Speak Onstage With Dave Crane

S04 E16 - How to write a book and turn it into a business empire with Anna David

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SHOWNOTES

Introduction to This Podcast:

Anna David first appeared on my radar when I saw an extensive interview where this New York Times best-seller explained that you don’t need to sell lots of books to be a successful author. The business model built around it is just as important. 

After hearing that, I was fascinated and had to know more…

  • Introduction - 00:50: Anna David is introduced as a transformative figure in the book publishing industry who has redefined the traditional approach to book publishing.
  • Background - 00:55 : Known for her best-selling status and innovative strategies in book publication, Anna shares her journey from setbacks in traditional publishing to mastering the art of leveraging books as business tools.
  • Industry Evolution - 04:19: Anna discusses how the publishing industry has evolved from a traditional to a more entrepreneurial model, emphasising the importance of adapting to changes.
  •  Self-Publishing Advantages - 03:05: She highlights the empowerment of self-publishing, which allows authors to control their work and directly connect with their audience.
  • Marketing and Revenue Streams - 03:07: Anna details how a book can serve as a marketing tool, opening various revenue streams such as speaking engagements, courses, and consulting services.
  • Expanding Network - 03:21: It helps in broadening your network by connecting with readers, industry experts, and potential clients.
  • Personal Fulfilment - 07:57: Anna points out the personal satisfaction that comes from sharing your knowledge and contributing to others' success.
  • Empowering Message - 17:02: Anna encourages aspiring authors to pursue book writing with a clear understanding of their goals and the audience they want to impact.
  • Final Thoughts - 18:15: She reaffirms the strategic importance of books in personal branding and business development.
  • Giving Books Away - 19:20: Anna discusses the strategy of giving books away to key influencers to maximize exposure and business opportunities.
  • Return on Investment - 21:00: Anna shares insights on the significant returns that can be achieved from book publishing when linked to business services, rather than direct book sales. 

    • Additional Insights

    • Book as a Long-term Asset - 22:40: Anna views books as long-term assets that keep providing value over time through continuous engagement and updated editions.
    • Importance of Book Quality -23:14: Emphasises producing a high-quality book that engages readers and stands out in the crowded market.
    • Using Books to Get Speaking Engagements - 24:30: The discussion highlights how authors can use books to secure lucrative speaking engagements, often leading to high-value client engagements.
    • Building a Sustainable Business - 24:50: Explains how speaking for free at targeted events can lead to high-value clients, justifying the strategy as a better return on investment than paid speaking gigs.
    • Creative Promotions - 26:32: Anna talks about using creative methods to promote books, including customised electronic notebooks to make a memorable impact.
    • Continued Value of Books - 29:32: Books are stressed as a cornerstone for establishing credibility and long-term success in any professional field.
    • Final Advice - 30:40: Recommends focusing on creating impactful content that resonates with the target audience, ensuring the book's content is both informative and engaging.
    • Hollywood Struggles - 36:41: Anna discusses the cyclical interest in her work within Hollywood, including challenges and transient opportunities, highlighting the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.
    • Shift in Priorities - 37:30:  Anna reflects on how becoming a parent has shifted her priorities away from professional accolades towards more personal fulfilment and family.
    • Hollywood's Evolution - 38:28: Discusses changes in the movie industry, emphasising how traditional cinema is adapting to compete with digital platforms like Netflix.
    • AI in Writing - 39:14: Anna discusses the potential of AI in book writing, acknowledging its current limitations but also its usefulness in generating ideas and streamlining the creative process.
    • Starting a Book - 44:01: Anna advises aspiring writers to seek professional help early in the book-writing process to efficiently structure and plan their work.
    • Wrap-Up and Thanks - 45:04: The podcast concludes with appreciation for Anna’s insights and a teaser for future discussions about leveraging books for business and speaking careers.

      • I hope you enjoyed listening as much as we enjoyed chatting. Part 2 is to come soon as we discuss how to take your book onto the big stage as a speaker. Meanwhile, connect with Anna and SUBSCRIBE to get all the best future and past podcasts sent to you fresh from the laptop…

      Anna David - Contact Information

      Social Media:

      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabdavid/ 
      • X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnnaDavid 
      • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabdavid/ 

        • Websites: https://annadavid.com/ 

        https://www.legacylaunchpadpub.com/

         

         

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        Speak Onstage With Dave CraneBy Dave Crane