Indie Author Blueprint

You finished your draft—now what? Before you jump straight into publishing mode, there’s a crucial stage that separates hobby projects from professional books. In this mini-workshop for paid subscribers, I’m walking you through what comes after “The End”: preparing your front and back matter, requesting endorsements, deciding whether you need a foreword, and organizing the details that make your finished book ready to publish. Think of it as your bridge between writing and publishing—the step that helps your story shine when it finally meets the world.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Michelle shares why ordering a printed proof is one of the smartest steps you can take before publishing your book. She tells the story of a proof copy that revealed more than a few surprises—misaligned headers, tight margins, and a font that felt too small—and explains what every indie author should look for beyond typos.Learn what to check in your print proof, how to fix common layout mistakes, and why this stage is about craftsmanship, not perfection.Listen in to learn:–Why digital previews aren’t enough–What to check in your printed proof (inside and out)–The most common print mistakes indie authors miss–How to know when your book is truly ready to publishhttps://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Amazon just tightened Prime sharing (Amazon Family plus required wallet sharing). What does that mean for indie authors? In this episode, I break down what changed, what didn’t, and how to protect your business payments. We’ll also cover KDP’s identity-verification prompts, why they matter, and the one-account rule so you don’t create headaches. Quick checkup reminder included—tune in and keep your publishing admin clean.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Going wide with your book isn’t just about uploading to multiple platforms — it’s about creating a publishing plan that lasts. In this episode, we look at the long game: setting realistic expectations, serving bookstores and readers well, and protecting your profit margin so you can keep publishing for years to come.You’ll learn:Why wide distribution is about planting seeds, not instant results;How to make your book bookstore-friendly without losing your shirt;Why serving readers well builds long-term loyalty;How to calculate your break-even point and protect your margins.If you’re serious about treating indie publishing like a business, this episode will help you map out a strategy that’s sustainable for the long haul.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Want your book in bookstores and libraries — without giving up your KDP setup? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn walks you through how to add IngramSpark to expand your reach beyond Amazon. Learn how to use your own ISBNs, match your retail price to avoid problems, and set wholesale discounts and returnability so bookstores will actually order your book. Michelle also breaks down a real profit-per-book example, showing you exactly how to calculate your earnings after discounts and printing costs.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Thinking about making your book available beyond Amazon? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn breaks down what it really means to “go wide” and how to know if your book — and you — are ready for the next step. She explores the key signs that it might be time to expand your reach, from consistent Amazon sales and reader demand to having a marketing plan in place. Michelle also explains why staying exclusive to KDP can be a smart move for first-time authors and why IngramSpark is the industry standard when you’re ready for bookstores and libraries to carry your book. This episode will help you make a confident, strategic decision about whether now is the right time to go wide.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Tired of listening to podcasts where the only call to action is "Buy my book"? Perhaps you've been taught that "Buy my book" ought to be your main CTA, and now you're wondering why you're losing followers and sales. In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn explains why that common advice falls flat and how it can actually damage reader trust. Discover practical, community-building alternatives that help you connect with listeners and readers as people—not just potential buyers. Learn how shifting from transactions to relationships will grow trust, loyalty, and eventually, book sales.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comAlt text may sound technical, but it’s really just storytelling for readers who can’t see your images. In this episode, Michelle Rayburn explains what alt text is, why Kindle Direct Publishing now requires it for eBooks in Europe (as of June 28, 2025), and how to write simple descriptions that make your book accessible to more readers.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com

In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, host Michelle Rayburn unpacks the key differences between vanity presses, legitimate hybrid publishers, and true indie publishing. She explains the red flags to watch for, what makes a hybrid partnership credible, and how authors can maintain full control by setting up their own imprint. Listeners will come away with clear guidance on how to avoid costly mistakes and choose the publishing path that best fits their goals.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comPen names sound mysterious and freeing—but for indie authors, they can raise tough questions about visibility, privacy, and marketing. In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn explores the real pros and cons of using a pen name, including the emotional reasons behind the choice and the challenges of staying anonymous while trying to grow a platform. A must-listen for anyone considering a pseudonym in publishing.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comIn this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, host Michelle Rayburn dives deep into the art and craft of publishing. Writing your book is just the beginning. Publishing is where your story truly comes to life. Whether you’re treating it as a hobby or a career, this episode encourages you to shift your mindset and see publishing as an extension of your creativity. Learn why publishing is more than just hitting "publish" and how treating it like an art form can elevate your work. Plus, Michelle shares actionable questions and tasks to help you reflect on your own publishing process and take the next steps toward mastering the craft of indie publishing.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comIn this episode, we dive into the often-surprising reality of indie publishing: after your book is published, the work is far from over! You might have a few friends and family buy your book, but then what? How do you get the word out and reach your readers?While this episode focuses on the publishing process, we all know marketing is an inevitable part of the indie author journey. So, we’ll touch on that too, but with the understanding that I’m just like you—an indie author figuring out how to find my readers.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.comHighlights:Understanding how Amazon’s algorithm affects your book visibilityThe two main ways your book shows up on Amazon search results: featured listings and sponsored product adsHow to leverage Amazon Ads to target books similar to yours, with tips on automatic vs. manual targetingEvaluating the ROI of ads by looking at overall royalties, not just ad salesResources to help you navigate Amazon Ads: Bryan Cohen, Amazon Ads Academy, and moreNote to Paid Subscribers: I’ll share some real numbers and deeper insights into my ad strategy below the paywall.Links & Resources:Bryan Cohen: bryancohen.comAmazon Ads Academy: Amazon Advertising AcademyKindlepreneur's Free Amazon Ads Course: KindlepreneurRemember, ads won’t fix a low-quality book. Ensure your book is polished and ready before diving into marketing.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comStarting June 10, 2025, KDP reduced the royalty rate from 6 percent to 50 percent for paperback and hardcover books priced below $9.99 in the U.S. If you’ve been pricing your books low to stay competitive, you might be losing money without even realizing it. In this episode, I explain what changed, how to check if your books are affected, and what steps to take to stay profitable in the new royalty landscape.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comStruggling to stay productive as an indie author when life gets chaotic? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn shares practical, sustainable productivity hacks, essential writing tools, and simple review routines to keep your projects moving forward—no matter what life throws your way. Build a workflow that truly fits you!Plus there's a bonus for paid Substack subscribers. https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to balance writing, publishing, and everything else that comes with being an indie author, this episode of Indie Author Blueprint is for you. Host Michelle Rayburn continues her practical mini-series on productivity and organization, focusing on real-world strategies indie authors can use to manage their time and workspace more effectively.In this calm, down-to-earth session, you’ll find relatable stories, simple tips, and actionable insights to help you get more done without burning out. Whether your digital files are a mess, your inbox is overflowing, or you can’t seem to find focus for your writing projects, this lesson will gently guide you toward creating systems that fit your life and style.You won’t just hear about theory—you’ll find encouragement to start small, experiment, and build habits that actually work for you. Tune in if you’re ready to move past overwhelm and make your author business run more smoothly, one step at a time.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comIn this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn explores the essential habits and systems every indie author needs to thrive and stay sane on their publishing journey. Through relatable examples and down-to-earth advice, you'll discover why getting organized isn't just for neat freaks—it’s a game-changer for your creative flow and business success. Whether you struggle with scattered files, endless to-do lists, or unfinished drafts, Michelle sets the stage to help you break free from chaos and take intentional steps forward with your writing. Tune in to get inspired to treat your work like the business it is, and get ready to learn simple, actionable ways to bring more order—and less stress—to your indie author life.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.comAre you thinking about publishing your own book but feel overwhelmed by where to start? In this episode of the podcast, I offer a gentle, practical introduction to navigating the world of indie publishing. You'll hear how I moved from writing magazine articles to managing every step of book publishing on my own—and the lessons I learned along the way.Whether you want to treat your book as a business venture or simply see your words in print, I hope my encouragement is a roadmap to get you moving, even if you’re not sure of your next step. My goal is to help you feel less alone, more motivated, and ready to explore topics like cover design, platform choices, or handling the details behind a professional indie launch.If you're searching for direction, inspiration, or just a little reassurance, this is a welcoming place to begin your indie publishing journey.What’s Next?Feeling stuck? Paralyzed by decisions? I’ve been there. Do you keep bumping tasks to later, later, later? Been there too. Let’s stop talking about publishing a book and get you to the next step.In this week’s podcast episode, I shared a little about my own journey and process. Remember, last week, I posted the “Start Here” cheat sheet for getting the basics from Indie Author Blueprint.Now, it’s time to get moving. To go with this week’s podcast episode, I created a tool to help you plan your next steps and set action items on your to-do list and in your calendar. If you’re a paid subscriber, keep scrolling here for that content. I really want to know: What is your action step? Reply to this email and let me know so I can cheer you on! P.S. The podcast full episode is free for all listeners, even if your version says it’s a preview.

Curious about why more writers are choosing the indie author path over traditional publishing? In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn unpacks the current landscape of publishing, exploring the reasons behind the shift and what it means for writers today. You’ll gain insight into how the industry is changing, the new opportunities available for authors, and what it really takes to thrive as an indie. Whether you’re already on the fence about your next steps or just curious about what’s happening behind the scenes, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the choices available to today’s writers. Tune in to feel informed, inspired, and ready to explore your own author journey.Be sure to look for all the learning content on Indie Author Blueprint on Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, host Michelle Rayburn shares inspiration drawn from bestselling author Kristin Hannah’s writing journey, highlighted in a recent interview on Open Book with Jenna. This lesson takes a closer look at how unexpected paths, personal discipline, and commitment to craft shape a sustainable author career, no matter your publishing route. If you’re an indie author wondering how to find joy and meaning in your work while building your business for the long-term, this episode offers thoughtful encouragement and practical next steps to help you reset your mindset and approach to writing. Tune in for a gentle boost and ideas you can put into practice right away. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe

Curious about using AI in your book marketing? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn explores practical, low-pressure ways indie authors can leverage AI for post-publishing tasks—like crafting blurbs, bios, and promotional content—while keeping your voice authentic and creativity front-and-center. Discover where AI fits in your toolbox, without the hype or pressure!Follow Indie Author Blueprint on Substack to get the full show notes.https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com/subscribe