confessions of...
2024-12-2633 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDakota Krout - Level Up Your Writing: Inside the World of LitRPG PublishingDakota Krout is a successful LitRPG author and founder of Mountandale Press, specializing in LitRPG, GameLit, and cultivation fiction. With a background in computer science and military communications, he brings systematic thinking to his writing and publishing ventures.In this episode:Explanation of LitRPG and GameLit genresBuilding systematic magic and progression systemsProcess of founding and running Mountandale PressPublishing success metrics and author requirementsMarketing strategies in niche genresImportance of community engagementResources mentioned:Dragon Con - https://www.dragoncon.org/LitRPG and GameLit online communitiesMountandale Press publishing criteria: https://www...
2024-12-2446 minThe Publishing Performance ShowGillian Harvey - From French Farmhouses to 11,000 Book Reviews on AmazonGillian Harvey is a successful author of women's fiction with nine published books, including the bestselling "The Year in the French Farmhouse" and "The Bordeaux Book Club." Living in France for many years before recently returning to the UK, she brings authentic French culture and experiences to her novels. Her latest book "The Little Provence Bookshop" combines elements of mystery, humor, and magical realism in a French setting.In this episode:Journey from teaching to full-time writingExperience of moving to and living in FranceWriting process and plotting techniques using 40-point story outlinesNaturally incorporating humor into storytellingBuilding...
2024-12-1933 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRoni Robbins - Transforming Family History into Award-Winning FictionRoni Robbins, an award-winning journalist and author, shares her journey of transforming her grandfather's recorded memories into the award-winning book "Hands of Gold." With a background in journalism spanning publications like the Atlanta Journal Constitution and WebMD, she brings professional storytelling expertise to her family's Holocaust survival story.In this episode:Journey from journalism to authorshipConverting oral history to narrativeResearch and verification processTraditional publishing journeyMarketing strategies and awardsFuture writing projectsLegacy preservation techniquesResources Mentioned:National Archives - https://www.archives.gov/Mormon Family History Center - https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist...
2024-12-1732 minThe Publishing Performance ShowEirinaios Theodorou of Publisher Champ - Making Sense of KDP Analytics, Book Sales Tracking and ROIEirinaios Theodorou is the founder and CEO of Publisher Champ, the leading all-in-one analytics platform used by over 16,000 authors. What started as a solution for his brother-in-law's book tracking needs has grown into a comprehensive platform that automatically pulls together royalties and spending data from multiple platforms including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Draft2Digital, providing authors with detailed analytics for their publishing business.In this episode:Origins of Publisher ChampKey performance indicators for authorsAnalytics across multiple platformsReturn on investment trackingSmart link functionalityMulti-platform integrationFuture development plansResources Mentioned:PublisherChamp...
2024-12-1238 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDawn Greenfield Ireland - The Power of Critique Groups in Author DevelopmentDawn Greenfield Ireland is an award-winning author of 20 novels, including five series spanning cozy mystery, sci-fi/fantasy, billionaire shapeshifters, and dystopian genres. With certificates from UCLA's Professional Program in Screenwriting and ScreenwritingU, she has written 15 screenplays (two optioned) and seven award-winning nonfiction books. A former technical writer turned full-time author and publisher, Dawn now runs Artistic Origins publishing services while continuing to write across multiple genres.In this episode:Journey from technical to creative writingEvolution of first novel over 30 yearsImportance of critique groupsBuilding a publishing companyWriting across multiple genresPublishing services for authorsMarketing strategies and challenges
2024-12-1033 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNick Courtright - How a Hybrid Publishing Partnership Works with Atmosphere Press CEONick Courtright, CEO and founder of Atmosphere Press, brings his background as a PhD in literature and published author to hybrid publishing. Through Atmosphere Press, he has developed a transparent, author-focused approach that combines the best elements of traditional and self-publishing.In this episode:Evolution of hybrid publishing modelsManuscript selection processEditorial and design servicesMarketing and publicity supportAuthor collaboration approachBuilding successful publishing partnershipsResources mentioned:Author Blog & Resources: https://atmospherepress.com/advice-for-writers/Publishing Potential Quiz: https://atmospherepress.com/book-publishing-quiz/Costa Rica The Playa Flamingo Writing Residency Program: https://atmospherepress.com...
2024-12-0539 minThe Publishing Performance ShowHalima Khatun - DIY Book PR: The Secret to Getting Your Books Featured in National MediaHalima Khatun, a former journalist with prestigious experience at ITV and BBC, has successfully transitioned from media to becoming an accomplished author and PR consultant. With her background in media and communications, she's mastered both storytelling and book marketing, particularly through strategic PR and media outreach. In this episode:Journey from journalism to authorPR strategies for self-published authorsMedia outreach techniquesBuilding relationships with librariesSelf-publishing vs traditional publishingWriting authentic diverse fictionBuilding author platformsResources mentioned:BBC, Good Housekeeping, Metro featuresManchester Evening News coverageAsian Image publication featuresLocal libraries network"Priceless Publicity" book: https://www.am...
2024-12-0347 minThe Publishing Performance ShowShelby Leigh - The Power of TikTok: Turning Views Into Book SalesShelby Leigh is a mental health poetry author who has built a significant social media presence, with over 103,000 Instagram followers and viral TikTok success. Her journey from self-publishing to traditional publishing demonstrates the power of social media marketing for book sales.In this episode:Mental health poetry publishing successTikTok marketing strategiesContent creation best practicesSocial media platform buildingConverting views to salesBook marketing analyticsResources mentioned:Marketing by Shelby: https://www.marketingbyshelby.com/TikTok Solutions Program: https://www.marketingbyshelby.com/marketing-offersBookTok community: https://www.tiktok.com/tag/booktokInstagram Marketing: https://www...
2024-11-2933 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJami Albright - The Business of Writing Romantic ComedyJami Albright is a born and raised Texas girl and the multiple award-winning author of the "Brides on the Run" and "Small-Town Royalty" series—both known for being sexy, swoony, and laugh-out-loud funny. Beginning her writing journey at 47, Jami brings her background in stand-up comedy and natural storyteller's voice to her romance novels. When she's not writing, she's a wife, mother, and actress/comedian who loves all things Outlander, puppies, and can be found watching her beloved Houston Texans on Sundays during football season, hoping they won't break her heart.In this episode:Journey fr...
2024-11-291h 00The Publishing Performance ShowBrownell Landrum - From Screenplay to Novel: Building a Multi-Platform Author CareerBrownell Landrum is a multi-genre author who transitioned from business writing to fiction and screenwriting. Drawing from her experience in marketing and storytelling, she creates novels structured for potential TV/film adaptation, with a special focus on reincarnation themes that bridge multiple lifetimes and genres.In this episode:Journey from nonfiction to fiction writingStructuring novels for TV/film adaptationBuilding engaged Facebook communitiesUsing lead magnets and book funnelsBalancing multiple writing formatsMarketing strategies for self-published authorsCreating bonus content for readersResources mentioned:BookFunnel: https://bookfunnel.com/GetResponse: https://www.getresponse.com...
2024-11-2242 minThe Publishing Performance ShowRossana Corniel & Virginie Carmichael of Booksprout - Building Your Book's Social Proof Through Reviews (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Rossana Corniel and Virginie Carmichael from Book Sprout share insights into their review platform and first conference experience at Author Nation. As both business leaders and writers themselves, they discuss the importance of authentic reader reviews and building social proof.In this episode:Book Sprout's digital review platformBuilding authentic reader communitiesConference networking insightsAI adoption in publishingRomance genre review dynamicsAuthor journey perspectivesConnect with BookSprout:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@booksproutappInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/booksprout/Facebook: https://www.facebook.c...
2024-11-1916 minThe Publishing Performance ShowLiam Gray - How Book Report Helps Authors Track Their Publishing Success (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Liam Gray from Book Report shares insights into the company's analytics platform and his first major conference experience. As founder of Book Report, Liam discusses how authors can effectively track their sales data across multiple platforms and make data-driven decisions for their publishing business.In this episode:Book Report's browser extension functionalityTop use cases for sales trackingWide publishing analyticsConference networking experiencesSales data visualization featuresFuture platform developmentsConnect with Book Report:Website: https://www.getbookreport.com/Chrome Extension: https://app.g...
2024-11-1911 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMegan Haskell - The Wide Publisher's Guide to Metadata Mastery (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Megan Haskell is the co-founder of AuthorTrack, an innovative software solution revolutionizing how authors manage their metadata across multiple publishing platforms. With hands-on experience in direct publishing to major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo, Megan combines practical author experience with technical expertise to help writers maximize their books' visibility across all platforms.In this episode:Understanding metadata strategies for multiple retail platformsHow to optimize keywords for different retailersManaging book metadata effectively across platformsThe story behind AuthorTrack's developmentStrategic approaches to titles, s...
2024-11-1515 minThe Publishing Performance ShowOriana Leckert of Kickstarter - Kickstart Your Book: Secrets of Crowdfunding Success (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Oriana Leckert is the Head of Publishing at Kickstarter, where she serves as a literary industry expert, crowdfunding consultant, and champion for creators. With over $300 million pledged to publishing projects on Kickstarter, Oriana helps authors navigate the platform's potential for building communities and creating unique literary experiences.In this episode:Understanding Kickstarter's role in publishing projectsEssential steps for launching a successful campaignHow to leverage existing audiences for crowdfunding successCreating compelling rewards for backersCampaign funding mechanics and timeline basicsResources mentioned:
2024-11-1510 minThe Publishing Performance ShowTony Lee - From Comics to Novels: The Art of Scene Writing Success (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Tony Lee is a versatile author with 34 years of professional writing experience across various mediums including comics, TV, film, and journalism. Recently pivoting to novels with his Jack Gatlin series, Tony has transformed his extensive storytelling background into remarkable success in indie publishing, now earning more monthly than his previous yearly income.In this episode:From comic writer to novelist: Tony's journeyScene writing techniques and mindsetHow AI aids in writing productivityBuilding a successful editing processThe importance of industry eventsResources m...
2024-11-1524 minThe Publishing Performance ShowD.F. Hart - Making Sense of Author Finances (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] D.F. Hart is a crime fiction author and the founder of 2 of Harts, a specialized bookkeeping service for authors. With expertise in both writing and financial management, she helps authors transform their writing passion into sustainable businesses through proper financial tracking and analysis.In this episode:Understanding the business side of author lifeHow to calculate true ROI on advertisingTips for tracking book sales and formatsEssential bookkeeping practices for authorsThe importance of separating business and personal financesResources mentioned:2 o...
2024-11-1515 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMarnye Young - The Magic of Audiobook Production: Beyond The Booth (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Marnye Young is the founder of Audio Sorceress, a comprehensive audiobook production company. With an MFA from Yale and extensive narration experience, she leads a team delivering full-service audiobook production including custom trailers, marketing support, and advanced listening copy teams.In this episode:Audiobook production essentialsMarketing strategies for audiobooksBuilding advance review teamsThe growing audiobook marketValue-added services in productionResources mentioned:Audio Sorceress ALC (Advanced Listening Copy) Team: https://www.audiosorceress.com/contact.htmlACX promotion codesCon...
2024-11-1515 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMichael Stewart - AI-Powered Writing: The Future of Storytelling (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Michael Stewart leads the community at SudoWrite, an AI-powered writing platform helping authors streamline their creative process. With a team distributed across the US and a community of over 10,000 authors, SudoWrite combines traditional writing tools with AI capabilities to help writers manage their stories, particularly series work.In this episode:Understanding SudoWrite's AI writing assistanceHow StoryBible helps track character detailsNew series support featuresCreating custom writing toolsBuilding community around writing techResources mentioned:SudoWrite StoryBible: https://docs.sudowrite.com/u...
2024-11-1513 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMonique Nelson of Atticus - Professional Book Formatting Made Easy (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Monique Nelson is the Educational Content Creator at Atticus, a comprehensive book writing and formatting software designed to be an author's best friend. With three years of Author Nation experience, she helps writers transform their manuscripts into professionally formatted books across multiple formats.In this episode:Understanding Atticus formatting capabilitiesLive demos and hands-on trainingProfessional formatting without outsourcingNew feature highlightsThe value of author conferencesResources mentioned:Atticus Writing Software: https://www.atticus.io/Kindlepreneur YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/K...
2024-11-1511 minThe Publishing Performance ShowPhil Marshall & Andrew Wallner of Spoken - The Future of Audio Publishing: AI Meets Monetization (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Phil Marshall and Andrew Wallner, co-founders of Spoken, introduce their revolutionary platform combining AI narration with a unique streaming and monetization model. Launched just three months ago, Spoken helps writers create, publish, and monetize audio content with an innovative subscription-based revenue model that directly rewards creators based on listening time.In this episode:Understanding Spoken's dual-purpose platformAI narration with voice actor qualityNew monetization model for audio contentShort-form audio publishing opportunitiesEthical AI approach in publishingResources mentioned:Spoken Beta P...
2024-11-1519 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMelissa Torres - The Dual Approach to Middle-Grade Book Marketing: Appealing to Parents and Kids (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Melissa Torres, a bestselling middle-grade author, shares her expertise on marketing books for the 8-12 age group. With insights on crafting irresistible covers, appealing to both parents and kids, and leveraging direct sales and bundles, Melissa provides a comprehensive guide to success in the middle-grade market.In this episode:Defining the middle-grade age range and its subgroupsThe importance of paperback books in the middle-grade marketCrafting book covers and series branding for middle-grade readersThe dual approach to marketing: appealing to parents and kidsTailoring newsletter frequency a...
2024-11-1413 minThe Publishing Performance ShowNicolette Terry - The Journey of a Military Spouse Turned Romance Author (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Nicolette Terry, a rising star in the romance genre, shares her journey from military spouse to published author. With relatable characters and passion projects that tackle tough topics, Nicolette's books have captured the hearts of readers. She discusses her writing process, the importance of mentorship, and the value of attending events like Author Nation.In this episode:Nicolette's experience at Author Nation and the benefits of networking with fellow authorsThe inspiration behind Nicolette's military romance seriesCrafting relatable characters and tackling tough topics like narcissistic a...
2024-11-1414 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJulie Broad - From Book to Business: Unlocking the Power of Your Nonfiction Book (Live in Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Julie Broad, a Las Vegas-based author and founder of Book Launchers, shares her expertise on leveraging nonfiction books for business growth. With strategies for effective book giveaways, repurposing content, and transforming expertise into powerful books, Julie provides valuable insights for speakers, consultants, and entrepreneurs looking to maximize their book's impact.In this episode:Strategies for effective book giveaways to grow your brand and businessLeveraging your book for speaking gigs and lead generationTailoring your book giveaway strategy to your specific goalsPrint book quality and working w...
2024-11-1410 minThe Publishing Performance ShowTaylor Shelton of Ingram iD - Targeted Book Marketing Made Easy (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Taylor Shelton, Product Marketer and Product Manager at Ingram iD, shares insights on how the platform simplifies digital book marketing for authors. As a subsidiary of Ingram Content Group, Ingram iD leverages a vast database of consumer readers to help authors effectively target their desired audiences through Facebook, Instagram, Google Display, and Google Search advertising.In this episode:Ingram iD's role in simplifying digital book marketing for authorsTargeting specific reader segments using Ingram iD's database of over 4 million readersCreating accessible and approachable advertising campaigns f...
2024-11-1410 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAlex Smith of Book Vault - Creating Stunning Special Editions for Indie Authors (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Alex Smith, Technical Lead at Book Vault, shares insights on how the platform empowers indie authors to create high-quality, premium books through special editions and print-on-demand services. With unique customization options, direct sales capabilities, and a focus on maximizing author revenue, Book Vault is revolutionizing the indie publishing landscape.In this episode:Book Vault's print-on-demand and direct sales servicesUnique customization options for special editions (foiling, printed end papers, ribbons, sprayed edges)Targeting super fans with premium, collectible editionsCase studies of successful indie authors using B...
2024-11-1412 minThe Publishing Performance ShowWillow Winters - Mastering Direct Sales: A Self-Publishing Success Story (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Willow Winters, a successful indie author and entrepreneur, shares insights into creating multiple revenue streams in self-publishing. Speaking from Author Nation 2024, she discusses how authors can build stability through diverse income sources, from direct sales to Kickstarter campaigns. Along with her husband Sean, who handles the business operations, Winter has created a unique publishing model that includes specialty editions and direct-to-reader sales.In this episode:Creating multiple revenue streams for authorsDirect sales vs Amazon distributionPrint quality comparisons across providersKickstarter campaign strategiesSpecial edition book creationConference n...
2024-11-1413 minThe Publishing Performance ShowPaige Allen & Deon McAdoo of IngramSpark - Harnessing Metadata for Book Marketing Success (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Paige Allen, Director, and Deon McAdoo, Key Account Sales Manager at IngramSpark, share insights on the self-publishing process, the importance of metadata, and the benefits of IngramSpark's print-on-demand and distribution services. With a focus on empowering independent authors and providing resources to help them succeed, IngramSpark offers a comprehensive approach to self-publishing.In this episode:IngramSpark's role in supporting indie authorsThe importance of education in self-publishingHarnessing metadata for book discoverabilityIngramSpark's direct selling option, "Share and Sell"Treating your writing as a businessThe impact o...
2024-11-1412 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJD Barker - Crafting Page-Turning Thrillers: Tips and Techniques from a New York Times Best-Selling Author (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS]JD Barker, a New York Times bestselling thriller and horror author, shares insights on his writing career, the publishing industry, and effective marketing strategies. With a dozen books and numerous TV and movie adaptations in the works, Barker discusses his collaborations with James Patterson and his approach to crafting gripping, suspenseful stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.In this episode:Balancing thriller and horror elements in writingNavigating book-to-film adaptations and optionsCo-authoring with James PattersonExploring various publishing approaches (traditional, indie, and h...
2024-11-1307 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJeffrey H. Haskell - Crafting Best-Selling Military Sci-Fi Books (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Jeffery H. Haskell, the bestselling author of the military sci-fi series "Grimms of War," shares his experiences as a writer, the importance of writing conferences, and the shift in the publishing landscape for science fiction and fantasy authors. Haskell discusses his journey from an aspiring writer to a successful author, and how conferences like Author Nation have helped him along the way.In this episode:The value of writing conferences for authors at all career stagesManaging writing with ADHD, including a morning routine"Against A...
2024-11-1311 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCarissa Andrews - Practical Manifestation Techniques for Writers (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS] Carissa Andrews, founder of Author Revolution and an expert in manifestation techniques for authors, shares insights on aligning the subconscious mind, energy, and actions to achieve writing and publishing success. With a background in quantum physics and a practical approach to manifestation, Andrews provides strategies for authors to overcome limiting beliefs, harness the power of their minds, and create thriving careers.In this episode:Manifestation and quantum physics for authorsTechniques for aligning the subconscious, energy, and actionsSetting intentions and making decisions in manifestationOvercoming limiting beliefs and m...
2024-11-1318 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCameron Sutter of Plottr: Visual Story Planning Software for Fiction Authors (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS]Cameron Sutter, a sci-fi/fantasy author and the inventor of Plottr – the popular visual story planning software – shares insights on visual story planning and organization for fiction authors. Speaking from Author Nation 2024, he discusses how Plottr helps writers see the threads of their story, organize details into a series bible, and use templates to hit key story beats. His software background and experience as an author provide a unique perspective on writing tools.In this episode:Visual story mapping with Plottr softwareOrganizing a story into...
2024-11-1314 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCeleste Barclay - Building the Customer Journey and Dominating the Romance Market (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS]Celeste Barclay, a bestselling historical romance author and former educator, shares her expertise on understanding the consumer journey in publishing. Speaking from Author Nation 2024, she discusses how authors can build lasting relationships with readers through strategic marketing and branding. Her unique background in political management and education brings a fresh perspective to author marketing strategies.In this episode:Understanding the complete consumer journeyBuilding reader relationships beyond the initial saleStrategic author branding decisionsHistorical accuracy in fiction marketingEmail marketing and analytics strategiesSocial media engagement techniquesConverting readers i...
2024-11-1321 minThe Publishing Performance ShowAlessandra Torre & JD Lasica of Authors A.I. - Inside the Marlowe AI System (Live at Author Nation 2024)[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024]Alessandra Torre and JD Lasica, co-founders of Authors A.I., discuss how artificial intelligence, through their tool Marlowe, enhances the writing process. Speaking at Author Nation 2024, they highlight how AI can improve manuscripts via data-driven analysis, combining technology with creative writing.Alessandra Torre, a New York Times bestselling author, excels in both traditional and self-publishing. She has built multiple author-focused businesses and understands the needs in manuscript development.JD Lasica, a techno-thriller author, brings his AI and digital innovation expertise to publishing. His latest...
2024-11-1215 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMatt Briel - Lulu.com's Secret Weapon: Spiral Bound Publishing SuccessMatt Briel is the Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Lulu.com, one of the pioneers in print-on-demand publishing. With over 22 years of experience in self-publishing solutions, Lulu specializes in offering unique printing options including spiral binding and direct sales integration. In this episode, Matt shares insights into print-on-demand technology, spiral binding capabilities, and successful case studies of authors using these formats.In this episode:Overview of Lulu.com's print-on-demand servicesDetailed explanation of spiral bound book productionLimitations and possibilities with spiral bindingSuccess stories and case studiesDirect sales opportunities through LuluPrint-on-demand global distribution networksTips...
2024-11-0737 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDave Chesson - Cracking the Amazon Keyword Code with the KindlepreneurDave Chesson, founder of Kindlepreneur and Publisher Rocket, shares his expertise on Amazon keyword optimization and book marketing. As the creator of one of the most popular keyword research tools for authors, Dave provides insights into how authors can better position their books for discovery on Amazon.In this episode:The story behind Publisher Rocket's developmentUnderstanding Amazon's keyword systemHow to optimize your seven KDP keyword boxesDifferent approaches for fiction vs non-fiction keywordsUsing the new reverse ASIN tool for researchTips for analyzing competition and market potentialBest practices for keyword research and implementation
2024-11-0544 minThe Publishing Performance ShowSuzy K Quinn - Writing Romantic Comedy and Building a Group of SuperfansSuzy K Quinn is a bestselling author with over 20 books across romantic comedy and thriller genres. Her self-published works include the successful Bad Mother's Diary series and The Ivy Lessons series, which have sold hundreds of thousands of copies. Currently heading the London office of Kevin Anderson Associates' ghostwriting company, Suzy combines her writing expertise with helping other authors develop their manuscripts.In this episode:Suzy's journey from aspiring writer to bestselling authorThe differences between self-publishing and traditional publishingHer experience with viral book success on AmazonInsights into writing bestselling fictionThe importance of focusing on...
2024-10-3134 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDan Ramm - Spotlight on Storytelling: From Scripts to Self-PublishingDan Ramm is a TV writer and producer who has transitioned into novel writing with his debut book "The Long Branch." With over 20 years of experience in Hollywood, including writing for shows like Criminal Minds and creating his own TV series, Dan brings unique insights into the entertainment industry and the craft of storytelling. His unexpected journey from construction work to screenwriting, and now to novel writing, offers a fresh perspective on the evolving world of authorship.In this episode:Dan's journey from construction worker to Hollywood scriptwriterThe transition from TV writing to novel...
2024-10-2939 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJoe Solari - Author Networking Success: The Author Nation Strategy GuideJoe Solari is the Managing Director of Author Nation Conference, one of the largest and most innovative writing conferences in the self publishing industry. With wide experience in organizing major events and building author communities, Joe brings a unique perspective to conference organization and author development. His focus on combining business strategies with creativity has helped shape Author Nation into an amazing experience for writers at all stages of their careers. Along with his wife Sue, Joe has visited numerous industry conferences to bring the best practices and most effective strategies to the author community. I...
2024-10-2442 minThe Publishing Performance ShowChristina Graves - Horror Writing Tips and Indie Publishing InsightsChristina Graves is a creative writing student, indie author, and digital artist residing in the Deep South where legend and scary stories wander hand in hand. Her debut novel, "Still Dark Places," was released through Horrorsmith Publishing and launched their thriller imprint, Thrill Forge. With a unique blend of southern gothic atmosphere and thriller pacing, Christina offers insights into the world of indie publishing and the creative process behind writing suspenseful fiction.In this episode:Christina's journey from aspiring writer to published authorThe process of writing and structuring a dual-timeline novelInsights into the indie...
2024-10-2237 minThe Publishing Performance ShowVictoria Gerken - Turning Pages into Performances: The Art of Audiobook PublishingVictoria Gerken, Publisher at Podium Entertainment, discusses the audiobook industry and Podium's role in publishing audiobooks for independent authors.In this episode:Victoria's journey from traditional publishing to audiobook publishingHow Podium works with authors to produce high-quality audiobooksThe differences between Podium and self-publishing platforms like ACXAdvice for authors considering entering the audiobook marketThe importance of quality in audiobook productionHow Podium handles cultural differences and accents in narrationSuccess stories of authors working with PodiumPodium's expansion into print publishingResources mentioned:Podium Entertainment website - https://podiumentertainment.com/Instagram: https://www...
2024-10-1742 minThe Publishing Performance ShowDave Cohen - The Art of Injecting Humor into Any Fiction GenreDave Cohen, a writer, comedian, and Edinburgh Festival Perrier Award nominee, has been a constant presence on the British comedy scene for over 35 years. As a founder member of the Comedy Store Players and writer for successful TV shows like Have I Got News For You, Spitting Image, and BBC sitcoms Not Going Out and My Family, Dave has also written nearly 100 songs for the multi-BAFTA winning BBC hit Horrible Histories. With experience in stand-up comedy, radio shows, and as the lead singer of the world's first Jewish heavy metal band Guns'n'Moses, Dave has now turned his attention to...
2024-10-1546 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMark Leslie Lefebvre - Unlocking the Secrets of Kobo and Wide PublishingMark Leslie Lefebvre is a prolific author, book industry expert, and self-publishing innovator. He has published over twenty-five books across various genres, including thrillers, horror, paranormal non-fiction, and guides for authors. His industry experience includes leadership roles at Kobo, Draft2Digital, and several major book industry organizations.In this episode:Mark's journey as a writer, from early rejections to published authorThe inspiration behind his horror and urban fantasy writingMark's writing process and collaboration with editorsThe development and features of Kobo Writing LifeComparison of Kobo to other platforms like Amazon KDPEffective marketing tactics for authors...
2024-10-1049 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJames Blatch - Decoding the Self-Publishing Formula for Author SuccessJames Blatch is a former BBC Defence Reporter, BBFC Film Examiner, and author of military aviation thrillers. His reporting career included coverage from HMS Invincible during the Operation Desert Fox build-up, Kuwait's Ali Al Salem allied air base, the Arctic Circle, and the UK air offensive during the Kosovo Conflict in 1999. James is also the co-founder of the Self Publishing Formula and organizer of the Self Publishing Show Live conference.In this episode:James' journey from BBC reporter to novelistHow his defense reporting experience influences his writingThe inspiration behind his first book "Final Flight"...
2024-10-0851 minThe Publishing Performance ShowCraig Martelle - How to Sell 20 Books to Make 50KCraig Martelle is a prolific author with nearly 200 published works, including over 110 full-length novels. A retired Marine and former lawyer, Craig is also the founder of the 20 Books to 50K community and a key figure in the indie author world.In this episode:Craig's journey from Marine to bestselling authorStrategies for writing and publishing multiple books per yearThe importance of book pricing and how it affects salesInsights into international markets, particularly German translationsThe evolution and impact of author conferencesTips for building and managing online author communitiesBalancing fiction and non-fiction writingThe importance of mindset in...
2024-10-0346 minThe Publishing Performance ShowJamie Davis - Building Author Communities and Fantasy WorldsJamie Davis is a nurse, retired paramedic, author, and nationally recognized medical educator. He has written over 55 fun fantasy reads, focusing on urban fantasy and incorporating his medical background. As the conference director of Author Nation, Jamie helps organize one of the premier events for indie authors. His expertise spans writing, marketing, and building author communities.In this episode:Jamie's journey from storyteller to published author, starting with NaNoWriMoUnderstanding and writing in the urban fantasy genreJamie's writing process and approach to plottingEffective marketing tactics for authors, focusing on email lists and BookBubThe importance of...
2024-09-2640 minThe Publishing Performance ShowIsabelle Knight - PR Secrets: Building Your Author BrandIsabelle Knight is a publicist to the stars, having worked with high-profile clients such as JK Rowling and the BBC. As the founder of Build Your Author Brand, Isabelle now helps authors develop their profile, grow their readership, and increase book sales. Her expertise spans traditional and digital marketing strategies, offering unique insights into the world of author branding and publicity.In this episode:Understanding the concept of building an author brandThe importance of identifying and connecting with your target audienceEffective strategies for author publicity and PRUsing newsletters and social media to engage with readersCollaborating with...
2024-09-2043 minThe Publishing Performance ShowStuart Grant - Maximizing Your Online Presence with Author WebsitesStuart Grant is the founder of Digital Authors Toolkit, a digital agency specializing in author websites. With over a decade of experience in the publishing industry and having created more than 300 websites for authors, Stuart is a leading expert in helping writers establish their online presence. His approach combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of author needs and reader expectations.In this episode:The importance of author websites and essential elements they should includeWebsite design tips, including using book covers as inspirationSEO optimization and strategies for driving traffic to your siteEmail list building...
2024-09-1243 minThe Publishing Performance ShowMike Hourigan - Mastering Book Promotions in 2025Mike Hourigan is a representative from Written Word Media, a company known for its book promotion services including Free Booksy and Bargain Booksy. With extensive experience in book marketing, Mike offers valuable insights into effective promotion strategies for authors at various stages of their careers.In this episode:The difference between launch promotions and price promotionsThe concept of promo stacking and its importance in book marketingHow to use free book promotions effectively to gain reviews and readersStrategies for promoting both fiction and non-fiction booksThe importance of book covers and blurbs in marketing success
2024-09-1232 minThe Publishing Performance ShowKevin J. Anderson - Mastering the Publishing MultiverseKevin J. Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author, best known for his work on the Dune series and Star Wars expanded universe. As co-author of the Dune prequels and sequels with Brian Herbert, Kevin has significantly expanded Frank Herbert's iconic science fiction universe. His contributions to Star Wars include 54 novels, comics, and young adult series, helping to shape the franchise's literary landscape. With over 24 million books in print, Kevin's prolific career spans both traditional and indie publishing, offering unique insights into the evolving world of authorship.In this episode:Kevin's experience writing...
2024-09-1252 minThe Publishing Performance ShowWelcome to the Publishing Performance Podcast - TrailerWelcome to The Publishing Performance Show, the ultimate resource for self-publishers looking to take their careers to the next level. This weekly podcast dives deep into the world of self-publishing, offering invaluable insights, strategies, and real-world experiences from successful authors and industry experts.Subscribe to the Publishing Performance Show on your preferred podcast platform to join Teddy Smith and his guests in exploring the world of self-publishing.Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/
2024-08-1303 min