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Indie Authors Tell All episodes
- The Wonderlady - Ruth Schwartz
What does it really take to turn a finished manuscript into a professionally published book? Writing the book is only the beginning. From professional editing and cover design to metadata, formatting, and marketing, the publishing process requires careful planning, patience, and the right support.
In this episode of Indie Authors Tell All, Becky Parker Geist welcomes Ruth Schwartz, author, CEO and founder of Wonder Lady Books, and an experienced publishing professional who helps authors navigate the complexities of independent publishing.
Ruth shares insights from decades of publishing experience, including her own journey as an author of The Best Solution to Hunger in America: How to Set Up and Run an All-Volunteer Community Food Rescue Organization. She explains how assisted self-publishing works, why doing things in the right order matters, and how authors can create high-quality books that stand alongside traditionally published titles.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:- The biggest mistakes first-time authors make: Learn why publishing a book without professional editing, thoughtful design, or a plan for reaching readers can undermine its potential.
- Why professional editing matters: Discover how grammar, punctuation, consistency, and other details can make the difference between a polished book and one that loses readers' trust.
- The importance of following the right publishing sequence: Understand why Ruth recommends producing a paperback proof before creating the ebook, helping authors catch errors and avoid unnecessary revisions.
- What metadata means and why it matters: Explore how titles, subtitles, keywords, and categories help position a book for its intended audience.
- How assisted self-publishing differs from doing everything yourself: Learn how professional support can guide authors through the process while allowing them to retain control of their publishing projects.
- Why publishing a book is only the beginning: Understand why simply uploading a book to Amazon doesn't guarantee readers will discover it, and why marketing requires ongoing attention.
- How print-on-demand changed independent publishing: Discover how new technologies have made it possible to publish and distribute books without investing in large print runs or storing inventory.
- What successful publishing clients have in common: Find out why authors who are willing to learn, follow a process, and prioritize quality are better positioned to produce professional books.
- How networking can strengthen your publishing journey: Learn how the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA) connects authors with experienced professionals, practical advice, and valuable relationships.
- Why patience is essential: Hear Ruth's advice on taking the time to review proofs, reconsider decisions, and ensure every detail reflects the author's intentions.
Ruth also shares the story behind Wonder Lady Books, explaining how her publishing background, love of books, and involvement with BAIPA inspired her business. She discusses the value of educating authors throughout the process and why building relationships within the independent publishing community can make the journey easier and more rewarding.
📚 Wonder Lady Books
https://thewonderlady.comExplore Ruth's assisted self-publishing services, learn more about the publishing process, and discover examples of books she has helped bring to life.
🤝 Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA)
https://baipa.orgConnect with a community of independent authors and publishing professionals. BAIPA offers educational resources, monthly meetings, networking opportunities, and expert guidance for authors at every stage of their publishing journey.
📖 The Best Solution to Hunger in America
Ruth Schwartz's book explains how to establish and operate an all-volunteer community food rescue organization, sharing the experience behind a nonprofit food program she and her husband, Kurt, founded more than two decades ago.Watch the video of this interview
Connect With UsIf you're an aspiring author, an experienced writer preparing your next book, or an independent publisher looking to improve your process, this episode offers practical guidance for making informed publishing decisions.
Follow Indie Authors Tell All for more practical conversations, expert advice, and actionable insights to help you navigate your author journey successfully.
Hashtags#BAIPA #IndieAuthorsTellAll #RuthSchwartz #BeckyParkerGeist #WonderLadyBooks #SelfPublishing #IndependentPublishing #BookPublishing #AuthorSuccess #PublishingTips #BookDesign #ProfessionalEditing #BookMarketing #Metadata #PrintOnDemand #AmazonKDP #IngramSpark #IndieAuthors #AuthorCommunity #PublishingJourney #FoodRescue #NonprofitOrganizations #TheBestSolutionToHungerInAmerica
45 min - Book Launch Secrets That Drive Visibility and Revenue: Interview with Robbie Samuels
What if the true measure of a successful book launch isn’t becoming an Amazon bestseller—but building lasting credibility, meaningful connections, and a revenue-generating business?
In this episode, Judy welcomes Robbie Samuels, award-winning author, book launch expert, and founder of Biz Book Pub Hub, for an insightful conversation about turning a book into a powerful business development tool.
Robbie has authored four books, earned hundreds of reader reviews, and achieved #1 bestseller status in four countries. But his message to entrepreneurial authors is clear: Strategy over vanity. Always.
Together, Judy and Robbie explore why bestseller rankings are only one piece of the puzzle and how a strategic book launch can generate far greater long-term value. Discover why collecting advance reader reviews, building a dedicated launch team, and nurturing relationships with readers and referral partners can help authors create opportunities that extend well beyond book sales.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:- Why bestseller status isn't the ultimate goal: Focus on meaningful business outcomes rather than rankings and vanity metrics.
- How to build a review strategy that works: Learn why collecting advance reviews, providing helpful prompts, and following up thoughtfully can strengthen your launch.
- What to do when Amazon reviews disappear: Explore alternative ways to preserve and share reader feedback, including Goodreads, LinkedIn, and social media.
- How to turn your launch team into a business-building asset: See how relationships with readers, clients, and referral partners can lead to new contracts and revenue opportunities.
- Why you should validate your book idea before publishing: Identify your ideal reader, confirm the problem your book solves, and ensure your content aligns with your business goals.
- The difference between a publication date and a launch date: Understand how a soft launch builds early sales and reviews before your larger promotional campaign.
- How to market your book with confidence: Learn to focus on the value you provide and the people who need your message.
Robbie also shares practical insights from real-world book launches, including how one client secured five new contracts following a strategically planned campaign—even when the launch generated fewer reviews than initially anticipated.
📚 Robbie Samuels — Book Launch Brainstorm
https://booklaunchbrainstorm.comExplore Robbie's book launch expertise and resources for developing a strategy that connects your book to your business goals.🤝 Biz Book Pub Hub
https://bizbookpubhub.comConnect with entrepreneurial authors and publishing professionals, explore expert resources, attend virtual networking events, and discover opportunities for collaboration and cross-promotion.Watch the video of this interview
Connect With UsIf you're an indie author, entrepreneur, consultant, coach, or speaker planning your next book, this episode will help you rethink what success looks like—and how to build a launch strategy that supports your bigger goals.
Listen, take notes, and start planning a book launch that creates opportunities long after launch day.
Follow Indie Authors Tell All for more practical conversations, expert advice, and actionable insights to help you navigate your author journey successfully.
#BAIPA #IndieAuthorsTellAll #RobbieSamuels #JudyMBaker #BookLaunchStrategy #IndieAuthors #SelfPublishing #AuthorMarketing #BookMarketing #BookLaunch #AmazonBookReviews #AuthorBranding #NonfictionAuthors #EntrepreneurAuthors #ThoughtLeadership #BookPromotion #AuthorSuccess #BusinessGrowth #RevenueGeneration #BizBookPubHub #StrategyOverVanity
35 min - Turning Books into Business Engines: Interview with Carol Abrahamson
In this episode, Mike sits down with prolific nonfiction author and entrepreneur Carol Abrahamson to uncover the secrets behind her massive success. With 42 nonfiction books under her belt, Carol shares how she transitioned from a Wall Street background to building a multi-million dollar consulting business using books as powerful lead magnets.
We dive deep into the strategy of "series writing"—how to repurpose content across different industries to reach specific audiences—and why knowing your target market is more important than waiting to be "discovered."
Additionally, Carol introduces her groundbreaking work with Book Award Mastery, explaining how authors can navigate the massive world of book awards to gain prestige, increase keynote fees, and open doors that "bestseller" status alone cannot. Whether you are a business professional looking to leverage a book for growth or an indie author seeking industry recognition, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
Key Topics Discussed:
- The power of writing book series to build brand authority.
- Using books as strategic tools for high-ticket consulting and business growth.
- How to identify and target your ideal professional audience.
- Navigating the world of book awards: Avoiding scams and finding quality recognition.
- The difference between "Bestseller" marketing and "Book Award" prestige.
Resources Mentioned:
- Learn about BAIPA: BAIPA.org (Bay Area Independent Publishers Association)
- Carol’s Business Strategy: executiveauthors.com
- Master Your Book Awards: bookawardmastery.com
- Watch the video of this interview
#indieauthor #selfpublishing #nonfiction #bookmarketing #entrepreneurship #bookawards #writingcommunity #BAIPA #businessgrowth
35 min - International Bill of Rights: Interview with Dr. John Kirk Boyd
In this episode, Becky sits down with Dr. John Kirk Boyd, author of International Bill of Rights: Humanity's Agreement to Live Together.
Drawing from his extensive legal career—including appearances before the U.S. Supreme Court—Dr. Boyd discusses his mission to transform the Universal Declaration of Human Rights into an enforceable legal framework. We dive into the profound connection between writing and human rights, the importance of "imagination and courage" in global progress, and how the evolving landscape of AI is being embraced as a tool for unprecedented global collaboration.
The conversation also shifts into the practical world of publishing. Dr. Boyd shares his personal experiences navigating both traditional publishing and hybrid models (like Gatekeeper), offering invaluable advice for indie authors on the importance of building a professional team and utilizing digital platforms to reach a global audience.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The transition from legal practice to humanitarian writing.
- Using AI to foster collaboration and overcome language barriers.
- The pros and cons of traditional vs. independent/hybrid publishing.
- Why "the path less traveled" by authors is a journey of both pleasure and pain.
Featured Guest & Resources- Guest: Dr. John Kirk Boyd
- Book: International Bill of Rights: Humanity's Agreement to Live Together
- Website: uniteforrights.org
About the Podcast & Community- Produced by: Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA)
- Join the Community: BAIPA.org
- Watch the video of this interview
#indieauthors #independentpublishing #humanrights #authorlife #hybridpublishing #BAIPA #writingcommunity #AIinpublishing #internationalbillofrights
39 min - From Classroom to Creative Writing - Interview with Julie Snider
In this episode, Judy welcomes author Julie Snider to discuss her journey from a 30-year career in teaching to becoming a published independent author.
Julie shares the "real world" side of the writing process, including the challenges of developmental editing, the importance of organization using tools like Scrivener, and the exhilarating (yet daunting) transition from writing to marketing. We dive deep into her latest book, Chapel Bay Secrets, a character-driven women's fiction novel set in coastal California that weaves together mystery, romance, and heavy themes like the Japanese internment and book banning.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
- The Writing Journey: How to transition from a professional career into a creative one.
- Tools of the Trade: Why software like Scrivener can be a game-changer for staying organized.
- Navigating Revisions: The "scary" but necessary process of working with a developmental editor and "killing your darlings."
- Marketing & Community: Creative ways to promote your work—from local running stores to book clubs—and the vital importance of building an authentic author community.
- The Power of Reviews: How to encourage heartfelt reviews and the value of being a reviewer yourself.
Whether you are an aspiring writer or a seasoned indie author, this conversation offers inspiration and practical advice on navigating the complex, rewarding world of independent publishing.
Connect with our Guest: juliesniderauthor.comThe Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA) is a volunteer-run community dedicated to elevating the art and business of indie publishing. Join our global community of authors and professionals! baipa.org
Watch the video of this interview
#IndieAuthors #SelfPublishing #WritingCommunity #WomensFiction #IndieAuthor #BookMarketing #BAIPA #AuthorLife #WritingTips #Scrivener
43 min - Navigating the Indie Path: Interview with Akilah Trinay
In this episode, Mike sits down with the multi-talented Dr. Sharifah Akilah Trinay Parr, a PhD, author, consultant, and the founder of both Revision Publishing and RP Books.
Akilah shares her journey from being a high school English teacher to becoming an "accidental entrepreneur" in the publishing world. We dive deep into the nuances of hybrid publishing, the importance of owning your intellectual property, and the reality of building a brick-and-mortar bookstore to support local and independent authors.
Key topics discussed in this episode:
- The Hybrid Approach: How to act as a consultant and accountability partner for authors rather than just a traditional publisher.
- The Author-Publisher Model: Reimagining publishing so that authors retain more control and ownership of their work.
- Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Practical advice on embracing your unique professional identity and not getting bogged down by online reviews.
- Marketing & Distribution: Strategies for getting your books onto independent bookstore shelves and balancing Amazon with other platforms like IngramSpark.
- The Power of Community: Why connecting with fellow creators is essential for long-term success.
Whether you are at the brainstorming stage of your first manuscript or you are a seasoned indie author looking to scale your brand, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the business and heart of independent publishing.
Connect with our Guest:- Website: www.revisionpub.com
- Social Media: Search RP Books Bookstore or Revision Publishing LLC on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).
Learn More About BAIPA:The Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA) is a volunteer-run community dedicated to elevating the art and business of indie publishing. Join our global community of authors and professionals!
- Website: baipa.org
Watch the video of this interview
#IndiePublishing #SelfPublishing #AuthorLife #HybridPublishing #WritingCommunity #BookMarketing #BAIPA #IndieAuthorsTellAll
31 min - From Photography to Advocacy: Interview with Nita Winter & Rob Badger
In this episode, Becky welcomes authors Nita Winter and Rob Badger to discuss their extraordinary journey of self-publishing.
What began as a 30-year passion for photographing California's wildflowers evolved into a prestigious award-winning coffee table book: Beauty and the Beast: California Wildflowers and Climate Change. Nita and Rob share the raw, real-world details of the independent publishing path—from the challenges of managing a diverse group of 16 professional essayists to the logistical complexities of overseas printing and high-quality book design.
Highlights include:
- The Power of Control: Why they chose independent publishing over traditional routes to maintain creative vision and content sequencing.
- Collaborative Success: How they partnered with organizations like the California Native Plant Society and professional designers to elevate their work.
- Breaking Barriers through Accessibility: An inspiring look at their groundbreaking project to create an image-described audiobook, making the beauty of nature accessible to the visually impaired community.
- Lessons Learned: The importance of marketing, the realities of long-term production timelines, and the value of finding the right professional "fit" for your team.
Whether you are a photographer looking to publish a collection or an author navigating the complexities of multi-author projects, Nita and Rob’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, passion, and the power of community.
🔗 Relevant Links- Visit the Authors: wildflowerbooks.com
- Join the Community: BAIPA.org (Bay Area Independent Publishers Association)
- Watch the video of this episode
#️⃣ Hashtags#IndiePublishing #SelfPublishing #WildflowerPhotography #ClimateChangeAwareness #AccessiblePublishing #IndieAuthors #BookDesign #NaturePhotography #BAIPA #IndieAuthorsTellAll
51 min - Redefining Creativity - Interview with Gini Graham Scott
In this episode, Mike sits down with the incredibly prolific Gini Graham Scott to explore how she manages a massive, multi-disciplinary career spanning books, films, games, and music.
Gini shares her unique philosophy of "playing life as a game" and demonstrates how she uses cutting-edge AI tools to streamline her creative process—from generating book illustrations and brainstorming chapter outlines to developing game mechanics. We dive deep into the practicalities of being a "Creative Director" of your own life, managing a global team of virtual assistants, and navigating the ethical complexities of AI in the modern publishing landscape.
In this episode, you’ll learn about:
- Multi-Stream Creativity: How to tie different mediums (writing, gaming, film, music) together into a cohesive brand.
- AI as a Tool: Practical ways to use AI for research, illustrations, and overcoming writer's block without losing your personal voice.
- Time Management & Delegation: How to manage multiple projects simultaneously by segmenting time and leveraging virtual assistants.
- The Business of Indie Publishing: Insights into using platforms like Amazon, ACX, and SongTrader to monetize various creative outputs.
Connect with Gini:- Main Website: https://www.changemakerspublishingandwriting.com/
Watch the video of this episode
About the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA):Looking for community, guidance, and professional growth? BAIPA is a volunteer-run educational community dedicated to the art and business of independent publishing.
Website: BAIPA.org
#IndiePublishing #AuthorLife #AIinWriting #CreativeEntrepreneur #SelfPublishing #BAIPA #IndieAuthors #WritingCommunity #Gamification
43 min - Forgiveness through Authorship - Interview with Carolyn CJ Jones
In this episode, Becky sits down with BAIPA member and author Carolyn C.J. Jones to discuss her transformative journey through writing, publishing, and personal healing.
Carolyn shares the fascinating origin of her pen name and dives into the creative process behind her books: the poetic imagery of Opening the Gates of the Heart, the life-changing lessons in The Art of Forgiveness, and her recent memoir, Beyond Childhood Trauma. Beyond the personal stories, Carolyn offers invaluable insights into the realities of independent publishing—from the importance of establishing a searchable brand to the challenges of marketing and the life-saving benefits of joining a community like the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA).
Whether you are an author looking for encouragement or a reader seeking a path toward peace and healing, this conversation offers profound inspiration on how storytelling can facilitate deep personal transformation.
Key Topics:- Branding as an Author: Why Googling your name is a vital first step.
- The Creative Spark: How journaling and photography merged to create evocative verse.
- The Path to Peace: Moving from victimhood to forgiveness using the "Yippee Method."
- Navigating the Indie Landscape: The role of community and continuous learning in publishing and marketing.
Author Website: carolyncjjones.com
BAIPA (Bay Area Independent Publishers Association): baipa.org
Audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com
Watch the video of this interview on YouTube
#IndieAuthors #SelfPublishing #WritingCommunity #Forgiveness #PersonalTransformation #AuthorLife #BAIPA #IndiePublishing #HealingThroughWriting #Memoir
30 min - Writing, Editing, and Marketing Children’s Books - Interview with Karin Fisher-Golton
In this episode, we sit down with Karin Fisher-Golton, a multi-talented children's book author and specialized editor, to explore the unique landscape of independent publishing for young readers.
Karin shares her fascinating journey from using crowdfunding to launch her board book, My Amazing Day, to diving deep into historical research for her time-travel novel, The Clock and the Boulder. We discuss the intricacies of children's book editing, why developmental and structural editing are vital for young audiences, and how to ensure your manuscript hits the right age demographic.
Whether you are an aspiring author looking to master your "elevator pitch," a writer interested in the benefits of poetry for honing your prose, or an indie publisher seeking community, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.
- https://karinfisher-golton.com/
- https://www.pacificdogwoodpress.com/
- https://www.baipa.org
- See the video interview on YouTube
#indieauthor #selfpublishing #childrensbooks #crowdfunding #writingtips #bookediting #BAIPA #indiepublishing #authorcommunity
44 min
About Indie Authors Tell All
From the publisher's feed
Welcome to Indie Authors Tell All, where authors take the mic. Every other week, we chat with Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA) members and those who help us publish and sell our…
books. We dig into the challenges and successes of independent publishing—writing, publishing, and promoting—from the people making it happen. We're a community that can help you along this path, avoiding expensive mistakes, and becoming successful authors. We’re here to shine a light on the real-world challenges and successes in independent publishing — straight from the people making it happen. We know from our collective decades of experience, that indie publishing may be independent but it requires a team effort. Finding your resources — like this podcast or like Independent Book Publisher Associations, can save you years of time and thousands of dollars.
Every other week, we chat with Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (or BAIPA) members and industry professionals who are shaping the future of publishing and redefining what it means to go indie.
Every other week, we chat with Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (or BAIPA) members and industry professionals who are shaping the future of publishing and redefining what it means to go indie.