The Publishing Performance Show

[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 journey
• Scene writing techniques and mindset
• How AI aids in writing productivity
• Building a successful editing process
• The importance of industry events

Resources mentioned:

• ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com/
• Whisper AI: https://openai.com/index/whisper/
• Scrivener: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overview
• Vellum: https://vellum.pub/
• Jack Gatland Book Series: https://jackgatland.com/

Connect with Tony:

• Website: https://tonylee.co.uk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrtonylee/
• Facebook Group (for readers and updates)

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 projects
• Essential steps for launching a successful campaign
• How to leverage existing audiences for crowdfunding success
• Creating compelling rewards for backers
• Campaign funding mechanics and timeline basics

Resources mentioned:

• Kickstarter Creator Resources: https://www.kickstarter.com/creators/publishing
• Kickstarter Launch Support Team: https://help.kickstarter.com/hc/en-us

Connect with Oriana Leckert and Kickstarter:

• Website: https://www.kickstarter.com/publishing
• Oriana’s website: http://www.oriana-leckert.com/
• Oriana’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orianabklyn/?hl=en
• Oriana’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orianaleckert

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 platforms
• How to optimize keywords for different retailers
• Managing book metadata effectively across platforms
• The story behind AuthorTrack's development
• Strategic approaches to titles, subtitles, and descriptions

Resources mentioned:

• AuthorTrack Beta Program: https://signup.authortrack.io/
• Dave Chesson's Keyword Optimization Guide: https://kindlepreneur.com/how-to-choose-kindle-keywords/
• Maddie Dalrymple's "Podcasting for Authors" Presentation

Connect with Megan Haskell: 

• Join to be a Author Track Beta User: https://signup.authortrack.io/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meganhaskellauthor/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 authors
• Direct sales vs Amazon distribution
• Print quality comparisons across providers
• Kickstarter campaign strategies
• Special edition book creation
• Conference networking value
• Building business stability

Resources mentioned: 

• IngramSpark: https://www.ingramspark.com
• Barnes & Noble Press: https://press.barnesandnoble.com/
• 48 Hour Books: https://www.48hrbooks.com/
• Bookvault UK: https://bookvault.app/

Connect with Willow Winters:

• Website: https://willowwinterswrites.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwintersshouldbewriting/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorWillowWinters/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@willowwintersauthor?lang=en
• Books by Willow: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B01G9J9JKW
• Upcoming Kickstarter (launching November 15th): https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/willowwintersauthor/decadent-collectors-editions-by-willow-winters
• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/WillowWintersAuthor

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 authors
• The inspiration behind Nicolette's military romance series
• Crafting relatable characters and tackling tough topics like narcissistic abuse
• Nicolette's journey from pantser to plotter and the resources that helped her master the romance genre
• The role of mentorship in Nicolette's author career, particularly from Audrey Huey
• Balancing motherhood and writing with the help of Audrey Huey's author planner
• Collaborating with fellow authors on projects like Plotter on Paper
• The importance of building a network of support within the author community

Resources mentioned:

• "Romancing the Beat" by Gwen Hayes: https://www.amazon.com/Romancing-Beat-Structure-Romance-Kissing-ebook/dp/B01DSJSURY
• "Character Arcs" by K.M. Weiland: https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Character-Arcs-Masterful-Development-ebook/dp/B01M6VC68U
• Audrey Huey's author planner: https://audreyhuey.com/
• Plottr on Paper, a collaboration between Nicolette Terry, Audrey Huey, and Cameron Sutter: https://plottr.com/

Connect with Nicolette Terry:

• Website: https://authornterry.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornterry/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 subgroups
• The importance of paperback books in the middle-grade market
• Crafting book covers and series branding for middle-grade readers
• The dual approach to marketing: appealing to parents and kids
• Tailoring newsletter frequency and content for middle-grade audiences
• Leveraging Instagram and TikTok for middle-grade book promotion
• Melissa's bestselling middle-grade series about gymnasts
• Direct sales strategies and the benefits of selling book bundles
• Protecting children's privacy on social media as a middle-grade author
• Maximizing Amazon Ads for middle-grade books

Connect with Melissa Torres:

• Website: https://www.melisatorres.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectbalancegymbooks/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 business
• Leveraging your book for speaking gigs and lead generation
• Tailoring your book giveaway strategy to your specific goals
• Print book quality and working with printers like Print Nation
• Repurposing your book content for workshops, talks, and other income streams
• Book Launchers' full-service self-publishing support for nonfiction authors
• The potential for a dedicated nonfiction author conference
• Julie's recommended Las Vegas attractions for visiting authors

Resources Mentioned:

• Story Origin: https://storyoriginapp.com/
• Book Funnel: https://bookfunnel.com/

Connect with Julie Broad and Book Launchers:

• Website: https://booklaunchers.com/
• Julie’s Website: https://juliebroad.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebroad

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 services
• Unique customization options for special editions (foiling, printed end papers, ribbons, sprayed edges)
• Targeting super fans with premium, collectible editions
• Case studies of successful indie authors using Book Vault
• The impact of bundling on increasing average sale price and revenue
• Book Vault's 30-year history and transition from trade to indie publishing

Resources mentioned:

• Book Vault's conference promo code: bv-an-24 (free title uploads)

Connect with Book Vault:

• Website: https://bookvault.app/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookvaultapp
• Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/bookvault
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookvault
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookvault.app/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 authors
• Targeting specific reader segments using Ingram iD's database of over 4 million readers
• Creating accessible and approachable advertising campaigns for authors
• Ingram iD's real-time analytics for clicks, impressions, click-through rates, and cost per click
• Versatility of Ingram iD for authors at various stages of their careers

Connect with Ingram iD:

• Learn more about Ingram iD: https://www.ingramcontent.com/publishers/advertising-platform
• Website: https://www.ingramcontent.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ingram-content-group
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IngramContent/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

[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 authors
• The importance of education in self-publishing
• Harnessing metadata for book discoverability
• IngramSpark's direct selling option, "Share and Sell"
• Treating your writing as a business
• The impact of wholesale discounts and returnability on sales

Resources Mentioned:

• IngramSpark's "Share and Sell" direct selling option
• Story Wars event sponsored by IngramSpark: https://il.linkedin.com/company/ingramspark

Connect with IngramSpark:

• Website: https://www.ingramspark.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IngramSpark
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/IngramSpark
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingramsparkbooks/

Connect with Teddy Smith:

• @teddyagsmith
• Website: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtc
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/
• Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/
• Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinsta
• Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSw
• Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/

Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/

Support the show

Discover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/