Don't Write That Book How to be Profitable as an Author
Mar 26, 2026
A lively discussion on making authorship a reliable income stream and when a book can redefine your career identity. They list common financial mistakes authors make and compare royalty models across publishing routes. Practical tactics cover smoothing irregular royalties, Profit First allocations, and creative ways to monetize beyond book sales. Production and direct-sales strategies for print and audio rounds out the conversation.
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Think Of Books As Career Engines Not Short Term ROI
- Shift mindset from 'will I make my money back' to how the book advances your career and impact.
- AJ recommends judging a book by where it leads you in 2–10 years and measuring impact over immediate ROI.
Profitable Author Means Primary Income From Authorship
- Mike defines a profitable author by whether authorship is the primary source of income, including speaking and sponsorships tied to the book.
- He cites The Pumpkin Plan as his identity shift when he became known and paid as an author.
Avoid Vanity Spend Invest In Author Infrastructure
- Avoid spending on experts and vanity marketing that don't move books; instead invest in systems that sustain long-term sales.
- AJ warns against misusing advances and recommends investing in infrastructure, marketing, and distribution for future books.
