Indie Author Magazine

Indie Author Magazine: Featuring Ines Johnson Audiobook Production Basics, NFT Books, Marketing Nonfiction, and Getting Cozy with Mysteries For self-published authors, the future is now. Without the traditional roadblocks to publishing, it's now possible to take your intellectual property and expand your publishing universe to include not just e-books and paperbacks but also hardbacks, box sets, audiobooks, serialized newsletters, and even NFTs. Dazzled by the possibilities? Overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry. This issue is just for you. ★ In this issue of Indie Author Magazine, you’ll learn what successful authors use to expand their books into other formats like audiobooks, paid newsletters, NFTs, and hardbacks.★ Read three key articles: ✓ Hardbacks Made Easy: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Deciding Which Hardcover Options Are Right for You ✓ Make Some Noise: What—and How—Indie Authors Gain From a Growing Audiobook Industry ✓ NFT Books: A Work in Progress: A Vision from within the Infancy of Crypto Publishing You’ll also meet Ines Johnson - the bestselling storyteller who loves good tropes,  satisfying her readers with kissing books spanning multiple genres. Plus: Industry Insider Jamie Davis helps avoid common writing mistakes when writing medical details Win the Short Game: How to Successfully Market NonFiction Our sassy advice-giving aunt, ★ Indie Annie ★ gives advice to an author when an editor strangles their voice 10 Tips for Facebook: What’s working in 2022 Get Cozy: How these mysteries satisfy readers one murder at a time Author Platforms: How to start or manage yours successfully by thinking like a spider Mindset Quick Tips: How to prioritize writing time when you have no time Standing Desks and Treadmill Desks: Worth the hype or another expensive coat rack?

Hear the three key release strategy articles: ✓ Full of Fanfare: Getting the Word Out about Your Book ✓ Rocket Fuel Doesn’t Come in a Can: Why Wide Authors Need A Custom Launch Plan ✓ Rapid Release to Rapid Riches? What’s Working and What’s Not You’ll also meet Elana Johnson - the quick-writing queen of over 160 titles in four pen names, and legendary leader of the indie Inspiration Facebook Group. Plus: Industry Insider Jackie Dana deciphers SUBSTACK - everything you need to get started writing paid episodic stories delivered to readers via email. Getting the Most from your Writing Time The Commotion of Notion: Keep writing workflows organized with an ingenious app Walking the Wire: How to add tension to your story and manage conflict. Ten Tips for Kickstarter: How authors can fund projects and writing. Pomodoro Pro-Tips: How to use the method to squeeze every word onto the page. Mindset: Avoid overwhelm with this step-by-step approach to your career

Advertising as an Indie Author, Where to Advertise Books, Working with Other Authors, and 20Books Madrid 2022 in Review In this issue of Indie Author Magazine, learn how to make the most of your advertisements so you can put your books in more readers’ hands, plus the connections you can build with others in the industry that will propel your career to the next level. Read three key articles: ✓ Advertising as an Indie Author: Where to Start ✓ How to Hook Readers with Better Ad Copy ✓ What Writers Can Gain from Clubhouse, the Audio-Only Social Network You’ll Also Meet Tameri Etherton, the Indie Whose Author Story Includes A Mischievous Dragon and A Move From San Diego Across the Pond to Scotland. Plus: Our Sassy, Advice-Giving Aunt, ★ Indie Annie ★ Helps A Fantasy Writer Know When To Start Their Draft 20Books Madrid 2022 in Review Martelle's Motivation: First Things First Finding Mr. Write: Your Guide to the Perfect Co-Writing Partner Ten Tips: Canva The Art of the Anthology: What You Need to Know Before You Submit Mix Up Your Writing Methods with These Typing Alternatives The Silent Struggle: A Look at the Relationship between Writing and Mental Health From the Mouths of Babes: How to Write Kids Dialogue Author Helper Suite Gives Users A Hand with the Backend of Author Business Breaking Down the Difference Between New Adult and Young Adult Fiction

In this episode of Indie Author Magazine, our hosts take you inside the unconventional success story at the heart of January 2026’s feature article, “Lady Shadow and The Pirate Hunter.” Their deep dive unpacks how James Hunter—a former Marine turned pirate hunter—and his wife, chemist Jeanette Strode, built Shadow Alley Press from scratch into a powerhouse of the LitRPG and progression fantasy world.Discover how this duo’s unique backgrounds shaped not only bestselling novels but also a thriving publishing business that’s closer to a role-playing guild than a traditional company. We break down the business mechanics, hiring strategy, and the work-life “deployment cycle” that keeps burnout at bay, as well as the real rules of their creative “guild hall.”Timestamps:[00:02:06] The unlikely origin story: Marine sergeant meets chemist in the world of publishing[00:03:38] What is LitRPG and why is it booming?[00:07:00] Division of labor: How Lady Shadow and the Pirate Hunter balance creativity and operations[00:09:05] The E-Myth and the secret to sustainable growth in indie publishing[00:10:16] “Guild rules” for Shadow Alley Press authors[00:11:23] Learning from failure and redefining luck as “preparation meets opportunity”[00:12:28] Work-life hacks: Deployment cycles, boundaries, and keeping the “health bar” green[00:14:12] The real win: Freedom, family, and a business that levels up with your lifeWhether you’re a fan of role-playing games, indie publishing, or just love an unconventional success story, this episode offers actionable insights—and some inspiration—to help you rethink your own career “character build.”

Ready to turn your curious clicks about Patreon into a confident, author-friendly income strategy? In this episode, our hosts dig into the latest Indie Author Magazine article—breaking down how independent authors can leverage Patreon for reliable, time-efficient revenue in today’s rapidly changing landscape.From making a magnetic first impression (00:02:53) and structuring reward tiers that fit any fan’s budget (00:04:04), to the crucial balance between engagement and burnout (00:05:02), you’ll get practical, actionable advice rooted in the very newest platform updates. The hosts also unpack important Patreon changes coming in 2024 and 2025: new fee structures (00:10:20), the impact of mobile purchases and Apple’s 30% fee (00:11:08), and upgraded video and team features (00:12:11)—helping you stay ahead of the curve.Whether you’re trying to optimize efficiency without letting Patreon hijack your writing time, or you need expert tips for maximizing transparency, this episode is your roadmap to a more sustainable author business.Key Segments:Setting up your Patreon for instant appeal (00:02:53)Strategic tier design—with examples from real authors (00:04:04)Avoiding burnout with low-effort, high-impact rewards (00:05:02)Understanding the new Patreon fee model and Apple’s in-app purchase rules (00:10:20, 00:11:08)Latest platform tools: Video storage and team accounts (00:12:11)Synthesizing the main takeaways for indie authors (00:12:57)Tune in and discover how to craft a Patreon presence that’s rewarding for both you and your readers—without losing sight of your writing.

Join our hosts for a no-fluff, practical look at how indie authors can supercharge their social media and marketing strategies. In this episode, they dive deep into a recent Indie Author Magazine article, exploring how generative AI can save you time, spark new content ideas, and give you a fresh edge—without sacrificing authenticity. They also walk through step-by-step strategies for planning an engaging, low-cost virtual book launch that connects you with readers around the globe.Key Segments:[00:02:25] Revolutionizing Content Creation: What generative AI can (and can’t) do for indie authors[00:05:01] Real-World Lessons: How one author’s AI experiment turned a flop into a time-saving win[00:07:00] Strategic Superpowers: Using AI for competitor analysis and stronger sales funnels[00:08:43] Essential Tools: The best platforms for writing, scheduling, and visuals[00:09:38] Virtual Book Launches: Step-by-step planning, promotion, and why global reach matters[00:11:43] Pro Tips: Setting goals, inviting influencers, and perfecting your launch execution[00:13:13] Beyond the Event: Measuring impact, gathering feedback, and building an ongoing strategy[00:14:10] Balancing Speed and Soul: Maintaining authenticity in a fast-paced, AI-powered landscapeIf you’re ready to market your books smarter—not harder—and want to hear how tech-savvy authors are leveraging AI and virtual events, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

In this focused episode, our hosts guide indie authors through a practical, results-driven toolkit inspired by a standout article in Indie Author Magazine. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of publishing options or struggled to keep your business sustainable, this conversation is for you.The hosts break down the essentials of building a strong, consistent author brand with the Author Brand Guide, and explore how to implement a five-step integrated publishing ecosystem—designed for predictability, stability, and creativity. You’ll also hear specific, actionable advice on productivity from acclaimed author Kevin J. Anderson, master the nuances of Universal Book Links, and discover why the post-Christmas season is a goldmine for indie authors.Key Segments:[00:00:16] Expanding Global Reach: Dropcap Marketplace & Global Rights Licensing[00:01:45] The Problem of Information Overload & Analysis Paralysis[00:03:29] Solving Generic AI Output: Author Brand Guide Deep Dive[00:05:19] Building the Five-Step Integrated Publishing Ecosystem[00:09:07] Productivity Insights from Kevin J. Anderson[00:10:39] Strategic Use of Universal Book Links[00:12:08] Maximizing Post-Holiday Sales[00:13:47] Recap & The Role of Systems in Sustainable Indie PublishingWhether you’re just starting out or refining your indie publishing strategy, this episode distills expert advice into actionable steps—so you can build a thriving author business without sacrificing creative joy.Don’t miss this practical, energizing deep dive—your sustainable publishing journey starts here.

Episode Description: Planning for 2026 and Avoiding BurnoutAs the new year approaches, it’s easy to get swept away by grand plans and ambitious word counts. In this deep dive, our hosts guide listeners through a thoughtful exploration of sustainability and success, inspired by Susan Odev’s transformative article, “The Gentle Reset,” in Indie Author Magazine.Rather than glorifying the hustle, this conversation challenges the mythology of constant grind and rapid output. They discuss why rethinking your creative process—by reflecting on what really worked, what drained you, and what truly made you proud—matters now more than ever. Their discussion is packed with actionable practices for indie authors to plan for a fulfilling 2026, featuring grounded advice on setting flexible targets, scheduling real rest, simplifying systems, and celebrating the small wins.Whether you’ve ever felt the pressure to keep up with the algorithms or wondered how to keep your creative flame alive year after year, this episode offers an inviting roadmap to resilience and long-term joy.Key Segments & Timestamps00:01:44 — Introduction: Why traditional New Year’s goal setting sets us up for burnout00:02:25 — Breaking Down Hustle Culture: How the market pushes indie authors toward overload00:04:55 — The Cost of Sprinting: Why sustainable creative habits matter00:07:02 — Four Reflection Questions: Moving past word counts and sales numbers00:09:13 — Embracing the Gentle Reset: Shifting focus from output to well-being00:12:00 — Five Sustainable Practices: Flexible targets, planned rest, and joy beyond the numbers00:15:07 — Redefining Success: How celebrating small wins fuels the long game00:16:40 — Final Thoughts: Why resilience is your secret competitive edgeDive in for a practical, refreshing take on planning your author career for the year ahead—one that keeps you writing, thriving, and loving the process.

In this Indie Author Magazine deep-dive, our hosts unpack an exciting new model for publishing that challenges industry gatekeeping and reframes literary value. Drawing on the recent success of Left Unread Books—an imprint dedicated to amplifying black and brown authors—they explore how community-driven initiatives are revolutionizing inclusivity, discoverability, and capital in indie publishing.Through insightful discussion, they examine how founder Michael Laborn built infrastructure on social and community capital rather than traditional venture funding, and why this approach isn't just about representation—it's about shifting structural power. The episode highlights stories like Cry Void Bringer, Devil of the Deep, and From Our Blood, showcasing how genre fiction can serve as a lens to address systemic issues like colonialism and institutional racism.Listeners will gain actionable advice, whether they're writers looking for their audience or readers eager to bridge cultural gaps. The hosts offer practical ways for fans to support marginalized authors beyond simple purchasing, emphasizing the importance of preorders, engagement, and community building.Key Segments:[00:00:16] International rights and discoverability: spotlight on Dropcap Marketplace[00:02:21] How Left Unread Books reframes curation and inclusivity[00:05:53] The power of collaboration and community capital[00:07:53] Case studies: Cry Void Bringer, Devil of the Deep, and From Our Blood[00:12:02] Action steps for readers and authors to nurture grassroots literary success[00:13:45] Revolutionary narratives: why marginalized voices challenge the publishing status quoPerfect for readers, writers, and publishing professionals hungry for new ways to foster change, this episode proves that mission-driven communities can fuel lasting transformation across the literary landscape.Listen in for inspiration, practical strategies, and a fresh take on the future of indie publishing.

Trust the Messy First Draft Process: Why Overwriting Is EssentialOur hosts dive deep into one of the most challenging phases for any creator—the unruly, sprawling first draft. Drawing insights from book coach Rana Goffstein’s article in Indie Author Magazine, this episode unpacks why that bloated, meandering draft isn’t a sign of failure, but a vital step in your creative discovery.They break down common anxieties around overwriting, challenge the misconception that drafting is about performance, and share practical wisdom on how letting your draft "get messy" actually sharpens the final story. From uncovering hidden character wounds (07:37), to the infamous coffee cup test (06:56), to understanding the true function of the discovery phase (03:44), listeners are guided through the psychological and craft-based benefits of embracing the chaos.Key Segments:Crucial Insight: Why the messy draft is an act of creative discovery, not inefficiency (02:36)Overwriting Anxiety: Reframing fear of long drafts (03:28)Coffee Cup Test: Hidden value in overwritten scenes (06:56)Five Hidden Discoveries: What ‘wasted’ pages really reveal (07:37)Writer vs. Reader Needs: Two distinct creative phases (04:53)Turning Cuts Into Foundations: How deleted scenes fuel your final manuscript (10:41)Perfect for anyone staring at an overwhelming draft, this episode offers a refreshing perspective—and permission—to trust the messy process. You’ll walk away with practical insights (and a lot less self-judgment) for your next writing sprint.

Join our hosts for a fresh, insightful deep dive into Indie Author Magazine’s holiday gift guide for writers. In this episode, they unpack an essential article recommending the five most impactful craft books that every fiction author should add to their shelf. From tackling that intimidating first draft to building immersive worlds for long series, they break down why each recommended title goes beyond theory to offer actionable wisdom for every stage of your writing journey.Whether you’re just getting started or refining your tenth novel, you’ll discover how these selected books help writers spark creativity, master emotional resonance, and take control of their writing careers. The hosts don’t just review the titles—they highlight the nuggets of knowledge and practical frameworks each book delivers, making this episode a roadmap for thoughtful gifting or investing in your own craft.Key Segments & Timestamps:[00:01:44] Introduction: Why craft books are the ultimate writer’s gift[00:03:23] Joanna Penn’s How to Write a Novel: Blueprint for finishing your first draft[00:04:42] Derek Murphy’s Bookcraft: The comprehensive reference for structure and techniques[00:06:10] Lisa Cron’s Story Genius: How brain science enhances fiction and emotional impact[00:07:23] Donald Maas’ The Emotional Craft of Fiction: Mastering emotion and reader connection[00:09:03] Timothy Hickson’s On Writing and World Building: Building consistent universes for series[00:11:05] Beyond craft: Subscriptions, business resources, and why knowledge is the best ongoing giftTune in for distilled insights and actionable takeaways that will inspire and empower you—so your next story not only gets written, but truly connects with readers.

Join our hosts as they peel back the curtain on the real digital spaces where today’s indie authors connect, collaborate, and thrive. In this deep dive, they explore a curated list from Desmith Dottie, spotlighting communities that offer everything from powerhouse business advice to anti-burnout support and focused craft critique.Whether you’re hunting for accountability partners, structured writing sprints, or a corner of the internet free from doomscrolling, this episode helps you discover the author community that truly fits your goals and personality—not just your follower count.Timestamps for Key Segments:[00:00:16] – Opening: Chelle Honiker introduces Dropcap Marketplace for global book rights sales[00:01:44] – The Overwhelm of Information & The Power of Real Communities[00:03:38] – The “Heavy Hitters”: 20 Books to 50k and Self Publishing Formula[00:06:05] – More Intimate Options: Successful Indie Author & Community Culture[00:07:11] – Groups for Accountability & Author Health: Write Fast Sustainably, Heart Breathings[00:08:54] – Emotional and Inspirational Communities: Indie Inspiration[00:10:06] – Niche Strategies and Philosophies: Wide for the Win[00:11:36] – A Throwback Approach: Internet Writing Workshop (email-based critique)[00:12:44] – Matchmaking: How to Choose the Right Community for Your Identity & Goals[00:14:25] – Closing Thoughts: What’s Your Non-Negotiable Rule?Tune in for a practical, eye-opening look at where “real authors hang out”—and why the right room for you is the one that empowers your unique writing journey.

Episode Description: Indie Author Magazine – Deep Dive: Author MerchReady to turn your stories into a brand that fans carry with them into the world? In this episode, our hosts unpack the newest Indie Author Magazine article on author merchandising—from game-changing strategies to the logistics you can’t afford to skip.Discover why merch is more than a quick cash grab and how it builds lasting brand loyalty (03:00), the crucial legal steps for licensing your designs and avoiding costly mistakes (04:01), and how choosing the right store platform can make or break your venture (06:12). Whether you're plotting your first batch of bookmarks or dreaming up a fictional brewery T-shirt, you’ll get actionable advice and learn from real authors who’ve been through it.Key Segments:Why Merch Matters More Than You Think (03:00)Navigating Legal Landmines: Licensing, Copyright, and Sales Caps (04:01)Choosing Your Platform: Etsy, Fourth Wall, Shopify, Printify, and More (06:12)Real-World Wisdom from Authors: Quality Checks, Shipping, and Reader Feedback (10:34)Top Tips for Getting Started, Keeping It Simple, and Building Community (11:47)World-building for Merch Success (14:01)Listen in for practical tips, “aha” moments, and a roadmap to growing your indie author business beyond the page.

Unlock the full potential of Microsoft Word in your writing workflow! In this insightful deep dive, our hosts dissect the power and versatility of Word for indie authors, inspired by the latest feature article in Indie Author Magazine. Whether you’ve underestimated Word as just a basic tool, or you’re curious how it can streamline your drafting, editing, and submission process, this episode will open your eyes and sharpen your skills.From harnessing styles for effortless formatting and leveraging the navigation pane, to using Copilot’s AI-powered brainstorming and mastering professional editing features like Track Changes, this conversation goes beyond the basics. Learn essential strategies for building your own author dictionary, combining feedback, managing references, and packaging your manuscript for professional submissions.Key Segments & Timestamps:[00:02:41] – Understanding Word’s True Capabilities for Authors[00:03:41] – Styles and Structure: The Invisible Skeleton of Your Book[00:06:02] – The Navigation Pane: A Game-Changer for Organization[00:06:43] – Author Dictionary & Autocorrect: Personalize Word for Your Worlds[00:08:15] – Copilot and AI: Brainstorming, Summarizing, and Staying Creative[00:09:39] – Track Changes & Document Comparison: Professional-Grade Editing[00:12:29] – Templates & Submission Formatting: Making a Perfect First Impression[00:13:19] – References & Indexes: Nonfiction and Worldbuilding Tools[00:14:11] – Final Polish: Section Breaks, Headers, Table of Contents, and PDF ExportTune in for practical tips and pro author insights that will help you transform your writing process with Microsoft Word—so you can focus on your story, not your software.

In this special deep dive from Indie Author Magazine, our hosts explore the groundbreaking potential of Creatorwood TV—a platform that promises to turn any indie author's novel into a feature-length, professionally produced movie with the power of AI.Join them as they break down exactly how Creatorwood's "Movie Machine" automation works, examine the jaw-dropping time and cost savings, and uncover what it really means for indie storytellers to become indie filmmakers. Is the future of film as inclusive and creator-driven as the Kindle revolution was for books? Or is this a step too far? They ask hard questions about ownership, revenue splits, and where the indie industry goes from here.Key Segments with Timestamps:00:01:45 – Setting the Stage: The ever-evolving world of indie publishing and the new creator-driven film revolution.00:03:40 – Who Is Behind Creatorwood?: Michael Evans’ background and credibility, from Mr. Beast collaborations to sci-fi author roots.00:05:29 – Smashing Cost and Access Barriers: How Creatorwood slashes the cost of film production from millions to thousands—and what creators trade off to get there.00:08:09 – The Directorial Experience: Step-by-step, how authors control their movie adaptation, with AI as their digital production crew.00:11:05 – Revenue Models and Creator Control: The platform’s creator-first 80% revenue share and non-exclusive distribution rights.00:12:41 – Looking Ahead: The cultural implications—a surge of diverse, niche stories in film and television.00:13:28 – Final Thoughts: Reflecting on what this tectonic shift means for creativity and the indie community.Tune in for an enlightening and thought-provoking journey into the future of storytelling—where indie authors could become the next wave of filmmakers, no Hollywood gatekeepers required.---Don’t forget to check out our show notes for links to Creatorwood.com and an exclusive discount on Dropcap Marketplace, featured in this episode’s introduction by Chelle Honiker.

In this episode of Indie Author Magazine, our hosts dig into Susan Odev’s provocative article about the “lonely author” myth and why indie writers must embrace community if they want to succeed. From the real pressures of wearing every publishing hat (marketer, accountant, IT support, and more) to the transformative power of finding your author tribe, this deep dive breaks down exactly why isolation is bad for your career—and what it truly takes to thrive as an independent author.Discover the four essential pillars of author community: accountability, knowledge sharing, moral support, and business opportunities. The hosts offer practical advice for introverts and extroverts alike, demystifying how to build meaningful connections (both online and off) while avoiding toxic group dynamics. Plus, they share their favorite metaphors and challenges for finding your own archipelago of allies in the publishing world.Key Segments & Timestamps:[00:01:45] Busting the romantic myth of the solitary writer[00:02:31] Why “going solo” works against your author career[00:05:11] Overwhelm Block: All the hats indie authors wear[00:06:03] The four pillars of a powerful author community[00:08:44] Collaboration, competition, and the “scarcity mindset”[00:10:23] Where to find your tribe: Online, in-person, and small support groups[00:13:21] Navigating the dark side—How to spot (and leave) toxic groups[00:14:34] How to nurture lasting author connections[00:15:45] Final metaphor & challenge: No writer is an island—build your archipelagoListen in for actionable insights and inspiration on building your path from isolation to resilience and growth in today’s indie publishing world.

Double Funding SuccessHow can indie authors nearly double their chances of crowdfunding success? In this episode, our hosts break down the latest data and insights from a featured article in Indie Author Magazine, exploring why crowdfunding doesn’t have to be a solo journey—and why, frankly, it shouldn’t be.Together, they unpack the real numbers behind structured author communities, like the Author Nation Kickstarter cohort, which took first-time authors’ success rates from the industry average of 56% to an astonishing 90%. Along the way, they highlight proven strategies: from tightly-run mastermind groups, to the magic of anthology collaborations, to the dos and don’ts of effective backer swaps.Whether you’re a first-time crowdfunder or a seasoned indie publisher, this episode offers practical takeaways, real-life examples, and a fresh mindset for your next campaign. You’ll walk away understanding not just what works, but why it works—and ready to find your own collaborative edge.Key Segments:[00:02:01] Debunking the “solo grind” of indie authorship[00:02:25] The data that proves community nearly doubles success rates[00:04:07] Inside the Author Nation Kickstarter cohort model[00:05:14] The power of masterminds and direct mentorship[00:06:26] Facebook groups and the evolution of constructive feedback[00:07:44] Anthology collaborations, book collections, and aggregation strategies[00:09:45] Backer swaps—what works (and what really doesn’t)[00:12:30] Actionable advice: how listeners can apply these tactics nowCurious about making your next campaign a sure thing? Tune in and discover how finding your team can change everything for your indie author journey.

In this episode of Indie Author Magazine’s Deep Dive, our hosts crack open the world of epistolary writing—stories told through letters, journal entries, official documents, and more. Together, they unravel why this centuries-old format is experiencing a renaissance in indie fiction, and why the act of reading someone else’s “mail” is so profoundly immersive.Drawing on key examples like Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, and Jane Austen’s Lady Susan, Paige Turner and Reed Moore analyze how epistolary structure shapes suspense, intimacy, and authenticity. They share a practical checklist for writers, highlighting the rules of brevity, distinctive voices, and the crucial question: Why are these documents being written?Whether you’re curious about writing in this format or just want to appreciate its artistry, this episode gives you the insight and tools to approach epistolary fiction with fresh eyes.Key Segments & Timestamps:(00:02:05) What is epistolary writing—and what makes it more than just “letters in a novel?”(00:05:06) Case Study 1: Dracula and the power of fragmented suspense(00:06:44) Case Study 2: The Color Purple—voice, transformation, and empowerment(00:08:00) Case Study 3: Lady Susan—manipulation through correspondence(00:09:17) The “rules of the road” for writing great epistolary fiction(00:12:22) The ultimate pro tip: motivation and the necessity behind every document(00:12:48) Contemporary resonance—why this ancient form feels modernTune in for a thought-provoking look at how constraints spark creativity, and discover which fragments of your own life would tell your authentic story.

In this incisive deep dive, our hosts unpack the latest strategic roadmap announced by Indie Author Magazine. Join them as they explore how the publication is responding to seismic industry changes—from AI-driven book discoverability to the evolving demands of indie authors worldwide.You’ll discover why IAM is making a bold shift from a monthly to a quarterly print schedule, how their digital-first strategy balances real-time news with in-depth features, and what new tools like Direct2Readers (D2R) and Storyteller Showcase mean for author visibility in a changing marketplace. The conversation also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the explosive growth of Indie Author Training and the rising importance of workflow automation for authors seeking to free up time for creative work.Timestamps for Key Segments:00:00:16 – International opportunities for indie authors with Dropcap Marketplace00:01:45 – The tectonic shifts in indie publishing and IAM’s evolving editorial mission00:03:15 – Why the move to a quarterly print format—and how it boosts editorial depth00:06:11 – Tech upgrades, platform migration, and the power of the new chatbot00:08:43 – The rise of AI in book discoverability and the D2R optimization tool00:11:15 – Connecting with readers through Storyteller Showcase00:12:22 – Author Automations: Proven workflows to work smarter—not harderWhether you’re a long-time subscriber or new to the indie author community, this episode is filled with actionable insights on thriving amid rapid change, optimizing your presence in an AI-driven world, and reclaiming more time for what matters most—your writing.

Join our hosts for a smart and actionable deep dive into holiday marketing strategies for indie authors, inspired by insights from Indie Author Magazine. In this episode, you’ll learn why the holiday season—and especially the period right after Christmas—is a prime opportunity to boost your book sales and grow your audience, whether you’re selling direct, going wide, or leveraging Kindle Unlimited.Break down ten essential tips, drawing on advice from top indie leaders and industry experts. You’ll discover how to honestly assess your resources, make the most of organic outreach and newsletter growth, capitalize on high-value direct sales, unlock the power of shared promotions, and strategically time your campaigns to catch a surge of eager new readers. Plus, they tackle how to use data-driven ad targeting on platforms like Amazon and Meta to reach actual buyers—even when ad costs are high.Key Segments:International rights and global reach: [00:00:16]Why the holidays matter for book sales: [00:01:44]Tip 1: Resource assessment for sustainable marketing: [00:03:28]Tip 3: Smart advertising (targeting buyers, not just clicks): [00:05:41]Organic marketing and batching outreach: [00:06:55]Building superfans and direct sales expertise: [00:09:12]Timing promos for maximum impact (post-Christmas strategies): [00:10:28]Newsletter swaps and audience collaboration: [00:12:26]Social media for authentic engagement during the holidays: [00:12:55]Summary and final insight: [00:13:44]Whether you’re an indie author preparing for your first holiday sales push or a seasoned pro refining your annual strategy, this episode arms you with practical, fresh ideas to finish the year strong and turn fleeting holiday shoppers into lifelong readers.Listen in for real-world examples and expert guidance—and get ready to make the most of this year’s biggest sales window.