The Six Figure Author Experiment Podcast

In this thought-provoking episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell, Lee, and guest Heather Hildenbrand dive deep into The Science of Scaling — exploring what happens when manifestation meets hustle culture. They debate the book’s “tech bro” tone versus its powerful mindset principles and uncover how authors can use identity shifts, nervous system regulation, and space-making to create success sustainably. From millionaire self-concept to burnout recovery, this episode bridges business strategy, psychology, and woo-woo wisdom to redefine what “scaling” really means.Topics Covered:* Why The Science of Scaling feels more like “Manifestation for Tech Bros”* The connection between identity, self-concept, and rapid transformation* Reframing impossible goals as catalysts for identity shifts* Raising your “floor”: creating boundaries and cutting clutter to scale effectively* How nervous system regulation impacts creativity, peace, and success* The biology of manifestation: using the reticular activating system (RAS) intentionally* Healing burnout and reclaiming calm after hustle culture* The power of “creating space” for deep work and emotional health* Why authors must believe they are capable before success can manifest* Delusional goals, embodiment, and future-self meditations* Balancing masculine (strategic) and feminine (energetic) approaches to business* Making peace with uncertainty and doing “dumb” experiments that actually work* Scaling peace of mind versus scaling income* How regulating your body makes scaling sustainable* From survival mode to creative flow: learning to close the stress cycle* Simplifying to scale: finding your “one great idea” instead of chasing everything* Freedom to create vs. freedom from obligation* How to hold your “want” tightly but your “how” loosely* Accepting imperfection: “I’m rich and a hot mess” mindset* Millionaire problems vs. survival problems—and why normalization matters* Manifestation, belief systems, and emotional neutrality as keys to sustainable growth This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode of the Six Figure Author Experiment, Lee and Russell are joined by Seth Norris, CPA and founder of Author CPA. Together, they demystify accounting, taxes, and cash flow for authors, with a focus on the popular Profit First method. Seth explains how authors can structure their finances to increase profit, manage ad spend, and avoid costly tax mistakes. From S-Corps to home office deductions, they cover practical strategies to help authors keep more of what they earn while building a sustainable business mindset.Topics Covered:* Why most authors avoid money conversations—and why that’s a mistake* The core principles of the Profit First method* How to use multiple bank accounts to enforce profit, taxes, and expenses* Recommended Profit First percentages for authors under $250K/year* What “real revenue” means and why ad spend may belong in cost of goods* Challenges of funding growth and why debt can be dangerous* How to reinvest profit and owner pay strategically* The role of intellectual property as an asset in author businesses* When and why to consider switching from sole proprietor/LLC to S-Corp* The true tax differences between LLCs and S-Corps* How “reasonable compensation” works under IRS rules* Smart ways to save on taxes: SEPs, Solo 401Ks, and home office deductions* Hobby vs. business rules and how to prove intent to profit* Why mindset matters: paying yourself and thinking like a business owner* Memorable tax court cases authors can learn from (including a brothel research deduction!)* Building systems that support sustainable growth and financial confidenceWebsite: authorcpa.comYoutube: youtube.com/@authorcpaNewsletter: norriscpafirm.com/newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

Back Jennifer’s Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/write-naked-the-official-course In this inspiring episode of the Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell and Lee sit down with New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Probst to explore the realities of a long-term writing career. Jennifer shares insights from 35+ years in the industry, reflecting on vulnerability, resilience, and the cycles of growth and reinvention every author faces. Together, they discuss balancing creativity with business, the importance of community, and how to embrace both failures and breakthroughs as part of the journey. The conversation also dives into Jennifer’s Write Naked philosophy, scaling strategies, and how to build sustainable systems that support both creative freedom and financial security.Topics Covered:* Jennifer Probst’s 35-year career and hitting 60 published books* The raw beginnings of writing and finding your first readers* Building impact versus just chasing income* Authenticity, vulnerability, and balancing private vs. public life as an author* Product-led growth and how books grow by being shared* The evolution of publishing: from query letters to Substack, Patreon, and community platforms* Navigating shame, pivots, and rebuilding after setbacks* Root systems: unseen growth periods that lead to future breakthroughs* Creating space in life and career versus chasing endless hustle* The value of resilience and the ability to reinvent repeatedly* Understanding growth seasons vs. monetization seasons* Simplifying your message and focusing on what truly carries* Scaling by doing fewer things exceptionally well* The importance of systems and middle-ground solutions between burning out and blowing up projects* Why effort doesn’t directly equal income in writing* Jennifer’s Write Naked course and its focus on joy, craft, and authenticity* The balance between consistency, reinvention, and longevity in an author career This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this candid episode of the Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell and Lee discuss navigating significant financial and business changes, the reality behind income and profit, and the crucial systems authors need to succeed long-term. Russell shares the ups and downs of his recent financial rollercoaster, the closure of Writer MBA, and how unexpected challenges ultimately led to growth and newfound financial stability. Lee highlights the importance of building sustainable systems, prioritizing newsletters and community engagement, and emphasizes the value of resilience, emotional regulation, and strategic pivoting.Topics Covered:* Managing drastic financial shifts and loss of major income streams* Realities of revenue versus profit for authors* The hidden cost of business growth and reinvestment* Why some authors appear successful but struggle financially* The importance of reducing friction in business growth* Long-term strategies versus short-term gains in publishing* The power and profitability of newsletters and automation* Creating sustainable income through diverse revenue streams* The emotional toll of closing down projects and businesses* Pivoting effectively after setbacks* Building financial and emotional resilience* Introducing Russell’s new membership, "Capitalist," focusing on happiness and balanced success* Lee's Book Marketing Bootcamp details and approach* How to create systems that continuously support author income* Understanding the true value of passive income and long-term asset creation* Learning to embrace endings and creating space for new opportunities* Strategic budgeting, saving, and financial preparedness for uncertainty* Emotional intelligence in handling business disappointments and stress* How mindset and expectations shape enjoyment and success This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this emotionally insightful episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell returns from a whirlwind European tour through Prague, Vienna, and Bratislava with a personal story that carries a deeper lesson. He shares a moment of panic when he thought he lost his expensive SLR camera and how, instead of spiraling into stress and ruining the trip, he chose peace. This unexpected act of mindfulness—of staying present despite looming loss—sparks a conversation about growth, mindset, and how long-term success as a creator is deeply tied to emotional resilience.Lee and Russell explore how years of professional challenges—from losing companies to surviving chaotic launches—have reshaped how Russell views control, money, and creative life. They touch on themes like letting go of perfection, managing emotional responses, and focusing on what’s truly in your control.This episode isn’t just a travel tale—it’s a powerful metaphor for author life. Sometimes, you have to trust the process, accept uncertainty, and keep moving forward.Takeaways:* Emotional growth is a key part of author success.* You don’t need to control every outcome to enjoy the moment.* Losing something can be an opportunity to gain perspective. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this deep and emotionally resonant episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, Russell and Lee go beyond marketing strategies to talk about what really holds authors back: fear of being seen, fear of momentum, and the resistance that shows up when we’re close to success.Lee opens up about launch avoidance, the anxiety of visibility, and the physical effects of pushing through emotional blocks. Together, they explore the tension between doing the “right things” and sabotaging yourself at the moment it matters most. From co-author dynamics to the pressure of performance, from setting the vulnerability level in your community to crafting transformational fiction—this episode is a masterclass in emotional clarity and sustainable authorship.If you’ve ever found yourself procrastinating the most important thing, questioning your worth, or wondering why you can’t seem to follow through—this episode is for you.Topics Covered:* Why self-sabotage isn’t laziness—it’s fear of transformation* The surprising emotional toll of being seen and gaining momentum* Co-author partnerships and the temptation to hide behind others* How fear can manifest as over-productivity, burnout, and avoidance* Physical anxiety responses to visibility and viral success* Setting the vulnerability tone in small reader communities* Why readers share: building emotional resonance over gimmicks* Using fiction to help readers (and ourselves) feel deeply seen* How dark romance, fantasy, and smut can become safe containers for exploration* Forest author marketing: transformation, resonance, and identity* The myth of “needing to connect more” vs. letting your work connect* Russell’s insight: “Nobody loves your book because you wrote it well”* Understanding your true offer: what transformation does your book provide?* Marketing as a conduit—not the transformation itself* Scaling slowly and sustainably: from one-person bootcamps to lasting legacy* 31 launches in 36 months: the consequences of saying yes to everything* Letting go of cluttered calendars to build something amplifiable* Six Figure series case study: https://millionaire-author-coaching.teachable.com/l/pdp/six-figure-series-case-study* Book marketing bootcamp: https://millionaire-author-coaching.teachable.com/p/bookmarketingbootcamp This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

n this episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, we sit down with Erin Wright—bestselling romance author and founder of Wide for the Win—to unpack the real differences between wide publishing and Kindle Unlimited. Erin joins co-hosts Russell and Lee to explore how author archetypes, release strategies, international markets, and even dopamine hits from Amazon rank can affect your success depending on the path you choose.We dig into the psychology, practicality, and sustainability of both publishing approaches—from mental health and burnout to long-tail income and international reach. This isn’t about one path being better—it’s about helping you choose what actually works for your books, your audience, and your life. Whether you’re in KU, thinking about going wide, or just trying to future-proof your author business, this conversation is full of insight, humor, and real-world experience.Topics Covered:* Erin Wright’s journey from librarian to bestselling wide author* Founding Wide for the Win and growing to over 18,000 members* How KU limits access to libraries and international markets* Author archetypes: Forest, Grassland, Aquatic, and Phoenix* The psychological toll of KU’s treadmill and algorithm dependence* Why KU can be detrimental—not just neutral—for some authors* How wide platforms reward longevity vs. KU’s focus on newness* Preorder mechanics: Apple and Kobo vs. Amazon* Bank over rank: why chasing rank won’t pay your mortgage* Wide publishing as “choose your own adventure”* Transitioning to wide with foreign translations* Real examples of burnout, bounce-backs, and big wins* Hiring help for wide distribution (and knowing when to do it)* Tips for sustainable author careers in an unpredictable marketLinks:* Six Figure series case study: https://millionaire-author-coaching.teachable.com/l/pdp/six-figure-series-case-study* Book marketing bootcamp: https://millionaire-author-coaching.teachable.com/p/bookmarketingbootcamp This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode, Jennifer Hilt, author of The Trope Thesaurus series, joins Lee and Russell to break down the true power of tropes in fiction writing—not as clichés, but as emotional shorthand and marketing gold. Together, they explore how tropes function in storytelling, why they’re the secret weapon of bestselling authors, and how to twist them in ways that honor your voice and resonate with readers. Whether you’re writing epic fantasy, spicy romance, domestic thrillers, or cozy mysteries, this episode helps you see tropes not as a box but as a toolkit. You'll learn how to identify, use, and market tropes so readers instantly “get” your story—and want more.Topics Covered:* Jennifer’s definition of tropes—and how they differ from clichés* The three “buckets” of tropes: character, conflict/stakes, and setting* Why tropes aren’t formulas—they’re ingredients readers crave* The role of tropes in genre blending (e.g., romance + mystery, fantasy + thriller)* Using tropes to reverse-engineer your blurb and boost conversion* The growing importance of “trope cards” in romance marketing* Why your book already has tropes (even if you don’t realize it yet)* How identifying tropes can solve plot problems and unlock stalled drafts* Misdirection and red herrings as underused “conflict” tropes* Tropes as shared language between you and your reader* Examples of evergreen tropes: ticking time bomb, forced proximity, only one bed* Why “structure is just a list of tropes” and how that builds trust with readers* The value of “same but different” stories in commercial fiction* Baking marketing into your book from the beginning* Layering in secondary genre tropes to widen appeal* How voice transforms tired tropes into unforgettable stories* Using your personal “id list” to build trope-rich stories that excite you* The power of identity and series-spanning tropes (e.g., orphan to icon arcs)* The difference between trope usage in high-concept vs. slow-burn fiction* Tropes as both creative springboards and safety nets for readers This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, we sit down with Oriana Leckert, Head of Publishing at Kickstarter, to dive deep into how authors are leveraging Kickstarter to hit six-figure goals, build powerful communities, and take full control of their careers. Oriana shares insider stats, success strategies, and powerful examples of how direct-to-reader models are reshaping the publishing world. We explore why crowdfunding is more than just funding—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences, amplifying your brand, and future-proofing your author career in an uncertain world. Whether you're a new author, seasoned indie, or thinking about launching your first campaign, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss.Topics Covered:* Oriana Leckert’s journey through publishing and Kickstarter leadership* Why direct-to-reader models are outperforming traditional and self-publishing* Year-over-year growth statistics for publishing projects on Kickstarter* Key success metrics: 84% success rate with 25+ backers, $16K average raise* How Kickstarter backers behave differently from typical book buyers* The secret to Kickstarter’s algorithm: attention and early momentum* Why backer community and engagement trump pure audience size* The growing power of subscriptions and how Patreon and Kickstarter work together* Using Kickstarter to test ideas, validate demand, and build sustainable income* Examples of creative rewards: from scene kits to special editions and experiences* How Kickstarter campaigns drive amplification even beyond funding* Curating emotional experiences for readers through physical and digital rewards* The future of publishing: quality over quantity, 100 true fans, and direct community building* Oriana’s advice for building a resilient, connected author career in uncertain times This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this high-impact episode, former Amazon insider Janet Margot drops truth bombs about what really moves the needle on Amazon—and it’s not just tweaking your ad bids.After a decade helping build the Amazon ads platform specifically for books, Janet has seen the game from the inside. Now she’s out in the wild, coaching authors to not just run ads, but to think strategically about their entire Amazon ecosystem.💡 What You’ll Learn:* Why most ad problems aren’t ad problems—they’re product problems.* The biggest myths authors believe about Amazon ads.* How to use your product page, book packaging, and strategy to create a flywheel that works even when ads aren’t.* Why Janet calls herself an “Amazon coach” instead of an “ads coach” now—and what that shift means for your career.* The missing piece from most advertising courses (including her first book!) and why her new second edition focuses more on strategy over tactics.🛠️ Lee and Russell jump in with their own experiences—Russell brings his signature “burn-it-down-and-rebuild” mindset while Lee’s juggling spicy Batman novels and the grind of the long game.This episode is a goldmine for indie authors who:* Feel like their ads are “working” but sales still suck.* Are ready to stop throwing money at Amazon and start building a sustainable system.* Want to understand what Amazon rewards (hint: it's not just money).If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the backend of your author business, or you’re tired of buying one more ads course that doesn’t deliver, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

Episode Summary: Live from New Orleans – Six Figure Author ExperimentIn this episode, recorded live at a conference in New Orleans, hosts Monica Leonelle, Lee Savino, and Russell Nohelty reflect on a uniquely energizing experience. Unlike typical conferences that leave attendees drained, this event fostered connection, collaboration, and genuine breakthroughs.Key Takeaways1. Surprisingly Energizing Experience• Despite two full days of activities, the hosts felt energized instead of exhausted.• This is rare for conferences, especially when you’re also organizing or speaking.2. Responsibility Was Shared—By Design• The event was intentionally structured so attendees, not just organizers, contributed to each other’s success.• This created a more collaborative atmosphere and lightened the burden on the “core team.”3. Mastermind Format Delivered Results• The small group and one-on-one conversations during the mastermind led to powerful breakthroughs.• Attendees had space to talk, listen, and support one another—something often missing from big events.4. Hybrid Structure = Best of Both Worlds• The event included both a mastermind and a traditional conference portion.• The mastermind was experimental but impactful; the conference followed a more familiar format with vendors and speaker tracks.5. The People Made It Work• The success was largely due to curating a room full of generous, driven, “cool” people.• The team trusted that putting the right people together would lead to magic—and it did.Final ThoughtThis episode is proof that author events can go beyond panels and presentations. With intentional design and the right community, they can create meaningful momentum and real change in an author’s career.Let me know if you’d like this turned into show notes, a newsletter, or something visual! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

This episode features a presentation Russell gave in Lee’s Facebook group tht breaks down a crucial lesson for authors: success isn’t about picking the “best” platform, whether it’s Kickstarter, Substack, or direct sales, but about how they work together to amplify each other.The focus isn’t on chasing the next big thing or worrying about industry collapse. It’s about simplifying, optimizing, and integrating existing strategies to create a sustainable sales ecosystem.Key takeaways include:* Why direct sales, crowdfunding, and memberships work better together.* How to build a system where each platform strengthens the others.* The importance of doing fewer things, better, instead of chasing silver bullets.If you’re tired of constantly adapting to new trends, this talk offers a practical, no-nonsense approach to making a living as an author. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

Summary: In this episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, hosts Monica and Russell welcome co-host Lee Savino and guest Ines Johnson, a prolific romance author and Kickstarter powerhouse. Ines dives deep into the art of crafting page-turner pacing, drawing from her background in screenwriting and television. She shares insights into the structural techniques that keep readers hooked, such as adapting episodic storytelling methods to novels and mastering subplot integration.Key highlights include:* Kickstarter Success: Ines shares how Russell inspired her to relaunch a Kickstarter campaign, leading to a staggering $24,000 in just two days.* The Page-Turner Formula: Ines discusses her screenwriting roots and how the discipline of episodic TV informs her approach to building tension and satisfying resolutions in books.* Writing Weird and Marketable: The group debates balancing creative uniqueness with market demands, encouraging authors to lean into tropes and genres while adding their personal "special sauce."* Books for Fans vs. Audience Growth: Ines and the hosts explore how authors can create projects to satisfy devoted readers while planning broader appeal books to attract new fans.* Practical Writing Tips: From understanding shared marketing language in tropes to layering storylines using concepts like Levitt's Paradigm, this episode is packed with actionable advice.The episode also tackles questions from the audience about applying pacing techniques to unconventional books, tracking subplots, and the value of creating standalone versus serialized works.Takeaway: Whether you're a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between, this episode delivers essential strategies for crafting compelling narratives, building a loyal audience, and navigating the complexities of the modern publishing landscape. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode, we dive into the messy, exciting world of building a six-figure author career. Joined by the incredible Katie Cross, we explore how she’s turned direct sales into a thriving business for her fantasy novels and why connection with readers matters more than following every trend.We talk about the "need" trap and how authors pile unnecessary pressure on themselves by chasing shiny objects like Shopify stores or TikTok shops. Instead, the real magic happens when you focus on what lights you up and let that guide your efforts.You'll learn:* Why sequencing your tasks beats chaotic multitasking every time.* How to redefine success beyond financial milestones and embrace the joy of the creative process.* The power of stillness, trust, and letting time happen instead of blowing things up just to feel busy.* How to uncover and tackle the limiting beliefs that might be holding you back.This one’s packed with insights, laughs, and the reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all path to success. Whether you’re just starting out or working to sustain your wins, this conversation will leave you inspired to lean into what works for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this lively episode of The Six Figure Author Experiment, hosts Russell and Lee dive into the intricacies of success, mindset, and manifestation alongside guest Renee Rose. Together, they explore the philosophies and practices that have propelled them to creative and financial milestones.Key Highlights* The Power of Manifestation and Mindset:* Renee and Lee emphasize aligning your intentions with an open mindset to receive opportunities. Renee shares her journey of clearing mental blocks, explaining that success stems from removing limiting beliefs and allowing abundance to flow naturally.* Lessons from "Write to Riches" and "Relax to Riches":* Renee introduces her two books, explaining how they provide actionable strategies for authors to attract wealth and clarity. The second book, Relax to Riches, focuses on intention setting, clearing mental clutter, and operating from a space of ease and confidence.* Breaking Through Fear and Guilt:* The trio unpacks the concept that fear and guilt often serve as unseen roadblocks. Renee advocates for "radical approval" of one’s fears, transforming resistance into freedom. Lee expands on how accepting these feelings can free mental energy for creativity and growth.* Finding the Right Frequency:* Manifesting isn’t about chasing arbitrary goals. Instead, it’s about understanding what truly resonates with you, whether that’s financial security, luxury, or creative freedom. Lee recounts how aligning her goals with her values, like comfort and autonomy, reshaped her perspective on success.* Sleep as a Manifestation Tool:* Both authors highlight the importance of sleep in achieving goals. Renee explains how programming her subconscious during sleep has been pivotal in her success. Lee adds that sleep connects her to her characters, helping her write effortlessly.* Clearing Mental and Emotional Blocks:* Addressing past traumas and limiting beliefs is key to unlocking potential. Renee shares techniques to reframe negative experiences and turn fear into opportunity. These processes allow authors to focus on their craft and embrace their creative identities fully.* Practical Steps for Listeners:* Begin with small practices: set an intention before bed, visualize your success, and reflect on your fears to identify what’s holding you back.* Experiment with manifesting by focusing on specific, actionable desires, such as financial milestones or career achievements, and notice shifts in your mindset.Final Takeaway: Manifesting success isn’t about working harder but aligning your mindset, intentions, and energy with your goals. By embracing fear, clearing mental blocks, and prioritizing rest, authors can unlock their full creative and financial potential. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode, Heather Hildenbrand joins the Six Figure Author Experiment to share her journey as an author, coach, and advocate for embracing success. Together, we explore the intersection of mindset, nervous system regulation, and actionable strategies for authors aiming to achieve their next $100,000 milestone.Highlights:* Manifestation 101:Heather discusses the importance of accepting abundance, training your subconscious for success, and why saying “yes” to money signals the universe to send more your way.* The Science of the Nervous System:Chronic stress and trauma can block creativity and decision-making. Heather shares tools like tapping and vagus nerve exercises to calm the fight-or-flight response, allowing for greater focus and productivity.* The Power of Community:Aligning with successful peers helps normalize success. Heather and the hosts discuss how surrounding yourself with goal-oriented individuals accelerates personal and professional growth.* Healing, Embodying, Allowing:Heather introduces her framework for transformation, emphasizing that healing past trauma, embodying your ideal self, and allowing outcomes to unfold are simultaneous processes.* Compassion Over Perfection:The episode critiques traditional notions of perfectionism, reframing it as an opportunity for self-compassion. Heather explains how this shift leads to long-term growth and fulfillment.Actionable Takeaways:* Create an Evidence List: Track your achievements to reinforce positive beliefs about your capabilities.* Calm Your Nervous System: Practice techniques like tapping or vagus nerve exercises to manage stress and foster clarity.* Surround Yourself with Success: Network with goal-oriented individuals to internalize their mindset and habits.* Adopt Heather’s Framework: Focus on healing, embodying your goals, and allowing success to manifest organically.* Prioritize Rest: Evidence shows that stepping back and resting can lead to your most significant breakthroughs.Final Takeaway:Success isn’t about striving for perfection—it’s about believing you deserve it, embracing your flaws, and creating the right conditions for growth. As Heather says, "You get to be rich and a hot mess." Find your balance, lean into self-compassion, and watch everything fall into place. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode, guest Willow Winters dives deep into the challenges and strategies of independent publishing, offering valuable insights for writers looking to grow their careers. She shares her journey with Kickstarter, self-publishing, and creative marketing, providing actionable advice for authors seeking long-term success.* Stay Persistent and Take Risks: Willow’s early Kickstarter campaigns barely met their goals, but persistence led to six-figure successes. Writers should embrace the idea of refining strategies, experimenting, and pushing forward even after initial setbacks.* Look Beyond the Writing World: Willow talks about how looking outside of the writing community for business ideas helped her grow. Writers can apply this by learning from other industries to innovate their marketing and sales approaches, moving beyond the conventional wisdom of indie publishing.* Diversify Sales Platforms: Willow emphasized the value of direct sales, Patreon, and special editions. For writers, exploring different formats and platforms (such as crowdfunding, digital exclusives, or limited editions) can boost both reach and revenue, expanding beyond standard ebook or paperback sales.* Balance Art with Business: While creative fulfillment is crucial, Willow highlighted the importance of wearing a "publisher hat" when making business decisions. Writers should understand market trends and be willing to adapt (e.g., book covers, formats) to appeal to readers and increase sales.* Leverage Backlists for Consistent Marketing: Rather than constantly pushing new releases, Willow has found success in consistently promoting her most popular backlist titles. Writers should consider focusing their marketing efforts on older books that resonate with readers, keeping them in the spotlight and building momentum.Final Thoughts: This episode highlights the need for writers to blend creativity with entrepreneurship. Building a sustainable writing career requires not only producing great content but also understanding the business side—adapting to platforms, experimenting with sales strategies, and consistently marketing popular works. By taking risks and learning from other industries, indie authors can unlock new avenues for success. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

In this episode, the speakers dive into the realities of building a sustainable career as an author, touching on marketing, conference experiences, and different strategies for long-term success in the writing world.Key Takeaways:* Conference Networking Over Information: Traditional writing conferences are often information-heavy, but true value often comes from networking. Focus on connecting with peers and industry experts who can share real-world applications and strategies. Don't be afraid to ask for specifics, like backend setups, to see how successful writers manage their business.* Embrace "Doing" for Growth: Writers often find success by actively doing the work—whether it’s writing, marketing, or publishing. Instead of overthinking, dive into projects and learn by trial and error. This also applies to exploring marketing strategies like direct sales or using platforms like Reem or Substack.* Find Your Sustainable Productivity Model: Writers should tailor their productivity to what they can sustain long-term. For some, that might mean writing one book a month and focusing on volume, while others may prefer slower output but with diverse revenue streams, such as special editions or translations.* Discover Marketing That Resonates: The best marketing is the kind that feels authentic to you. Whether that’s email newsletters, social media, or building a Shopify store for direct sales, pick strategies that you enjoy and can commit to. Experiment with different methods, and don’t feel pressured to follow one-size-fits-all advice.* Focus on Long-term Monetization: Beyond productivity, sustainable income is critical. Authors are encouraged to explore various revenue streams outside of just writing, such as subscriptions, selling special editions, or running online stores. Having multiple income streams can reduce burnout and provide financial stability even if you decrease your writing output.Final Thoughts:Building a six-figure writing career requires both creativity and strategy. It’s essential to experiment with what works for you, whether it’s marketing tactics, writing schedules, or revenue models. Embrace the process of learning by doing, and don't shy away from asking questions and forming connections. Sustainable success comes from finding a rhythm that suits your personal strengths and business goals. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

Launching a book as an indie author often feels like a make-or-break moment, but there are different approaches depending on your goals, bandwidth, and long-term strategy. Some writers follow an aggressive, high-frequency launch schedule, while others treat their book launches as supplementary to their overall income. The key is finding a method that aligns with your energy and business model.* Adjust Your Launch Expectations: Not every book launch has to be a major event. If your primary income comes from other sources (like conferences or other books), consider treating your launch as a “nice-to-have” instead of an all-out campaign. Sometimes, letting the books exist quietly can still provide steady, passive income without the stress.* Choose the Right Marketing Model: High-output authors often use the “algorithm bump” strategy—constantly launching to stay in Amazon's favor. If you don’t want to be on the treadmill of endless launches, explore wide distribution strategies. Focus on building a backlist and strategically using promos for sustained sales over time.* Define Success for You: Every writer’s path is different. For some, success may mean hitting Amazon’s bestseller list; for others, it could be building a loyal fanbase. Reflect on what “winning” means to you and focus your energy on that goal. Whether it’s maximizing passive income or scaling up to bigger projects, clarity will guide your efforts.* Leverage Your Strengths: Think about your personal strengths. Are you a “desert” writer who can churn out books quickly, or are you more of a networker who thrives on partnerships? Aligning your launch and marketing plans with your natural inclinations can help avoid burnout and increase your enjoyment of the process.* Diversify Your Offerings: Beyond books, consider expanding into different formats like comics, podcasts, or foreign translations. Offering different types of content can reach new audiences and breathe life into older works, especially if you have strong brand identity and reader loyalty.Final Thoughts:Launching books successfully isn’t about following a single path—it’s about finding what works for you and your goals. Whether you’re aiming to hit bestseller lists or just maintaining a steady flow of passive income, aligning your launch strategy with your energy and strengths is key. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com

This episode of The Six-Figure Author Experiment features Lee and Russell discussing the power of building leverage, the long-term strategies behind creating profitable book series, and overcoming the pressures of success. They emphasize the importance of loving the writing process and staying consistent, while also balancing creative freedom with business goals. Here are the key takeaways:* Build Leverage Over Time: Success often comes after years of building a strong catalog. Russell discusses how authors like John Scalzi and Stephen King have accumulated leverage through consistent output, allowing them to release books with guaranteed sales. New writers should focus on building leverage by creating series or developing a strong mailing list to ensure future profitability.* Experiment With Different Platforms and Formats: Russell emphasizes the importance of diversifying platforms, from Kickstarter campaigns to Amazon, and even exploring webtoon formats for comics. By experimenting with different formats and audiences, writers can expand their reach and maximize potential sales.* Lighten the Pressure on New Projects: While financial success is important, both hosts recommend easing the pressure when starting a new project. Rather than focusing solely on numbers, they suggest centering your efforts on the joy of writing and trusting that profitability will follow if you remain consistent and passionate.* Understand the Importance of Series: Writing a successful book series is key to long-term income. Both hosts note that series generate consistent revenue over time, allowing authors to reinvest in riskier projects. They highlight the importance of building a catalog that readers can immerse themselves in, even long after the series’ initial release.* Profitability Begins With Breaking Even: The first goal for any book, especially when launching new projects, is simply to break even. Once a book breaks even, every subsequent sale is pure profit. This mindset can reduce stress and allow authors to experiment more freely with different genres, formats, or marketing strategies.Final Thoughts: Lee and Russell encourage writers to focus on sustainable growth through building leverage, creating series, and experimenting with new platforms. By reducing the pressure of immediate success and focusing on long-term strategies, writers can create lasting careers while still enjoying the creative process. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com