The Publishing Performance Show

Rodney Miles is the author of "The Book Dude's Guide to Self-Publishing" series and a self-publishing consultant with over 14 years of experience in the industry. Having worked on more than 300 book projects, Rodney has developed systematic approaches to help authors navigate their publishing journey. His background as a writer, ghostwriter, and editor evolved into a comprehensive consulting business where he helps authors through custom publishing projects while sharing his expertise through his books.In this episode:Rodney's journey from real estate to writing and publishingThe evolution of self-publishing over the past 15 yearsUnderstanding the "ignorance gap" in the publishing industryThe three key stages of self-publishing: product, platform, and publicityThe 10 stages of book creation from planning to post-launchWhy the pre-launch phase is crucial but often neglectedThe value of beta readers and how to use them effectivelyHow to increase your chances of a "lightning strike" successThe importance of treating your book as both an art and a businessResources mentioned:The Modern Author (Book 1 in The Book Dude's Guide series)Publishizer.com - Platform for crowdfunding and publisher connectionsShort-form book proposals as an alternative to traditional 50-page proposalsConnect with Rodney Miles:Website: www.rodneymiles.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/

Rami Jandali is a children's book author and illustrator who combines his love of storytelling with artistic talent to create engaging books that spread messages of kindness and acceptance. Through his brand "Rami Stories," he has published books including "An Almond All Alone" and "Blueberry Fairy," which blend colorful illustrations with meaningful themes for young readers. As both an author and artist, Rami creates his own illustrations and brings his characters to life through his unique storytelling style.In this episode:The journey from natural storyteller to children's book authorCreating engaging characters and meaningful themes for childrenThe process of writing and illustrating children's booksFinding the right length and format for children's storiesCombining digital and traditional art techniquesMarketing strategies for children's book authorsBuilding personal connections through in-person marketingDevelopment of book series and future projectsResources mentioned:An Almond All Alone:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1521115419?&linkCode=ll1&tag=pubperf-20&linkId=400c65572fa1761b41f901ed6233057c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Blueberry Fairy (Book):  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D86QLHZ3?&linkCode=ll1&tag=pubperf-20&linkId=400c65572fa1761b41f901ed6233057c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Adobe Digital Art Software: https://www.adobe.com/ph_en/creativecloud/illustration.htmlAmazon Author Central: https://author.amazon.com/Book Recommendations:The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Paulo-Coelho/dp/0062315005Connect with Rami:Website: https://www.ramistories.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramistories/Books by Rami:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D86QLHZ3?&linkCode=ll1&tag=pubperf-20&linkId=400c65572fa1761b41f901ed6233057c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl 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-perfor Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Martyn Ellington and Steven Stiefel are trans-Atlantic writing partners who blend British and American sensibilities in their collaborative works. Through their production company MESS Productions, they create multi-format content spanning novels, TV scripts, and podcasts, with their international bestseller "Tomorrow's Flight" showcasing their ability to craft compelling cross-cultural narratives.Martyn Ellington is the author of five published novels, including "The End of Everything," "Devolution of a Species," and the "Thirstonfield Halt" series. Steven Stiefel is a veteran of script development, having analyzed over 1,500 scripts and books. He's the co-author of "Making Rumours" about Fleetwood Mac's iconic album.In this episode:The dynamics of international co-writing partnershipsAdapting stories across different mediums (TV, podcasts, novels)Managing cultural differences in writing for global audiencesThe process of working with beta readersStrategies for successful independent publishingNavigating Kindle Unlimited and promotional strategiesThe evolution of traditional vs. independent publishingBuilding a hybrid publishing companyResources mentioned:Tomorrow's Flight: https://www.amazon.com/Tomorrows-Flight-M-Ellington/dp/0578938510The Harvesting: https://www.amazon.com/Harvesting-Martyn-Ellington/dp/1907463410MESS Publishing Imprint: https://www.mess-books.com/more-informationGardner's and Ingram's Distribution: https://www.ingramspark.com/how-it-works/distributeBook Recommendations:The Fog by James Herbert (Martyn's pick): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fog-James-Herbert/dp/1509865454The Aspern Papers by Henry James (Steven's pick): https://www.amazon.com/Aspern-Papers-Stories-Oxford-Classics/dp/0199538557Connect with Martyn & Steven:MESS Productions: www.mess-flicks.comTomorrow's Flight: www.tomorrowsflight.comMartyn's Website: www.martynellington.comMartyn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyn-ellington-b4ab22171/Martyn’s Twitter: @martynellington Steven’s Twitter: @stevestiefelConnect 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 - Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Nicky Billou is a business coach and author who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and authors maximize their impact through podcast guesting. As the author of "Get Booked and Get Paid" and "Finish Line Thinking," he has appeared on over 1,500 podcast episodes and helps clients generate significant revenue through strategic podcast appearances. Coming from an immigrant background, Nicky's passion for entrepreneurship and helping others stems from his father's example of generosity and business acumen.In this episode:The importance of viewing your book as a branding toolHow to leverage podcast appearances to generate leads and salesUnderstanding commercial thought leadershipStrategies for introverted authors to succeed on podcastsThe power of having a strong intention for podcast appearancesCreating valuable secondary offers beyond your bookTechnical aspects of being a great podcast guestBuilding a systematic approach to podcast guestingResources mentioned:Get Booked and Get Paid: https://www.amazon.com/Get-Booked-Paid-Generate-Guesting/dp/B0DDQ1ZYS3Finish Line Thinking (Book): https://www.amazon.com/Finish-Line-ThinkingTM-Think-Champion/dp/1492237728eCircleAcademy.com/appointment (Free consultation): https://www.ecircleacademy.com/appointmentWriter MBA workshop program: https://writermba.com/Book Recommendations:The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino: https://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Salesman-World-Og-Mandino/dp/055327757XThe Greatest Miracle in the World by Og Mandino: https://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Miracle-World-Og-Mandino/dp/0553279726Mission Success by Og Mandino: https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Success-Og-Mandino/dp/0553265008Connect with Nicky Billou:Website: https://www.ecircleacademy.com/Free Business Consultation: https://www.ecircleacademy.com/appointmentFacebook: https://facebook.com/thethoughtleaderrevolutionInstagram: https://instagram.com/nickybillouLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickybillou/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/UCHV6ltaUB4SULkU6JE Support the showDiscover More with Our Curated Starter Packs: https://teddyagsmith.com/starter-packs/

Russell Nohelty is a USA Today bestselling author who has successfully navigated both fiction and non-fiction publishing. Starting his career with aspirations in filmmaking, he transitioned to comics and eventually found his way to self-publishing. As the co-founder of Writer MBA, he helps authors build sustainable careers through innovative marketing strategies and business approaches. His expertise spans from successful Kickstarter campaigns to building author ecosystems.In this episode:The evolution from filmmaking to writing comics and booksHow to effectively use Kickstarter as a publishing platformUnderstanding value proposition in book marketingThe challenges of selling fiction vs. non-fictionStrategies for running successful crowdfunding campaignsBuilding an author ecosystem across multiple platformsThe importance of networking and relationship building in publishingCreating sustainable author careers through diverse income streamsResources mentioned:Website: https://www.russellnohelty.com/Conference: https://writermba.com/Kickstarter Platform: https://www.kickstarter.com/Category Pirates: https://www.categorypirates.com/Dean Wesley Smith's publishing strategies: https://deanwesleysmith.com/expanding-your-market/Book Recommendations:100 Places to Visit After You Die by Ken Jennings: https://www.amazon.com/100-Places-See-After-You/dp/1501131583Sustaining Your Author Career by Claire Taylor (Focusing on Enneagrams and authorship): https://www.amazon.com/Sustain-Your-Author-Career-connections/dp/1959041096Connect with Russell:Website: https://www.russellnohelty.com/Conference: https://writermba.com/Blog:https://www.theauthorstack.com/Writer MBA Mastermind Program (Application required): https://writermba.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/

Dr. Nicole Janz is a social scientist and a book coach with over 20 years of experience as a journalist, academic, and writer. After leaving academia four years ago, she transitioned into creative writing and book coaching. She created The Write Habit Planner, a specialized tool designed to help writers maintain consistency and productivity in their writing journey. As both a writer and coach, Nicole combines her extensive experience to help authors overcome procrastination and develop sustainable writing habits.In this episode:Understanding the deeper psychological aspects of writing procrastinationBreaking down large writing goals into manageable daily tasksThe five-step process for starting a book effectivelyCreating outlines and time plans for both fiction and non-fiction writingDeveloping a sustainable writing routine that fits into busy schedulesThe importance of self-reflection and tracking progress beyond word countSetting realistic writing goals and maintaining work-life balanceThe transformation from perfectionism to productive writing habitsResources mentioned:Order The Write Habit Planner: http://www.thewritehabitplanner.com/Start your Book with this free mini course: https://startyourbookin5days.com/Schedule a free consult: https://nicolejanz.com/Book Recommendations:Essentialism by Greg McEwan: https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382Connect with Dr. Nicole:Website - https://nicolejanz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drnicolejanz/Linkedin - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nicolejanzConnect 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/

Louise Harris is the founder and president of LAST Research and Editing, specializing in comprehensive editing services for authors. With over 30 years of experience in editing and journalism, she has edited numerous manuscripts, authored four novels, and ghost-written multiple books including cookbooks and a book on addiction. Her expertise spans both fiction and non-fiction editing, from developmental work to final proofreading.In this episode:Different types of editing explainedThe importance of developmental editingWorking with editors at different stagesTips for authors on a budgetBook compilation servicesCommon editing mistakesFlow and structure techniquesResources mentioned:LAST Research and Editing: https://lastresearchandediting.com/Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/Chicago Manual of Style: https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/Associated Press Style Guide: https://www.apstylebook.com/Print editing techniquesBook recommendations:Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss: https://denuccio.net/ohplaces.htmlConnect with Louise:Website: https://lastresearchandediting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-harris-2b04bb13/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louise.harris.7315/LAST Research FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/lastresearch/YouTube: @LouiseHarrisTheLASTWordTwitter: @lastreditPhone: 480-370-3945Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/hanover-md/last-research-and-editing-2Connect 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/

Nick Thacker is a bestselling author in multiple genres who turned his hobby into a full-time writing career. Having written 45 books, he now helps other authors transition to full-time writing through his Book Career in a Year program.In this episode:The journey from hobby to full-time writingBuilding a sustainable author careerCreating effective email marketing strategiesDeveloping multiple income streamsSetting realistic author goalsMarketing strategies for new authorsBuilding an author platform from scratchResources mentioned:Book Career in a Year program: https://www.bookcareerinayear.com/Scrivener: https://scrivener.app/Email marketing platformsAmazon KDP: https://kdp.amazon.com/Facebook advertising platform: https://www.facebook.com/business/adsThe 12 Week Year book: https://www.amazon.com/12-Week-Year-Others-Months/dp/1118509234Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS): https://www.eosworldwide.com/Book recommendations:Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight Swain: https://www.amazon.com/Techniques-Selling-Writer-Dwight-Swain/dp/0806111917Amazonia by James Rollins: https://www.amazon.com/Amazonia-James-Rollins/dp/0061965839Connect with Nick:Website: https://www.nickthacker.com/Book Career in a Year Coaching Program: https://www.bookcareerinayear.com/Online courses and training: https://www.bookcareerinayear.com/coaching/Books by Nick: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008A2W6XEConnect 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/

Rebekah Haskell is the owner and lead designer at Vivid Covers, specializing in speculative fiction book covers. With expertise in both illustration and photo manipulation, she helps authors create genre-appropriate covers that connect with their target readers.In this episode:Genre-specific cover design principlesDifferences between traditional and indie publishing coversResearch methods for effective cover designPre-made vs custom cover optionsVisual tropes and genre expectationsWorking process with authorsThumbnail visibility importanceResources mentioned:Vivid Covers: https://www.vividcovers.com/Pre-made cover collections: https://www.vividcovers.com/shop/"Cover Your Book" by R. Haskell - https://www.amazon.com/Cover-Your-Book-Designer-Maximize/dp/B08Q6NGRSJ/Amazon bestseller lists: https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Books/zgbs/booksBook recommendations:Never Check Email in the Morning by Julie Morgenstern: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Check-Mail-Morning-Unexpected/dp/0743250885Mage Errant series by John Bierce: https://www.amazon.com/Mage-Errant-7-book-series/dp/B07PHPLHX5Connect with Rebekah:Website: https://www.vividcovers.com/Email: design@vividcovers.comFacebook: https://www.rebekahhaskell.com/fb-groups/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/

Sarah Bullen is a multi-published author, writing coach, and literary agent, leading international writing mentorships. She is the author of Write your Book in 100 Days and works with authors as a book coach and agent. Over the last two decades, she has had over 180 books published by writers she has mentored. She has held editorial roles across books, magazines, and literary agencies. Her expertise in writing and publishing provides invaluable guidance to aspiring authors, helping them develop their craft, structure their stories, and navigate the publishing world.In this episode:The insider secrets of literary agent selectionDifferences between fiction and non-fiction manuscript submissionsHow to create a compelling book proposalUnderstanding the publishing industry's inner workingsStrategies for becoming a successful published authorThe importance of online presence for writersNavigating the traditional publishing landscapeResources mentioned:The Writing Room mentorship: https://www.thewritingroom.co.za/author-mentorshipInternational writing retreats: https://www.internationalwritingretreats.com/Online author platformsBook proposal guidelinesGenre-specific writing conventionsPublishing industry networkingBook recommendations:The Ghost Ship by Colleen Dolan: https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Ship-Fire-Colleen-Dolan/dp/1637776365The Authority Gap by Marianne Seacart: https://www.maryannsieghart.com/the-authority-gap/Connect with Sarah:Website: http://www.thewritingroom.co.za/Alternative Website: https://www.internationalwritingretreats.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahbullenwritingroom/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahbullenwritingroom/LinkedIn: https://za.linkedin.com/in/sarahbullenwritingcoachConnect 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/