The Publishing Performance Show

Audrey Hughey is a planner creator, author, and productivity expert who specializes in helping writers stay organized and achieve their publishing goals. After struggling to balance writing with raising toddlers, attending school, and freelance work, she created comprehensive author planners that have become essential tools for thousands of writers. Her planners are known for being ADHD-friendly and providing "monthly coaching" through structured goal-setting and review processes. Audrey combines principles from project management, entrepreneurship, and productivity science to create systems that help authors plan their entire year holistically—integrating writing goals with life commitments, energy cycles, and personal well-being.In this episode:The crisis moment that led to creating author-specific planning tools during NaNoWriMoWhy holistic planning (integrating life and writing) is more effective than isolated goal-settingThe "brain dump" technique for overcoming overwhelm and functional freezeHow to identify and work with your personal energy cycles and "fallow periods"Breaking large projects into achievable "pebbles" for consistent progressThe 90-day commitment rule for testing new productivity systemsMonthly review practices that function as affordable coaching alternativesTime blocking and realistic word count planning for busy authorsWhy authentic, meaningful goals matter more than borrowed aspirationsBuilding cues, triggers, and habits that support consistent writing practiceResources mentioned:The Author's Planner seriesVirtual writing retreatsMonthly Writing Focus PlannersGrowth Day appFemale Entrepreneurship AssociationPomodoro TechniqueBook recommendations:The Ritualist by Dakota CroweSix Habits of Growth by Brendon BurchardAtomic Habits by James ClearConnect with Audrey:Website: www.audreyhughey.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/thewriteservicesInstagram: www.instagram.com/thewriteservicesSign Up to Audrey’s Newsletter: https://bit.ly/authorweeklyConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Christina Graves is a writer, artist, and horror film addict living in the Deep South, where scary stories and history wander hand in hand. She writes horror and thriller stories that explore the darker side of human nature. Her debut novel, a psychological thriller entitled "Still, Dark Places," is available everywhere books are sold and launched Horrorsmith Publishing's thriller imprint, Thrill Forge. Christina is currently working on her second novel, "What We Do In Secret," a twisty domestic thriller set to release on May 27, 2025.In this episode:Christina's journey from aspiring writer to published psychological thriller 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 worldHow Deep South culture and history influence her dark storytellingResources mentioned:Horrorsmith Publishing / Thrill Forge imprintBooks 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: @christinagravesauthorTikTok: @christinagravesauthorFacebook: christinagravesauthor"Still, Dark Places": https://books2read.com/stilldarkplacesConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Cathy Lewis is the president of C.S. Lewis Publicists, a boutique publicity firm that has been specializing in nonfiction book promotion for 26 years. With seven years of prior experience in traditional publishing, Cathy brings deep industry knowledge to helping authors navigate the dramatically changed media landscape. Her firm has worked with bestselling authors like John Perkins ("Confessions of an Economic Hit Man") and Judith Orloff, generating millions in book sales through strategic media outreach. As a small team of five specialists, C.S. Lewis Publicists provides personalized, one-on-one service that focuses on building thought leadership and author brands rather than just securing individual media placements.In this episode:The evolution of book publicity from traditional bookstore distribution to the Amazon-dominated marketplaceWhy building thought leadership and personal branding has become essential for nonfiction authorsThe critical difference between publicity (exposure) and marketing (direct sales tactics)How to develop core messaging that resonates across different media outlets and audiencesThe importance of having a professional website, active blog, and strategic social media presence before launching publicity campaignsPlatform-specific strategies for LinkedIn (business), Facebook (health/community topics), Instagram (visual content), and TikTok (video engagement)Why the "stumble upon factor" in physical bookstores created more predictable sales patterns than current online browsingHow successful campaigns combine multiple touchpoints: media coverage, social media amplification, and speaking engagementsBook recommendations:Media Darlings by Joanne McCall: https://www.amazon.com/Media-Darling-Shine-Through-Interview/dp/1736095005Confessions of an Economic Hitman by John Perkins: https://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Economic-Hit-John-Perkins/dp/0452287081The Genius of Empathy by Judith Orloff: https://www.amazon.com/Genius-Empathy-Practical-Sensitive-Relationships/dp/1683649710Connect with Cathy:Website: https://www.cslewispublicity.com/DIY Publicity blog: https://www.cslewispublicity.com/blog/Contact: https://www.cslewispublicity.com/contact-us/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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Gillian Harvey is a successful author of women's fiction with nine published books, including the bestselling "The Year in the French Farmhouse" and "The Bordeaux Book Club." Living in France for many years before recently returning to the UK, she brings authentic French culture and experiences to her novels. Her latest book "The Little Provence Bookshop" combines elements of mystery, humor, and magical realism in a French setting.In this episode:Journey from teaching to full-time writingExperience of moving to and living in FranceWriting process and plotting techniques using 40-point story outlinesNaturally incorporating humor into storytellingBuilding successful author-reader relationships through reviewsTransitioning between publishers and working with Boldwood BooksBalancing social media presence across platformsImportance of in-person author communities and eventsResources mentioned:Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: https://www.amazon.com/Save-Cat-Writes-Novel-Writing/dp/0399579745Emily Dickinson poetry: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/emily-dickinsonChocolat by Joanne Harris: https://www.amazon.com/Chocolat-Novel-Vianne-Rocher/dp/0140282033Norfolk and Suffolk author communitiesBook recommendations:Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica BrodyWolf Hall by Hilary Mantel: https://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Hall-Hilary-Mantel/dp/0312429983The Year in the French Farmhouse: https://www.amazon.com/Year-French-Farmhouse-uplifting-feel-good-ebook/dp/B0B5CY4RNGThe Little Provence Bookshop: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Provence-Book-Shop/dp/1805499688Connect with Gillian Harvey:Website: https://www.gillianharvey.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillplusfive/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/gharveyauthor/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GillPlusFiveConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Dave Cohen is a veteran comedy writer, performer, and author with an impressive career spanning BBC sitcoms, radio comedy, and children's television. His writing credits include iconic shows like "My Family," "Not Going Out," "Have I Got News For You," and "Spitting Image." Dave is perhaps best known for writing nearly 100 comedy songs for the BAFTA-winning children's series "Horrible Histories," which brilliantly combines education with entertainment. As a former stand-up comedian and co-host of the "Sitcom Geeks" podcast, Dave brings decades of practical comedy writing experience to his educational work. His books, including "The Complete Comedy Writer" and the Barry Goldman comedy novel series, offer aspiring writers insider insights into the craft of humor. His latest book, "Funny Up Your Fiction," addresses a gap in the market by teaching authors how to add comedic elements to any genre of novel.In this episode:Dave's journey from stand-up comedy to BBC sitcom writer and children's television successThe inspiration behind "Horrible Histories" and how comedy songs teach history more effectivelyWhy most comedy writing advice focuses on jokes when character is actually the keyHow to add humor to any genre without compromising the story's integrityThe fundamental difference between writing gags and developing comedic charactersWhy lack of self-awareness is the secret ingredient to funny charactersThe "plotter, pantser, and passenger" approach to novel structure and character developmentHow to overcome the fear of writing comedy and avoid common comedy writing mistakesWhy serious drama and comedy use the same structural foundationsThe importance of character authenticity: comedy characters must believe in themselves completelyResources 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Mark Leslie Lefebvre is a multi-faceted author, publishing industry consultant, and book industry veteran who has significantly shaped the indie publishing landscape. As one of the key architects behind Kobo Writing Life, the self-publishing platform for Kobo (Amazon's primary competitor), Mark helped create what many consider the most user-friendly author dashboard in the industry. His diverse writing portfolio spans horror fiction, urban fantasy, true ghost stories, and essential guides for writers including "Wide for the Win" and "Kill It on Kobo." With over 40 years of writing experience and deep expertise in both traditional and independent publishing, Mark provides invaluable insights into global book distribution, platform strategy, and the business side of authorship.In this episode:Mark's journey from teenage horror writer to publishing industry consultantThe creation and development of Kobo Writing Life as Amazon's competitorWhy "going wide" beyond Amazon opens up global opportunities for authorsHow Kobo's international reach differs from Amazon's geographical limitationsStrategic pricing decisions: when Amazon's 70% royalty isn't actually 70%The psychology behind free book promotions and why most free downloads never get readWhy KDP Select exclusivity might be limiting your earning potentialInternational sales opportunities through Kobo's global retailer partnershipsEffective marketing strategies that focus on reader value over direct salesThe three pillars of author success: persistence, patience, and practiceFinding and serving your niche audience rather than trying to appeal to everyoneDaily writing routine strategies for busy authors with day jobsResources mentioned:Kobo Writing LifeDraft2DigitalBookFunnelWritten Word MediaFussy LibrarianBook recommendation: "The Business of Being a Writer" by Jane FriedmanConnect with Mark Leslie Lefebvre:Website: https://markleslie.ca/https://books2read.com/marklesliehttps://books2read.com/markleslielefebvreTwitter: https://twitter.com/markleslieInstagram: https://instagram.com/markleslielefebvreConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Mike Hourigan is a book marketing expert and representative from Written Word Media, one of the most trusted names in book promotion services. Written Word Media operates several highly effective promotional platforms including Free Booksy, Bargain Booksy, and Red Feather Romance, helping thousands of authors reach new readers and boost sales. With extensive experience in digital book marketing across multiple genres and price points, Mike brings practical, data-driven insights into what actually works in today's competitive book marketplace. His expertise spans both fiction and nonfiction promotion strategies, making him a valuable resource for authors at every stage of their publishing journey.In this episode:Launch promotions vs. price promotions: strategic timing and execution for maximum impactPromo stacking fundamentals: how to layer multiple promotional tactics for explosive resultsThe psychology and mechanics of free book promotions that convert browsers into loyal readersGenre-specific strategies that work differently for fiction versus nonfiction marketing campaignsWhy book covers and blurbs make or break your promotional success before readers even clickHow to leverage email promotion services effectively without wasting your marketing budgetSocial media advertising integration with traditional book promotion methodsReader acquisition strategies that build long-term fanbase rather than just short-term sales spikesThe data behind successful book promotions and what metrics actually matterResources mentioned:Email promotion services: Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, Red Feather RomanceSocial media advertising: Reader Reach AdsBook promotion service: NewInBooksCover design resource: ReedsyBook recommendation:"Company of One" by Paul Jarvis - Business growth philosophy for sustainable successConnect with Mike Hourigan and Written Word Media:Website: https://writtenwordmedia.com/Email: hello@writtenwordmedia.comConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

James Blatch is a former BBC Defence Reporter and BBFC Film Examiner who has successfully transitioned from journalism to becoming a bestselling author of military aviation thrillers. His extensive reporting career included high-profile assignments aboard HMS Invincible during Operation Desert Fox, coverage from Kuwait's Ali Al Salem allied air base, Arctic Circle reporting, and frontline coverage of the UK air offensive during the Kosovo Conflict in 1999. This unique background provides authentic military expertise that infuses his fiction with genuine realism. As co-founder of the Self Publishing Formula and organizer of the prestigious Self Publishing Show Live conference, James has become a leading voice in the independent publishing community, helping thousands of authors navigate their publishing journeys.In this episode:The dramatic career pivot from BBC war correspondent to military thriller novelistHow real-world defense reporting experience creates authentically gripping fictionThe creative genesis behind his debut novel "Final Flight" and military aviation themesUsing NaNoWriMo as a powerful catalyst to overcome writing procrastination and finish manuscriptsThe transformative value of working with professional book coaches for craft developmentDiscovering and articulating the deeper "why" that drives your writing passionProven plotting techniques and structural frameworks for compelling storytellingMarketing strategies that actually work for self-published authors in competitive marketsInternational success stories: breaking into German translation markets and foreign salesBehind-the-scenes insights from organizing the Self Publishing Show Live conferenceStrategic networking approaches that build lasting author careers and opportunitiesThe realistic pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing pathsPractical, actionable advice for aspiring authors taking their first steps into publishingResources mentioned:NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month)Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica BrodyBookBubSelf Publishing Show Live conferenceBook recommendations:"Save the Cat! Writes a Novel" by Jessica Brody"On Writing" by Stephen KingConnect with James Blatch:Personal website: https://jamesblatch.com/Self Publishing Formula: https://selfpublishingformula.com/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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Victoria Gerkin is the Publisher at Podium Entertainment, a leading audiobook publishing company that specializes in transforming independent authors' works into professional audio productions. With over 22 years of experience in traditional publishing, including roles at Penguin Random House, Little Random, and A.A. Knopf, Victoria brings deep industry expertise to the rapidly evolving world of independent audiobook publishing. Her background spans subsidiary rights, publicity, and author services, including co-founding the Knopf Speakers Bureau. At Podium, she oversees the acquisition of audio rights and works closely with authors to bring their stories to life through high-quality audio productions, publishing over 2,600 audiobooks annually.In this episode:How Podium Entertainment revolutionizes audiobook publishing for indie authorsThe business model: licensing vs. traditional audiobook production methodsWhat Podium looks for when evaluating manuscripts and author track recordsProfessional casting secrets and matching narrators to stories perfectlyThe importance of cultural authenticity and accent considerations in audiobook productionWhy quality matters more than speed when entering the audiobook marketAudiobook market dynamics: sales ratios compared to print and ebook formatsEssential preparation tips for authors considering audiobook adaptationsSuccess stories from long-term author partnerships and series developmentThe evolution from traditional publishing to independent audiobook successResources mentioned:Podium Entertainment website - https://podiumentertainment.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podiumentertainment/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podiumentertainment/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-gerken-ba9b16150Book recommendations:"The Pucking Wrong Number" by C.R. JaneSlough House series by Mick HerronConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Dakota Krout is a pioneering LitRPG author and visionary founder of Mountaindale Press, one of the leading publishing houses specializing in LitRPG, GameLit, and cultivation fiction. With a unique background combining computer science expertise and military communications experience, Dakota brings systematic, logical thinking to both his world-building and his publishing empire. His methodical approach to creating intricate magic systems and character progression has made him a standout voice in the rapidly growing gaming-inspired fiction genre, while his publishing house has become a launching pad for numerous successful authors in these specialized niches.In this episode:Demystifying LitRPG and GameLit: What these explosive genres are and why they're dominatingThe systematic approach to building believable magic systems and character progression mechanicsFrom author to publisher: The complete journey of founding and scaling Mountaindale PressInside publishing metrics: What success looks like and the standards authors must meetNiche genre marketing strategies that build devoted readerbases in specialized communitiesThe power of community engagement in genre fiction and reader retentionComputer science principles applied to creative writing and world-buildingMilitary precision meets creative storytelling: How systematic thinking enhances fictionBuilding a publishing empire while maintaining quality and author relationshipsResources mentioned:Dragon Con -  https://www.dragoncon.org/LitRPG and GameLit online communities Mountaindale Press publishing criteria and submission guidelines: https://www.mountaindalepress.store/Genre-specific marketing platforms and communitiesConvention networking and industry connection strategiesBook recommendations:"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034"Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity" by Peter Attia: https://www.amazon.com/Outlive-Longevity-Peter-Attia-MD/dp/0593236599"Something, Anything, and Everything" series by Dakota Krout: https://www.amazon.com/Anything-Full-Murderhobo-Dakota-Krout/dp/163766074XConnect with Dakota Krout:Mountaindale Press website: https://www.mountaindalepress.store/Dakota's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DakotaKrout/Mountaindale Press Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MountaindalePress/Discord community: Mountaindale Press serverConnect 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/ Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/