Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 45: What Authors Need to Know About ISBNs

Episode Summary:

ISBNs aren’t glamorous—but they are important. In this educational episode, Renée Lautermilch, chief editor at Smart Publishing, breaks down everything authors need to know about ISBNs before publishing their book. From understanding what an ISBN actually is, to deciding whether Amazon’s free ISBN is enough, this episode clears up the confusion that trips up many first-time (and even seasoned) authors.

Renée also shares real-world guidance on pricing, bulk purchasing, distribution strategy, and when buying your own ISBN actually makes sense. If you want to avoid costly mistakes and make intentional publishing decisions, this episode is essential listening.

What You’ll Hear:

• What ISBN stands for and why it exists

• Why every book format requires its own ISBN

• Where authors in the U.S. should buy ISBNs (and how to avoid scams)

• Why bulk purchasing ISBNs can save you hundreds of dollars

• Amazon ISBNs vs. true ISBNs: what’s the real difference?

• ASIN vs. ISBN—why they’re not interchangeable

• When exclusive Amazon publishing is the smartest choice

• Why most authors don’t actually need bookstore or library distribution

• Common ISBN mistakes that can delay or derail publishing

Quote to Remember:

“Once your ISBN is attached to your book, it’s set in stone—so make sure your publishing strategy is clear before you hit publish.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

smartpublishingservices.com – educational resources and publishing support

Email Renée: [email protected]

Connect with Renée on Facebook – she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

Next Episode:

Renée returns with more practical, no-fluff guidance to help authors publish smarter and with confidence.

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 44: How to Get Your Book Out This Year

Episode Summary:

It’s the first official episode of 2026—and the final installment of Renée’s book-planning case study series. In this timely and motivating episode, Renée Lautermilch walks you through exactly what you need to do if this is the year you finally write and publish your book. From solidifying your goal to choosing the fastest writing method, building a chapter map, and assembling the right support team, this episode is a complete roadmap for authors who are done waiting and ready to execute.

Renée also shares why books don’t need to take years to write, how burnout derails progress, and why structure, not motivation, is what gets books finished. If “I want to publish my book this year” is one of your goals, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a realistic plan to make it happen.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why books don’t need to take years to write and why many never get finished

• How to choose a book concept that actually supports your goals

• Why recording your book is often faster than typing

• The role of chapter mapping in eliminating writer’s block

• How to build and protect a weekly writing schedule

• Why self-editing is really imposter syndrome in disguise

• What a good editor actually does (and why AI can’t replace them)

• Key decisions around formatting, covers, and Amazon KDP publishing

• How to realistically write, publish, and launch your book within months, not years

  
  

Quote to Remember:

“Structure not motivation is what gets books finished and out into the world.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author - available on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, hardcover) and Audible

Free Chapter Map Template: smartpublishingservices/resources

KDP Publishing Course: SmartPublishingServices.com

Connect with Renée on Facebook - she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

What’s Next:

More real-talk episodes designed to help you write, publish, and use your book as a powerful tool for your career or business without burnout or overwhelm.

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 29: The Top 6 Habits of Successful Authors

Episode Summary:Ever wonder what separates authors who finish a great book and make it thrive from those who fizzle out halfway? In this solo episode, Renée shares the six habits she’s seen time and again in the most successful authors she’s worked with. From locking in a marketable concept to weaving your book into who you are, these are the practices that lead to a finished manuscript, a strong launch, and lasting impact.Whether you’re on your first book or your fifth, you’ll learn how to set yourself up for success—not just in writing, but in making your book work for you long after it’s published.What You’ll Hear:• Why a crystal-clear, marketable concept is your foundation• How to create (and actually stick to) a rock-solid outline• The magic of writing or recording at least once a week• Why collaboration and feedback are your secret weapons• How to integrate your book into your brand and daily life• The mindset shift that turns challenges into “done”Quote to Remember:“A book won’t get written if you don’t actually write it—find a way to make it happen.”Mentioned in This Episode:Renée’s book The One Hour Author – [Available on Amazon]Free Chapter Map Template – smartpublishingservices.com/resourcesConnect with Renée on Facebook: Renée Lautermilch

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series - Episode 25: The Easiest Way to Write a Book

Episode Summary:Think writing a book has to mean locking yourself in a cabin with nothing but a laptop and a dream? Think again. In this solo episode, Renée Lautermilch pulls back the curtain on the easiest way to get your book written—by talking it out. Whether you're a busy parent, entrepreneur, or someone who just hates staring at a blank page, this method will change the game. Renée shares the real process behind how 60% of Smart Publishing authors get their books done, and why voice memos + a clear chapter map = a published manuscript in as little as 12 weeks.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why audio recording your book isn’t “cheating”

• Real tools authors use to turn voice into text

• How to schedule and protect your writing time

• The one thing you should never skip when using this method

• How to avoid rambling and keep your chapters tight

• What a realistic weekly time commitment looks like (spoiler: it’s less than your social media habit)

Quote to Remember:

“If you’re talking more than writing, why not let that be your writing?”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author, available on Amazon

SmartPublishingServices.com – where your book gets real

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 43: Planning a Book (Case Study #2)

Episode Summary:

Welcome to part two of Renée’s case study series on how to plan your book the right way. In Episode 42, she broke down why planning is the most important phase of the writing process—and today, she takes you deeper into the practical application. Using a real case study, Renée walks you through how to determine your chapters, organize your story or teaching flow, and structure your manuscript in a way that supports your goals as an author.

Whether your book is instructional, memoir-style, or a blend of both, this episode shows you how to transform ideas into a clear, intentional chapter plan. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page wondering where to start, this is the episode that will finally unlock your structure.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why planning comes before writing—and why skipping it leads to messy books

• How your goal (e.g., speaking engagements) determines your writing style

• The difference between concept-driven and story-driven chapter structures

• How to outline a book using event-based storytelling for maximum engagement

• A live demonstration: mapping a book from introduction to conclusion

• How to choose 8–12 chapters that fully support your narrative

• Why your conclusion and calls-to-action matter for your long-term goals

Quote to Remember:

“The quality of your planning determines the quality of your book. Don’t rush the phase that matters most.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

The One Hour Author by Renée Lautermilch — available on Amazon and Audible

smartpublishingservices.com — blog, courses, tools, and author resources

Connect with Renée on Facebook — she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

Next Week:

Part 3 of the case study series: Renée walks you through the full chapter mapping process so you can build your own clear, writer’s-block-proof plan before you write a single word.

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 42: Planning a Book (Case Study #1)

Episode Summary:

You’ve heard Renée talk about planning your book before—but what does that actually look like in real time? In this first installment of a brand-new case study series, Renée Lautermilch walks you step-by-step through how to plan a book using a real example. Instead of discussing concepts in theory, she demonstrates the actual thought process behind choosing your book’s purpose, defining your goals, and determining the right structure before you ever write a single chapter.

If you’ve been stuck at the “Where do I even start?” phase, this episode will give you the clarity and framework you need to finally move forward with confidence.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why planning—not writing—is the most important part of creating a book

• How to use “backwards design” to determine your book’s purpose and end goals

• A live case study: turning a personal career journey into a structured book concept

• How your primary goal (speaking, branding, inspiration, revenue, etc.) shapes your structure

• Choosing between story-driven vs. topic-driven organization

• Why your introduction and conclusion matter more than you think

• How to set up your structure for future chapter mapping (coming in the next episode)
  

Quote to Remember:

“The quality of your planning dictates the quality of your book. Don’t rush the part that matters most.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author — available on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, hardcover) and Audible

smartpublishingservices.com — blogs, courses, and resources

Connect with Renée on Facebook — she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

Next Week:

Part 2 of the case study series: Renée walks you through mapping out the actual chapters of your book using the structure created in Episode 42.

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 41: Five Tips for Productive Writing

Episode Summary:

Ever sit down to write… and suddenly your phone, your tabs, your to-do list, and the entire universe start pulling your attention? You’re not alone. In this relatable and highly practical episode, Renée Lautermilch shares her top five tips for staying focused, productive, and consistent with your writing. Inspired by Chapter 6 of The One Hour Author, this episode breaks down the proven habits that help writers actually finish their books—whether they’re typing or recording their chapters.

Renée also celebrates a fresh Amazon Best Seller, talks about how books continue to serve long after launch, and reminds authors to stop waiting for inspiration and start building discipline. If productive writing has been a struggle, this episode will help you get—and stay—on track.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why eliminating distractions is the foundation of productive writing

• The power of flow state music (and why the Minecraft soundtrack works every time)

• How a chapter map keeps you from wandering off-track

• The dangerous trap of self-editing while writing

• Why “just get it on the page” is the mindset that creates published authors

• A real-life success shoutout to author Kathy Males and The Detox Dwelling
  

Quote to Remember:

“Writing a book only moves forward if you move forward. Get it on the page—and keep going.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author, available on Amazon (Kindle, paperback, hardcover, Audible)

Free Chapter Map Resource – message Renée on Facebook

Connect with Renée on Facebook – she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

smartpublishingservices.com – resources, coaching, and publishing support

Next Week:

Renée returns with more clear, actionable advice to help you write, finish, and publish your book—without the overwhelm.

🎙️ Episode 14: How Does Amazon KDP Really Work?

Host: Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing

Podcast: The Smart Publishing Impact Series

Episode Type: Solo

Overview:

In this episode, Renée takes you behind the scenes of Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)—breaking down exactly how it works, what you need to know as an author, and debunking some common misconceptions. If you’re planning to self-publish or want to understand what makes Amazon the go-to publishing platform for indie authors, this is the episode for you.

What You'll Learn:

✅ The difference between traditional publishing and on-demand printing

✅ Why Amazon KDP has lowered the barrier to entry for authors

✅ The three publishing formats available through KDP: Kindle, paperback, and hardcover

✅ What a "case laminate" hardcover is (and why Renée prefers it)

✅ How royalties work for both Kindle and print books

✅ The truth about expanded distribution—why bookstores and libraries may not be as critical as you think

✅ Why Kindle sales matter for hitting bestseller status

✅ Strategic insights on how to use your book as a business tool (not just a source of royalties)

Key Takeaways:

No Upfront Fees: Publishing through Amazon KDP is free—no setup costs, no inventory minimums.

Print-on-Demand = Flexibility: Books are printed only when ordered, saving time, space, and money.

Bestseller Strategy Tip: Kindle is your best bet for hitting bestseller due to how Amazon tracks sales orders.

Expanded Distribution ≠ Guaranteed Shelf Space: Libraries and bookstores require a separate marketing effort and shouldn’t be the core focus unless it’s your specific strategy.

Royalty Rundown: Kindle = up to 70% (less delivery fees); Paperback = 60% (less print costs).

Mentioned in the Episode:

Victor Fernandes and his memoir Reclaiming My Authentic Self (guest in an upcoming episode)

Smart Publishing Co-founder and podcast guest-to-be: Jonathan Lautermilch

Examples of children’s books and case laminate hardcovers published through Smart Publishing

Connect with Renée & Smart Publishing:

🔗 Facebook: @smartpublishingservices

👤 Follow Renée: Search "Renée Lautermilch" on Facebook—she’s the only one!

💬 DM her with questions or to learn more about publishing your book the smart way.

Enjoyed this episode?

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⭐️ Leave a review

📣 Share with an aspiring author in your lifeAnd remember… Keep writing your story. The world needs your voice.

Episode Title:The Smart Publishing Impact Series - Episode 40: Book Pricing Strategies

Episode Summary:

Pricing your book isn’t just about picking a number—it’s about strategy. In this milestone 40th episode, Renée Lautermilch breaks down how to price your book in a way that builds momentum, drives sales, and matches your goals as an author. Whether you’re about to launch or already published, this episode will help you understand what really goes into a strong pricing strategy—from release-day promotions to ongoing adjustments that keep your book visible.

You’ll learn how to approach Kindle, paperback, and hardcover pricing, what “pricing signals” tell readers about your book’s quality, and how to adapt your prices for different genres, events, and markets. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re charging too little—or too much—this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why your pricing strategy should never be “set it and forget it”

• How to build a launch-day pricing plan that maximizes visibility

• The real difference between fiction, memoir, and business genre pricing

• What “pricing signals” say about your book’s quality and positioning

• Smart pricing tips for high-clout or industry-specific titles

• How to adjust pricing for special events, book fairs, and speaking gigs

• Why Kindle pricing can drive bestseller status faster than print
  

Quote to Remember:

“Pricing your book isn’t about profit—it’s about positioning. Get your book in front of people first, and the opportunities will follow.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author, available on Amazon

smartpublishingservices.com – courses, blogs, and author resources

Connect with Renée on Facebook – she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

Next Week:

Renée dives into another behind-the-scenes topic to help you publish, price, and promote your book with confidence and clarity.

Episode Title:

The Smart Publishing Impact Series - Episode 39: Structuring Your Chapters to Optimize Reader Engagement

Episode Summary:

You’ve written great content—but are your readers actually finishing your book? In this practical and engaging episode, Renée Lautermilch breaks down how to structure your nonfiction chapters so readers stay hooked from start to finish. Drawing from adult learning science and real-world publishing experience, she shares how the right structure can make your book easier to follow, more memorable, and far more enjoyable to read. From section headers to pull quotes to callout boxes, this episode is your step-by-step guide to building a professional and engaging reader experience.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why chapter consistency matters more than you think

• The science of “chunking” information so readers retain it

• How to use section headers, pull quotes, and callout boxes effectively

• When to include reflection questions or workbook sections

• How QR codes can turn your book into a multimedia experience

• Creative ways to use visuals, tables, and graphs without cluttering the page

• Why less is more when it comes to engagement elements
  

Quote to Remember:

“Don’t let shiny design elements distract from your message. Structure should support your content, not compete with it.”

Mentioned in This Episode:

Renée’s book: The One Hour Author, available on Amazon

smartpublishingservices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources

Connect with Renée on Facebook – she’s the only Renée Lautermilch in the world

Next Week:

Renée continues the conversation with more no-fluff strategies to help you write, format, and publish your book with clarity and confidence.