In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac interviews Jane Friedman, a seasoned expert in the publishing industry. They delve into Jane's rich 25-year career, her views on traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing, and the transformative role of AI in the industry. Jane shares her experiences of AI's impact, both the exciting potential and the disturbing inaccuracies, as well as her journey in the publishing industry.

What we’re talking about

• The rise of hybrid publishing and its implications

• The transformative role of AI in the publishing industry

• The future of publishing

The rise of hybrid publishing and its implications

The rise of hybrid publishing has blurred the lines between traditional and self-publishing. Jane points out that authors need to carefully evaluate the value a hybrid publisher offers against the financial investment required. It's crucial to consider the costs involved, the percentage of earnings the hybrid publisher will take, and whether the services provided align with your goals as an author.

The transformative role of AI in the publishing industry

The role of AI in the publishing industry is both exciting and concerning. Jane shares her personal experience with AI-generated content being erroneously associated with her name, an example of the challenges and possible risks involved. However, she also acknowledges the potential of AI as a tool for generating starting points for content, suggesting that we are currently in the growing pains phase of this technology.

The future of publishing

Looking ahead, the future of publishing is set to continue evolving. With major shifts such as the acquisition of Simon & Schuster and the demise of McGraw-Hill, the industry seems to be in a state of flux. Jane doesn't provide a concrete forecast but encourages authors to stay adaptable and keep abreast of changes.

 

LINKS MENTIONED

Jane Friedman’s Website

http://janefriedman.com

The Hot Sheet http://hotsheetpub.com