

The Publishing Performance Show
Teddy Smith
Welcome to The Publishing Performance Show, the quintessential podcast for both budding and veteran self-published authors! Join your host, Teddy, as he sits down with with successful indie authors and top experts in the publishing world, who generously share their unique journeys, creative inspirations, and future aspirations in their writing careers and the wider industry.Immerse yourself in a trove of valuable insights and actionable advice on writing, essential tools, and practical tips to elevate your self-publishing prowess. Whether you’re just beginning your literary voyage or seeking to refine your craft, this show brims with wisdom and inspiration to help you thrive in the self-publishing realm.Each episode promises listeners at least one actionable tip for their self-published books and a must-read recommendation from our esteemed guests.Tune in for an inspiring, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable exploration of the indie author experience!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 12, 2024 • 22min
Celeste Barclay - Building the Customer Journey and Dominating the Romance Market (Live at Author Nation 2024)
[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024 - LAS VEGAS]Celeste Barclay, a bestselling historical romance author and former educator, shares her expertise on understanding the consumer journey in publishing. Speaking from Author Nation 2024, she discusses how authors can build lasting relationships with readers through strategic marketing and branding. Her unique background in political management and education brings a fresh perspective to author marketing strategies.In this episode:Understanding the complete consumer journeyBuilding reader relationships beyond the initial saleStrategic author branding decisionsHistorical accuracy in fiction marketingEmail marketing and analytics strategiesSocial media engagement techniquesConverting readers into long-term fansConference networking strategiesResources mentioned:Flowdesk (email marketing platform): https://flodesk.com/Facebook Analytics - for group engagement trackingInstagram Analytics - for post performanceMailerlite - mentioned for email timingWriting Series:Historical Romance (as Celeste Barclay): https://www.celestebarclay.com/booksContemporary Mafia Romance (as Sabine Barclay)Clan Sinclair seriesIvan Kov Brotherhood seriesConnect with Celeste Barclay:Website: https://www.celestebarclay.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celestembarclayFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/celestebarclaysladiesofyore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestebarclayauthor/Newsletter: https://gentle-paper-61402.myflodesk.com/u3jrzhei3zConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Nov 12, 2024 • 16min
Alessandra Torre & JD Lasica of Authors A.I. - Inside the Marlowe AI System (Live at Author Nation 2024)
[RECORDED LIVE AT AUTHOR NATION 2024]Alessandra Torre and JD Lasica, co-founders of Authors A.I., discuss how artificial intelligence, through their tool Marlowe, enhances the writing process. Speaking at Author Nation 2024, they highlight how AI can improve manuscripts via data-driven analysis, combining technology with creative writing.Alessandra Torre, a New York Times bestselling author, excels in both traditional and self-publishing. She has built multiple author-focused businesses and understands the needs in manuscript development.JD Lasica, a techno-thriller author, brings his AI and digital innovation expertise to publishing. His latest release, "The Golden Relic," demonstrates his ability to blend science fiction with thrillers. As a co-founder of Authors.ai, he helps develop tools for the author community.In this episode:Understanding Marlowe's AI analysis capabilitiesDifferences between analytical AI and generative AIHow bestselling authors use AI toolsComparing manuscripts to successful booksUsing AI for developmental editingIntegration with other writing toolsReal success stories from usersFuture developments in the platformResources Mentioned:Authors A.I.: https://authors.ai/Marlowe: https://authors.ai/marlowe/Marlowe Pricing: https://authors.ai/plans/Interactive dashboard (upcoming)Author testimonials at authors.ai/testimonialsConnect with Alessandra Torre:Website: https://www.alessandratorre.com/Facebook: https://facebook.com/alessandratorre0X.com: https://www.twitter.com/readalessandraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessandra-torre-059043b4/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alessandratorre4Connect with JD LasicaWebsite: https://www.jdlasica.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjdlasica/X.com: https://twitter.com/jdlasicaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdlasica/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdlasica/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/cSupport the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Nov 7, 2024 • 37min
Matt Briel - Lulu.com's Secret Weapon: Spiral Bound Publishing Success
Matt Briel is the Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Lulu.com, one of the pioneers in print-on-demand publishing. With over 22 years of experience in self-publishing solutions, Lulu specializes in offering unique printing options including spiral binding and direct sales integration. In this episode, Matt shares insights into print-on-demand technology, spiral binding capabilities, and successful case studies of authors using these formats.In this episode:Overview of Lulu.com's print-on-demand servicesDetailed explanation of spiral bound book productionLimitations and possibilities with spiral bindingSuccess stories and case studiesDirect sales opportunities through LuluPrint-on-demand global distribution networksTips for choosing the right binding formatResources Mentioned:Lulu.com print-on-demand platformLulu Shopify plugin for direct salesGlobal print network facilities (US, UK, France, Australia)Free downloadable interior files and templatesLulu cover creator toolWooCommerce and Wix integrationsBook recommendations:"Salem's Lot" by Stephen King"Write, Publish, Repeat" by Lynette GreenfieldConnect with Lulu:Website: https://www.lulu.com/Lulu.com Customer Service: https://help.lulu.com/en/support/tickets/newDirect Sales Plugins Available Through LuluShopify plugins: https://www.lulu.com/sell/sell-on-your-site/shopifyWix integration: https://www.lulu.com/sell/sell-on-your-site/wixWooCommerce integration: https://www.lulu.com/sell/sell-on-your-site/woocommerceConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Nov 5, 2024 • 44min
Dave Chesson - Cracking the Amazon Keyword Code with the Kindlepreneur
Dave Chesson, founder of Kindlepreneur and Publisher Rocket, shares his expertise on Amazon keyword optimization and book marketing. As the creator of one of the most popular keyword research tools for authors, Dave provides insights into how authors can better position their books for discovery on Amazon.In this episode:The story behind Publisher Rocket's developmentUnderstanding Amazon's keyword systemHow to optimize your seven KDP keyword boxesDifferent approaches for fiction vs non-fiction keywordsUsing the new reverse ASIN tool for researchTips for analyzing competition and market potentialBest practices for keyword research and implementationResources mentioned:Publisher Rocket Kindlepreneur.com Guides7 Kindle Keywords: Use All 50 Characters or Not?Kindle Keyword Strategy For Fiction AuthorsAmazon KDPKindlepreneur Tools and ServicesBook recommendations:Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt DinnimanConnect with Dave Chesson:Website: https://kindlepreneur.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KindlepreneurContact: https://kindlepreneur.com/contact-me/Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Oct 31, 2024 • 34min
Suzy K Quinn - Writing Romantic Comedy and Building a Group of Superfans
Suzy K Quinn is a bestselling author with over 20 books across romantic comedy and thriller genres. Her self-published works include the successful Bad Mother's Diary series and The Ivy Lessons series, which have sold hundreds of thousands of copies. Currently heading the London office of Kevin Anderson Associates' ghostwriting company, Suzy combines her writing expertise with helping other authors develop their manuscripts.In this episode:Suzy's journey from aspiring writer to bestselling authorThe differences between self-publishing and traditional publishingHer experience with viral book success on AmazonInsights into writing bestselling fictionThe importance of focusing on craft over marketingHer work with Kevin Anderson AssociatesTips for aspiring authors in different genresThe value of understanding your readershipResources mentioned:How to Write a Bestseller Course (SPF University)Kevin Anderson Associates Editorial ServicesLondon Book Fair20 Books ConferenceBook recommendations:"Lies" by TM Logan"The Girl" by Ruth WareConnect with Suzy K Quinn:Instagram: @SuzyKQuinnTwitter: @SuzyKQuinnFacebook: Suzy K QuinnWebsite: https://www.suzykquinn.com/Books written by SuzyCourse: How to Write a Bestseller at SPF UniversityConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Oct 29, 2024 • 40min
Dan Ramm - Spotlight on Storytelling: From Scripts to Self-Publishing
Dan Ramm is a TV writer and producer who has transitioned into novel writing with his debut book "The Long Branch." With over 20 years of experience in Hollywood, including writing for shows like Criminal Minds and creating his own TV series, Dan brings unique insights into the entertainment industry and the craft of storytelling. His unexpected journey from construction work to screenwriting, and now to novel writing, offers a fresh perspective on the evolving world of authorship.In this episode:Dan's journey from construction worker to Hollywood scriptwriterThe transition from TV writing to novel writingInsights into the challenges faced by aging actors in HollywoodThe impact of COVID-19 on the entertainment industry and how it inspired parts of the novelDan's approach to self-publishing and marketing his debut novelThe importance of networking and using industry connectionsAdvice for aspiring writers on developing their craft and staying motivatedResources mentioned:Online Book Club (for book reviews)Impact Book Awards (book contest)Indie Book Awards (book contest)Book recommendations:"Happiness Falls" by Angie Kim"Fire in the Hole" by Elmore LeonardConnect with Dan Ramm:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danrammauthor/Author of Long Branch: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Branch-Never-truth-story/dp/B0D5YTQS8TConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Oct 24, 2024 • 43min
Joe Solari - Author Networking Success: The Author Nation Strategy Guide
Joe Solari is the Managing Director of Author Nation Conference, one of the largest and most innovative writing conferences in the self publishing industry. With wide experience in organizing major events and building author communities, Joe brings a unique perspective to conference organization and author development. His focus on combining business strategies with creativity has helped shape Author Nation into an amazing experience for writers at all stages of their careers. Along with his wife Sue, Joe has visited numerous industry conferences to bring the best practices and most effective strategies to the author community. In this episode:The vision and structure of Author Nation ConferenceImplementing EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) for author businessesCreating effective networking opportunities for writersCombining business strategies with creative developmentThe importance of accountability partners in author successTips for maximizing conference value and implementing learningsStrategies for building lasting industry connectionsResources mentioned:Author Nation ConferenceWritten Word MediaBookFunnelConference Planning GuideAuthor Networking GuideConference Notebook SystemFeatured Speakers discussed:Andrew Davis - The Curiosity FactorRicky Wallman - EOS ImplementationDamon Courtney - BookFunnel SystemsJeanette Strode - Subcontracting StrategiesConnect with Author Nation:Website: https://www.authornation.live/Conference Dates: November 11-15, 2024Location: Las VegasReader Event (RAVE): FridayConnect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Oct 22, 2024 • 38min
Christina Graves - Horror Writing Tips and Indie Publishing Insights
Christina Graves is a creative writing student, indie author, and digital artist residing in the Deep South where legend and scary stories wander hand in hand. Her debut novel, "Still Dark Places," was released through Horrorsmith Publishing and launched their thriller imprint, Thrill Forge. With a unique blend of southern gothic atmosphere and thriller pacing, Christina offers insights into the world of indie publishing and the creative process behind writing suspenseful fiction.In this episode:Christina's journey from aspiring writer to published authorThe process of writing and structuring a dual-timeline novelInsights into the indie publishing process with Horrorsmith PublishingBalancing writing with family life and other commitmentsThe transition from horror to domestic thriller in her upcoming workThe importance of authenticity in genre writingStrategies for building tension and suspense in fictionThe value of networking and community in the writing worldResources mentioned:Horrorsmith PublishingBooks and Brews conferenceKiller Nashville conferenceBook recommendations:"Consider This" by Chuck Palahniuk"On Writing" by Stephen KingConnect with Christina Graves:Substack: https://christinagraves.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinagravesauthor/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@christinagraveseauthorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinagravesauthorAuthor of Still, Dark Places: https://books2read.com/stilldarkplacesUpcoming work:"What We Do in Secret" (domestic thriller set to release in April 2025, available for preorder)"This Cabin is Ours" (serialized novella on Substack)Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Oct 17, 2024 • 42min
Victoria Gerken - Turning Pages into Performances: The Art of Audiobook Publishing
Victoria Gerken, Publisher at Podium Entertainment, brings her extensive experience in traditional publishing to the world of audiobooks. She discusses the evolution of audiobook publishing and Podium's unique approach to working with independent authors. From the importance of high-quality production to the role of professional narrators, Victoria emphasizes how these elements enhance storytelling. She shares success stories and practical advice for authors considering this vibrant market. Plus, don't miss her recommendations for must-listen titles!

Oct 15, 2024 • 46min
Dave Cohen - The Art of Injecting Humor into Any Fiction Genre
Dave Cohen, a writer, comedian, and Edinburgh Festival Perrier Award nominee, has been a constant presence on the British comedy scene for over 35 years. As a founder member of the Comedy Store Players and writer for successful TV shows like Have I Got News For You, Spitting Image, and BBC sitcoms Not Going Out and My Family, Dave has also written nearly 100 songs for the multi-BAFTA winning BBC hit Horrible Histories. With experience in stand-up comedy, radio shows, and as the lead singer of the world's first Jewish heavy metal band Guns'n'Moses, Dave has now turned his attention to novel writing and teaching comedy writing. In this episode, he discusses his career and approach to adding humor to fiction.In this episode:Dave's journey from stand-up comedy to writing for TV and radioThe process of transitioning from writing scripts to novelsTechniques for adding humor to different fiction genresTips for aspiring comedy writersInsights from Dave's new book "Funny Up Your Fiction"Marketing strategies for self-published authorsResources mentioned:"The Complete Comedy Writer" by Dave Cohen"Save the Cat" writing method"Funny Up Your Fiction" by Dave CohenBook recommendation:Jonathan Fairfax series by Christopher ShevlinConnect with Dave Cohen:Website: https://www.davecohen.org.uk/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/sitcom-geeks/id1014489955Connect with Teddy Smith:@teddyagsmithWebsite: https://publishingperformance.com/?ref=ywm3mtcFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/publishingperformance/Pinterest - https://nz.pinterest.com/publishingperformance/Instagram - https://instagram.com/publishingperformanceinstaYoutube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JEMhFSwLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/publishing-performance/Join our Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/publishingperformance/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/


