• Your sales problem is almost never your talent.
• Clear messaging matters more than constant promotion.
• Viral visibility doesn’t equal qualified leads.
• Social media builds trust—email converts.
• You need a defined path from discovery to purchase.
• Collaboration multiplies reach faster than solo growth.
  
  

Summary

In this podcast, Alexa and Dr. Kate discuss

• The connection between writing and speaking—which comes first?
• How being an author builds credibility for paid speaking gigs
• Why speaking often pays more (and faster) than book sales
• How to take your first steps toward being a paid speaker
• The importance of knowing your niche and ideal audience
• Avoiding burnout by packaging and pricing for value, not time
• Turning free opportunities (podcasts, libraries, community groups) into practice stages
• The power of partnerships and collaboration instead of competition
• Using conferences and calls for proposals to fill your calendar with gigs
• Building additional revenue streams with courses and digital products
• How AI tools can help you organize, outline, and scale your offerings
• Shifting your mindset from future tense (“I’ll be a speaker someday”) to present tense (“I am a speaker”)

About Dr. Kate Watson

Resources & Links

• Dr. Kate Watson’s website: SpeakandFind.com
• The Advocacy Academy: theadvocacyacademy.com
• Alexa Bigwarfe’s Write | Publish | Sell: writepublishsell.com
• Women in Publishing Summit: womeninpublishingsummit.com

• How to find the right co-author
• The importance of aligning expectations upfront
• Dividing writing, production, and publishing responsibilities
• Handling royalties and expenses
• What to do if things go sideways
• Why nonfiction books often make more money through speaking and consulting than direct book sales
• How to test compatibility with a smaller project before committing to a full book
  
  

• Co-authoring nonfiction is like a “creative marriage”—alignment is essential.
• Always clarify goals upfront (income vs. authority-building vs. lead generation).
• Put everything in writing—including the why behind decisions.
• Decide early who manages publishing logistics and expenses.
• Platforms like Draft2Digital and PublishDrive can simplify royalty splitting.
• Speaking and consulting opportunities often generate more income than book royalties.
• Reuse book content for articles, consulting materials, and speaking pitches.
• Test compatibility with a smaller project (like an article) before committing to a book.
  
  

• Collaborate to Create by Matty Dalrymple
• From Page to Platform: How to Succeed as an Author Speaker
• The Podcast Guest Playbook
• Draft2Digital
• PublishDrive
• Matty’s nonfiction site: TheIndieAuthor.com
• Matty’s fiction site: mattydalrymple.com
  
  

• A fiction author
• A nonfiction author
• A children’s book publisher
• A course creator
• A conference host
• A creative entrepreneur
  
  

• Agreement #3 from The Four Agreements (“Don’t make assumptions”) applies directly to author marketing, publishing, and creative entrepreneurship.
• Assumptions create false stories, unnecessary conflict, and wasted time—questions create clarity and momentum.
• Don’t assume your audience cares about what you care about; messaging has to match their needs and desires.
• Don’t assume people understand what you do, who your book/product is for, or what it’s about—your cover, title, subtitle, and description must make it obvious.
• Don’t assume people are seeing your content—algorithms filter reach heavily, so repetition and repurposing matter.
• Don’t assume people are reading all your emails—even open rates can be misleading; always re-share links and context.
• Don’t assume subscribers remember who you are—use a nurture sequence (3–6 emails) to welcome, orient, and deliver the “why.”
• Don’t assume support is automatically reciprocal—if you want quid pro quo collaboration, set clear expectations up front.
• Don’t assume you know what people will pay—pricing should reflect market norms and audience readiness; validate with questions and tests.
• Don’t take it personally when people don’t buy or attend—most of the time it’s awareness, timing, or fit (not rejection).
• Don’t assume you’ve reminded people enough—marketing requires many touches over time.
• Don’t rely on friends/family or even ARC teams to follow through—plan your strategy beyond “they said they would.”
• Don’t assume “publish/launch = people will find it”—visibility drops when you stop talking about it; marketing must continue.
• Don’t assume “it didn’t work” means “no one wants it”—analyze, tweak (cover, positioning, copy, audience, timing), and try again.
• Beta programs/early offers (lower-priced or limited) can help you gather feedback, testimonials, and proof before scaling.
• Word-of-mouth is the most powerful marketing lever—reviews, referrals, testimonials, and social proof drive growth for both authors and service providers.
• Build the business backbone: grow your audience, ask better questions, test, refine, and rinse-and-repeat.
  
  

• Book: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz (Amazon associate)
• Alexa’s Book Club: Self-development book club currently reading The Four Agreements
• Women in Publishing Summit: womeninpublishingsummit.com
• Email: support@womeninpublishingsummit.com
  
  

Summary

In this podcast, Alexa and Dennis discuss:

• Dennis’s journey from MFA to PhD and why he kept chasing writing opportunities
• The difference between small presses, literary magazines, and big publishers
• How short pieces can strengthen your craft and help you get paid along the way
• Practical tips for submitting work and finding the right publication fit
• How to balance writing time with submission time (and why compartmentalization helps)
• Ways to build genuine relationships with editors and presses
• How to make publishing less stressful and more fulfilling
• Why understanding your “why” is the key to enjoying the submission process
• The importance of remembering there are real people on both sides of publishing

Speaker Bio

Resources & Links

• How to Submit: Getting Your Writing Published with Literary Magazines and Small Presses
• DennisJamesSweeney.com
• Dennis’s Substack: Write What You Want

• Messaging shapes who you attract and who you repel—and both matter
• Confusion in messaging leads to hesitation, inaction, and lost sales
• Audience evolution requires intentional communication, not assumptions
• Repelling the wrong audience improves algorithms, engagement, and conversions
• Clear positioning builds trust, alignment, and long-term community growth
• Your schedule, sales page, and calls to action should remove friction—not add it

• Why “being everything to everyone” hurts growth
• How unclear announcements create long-term brand confusion
• The power of collaboration-focused communities over siloed audiences
• Why warm audiences need simpler, more direct paths to information
• Genre, tone, and content warnings as essential trust-building tools
• Messaging as a filter—not just a megaphone

• Traditional conferences often fail because inspiration without execution doesn’t create change
• Relationships—not platforms—are the foundation of sustainable business growth
• Immersive, activation-based learning leads to faster clarity, confidence, and momentum
• Cross-industry collaboration sparks better ideas and unexpected opportunities
• Books, podcasts, video, stages, and social media work best when aligned together
• Pitching is a skill—and practicing it live with feedback accelerates visibility
• Conferences should feel inclusive, accessible, and human—not gated or hierarchical
  
  

• Dates: February 20–22
• Location: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
• Website: https://www.cre8tivecon.com
  
  

• Coupon Code: ALEXA
• Savings: $50 off Cre8tiveCon tickets
  
  

• Why working harder isn’t the answer when you’re misaligned
• How personality and wiring frameworks (like Human Design) reveal burnout patterns
• The difference between being a visionary and a finisher—and why it matters
• How fear and self-limiting beliefs quietly sabotage consistency
• Why jumping ideas, genres, or offers often comes from pressure, not failure
• How collaboration and community accelerate long-term growth
• Why knowing yourself is the foundation of sustainable success

• Women in Publishing Summit (Virtual Conference, March 8–11)
   https://womeninpublishingsummit.com
  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/events
• WIP Conference Live (WIPCon) – In-person conference, Columbia, South Carolina (March 26–29)
   https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/events
• Genius Games – Pre-conference bonus session for Women in Publishing Summit ticket holders
   Facilitated by certified Wealth Dynamics consultants Portia Michele and Parchelle Tashi
   https://womeninpublishingsummit.com
• Better Self Book Club
   https://alexambigwarfe.com/bookclub
• The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
  https://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319
• CreativeCon (Chicago, February 20–22)
   https://creativecon.com
   Coupon code: ALEXA (Save $50)
• Denise Duffield-Thomas – author and entrepreneur
   https://www.denisedt.com
• Women in Publishing Summit Support
   support@womeninpublishingsummit.com
  
  

• Why self-publishing isn’t (and shouldn’t be) an overnight process
• The realistic timeline required to publish a professional-quality book
• What “positioning” means and why it begins inside the manuscript
• How an author’s goals influence editorial and marketing decisions
• The four distinct levels of editing every author should understand
• Why skipping developmental or line editing can hurt a book’s success
• How ARC and editorial reviews impact credibility and discoverability
• Where AI can ethically support authors—and where human expertise is essential
• How technology is helping level the playing field for self-published authors
  
  

• Kathy’s journey from journalism to publishing technology
• The evolution of professional self-publishing
• Editorial standards vs. “publish fast” myths
• Reader expectations and genre alignment
• Why publishing is a team effort
• Using AI as an assistive tool, not a creative replacement

• Learn more about author marketing and publishing tools: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bublish
• Explore education, events, and sponsors at the Women in Publishing Summit: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/ 
• Subscribe to Alexa’s Publishing Chat for weekly insights on writing, publishing, and book marketing

Summary

In this episode, Alexa and Wendy discuss

• How Wendy’s own memoir journey inspired her to teach memoir structure
• The difference between scenes and transitions—and how both drive plot
• Why memoirs must have plot, not just memories or life events
• How to make your reader feel your story rather than simply see it
• The myth of “show, don’t tell” and how to balance emotion and detail
• Why remembering less can actually help your memoir
• Practical steps to start structuring your memoir from day one
• How to avoid turning a memoir into an autobiography

Speaker Bio

Resources & Links

• Wendy Dale’s website: https://geniusmemoirwriting.com
• Free memoir class: https://freememoirclass.com
• Book: The Memoir Engineering System (available on Amazon)
• Alexa Bigwarfe: https://writepublishsell.com

• Why email lists still outperform social media for conversions
• Common reasons subscribers “bounce” without unsubscribing
• How highly engaged subscribers can quietly fall off your list
• Why ignoring bounced contacts can cost you sales and engagement
• A simple monthly habit to keep your list healthy
• When to re-engage bounced subscribers—and when to archive them
• Real-life results from reactivating old subscribers
• How email list hygiene supports launches, events, and visibility
• A reminder to nominate yourself or others for the Women in Publishing Awards
• Key dates and events happening inside the Women in Publishing ecosystem
  
  

Summary

In this podcast, Alexa and Flavia discuss:

• How Flavia’s own publishing journey inspired her to create Get Authentic Book Reviews
• The problems with many “review exchange” or “paid review” systems
• How Get Authentic Book Reviews ensures verified and ethical reviews
• Why verified reviews matter for Amazon visibility and reader trust
• How the points-based system works for earning and receiving reviews
• Membership options, rotating library visibility, and advertising opportunities
• Tips for authors on incorporating reviews into their overall marketing strategy
• Why reading across genres benefits both authors and readers
• Integrity, transparency, and community as key differentiators

Guest Bio

Resources & Links

• Get Authentic Book Reviews: https://getauthenticbookreviews.com
• Alexa Bigwarfe: https://writepublishsell.com
• Women in Publishing Summit: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com

• Celebrating Episode 200 and why she didn’t do a highlight reel (because: real life + real business)
• Starting 2026 after a longer break and why rest is productive
• Identity, ambition, and dropping the guilt (including “I’m not listing ‘mom’ first”)
• What 2025 brought: wins, challenges, and why it felt like “a beast”
• Why goals matter: if you don’t know where you’re going, you can’t get there
• The difference between vague goals and milestones + timelines
• SMART goals (and Alexa’s honest “I always forget the R” moment)
• Alexa’s four-quadrant quarterly planning system (Q1–Q4 on a big sticky note)
• Adding categories: professional, personal, travel/conferences
• Mapping “money seasons” by shading a revenue pie in the center
• Using quarterly planning to avoid crunch-time chaos (especially for book launches)
• Real talk: there’s no perfect “balance”—instead, plan in seasons of focus
• How health crises can reshape priorities (presence, family time, living fully)
• 2026 as a “YOLO year” with major travel—and how she’s staffing/systems-building to make it possible
• Thoughts on business investment and debt, and planning ahead for expenses
• Kickstarter curiosity: where it fits, who it’s best for, and why it’s powerful for established audiences
• What Alexa is building in 2026: WIP Society growth, bootcamps, events, and simplifying the sales calendar
• A new entrepreneurship-focused podcast project with a community member (Nicole)
• Better Self Book Club: why it’s meaningful, and the realities of running it (hello, Kajabi fees)
• Teaching entrepreneurship at the University of South Carolina and what that unlocks long-term
• Final encouragement: make your goals sheet, evaluate quarterly, and focus on the most-of-what-works
  
  

• Why this episode is airing on her birthday and why birthdays feel extra precious after a 2024 medical crisis
• How she’s treating her 49th year as an “epic rock-star year” with travel, new books, and stepping back from day-to-day WIP Summit operations
• What “slow down to speed up” really means in the context of writing, publishing, and marketing
• The danger of comparison and wanting instant results without seeing the years of work behind other people’s success
• Why rushing to the finish line with your book or launch almost always backfires
• The importance of looking at what you actually accomplished in 2025 when forecasting goals for 2026
• How her own book timelines have sped up over time—and why switching genres resets the clock
• The principle of focusing on one genre/audience first before branching out
• Realistic expectations for growing your email list (e.g., 5 to 5,000 vs 5 to 45,000)
• Planning backwards: what you need to do each quarter, month, week, and day to hit your 2026 goals
• Why friends and family are not your target sales strategy (with real examples of who did—and didn’t—buy her last book)
• The emotional crash that happens when you rush a launch and then feel like a failure
• Inspiring examples of authors who started with zero audience, did the work, and had incredible launches
• The reminder from self-development reading that small, consistent actions create big progress
• Practical advice: doubling or tripling your estimated timeline for your first book
• Using quarterly planning and flexible timelines so you can adjust goals as the year unfolds
• How to get support: joining WIP Society, attending her events, and coming to the in-person marketing conference in Columbia, SC
  
  

Summary

In this podcast, Alexa and Kourtney discuss:

• How Kourtney went from journalist to celebrity publicist to indie author advocate
• Why traditional and digital PR matter for authors outside the “Big Five”
• The best time to start your marketing and PR efforts
• The difference between book marketing and public relations
• How to set realistic PR goals and timelines
• What success actually looks like in a media campaign
• Why collaboration between author and publicist is key
• How to use local bookstores and media to build buzz
• The importance of earned media and how to make it work for you
• Budgeting expectations for PR and how to gauge ROI
• What to do after you get media coverage to make it count
• Why nonfiction authors have a PR advantage—and how fiction authors can find their story angles

Guest Bio

Resources & Links

• Pacific & Court
• Follow Pacific & Court on Instagram
• Connect with Kourtney Jason on LinkedIn
• Women in Publishing Summit Podcast

• Why her podcast needed a solo “Momentum Monday” segment to showcase her own expertise
• How relying only on guest interviews can limit your ability to build and sell your own offers
• The downside of “I’ll do it over the holiday” thinking—and how burnout kills creativity
• What happens when you sit down to create content with no plan or outline
• The difference between random posts and a strategic content pipeline
• Why every post needs a clear call to action (CTA) and what CTAs can look like
• A real-life example of inviting ARC readers without the systems to support them
• How to think through the entire path: from Instagram post to email list, ARC team, or book sale
• The importance of having forms, automations (Zapier), and sequences ready before you post
• Making sure your bio link, feed content, and recent posts support your current goals
• Planning content quarterly and annually to support your big 2026 business goals
• Using AI (like ChatGPT) to write content in your voice and save time on marketing assets
• Why scheduling tools and systems create space for you to think and be creative
• How Alexa is using Airtable and automations to build out launch and content systems
• Why people think they hate marketing—and how having a plan changes that feeling
• A strong invitation to the Content Strategy Bootcamp and why it’s “the best $97 you’ll spend”
  
  

Summary

In this podcast, Alexa and Olivia discuss:

• How Olivia transitioned from animal science and 4-H into book marketing and publishing
• Why her passion for education inspired Story Flow Solutions
• The difference between launching a single book and building an author business
• Practical ways to prevent burnout and plan your publishing calendar realistically
• How authors can retain creative control while learning to run their career like a business
• The importance of community, mentorship, and asking questions early
• Olivia’s upcoming membership for new authors featuring education, guest experts, and a vetted vendor directory
• A 10 % discount for Women in Publishing Summit listeners on Story Flow Solutions services

About the Guest

Resources & Links

• Story Flow Solutions
• Women in Publishing Summit
• 10% off Story Flow Solutions services

• Why going viral with the wrong content doesn’t grow your author business
• How a nostalgic New Kids on the Block post exploded—but didn’t lead to book sales
• The difference between engagement for fun vs. engagement that supports your goals
• What “content strategy” really means for authors and publishing professionals
• Why you need to attract the right readers, not just more followers
• How to think about your ideal audience and their emotional drivers
• Examples of content that builds trust with readers and clients
• Why you shouldn’t chase random followers or follow-for-follow tactics
• How consistency impacts algorithms, visibility, and audience trust
• A simple exercise to write one powerful, aligned piece of content
• Why your content should invite people into a clear customer journey
• The importance of optimized bios, links, calls to action, and welcome sequences
• How the right content leads to real audience growth and book or service sales
• What you’ll learn in the Content Strategy Bootcamp on December 4
• How a $97 investment in strategy and systems can change how you market forever

• Why community is essential for authors, editors, and publishing professionals
• The reality of walking into a big conference as a new or emerging author
• Highlights from sessions with Becca Syme, Joanna Penn, Drew Davis, Katie Cross, and T.D. Donnelly
• How AI and SOPs are reshaping the way authors and editors work
• Rethinking marketing funnels as experiences and connections
• The power of hearing familiar concepts from different teachers and angles
• Navigating vendor hall overwhelm and making sense of tools and services
• How platforms like BookFunnel, ProWritingAid, Curios, 11 Labs, and Spotify fit into an author business
• Surprising takeaways from talking to vendors you almost skipped
• The importance of cross-industry learning (like hospitality) for reader experience
• Personal stories of connection: late-night shop talk, lunch-table brainstorms, and “emotional support extroverts”
• Why online communities make in-person events less intimidating and more impactful
• Practical encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, isolated, or unsure of their next step
  
  

• Why social media consistency alone won’t grow your author business
• The REAL difference between visibility and momentum
• Her 10-day TikTok case study and what worked
• How she gained 100 targeted followers (holiday romance readers!) in less than 2 weeks
• The importance of cleaning up your profile and curating your audience
• How to retrain the algorithm for book discovery
• Why engagement matters more than posting
• What happens after a reader discovers you—and how most authors lose them
• The critical role of reader pathways, welcome sequences, and updated websites
• How content strategy maps the journey from follower → email subscriber → book buyer
• Why TikTok growth meant nothing without a plan
• How this experience shaped the December 4th Content Strategy Bootcamp
• Why authors need a system, not random content
• The danger of reactive marketing vs. proactive planning
• The surprising KU and sales results she saw from just two weeks of effort

In this podcast, Alexa and Dallas discuss:

• Why there isn’t one “right” publishing path—and how to choose what fits your book and goals
• Building a sustainable writing routine using tiny, repeatable wins (e.g., 100 words a day)
• Habit cues and “warm-ups” that flip your brain into creative mode
• The power of quarterly resets and season-specific routines
• Tools for accountability (visual calendars, stickers, public challenges)
• Separating creative writing from work (second laptop, new location, or longhand)
• Giving yourself grace during busy seasons (kids, business, deadlines)
• Using environment and rituals (music, clothing, a special sweater) to build consistency
• Community, collaboration, and shared challenges to stay motivated
• Dallas’s coaching approach and where to find her resources

Significant Takeaways 

• Sustainable writing comes from tiny, repeatable wins (100 words/day).
• Habit cues and short warm-ups make starting easier.
• Reassess routines quarterly; match your season of life.
• Use visual accountability (calendars, stickers) and community challenges.
• Publishing has many valid paths; choose the one aligned with your goals.
  
  

Resources & URLs

• Dallas Woodburn website — https://dallaswoodburn.com
• Thriving Authors Podcast — https://dallaswoodburn.com/podcast
• Instagram (@dallaswoodburnauthor) — https://www.instagram.com/dallaswoodburnauthor/
• Write Your Book Summit — https://dallaswoodburn.com/summit
• Women in Publishing Summit — https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/
  
  

• How to plan your content strategy before a conference
• What to capture (and what not to) while you’re there
• Ways to record quick videos, reflections, and takeaways your audience will love
• The power of hashtags for discoverability and collaboration
• How to repurpose event content for ongoing momentum
• Why conferences are visibility accelerators—not just learning opportunities

In this podcast, Alexa and Kate discuss

• How neurodivergent traits like ADHD and autism impact the writing process
• The importance of individualized systems that match each writer’s brain
• How to turn ADHD “shiny object syndrome” into a creative superpower
• Practical tools for accountability and finishing your book
• Voice memos, transcription tools, and ChatGPT as supports for neurodivergent writers
• How AI can ethically assist with drafting and editing
• Working with editors who understand neurodivergent workflows
• Finding the right writing and editing support without breaking the bank
• Building confidence and letting go of perfectionism as a writer

About Kate Allyson

Resources & Links

• Kate Allyson’s website: kateallysoncreative.com
• Renee Rebar’s book: Selling Your Expertise
• Women in Publishing Summit: womeninpublishingsummit.com
• Alexa Bigwarfe: writepublishsell.com

• Why chaotic marketing leads to stress, inconsistency, and stalled growth
• What a content strategy really is—and what it isn’t
• How to connect your content to your goals, audience, and sales
• The difference between posting and planning with purpose
• How clarity builds confidence, consistency, and measurable results
• Alexa’s own early marketing missteps (and lessons learned)
• Why shifting from reaction to strategy is the fastest way to peace of mind
• A small, doable first step to start your journey toward clarity

In this podcast, Alexa and Rhonda discuss

• The power of dedicated writing time—and why retreats help you finish books faster
• How to plan your own DIY retreat, from local getaways to global adventures
• Budget-friendly ideas like loyalty points, Airbnbs, and weekday bookings
• Why restorative activities (naps, walks, reading) fuel creativity
• The importance of scheduling and accountability
• How to make your retreat feel like being a “full-time writer” for a few days
• Using creative environments—coffee shops, libraries, even churches—to inspire writing
• Rhonda’s First Book Finish coaching program and The Notebook Project free course

Speaker Bio

Resources & Links

• Resilient Writers
• The Notebook Project – Free Mini-Course
• Women in Publishing Summit

• If you’re a children’s author — your pillars might be emotional learning, family connection, and creative play.
• If you’re a business coach — think mindset, marketing, and systems.
  
  

• The hidden, pervasive issue of financial abuse and coercive control
• How Kasey and Kat’s lived experiences inspired their advocacy work
• How writing became a healing tool for survivors of financial and domestic abuse
• The mission of I Know Why She Stayed and why it’s so relevant to the author community
• The Authors Against Abuse initiative and how writers can get involved
• How the literary world can support survivors through storytelling, workshops, and advocacy
• The creation of the Power Pen, a discreet safety resource for women at risk
• Why financial literacy and independence are key themes writers can help amplify
• Ways authors and creatives can donate, volunteer, or collaborate to make a tangible impact
• Their ongoing research study measuring the effectiveness of their program

Speaker Bios

Resources & Links

• Organization: I Know Why She Stayed
• Patreon: Support on Patreon
• Instagram: @iknowwhysheStayed
• Join the Study: info@iknowwhyshestayed.org
• Authors Against Abuse Initiative

• The 12th anniversary of Sunshine After the Storm: A Survival Guide for the Grieving Mother and how it launched her publishing journey
• The power of storytelling, collaboration, and community in building impact
• Books on Grief published or supported by Kat Biggie Press
• Why so many authors and businesses fail — and how to avoid that fate
• Five key tips to keep your writing or publishing business thriving
• Statistics on author and small business longevity
• How to diversify your income as an author or publishing professional
• Why content strategy and systems are essential to sustainability
• The announcement of the 2026 Women in Publishing Summit keynote: Lisa Carrington Firmin, author of Latina Warrior
• How to join the WIP community and upcoming Content Strategy Bootcamp (Dec 4 & Jan 9)
• Get your tickets to the 2026 Virtual Women in Publishing Summit or other upcoming Events!
  
  

• Why Instagram and TikTok remain the top platforms for authors in 2025
• The latest Instagram updates: carousels, trial reels, music overlays, and video linking
• How to choose between video and photo content (and why you don’t have to do both!)
• Tips for building reader connection through authentic engagement
• The importance of having separate accounts for different genres or audiences
• How to use carousels for storytelling, book quotes, or character introductions
• Why “social” is the most important part of social media for authors
• Tools to make content creation easier—like Canva, CapCut, and Instagram’s new editing features
• Strategies for staying consistent without burning out
• Sneak peek: Alexa’s Better Self Book Club and the Instagram for Authors course

• Instagram for Authors Course
• Instagram Reels Subscription for Authors
• Women in Publishing Summit Events - Ticket sales for 2026 Start Thursday!
• Alexa’s Book Club!

• Victorine’s surprising path to authorship after an injury sparked her first book idea
• How critiques, rewrites, and years of craft development led to success
• Landing on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists as a self-published author
• What authors can learn from the early days of Kindle publishing—and what still applies today
• The Writing Gals: how four authors built a thriving romance community and virtual conference
• Collaboration projects like the Sweetwater High YA shared world
• How the Happily Ever After Cruise brings authors and readers together
• Top advice for authors on treating publishing like a startup, knowing your goals, and being willing to pivot
• Why series, market research, and “profit before passion” matter for sustainable author income
  
  

• Victorine Lieske Website
• The Writing Gals Conference (aff link)
• The Writing Gals YouTube Channel
• The Writing Gals Facebook Group
• Critique Circle
• Happily Ever After Cruise

• Aimee’s path from psychology and forensic studies to book marketing
• The mentorship of Sandy Lawrence and the creation of Abundantly Social
• The difference between PR and book marketing—and why authors often need both
• Why planning 4–6 months ahead of launch is critical (especially for editorial reviews)
• Common mistakes new authors make with marketing and how to avoid them
• How awards and credibility markers amplify author visibility
• The importance of building momentum before and after launch
• How Abundantly Social helps authors with customized packages, ads, and launch support
• Aimee’s preference for working with self-published authors and why
• The role of honest reviews in building long-term book success

• Abundantly Social: https://abundantlysocial.com
• Women in Publishing Summit Partner Page: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/abundantlysocial
• Connect with Aimee via her website contact form (quickest response via text once connected)
  
  

• Jennifer’s origin story: from financial planning to bestselling author to launching Your Book Is Your Hook
• Why memoirs resonate so deeply with readers—and how to write them so they sell
• The difference between memoirs and autobiographies
• Why memoirs must “read like a novel” to succeed in traditional publishing
• The importance of platform and marketability for memoir authors
• Common mistakes memoirists make (including diary-style writing)
• Tips on memoir marketing before, during, and after launch
• How memoirs can be leveraged into workshops, courses, speaking, screenplays, and more
• Legal and creative alternatives (like novelization or parables) for sensitive memoir material
• The Memoir Marketing Clinic and The Next Bestseller Workshop
  
  

In this podcast, Alexa and Emma discuss:

• Emma’s path from academic and traditional publishing to indie PR and Written Word Media
• What email promos are and how Freebooksy/Bargain Booksy target high-intent readers
• When and how to use free vs $0.99 pricing (and why both work)
• Launch-week support with New and Books packages (multi-touch email + ads + listicles + social assets)
• Building your owned audience: Subscriber Surge Giveaways and back-matter/email capture
• Why genre alignment (cover, blurb, metadata) is non-negotiable
• Cadence and momentum (why a 90-day promo rhythm pays off)
• Common mistakes (price not set, metadata mismatches, links not updated)
• Membership benefits (discounts, early inventory access, member-only placements and trainings)

In this podcast, Alexa and Mary Catherine discuss:

• Mary Catherine’s book-first origin story and why love for stories drives better production choices
• What truly drives audiobook cost (6–7 production hours per finished hour) and practical budgeting
• Whether authors should narrate (nonfiction/memoir often yes; fiction usually a pro)
• Recording options: in-studio retreat in Vermont, partner studios near you, or last-resort home setups
• Distribution strategy: exclusive (Amazon/Audible) vs. wide (e.g., Author’s Republic, Findaway) and how that affects library access
• Library sales: why “available” ≠ “ordered” and the marketing authors still need to do
• ACX royalty share pros/cons (and the seven-year exclusivity)
• AI narration: where it fits (accessibility/low-budget nonfiction), clear limitations, and ethics
• Making your audiobook a marketing asset: audiograms, behind-the-scenes, chapter teasers, bundle/discount tactics
• Practical tip: enable the ebook → audiobook “add-on” discount to boost attach rates
  
  

Key Quotes

• “It takes six to seven human hours to create one listening hour—and that’s before the emails.”
• “Nonfiction and memoir often shine in the author’s own voice; fiction usually needs a trained narrator.”
• “If libraries are part of your plan, don’t go exclusive with Audible.”
• “Make your audiobook a marketing asset—clips, audiograms, and behind-the-scenes go a long way.”
• “Availability in library systems doesn’t mean orders. You still have to market.”
  
  

• The origin story of Read Furiously—why Samantha built her own publishing house out of frustration with “no room at the table”
• What makes Read Furiously different: hands-on, collaborative publishing with a focus on overlooked and multi-genre authors
• Their signature One and Done pocket-sized book series and why it resonates with modern readers
• The challenges small presses face: returns, Amazon algorithms, distribution hurdles, and rising printing costs
• How anthologies and niche publishing create surprising opportunities (and sometimes frustrations)
• The role of literary activism, from book bans to Little Free Libraries
• The importance of community—how Women in Publishing Summit and peer connections help presses survive the tough days
• Why joy and passion still keep small publishers going, even when profits are slim
• W(h)ine & Cheese by S. Atzeni - a One n'Done (Amazon aff link)

• Read Furiously
• Women in Publishing Summit
• Book Award Pro – bookawardpro.com
• FAIRE Wholesale Marketplace – faire.com
• CLMP – Community of Literary Magazines & Presses – for small independent traditional presses
  
  

• Why humor is such a powerful tool for healing and recovery writing
• The balance between funny and serious when addressing trauma
• How Dana’s own sobriety journey influenced her books Bottled and How to Be Perfect Like Me (Amazon Aff links)
• The infamous “carrot cake incident” that turned a fight into a hilarious memoir scene
• Why some readers resist humor in serious topics—and why that’s okay
• The craft of writing humor alongside grief (inspiration from O. Henry, Nora Ephron, Fredrik Backman)
• Resources Dana recommends for writers: Stephen King’s On Writing and Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird
• Dana’s podcast and creative projects, including A Neighbor Good and her blog at DanaBowmanCreative.com

• How writing about trauma can be a transformative part of the healing journey
• Beth’s transition from professional services to becoming a healing mentor and author
• Why she chose self-publishing for full creative and content control
• The importance of owning your book rights when building programs or businesses around your content
• How the collaborative book experience led to her own solo publication
• The creation and trademarking of the HEAL framework: Hope, Evolve, and Love
• Building a business, podcast, and courses around her book’s message
• The balance between personal healing and what’s appropriate to share with readers
• Using AI tools to repurpose and structure existing content
• Her upcoming offerings: self-study courses, live masterminds, and healing immersion retreats 
  
  

• Website: EmpoweredSurvivors.com
• Facebook & Instagram: @bethjoneshealingmentor
• Podcast: Let’s Heal! with Beth Jones
  
  

• “Those who succeed in the long run are the ones who adapt to changes, not run from them.”
• “An ARC team isn’t a luxury — it’s a discoverability powerhouse.”
• “Censorship anywhere hurts authors everywhere.”
• “Your Amazon description’s first line is prime real estate — fill it with keywords, reasonably.”
• “Collaboration isn’t optional. It’s a growth strategy.”

• The merger of IBPA and PubWest and what it means for authors and publishers.
• Why keeping up with publishing industry changes is essential for long-term success.
• The “We Are Stronger Than Censorship” campaign and the urgent need to protect creative freedom.
• Big shifts in traditional publishing models and why indie authors/publishers must innovate to thrive.
• The importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships in building sustainable publishing businesses.
• AI in publishing — from licensing rights for AI training to blockchain-powered rights management.
• Discoverability tips: using YouTube Shorts, Pinterest, and multi-platform posting to reach readers.
• Amazon metadata tips — why your top sentence should be keyword-rich.
• The power of ARC teams for generating word-of-mouth buzz.
• Backlist promotion strategies and why one book is rarely enough for long-term author success.
  
  

• We Are Stronger Than Censorship Campaign: https://www.wearestrongerthancensorship.org/
  
  
• Women in Publishing Summit Events: womeninpublishingsummit.com/events
  
  
• Pinterest for Authors Workshop: On the events page!
  
  
• Events Page: Be sure to visit https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/events to get your ticket to the upcoming Business Bootcamp!
  
  

• The difference between direct sales and third-party platforms like Amazon
• Why authors should own their audience and customer data
• How Curios ensures authors receive 100% of the sale price
• The importance of email lists and how they tie into Curios’ philosophy
• Disrupting the publishing industry through tech-forward thinking
• What makes Curios unique compared to Shopify and other DIY platforms
• The role of BookFunnel in content delivery
• Why discoverability is a shared community mission
• An overview of the Curios Creator Fund — earn up to $12,000 for using the platform
• Why being a wide author gives you the most flexibility
• Audiobook creation tools like Spokane and Eleven Labs for indie authors
• Sales tax, delivery fees, and other backend processes made easy
• How Curios is expanding to comedy, music, and beyond
• Why collective author action is essential to changing the industry
  
  

• Curios: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/curios
  
  
• Curios Creator Fund info: Available on the main Curios platform
  
  
• BookFunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
  
  
• Spokane (AI audiobooks): https://spokane.audio
  
  
• Eleven Labs (AI voice): https://www.elevenlabs.io

• What “mythic memoir” really means
• How fairy tales and myths offer structure, insight, and emotional safety
• Elisabeth’s incredible path from rejected undergrad writing classes to Harvard and Oxford professor
• Why memoirs work best when focused on transformation, not chronology
• The healing power of storytelling, and why “writers have a place to put things”
• How using a familiar myth (like Cinderella or The Little Mermaid) can help shape your own story
• A step-by-step framework for using mythic memoir in your writing
• How fairy tales protect the writer while inviting the reader in
• The universal, democratic nature of myth—and how readers become co-creators
• Ideas for a potential mythic memoir retreat or collaboration on writing to heal

• Why 75% of fiction authors are introverts—and how that affects promotion
• The hidden self-sabotage that keeps authors from marketing
• How shifting your identity from “anxious author” to “bold promoter” changes everything
• Kae’s #1 daily tip for consistent book marketing (hint: always carry your book!)
• The power of free giveaways, bookmarks with QR codes, and Amazon’s real estate
• How Kae’s 4-book series strategy helped her gain traction and algorithm love
• What authors should know about the “Amazon cliff” after a launch
• The importance of having a marketing plan to reduce anxiety
• Why every author should consider speaking as part of their marketing strategy
• The Bold Authors Network: Free Promo Hour, community support, and the upcoming Bold Authors Summit

• Bold Authors Network Website & Promo Hour Sign-Up
  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/boldauthors
  
  
• Free Promo Hour for Authors
  Held every Monday, 4–5 PM Eastern via Zoom. Sign up through the website above to receive access.
  
  
• Bold Author Bootcamp
  (Details provided via the Bold Authors Network email list—sign up at the main site to be notified about openings.)
  
  
• Claim Your Amazon Real Estate Workshop
  Occasionally offered via Kae’s email list and through the Bold Authors Network. Stay connected for upcoming sessions.
  
  
• Kae Wagner on Facebook
  https://www.facebook.com/BoldAuthorsNetwork
  
  
• The Frankie Girls Series (by K.M. Wagner)
  (Available on Amazon ) aff link
  
  

• Michelle’s multigenerational family legacy in publishing
• The evolution of her company, GracePoint Publishing
• The different imprints at GracePoint, including Empower Press and Human Design Press
• Hybrid vs. traditional publishing: what authors need to know
• The biggest misunderstandings about paying for publishing services
• Why clarity and contracts are essential
• Red flags to watch for when choosing a publisher
• Common misconceptions about self-publishing and ISBN ownership
• The importance of cover design and genre expectations
• Who the ideal GracePoint author is and how the submission process works
• Michelle’s 25 Questions to Ask Your Publisher
• Resources like the IBPA’s hybrid publisher standards
• How publishing is a journey of growth, purpose, and legacy

• How Joel went from science major to journalist to book coach and publisher
  
  
• The origin story of Launch My Book and how it differs from hybrid publishing
  
  
• The importance of author business plans, no matter the publishing path
  
  
• Why platform building matters just as much in traditional publishing
  
  
• Five big myths of self-publishing (and the reality behind them):
  
  
  • Self-publishing makes you more money
    
    
  • Your book will be in bookstores
    
    
  • Self-publishing is easier than traditional publishing
    
    
  • You can’t judge a book by its cover (spoiler: readers do!)
    
    
  • Amazon metadata hacks are all you need
    
    
• Why quality editing and design are non-negotiables
  
  
• The truth about Amazon bestseller campaigns and what actually drives discoverability
  
  
• Pre-order strategies—and why most self-published authors should skip them
  
  
• Using soft launches and slow build strategies for success
  
  
• How AI is helping his company run better ads and streamline production
  
  
• Launch My Book’s unique approach to collaborative, high-quality book production and marketing
  
  

• Launch My Book – Full-service publishing and promotion for self-published authors.
• Bookshop.org – Supporting local bookstores with online sales.
• Blog on Launch My Book’s website: A resource for authors to learn about self-publishing and marketing.

• Why marketing feels so hard (especially at first) and how they each overcame that feeling
  
  
• The unique challenges of launching under a pen name
  
  
• Why building a street team and ARC reviewers early is essential
  
  
• How to think like a business from book one—and why it matters more by book two
  
  
• How Book Launch in a Box helped them simplify their launch strategy
  
  
• The power of positioning and knowing your comp titles
  
  
• Why marketing starts while you’re still writing your book
  
  
• Using timelines and templates to manage overwhelm
  
  
• Keeping momentum post-launch with tools like Kindle Unlimited and virtual book tours
  
  
• How community makes all the difference
  
  
• Their best book marketing tips, from launch prep to long-term strategy
  
  

Connect with the Authors

• Why authors, editors, and publishing professionals must see themselves as entrepreneurs
  
  
• The origin stories behind Alexa’s publishing journey and Hannah’s creation of Book Award Pro
  
  
• Bootstrapping vs. investors vs. crowdfunding—and when to use each
  
  
• Real-life pricing mistakes and how to avoid undercharging for your time
  
  
• The power of business systems, automation, and templates (and why they matter)
  
  
• Learning to love the “yucky business stuff”: contracts, invoicing, websites, and CRMs
  
  
• Tools like Stripe Atlas, 17 Hats, Squarespace, and PubSite for business setup
  
  
• Website ownership 101: what it means to own your digital property
  
  
• Why AI (like ChatGPT!) can save you hours of time, especially for marketing and metadata
  
  
• How to grow a freelance business from scratch—plus Alexa’s tips from her early VA days
  
  
• The three traits of the most successful authors Alexa has seen
  
  
• Book reviews, trade reviews, and building visibility with Book Award Pro
  
  
• A sneak peek at the upcoming Business Bootcamp for publishing pros
  
  

• Lori Piestewa (PEE-ess-tuh-wah) – First Native American woman killed in combat (Hopi tribe)
  
  
• Elizabeth Jacobson – First female airman killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom
  
  
• Ashley White-Stumpf – Cultural Support Team soldier featured in Ashley’s War
  
  
• Hilda Clayton – Combat photographer who captured her final moment
  
  
• Ramona Valdez – Young Latina Marine killed in Fallujah
  
  
• Jeannette Winters – Early Operation Enduring Freedom casualty
  
  
• Megan McClung – First female Marine officer killed in Iraq
  
  

• Write, share, and preserve the legacies of these incredible women
  
  
• Encourage young readers, writers, and researchers to explore women’s military history
  
  
• Follow Alexa and the Women in Publishing Summit for more ways to lift up powerful women’s stories
  
  

• How Damon’s author journey inspired the creation of BookFunnel
  
  
• Why BookFunnel remains essential for digital book delivery, especially to non-tech-savvy readers
  
  
• The launch and impact of BookFunnel’s audiobook delivery system
  
  
• How authors can use reader magnets to grow their email lists
  
  
• Strategies for using welcome emails to convert readers into superfans
  
  
• The importance of segmenting your email list by reader behavior and source
  
  
• Print codes: how to hand out ebooks and audiobooks in-person (at conferences, festivals, etc.)
  
  
• Multi-book print codes and why they’re game-changing for bundles and events
  
  
• Using BookFunnel for sales promos and group author collaborations
  
  
• Why author collaboration is powerful—not competitive
  
  
• Tips for getting the most out of group promotions
  
  
• How to craft an engaging welcome email that leads to long-term reader relationships
  
  
• Why every book should include a CTA to join your mailing list
  
  
• Why email marketing is still the most powerful tool in your author toolkit
  
  
• New features coming soon, including more tools for in-person selling
  
  
• How BookFunnel’s webinars, podcast, and support help authors unlock more value
  
  
• A special offer for Women in Publishing Summit listeners
  
  

• BookFunnel Website
  
  
• Special discount via Women in Publishing Summit: womeninpublishingsummit.com/bookfunnel
  
  
• Check out the BookFunnel Podcast
  
  
• Sign up for the upcoming August 2025 webinar with Damon on the Events Page
  
  

• What soulful nonfiction really means and how it differs from other nonfiction genres
• Why Danielle transitioned from a career in law to the publishing world
• The most important questions to ask yourself before you start writing
• Danielle’s 6-phase framework for nonfiction book development
• Why "sketchy drafts" are better than “shitty first drafts”
• How to revise your book effectively before you hire an editor
• What to expect when working with a full-service publishing support team
• Why self-publishing doesn’t mean doing it alone
• When to let go of arbitrary publishing deadlines
• How her Soulful Nonfiction School offers flexible, ongoing coaching and support
  
  

• Download Danielle’s Free Self-Publishing Checklist
• Learn more about Inkworthy Books
• Connect with Danielle on Instagram: @inkworthybooks
• Learn about her Soulful Nonfiction School: Soulful Nonfiction School
  
  

“What lives in a story but your soul?” — Danielle Anderson
“It heals you first. Then it heals me. And finally, it heals the world.”
“Publishers don’t help you write the book. That’s what a book coach does.”

• JD’s origin story—from ghostwriter to indie author to publishing imprint owner
  
  
• How his wife’s bold decision kickstarted his full-time writing career
  
  
• What it’s really like to co-author with James Patterson (including pantsing vs. plotting!)
  
  
• Why JD trademarked his author name—and how he licenses it like a brand
  
  
• Using books as marketing tools: hotel placements, real estate investments, and haunted house giveaways
  
  
• Creating multiple income streams: from real estate to co-authoring as mentorship
  
  
• The myth of “just writing”—why successful authors need to market like entrepreneurs
  
  
• The truth about indie publishing: when you should and shouldn’t go solo
  
  
• A sneak peek at JD’s terrifying new book, Something I Keep Upstairs (May 13 release)
  
  
• Advice for fiction authors ready to treat their writing like a business
  
  

• Something I Keep Upstairs – JD Barker’s upcoming haunted house thriller
  
  
• Contest for a haunted overnight stay: Enter here before June 13, 2025
  
  
• JD’s co-author mentorship model
  
  

“Your book needs to be a 5-star story—before you worry about marketing or publishing. Word of mouth only happens when the book is that good.”

• Offers fee-for-service publishing help: editing, cover and interior design, layout, POD setup (via KDP and Ingram), ebook formatting.
  
  
• Authors retain full control and 100% royalties by publishing under their own accounts.
  
  
• Best for authors who want a high-quality product but maintain ownership and marketing responsibility.
  
  
• Ideal for personal legacy projects, entrepreneurs, or authors with built-in audiences.
  
  

• Offers curated publishing partnership: more involvement in editing, development, and marketing.
  
  
• Patricia and team select manuscripts they believe in and help authors from developmental edits to post-launch marketing.
  
  
• Author still retains creative control, but receives hands-on collaboration and a professional publishing experience.
  
  
• Higher cost, but greater long-term support and potential reach.
  
  

• How a family self-publishing project sparked Patricia’s publishing career
  
  
• What sets self-publishing assist services apart from hybrid publishing
  
  
• How to align your publishing path with your goals and budget
  
  
• The risks of unprofessional book design and formatting
  
  
• Why editing is the first step in effective book marketing
  
  
• How scams are targeting indie authors—and how to avoid them
  
  
• Trends in cover design, metadata, and the evolving expectations of readers
  
  
• The upcoming launch of Patricia’s new hybrid imprint: Lucent Book Group
  
  
• How authors can build long-term publishing partnerships
  
  

• Patricia is the founder of Luminare Press, offering publishing assistance and hybrid publishing since 2011.
  
  
• Inspired by helping her 89-year-old mother self-publish a novel, Patricia saw the need for a professional, author-supportive publishing service.
  
  
• Luminare Press has evolved from a family venture into a company of 10+ professionals with editors, designers, and contractors.
  
  

• The terrifying moment every author faces—wondering if people will hate your book—and how to overcome it.
• Why marketing doesn’t have to feel icky or overwhelming—and how to make it fun.
• The power of early feedback: how to build and use an advance reader team.
• What to do if talking about your book feels deeply uncomfortable (hint: there are other ways to market!).
• Creative and personality-aligned approaches to book marketing—whether you’re a writer, talker, or behind-the-scenes strategist.
• A real-life example of word-of-mouth magic—from Alexa’s hairdresser to a book club obsession.
• Why authentic buzz beats big ad spend (and how to get people talking organically).
• Ways to work with influencers, bookstagrammers, and booktokkers to generate excitement.
• A love letter to gluten-free cookbooks (yes, really) and niche book marketing.
• How to reframe your mindset to fall in love with the process of sharing your book.
  
  

• ARC Teams: Send your book out early to gather honest feedback and build buzz.
• AI Tools: Let AI compile your reviews, praise, and blurbs into marketing content.
• Publicity Partners: Aurora Publicity, Love Book Tours, Children’s Book Tour, Written Word Media, BookBub, Fussy Librarian, Robin Reads, and more.
• Influencer Outreach: How to engage book lovers with audiences to help spread the word.
  
  

• Why Substack is suddenly everywhere and why writers are flocking to it
  
  
• Claire’s journey from tech writer to aspiring memoir author—and how Substack helped her build community along the way
  
  
• The real reason Substack is so appealing (hint: it’s free and easy to use!)
  
  
• How Substack combines the best of blogging and email newsletters—and why it might just be the blog 2.0
  
  
• Whether it’s worth turning on paid subscriptions (spoiler: Claire finally did it!)
  
  
• Growing a following organically and the power of meaningful engagement on the platform
  
  
• Why Substack isn’t a magic bullet—but it can be a powerful tool with the right plan
  
  
• Using Substack categories to organize your posts and help readers find what they want
  
  
• How to avoid content burnout and set a sustainable posting schedule
  
  
• Tips for using Substack as an author to connect with your audience—even before your book is published
  
  

• Why community is essential for authors
  
  
• Common misconceptions about the writing journey
  
  
• The evolution of The Hive Collective
  
  
• Preparing authors for querying and pitching
  
  
• Navigating both traditional and self-publishing paths
  
  
• Social media, brand amplification, and coaching support
  
  
• How to confidently share your book’s premise and pitch to agents
  
  
• Special offers for listeners and Women in Publishing Summit attendees
  
  

• Learn more about The Hive Collective & Brooke’s services:
  womeninpublishingsummit.com/blackbear
  
  
• Email Brooke directly: hello@blackbearcoms.net
  
  
• Use code WIPfamily10 for 10% off The Hive Collective annual membership
  
  
• Summit ticket holders: Check your portal for an exclusive 25% discount
  
  

• How Karen’s journey as an illustrator led her to launch Get Your Book Illustrations and Children’s Book Mastery
  
  
• Common struggles children's book authors face and how Karen helps solve them
  
  
• Why writing a short children's book is actually harder than people think
  
  
• The essential elements every children's picture book should include (like proper word count and age targeting)
  
  
• The power of understanding your publishing goals before choosing your path
  
  
• Why self-publishing is often the best route for children’s book authors—and where traditional publishing falls short
  
  
• Real-world examples of how authors have succeeded with school visits, events, and Amazon ads
  
  
• How to align your marketing strategy with your personality and energy
  
  
• The importance of mentorship, support, and being educated before publishing
  
  
• Karen’s free resource: “Mastering Show, Don’t Tell” for children's book authors
  
  

• 💡 How it all began: Nathalie reflects on her first book, Grieving Parents: Surviving Loss as a Couple, which grew from sharing her own story online and realizing it could help others.
  
  
• ✍️ The unexpected journey to six books: She never set out to be an author, but over time felt called—intuitively and emotionally—to write each one. Every book had a unique purpose and a specific audience in mind.
  
  
• 🧠 Writing through grief and trauma: Nathalie shares how her personal losses and professional background as a therapist informed her writing and offered deep healing—both for herself and for her readers.
  
  
• 🛠️ Turning pain into purpose: The books weren’t just therapy; they became vital tools for others and opened doors in her business organically.
  
  
• 🧭 Advice for nonfiction authors: She emphasizes the importance of knowing why you're writing and who you’re writing for—before anything else.
  
  
• 📚 Books as authority-builders: Writing helped Nathalie deepen her expertise and connect with a broader community, even if marketing wasn’t her primary focus.
  
  
• 🌉 Bridging understanding: One of her most recent books was born out of the need to help support networks understand grieving loved ones—a powerful reminder that books can change lives.
  
  
• 🔁 The circular path of content and connection: From podcasting to speaking to client work, Nathalie shows how different platforms support and reinforce each other, even without traditional marketing.
  
  
• 📦 Creative outreach: She offers examples of how her books are used in care packages, support events, and more—demonstrating that marketing can be organic, meaningful, and aligned with your mission.
  
  

“I never thought I’d write a book. But when the idea came, it wouldn’t let me go.”

“Every book I wrote had a purpose: to answer a need I kept seeing again and again.”

“You don’t have to be a marketing expert—if your work resonates, it finds its way.”

• Nathalie Himmelrich’s Website – Home to her podcast, books, and more.
  
  
• How to Deal with Grief and Trauma Podcast – Nathalie’s show on grief, trauma, and healing.
  
  
• Alexa Bigwarfe’s Publishing Resources for authors.
  
  

• Karen Strauss (Hybrid Global Publishing)
  
  
• Pam Sheppard (Sheppard Edits)
  
  
• Alesha Brown (Fruition Publishing)
  
  
• E. Danielle Butler (EvyDani Books)
  
  
• Linda Ruggieri (Editor, The Insightful Editor)
  
  

• Karen Strauss shared her experience leaving corporate publishing due to gender bias and lack of upward mobility. She founded her own publishing company to create more equitable opportunities.
  
  
• Alesha Brown spoke passionately about the challenges of being a Black woman and a hybrid publisher. She highlighted how systemic inequities impact access, legitimacy, and success in publishing, yet emphasized empowerment and resilience.
  
  
• Linda Ruggieri, a white Latina, reflected on her experiences with cultural assumptions and the value of building diverse global teams. Her editorial team spans countries and cultures, bringing richness to her publishing work.
  
  
• E. Danielle Butler addressed misrepresentation and tokenism in the industry, and the distinct struggles faced by Black women. She emphasized the power of choice, ownership, and storytelling.
  
  
• Pam Sheppard reminded us that much of our work is about fighting for credibility. She highlighted how women have professionalized the industry and brought passion and power to every role.
  
  

• The current state of women in publishing, including workforce and authorship trends
  
  
• Ongoing challenges with leadership representation and pay equity
  
  
• The intersectional experiences of Black and Latina women in the publishing industry
  
  
• Why building community and diverse support systems is essential for publishing success
  
  
• The importance of unmuting your voice and sharing your story
  
  
• How to pivot and innovate in challenging times
  
  
• Insights on balancing personal health, entrepreneurship, and creativity
  
  
• Inspiration from award-winning women who are blazing trails in publishing
  
  
• How collective action, mentorship, and empowerment are driving the industry forward
  
  

• Karen’s Publishing Journey
  • Started in publishing by accident while working at Macy’s, where she managed book events.
  • Moved into traditional publishing, working at Bantam, Random House, McMillan, and Crown in sales, marketing, and publicity.
  • Noticed that her voice was being muted in the corporate world, which motivated her to start her own company.
    
    
• Founding Hybrid Global Publishing
  • Left the corporate publishing world amid industry instability and mergers.
  • Transitioned to selling books for independent publishers before founding her own hybrid press.
  • Personal challenges, including breast cancer, reinforced her decision to help others, particularly women, amplify their voices through publishing.
    
    
• Focus on Business and Personal Development Books
  • Hybrid Global Publishing specializes in books by entrepreneurs, coaches, and speakers.
  • Helps authors use books as lead magnets to grow their businesses and gain speaking opportunities.
  • Expanding into memoirs, especially those that can help authors build a brand, podcast, or business.
    
    
• Why Choose a Hybrid Publisher?
  • Traditional publishing offers limited royalties and control, while self-publishing can be overwhelming.
  • Hybrid publishing provides expert guidance without taking ownership of an author’s work.
  • Many authors underestimate the complexity of publishing—editing, design, distribution, and marketing all require professional input.
    
    
• The Hidden Costs of Publishing
  • Many authors overlook essential costs, such as editing, formatting, and marketing.
  • Some hybrid publishers charge extra for necessary services like return policies and copy editing.
  • Karen emphasizes the importance of vetting publishers carefully and knowing what’s included in a package.
    
    
• How to Submit to Hybrid Global Publishing
  • Interested authors can submit their book idea on the website.
  • A 30-minute call helps determine if it’s a good fit.
  • The submission process includes reviewing a synopsis, a couple of sample chapters, and an editorial assessment.
    
    
• Advice for Aspiring Authors
  • Publishing is a business investment—paying for expertise ensures a higher quality product.
  • Authors should focus on what they do best and leave the publishing logistics to professionals.
  • Choosing the right publishing path depends on the author’s goals—whether it’s book sales, business growth, or speaking engagements.
    
    
• Final Thoughts & Women in Publishing Summit
  • Karen praises Alexa’s work in building a supportive publishing community.

• Roxanne’s journey from journalist to award-winning ghostwriter and mentor.
• How she helps nonfiction authors bring their messages to life with clarity and structure.
• The global reach of ghostwriting and how she works with authors worldwide.
• The differences between ghostwriting and co-writing—and why ghostwriting is not cheating.
• Why nonfiction books (memoirs, business books, self-help) are the most common for ghostwriters.
• The various reasons people hire ghostwriters, from lack of time to language barriers to personal challenges.
• The cost of ghostwriting—what factors influence pricing and why it’s a premium service.
• Her step-by-step ghostwriting process, including strategy sessions, interviews, writing, and revisions.
• The importance of capturing the author’s unique voice and making the book feel authentic.
• Why she doesn’t ghostwrite fiction and the key differences between fiction and nonfiction writing.
• How authors can determine if ghostwriting is right for them and what to expect from the process.
• Roxanne’s Ignite and Write book series and workshops for DIY writers who want guidance.
• Where to find Roxanne’s services, resources, and books at roxannewriter.com or on Amazon.

• What is offset printing, and how does it differ from POD?
• Pros and cons of each method depending on your book’s goals.
• Why offset printing is a better choice for high-quality, bulk book production.

• How per-unit costs decrease as your print quantity increases.
• The financial drawbacks of POD for full-color books (especially children's books).
• Why printing 500+ copies can significantly boost your profit margin.

• MCRL now prints board books—a highly requested service.
• The advantages of board books for young readers.
• How MCRL’s new board book website & online calculator make getting a quote easier.

• Tactile pages (e.g., textured materials to mimic different surfaces).
• Pop-ups and peek-a-boo tabs for interactive engagement.
• Sound buttons and other multimedia features.
• Finger puppets and mirrors to make books more engaging.
• Custom packaging options, including kits with flashcards, puzzles, and more.

• Why formatting is crucial for getting a high-quality printed book.
• The importance of hiring a professional book formatter—even if you have an illustrator.
• How to access MCRL’s free artwork and formatting guides to get your files print-ready.
• The most common file submission mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Shipping & Fulfillment Tips
  • Why storing hundreds (or thousands) of books at home might not be the best idea.
  • Logistech Solutions, is a fulfillment and storage provider in North Carolina that many authors use and MCRL recommends
  • How Logistech Solutions integrates directly with your e-commerce store (e.g., Shopify) for seamless order fulfillment.
  • The benefits of temperature-controlled storage and having a professional pick/pack/ship team.

• Not all printing quotes are created equal—how to spot hidden fees.
• Why some low-cost quotes may not include essential services like shipping, duties, and tariffs.
• The importance of checking whether shipping includes delivery to your doorstep or just to the nearest port (a HUGE cost factor).
• What to look for in a fully inclusive quote to avoid surprise costs later.

• What a bound proof is and why it’s non-negotiable for any bulk printing project.
• The differences between a digitally printed proof and the final soy-ink offset print run.
• What to check for in a bound proof before approving a full production run.
• How skipping this step can result in expensive mistakes or unexpected design issues.

• Exclusive discount for Women in Publishing Summit listeners:
  • Save $100 on your first order when you print with MCRL.
  • Offer available at womeninpublishingsummit.com/MCRL.
    
    
• How to use MCRL’s board book calculator at boardbookprinting.com.

• The importance of estate planning for authors and publishers
• Alexa’s personal experience with a medical crisis that made her rethink the future of her business and books
• Why copyrights are considered part of your estate and what happens to them when you pass away
• How copyright transfers work and why it’s crucial to have a legal plan in place
• The difference between a will, a trust, and an LLC—and how they impact the management of your creative assets
• How to ensure royalties continue being paid to the right people after you're gone
• Special estate planning considerations for single-member LLCs and small publishers
• Why having a beneficiary form for authors under a publishing contract is a smart move
• The legal process of transferring copyrights into a trust
• Why a simple text to your loved ones about your assets is not enough
• How probate can be a nightmare (especially in states like California and South Carolina)
• Why the termination right in copyright law is a key factor when considering who will inherit your creative works
• The steps authors and business owners should take today to start planning for the future

• Find an estate planning lawyer in your state
• Consider creating a trust or adding copyright transfers to your will
• Ensure your business has a clear plan in place for royalties, contracts, and book rights

• 🎉 From Summit to Collaboration – How a standout presentation at the 2024 Women in Publishing Summit led to an exciting partnership between Alexa and Markeyla.
• 📝 Markeyla’s Journey in Media & Publishing – From a book-loving kid to running Against the Stream Magazine and building a thriving business helping women succeed.
• 🏆 The SNAP Method – Markeyla’s five-step process for helping Christian women entrepreneurs grow their platforms and businesses.
• 🚀 Being Contagious vs. Going Viral – Why chasing virality isn’t the best strategy and how you can instead build sustainable momentum.
• 🎤 The Power of Media & PR – How strategic media placements and PR can help authors and entrepreneurs stand out.
• 📸 What is Media Blitz Day? – A game-changing event where women walk away with professional branding assets, PR placements, and a solid media strategy—all in one day!
• 🎯 Execution Over Information Overload – Why taking action matters more than endlessly consuming courses and workshops.
• 🔥 Leveraging Relationships – The key to sustainable success isn’t just visibility—it’s building meaningful connections.
• 💡 Marketing and PR Tips for Authors & Entrepreneurs – Practical ways to use your media placements to grow your brand.
• ❤️ Encouragement to Take the Leap – "You can handle it!" Markeyla’s empowering advice for stepping into your next big opportunity.
• Markeyla's speaking at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit! Visit https://womeninpublishingsummit.com to get your ticket to this or upcoming events!

• 🎙️ Meet Danica Favorite: Community Manager at PublishDrive, multi-published hybrid author, and passionate advocate for helping authors navigate the publishing world.
• 📚 What is PublishDrive? An all-in-one self-publishing platform designed to support authors at every stage—from formatting to global distribution, royalty splitting, and even Amazon ad management.
• 💰 A Different Pricing Model: Instead of taking a percentage of royalties, PublishDrive operates on a subscription basis, allowing authors to keep 100% of their earnings after store fees.
• 🆓 Try Before You Buy: PublishDrive offers one free eBook upload so authors can test the platform risk-free.
• 🛠️ Sales Calculator: A handy tool on their website that helps authors determine whether a percentage-based model or subscription is more cost-effective for them.
• 🚀 Metadata Matters! Many books struggle with sales because of incorrect metadata, poor book descriptions, or being in the wrong categories.
• 🤖 AI & Publishing: AI is changing the way authors market and optimize their books. Danica shares insights on how authors can leverage AI tools without losing creative control.
• 📝 AI Metadata Generator: PublishDrive’s new tool analyzes your manuscript and generates optimized book descriptions, keywords, categories, BISAC codes, and even price suggestions based on Amazon trends.
• 🎨 AI for Covers: The platform also offers an AI-generated cover option—perfect for concept ideas or quick designs.
• 🎙️ Brave New Bookshelf Podcast: Danica co-hosts this podcast, diving deep into AI in publishing and featuring experts from all corners of the industry.
• 🔧 Other AI Tools Authors Can Use: ChatGPT for market research, developmental editing, and repurposing content like blog posts from transcripts.
• 💡 AI for Writers, Not Instead of Writers: AI can enhance writing, not replace it—whether helping overcome writer’s block, brainstorming next scenes, or summarizing reviews for insights.
• 🎟️ Women in Publishing Summit: PublishDrive is offering a 20% discount for summit attendees! Learn more at womeninpublishingsummit.com/publishdrive.

• PublishDrive: womeninpublishingsummit.com/publishdrive
• Brave New Bookshelf Podcast: bravenewbookshelf.com
• Women in Publishing Summit: womeninpublishingsummit.com

• The importance of honing your writing craft, regardless of genre or experience.
• Understanding the fundamentals of story structure, including the three-act structure.
• Breaking down the key elements of Act 1: hooks, setup, inciting incidents, and points of no return.
• How story craft applies across genres, from literary fiction to romantic comedies and beyond.
• Tips for transitioning between different writing styles and genres (e.g., nonfiction to fiction).
• The balance between showing and telling in storytelling—and why both are necessary.
• The role of workshops, coaching, and community in developing writing skills.
• Navigating the plotter vs. pantser debate and finding a process that works for you.
• Recognizing the reflection of Act 1 in the entire novel and why it matters.
• Learning to handle feedback constructively and viewing revisions as part of the growth process.

• "You don’t know what you don’t know"—the importance of learning and improving craft as a writer.
• Every story element—plot, character, setting, and theme—must work together to serve the reader.
• Act 1 should introduce the protagonist, their world, and the stakes while keeping tension and momentum.
• Writers should focus on crafting compelling stories first, then determine genre and marketing strategies.
• The stories we are meant to tell often stay with us, waiting to be written at the right time.

• Website: Visit WordEssential.com for coaching, workshops, and free office hours.
• Podcast: Check out the StoryWorks Roundtable for more insights on writing craft.
• Newsletter: Subscribe to Alida’s Substack for reflections on writing life and workshop updates.

• What is Warren Publishing?
  
  
  • A hybrid publishing company with over 36 years of history.
  • Acquired by Mindy Kuhn nearly nine years ago.
    
    
• Types of books they publish:
  
  
  • Children’s books, fiction, nonfiction, and business books.
  • Less focus on religious publications or urban fiction.
    
    
• Key benefits of working with Warren Publishing:
  
  
  • Authors retain their rights (like self-publishing).
  • Professional editing, design, marketing, and distribution included.
  • High selectivity—only 20% of submissions are accepted.
  • Higher royalty rates compared to traditional publishing.
    
    

1. Make Two Lists:
   • A wish list of what you want in a publisher or publishing route.
   • A "no-go" list of what you don’t want (e.g., no upfront costs or specific deadlines).
     
     
2. Research Your Publishing Options:
   • Understand the spectrum: traditional publishing, self-publishing, hybrid, and others (e.g., AI-based publishing platforms).
   • Choose a model that aligns with your goals and budget.
     
     
3. Polish Your Manuscript:
   • Ensure it’s as refined as possible before submission.
   • Even if a publisher offers editing, first impressions matter.
     
     
4. Prepare to Market Your Book:
   • Be ready to actively promote your work, regardless of the publishing model.
   • Know your target audience and comparative titles (comp titles).
   • Set up a dedicated author social media presence.
     
     

• A balance between traditional and self-publishing models.
• Offers professional support while allowing authors more control.
• Growing acceptance in the publishing industry (e.g., award recognition for hybrid presses).
• Ideal for authors seeking collaboration and engagement in the publishing process.
  
  

• Writing and publishing are a marathon, not a sprint.
• Be realistic about expectations—focus on creating quality work and enjoying the process.
• Publishing a book is always exciting, no matter how many you’ve done before.
  
  

• Visit warrenpublishing.net for:
  • Submission guidelines.
  • Company information.
  • Contact details for questions.

• Nikki Nash’s journey to becoming a Hay House author and marketing expert:
  From wanting to be a journalist to becoming a Fortune 100 marketer and finally starting her own entrepreneurial journey after a wake-up call about family health, Nikki’s inspiring story highlights the power of following your purpose.
  
  
• The power of big-picture thinking:
  Nikki emphasizes creating a bold vision and leveraging your book as a tool to connect with larger audiences, organizations, or opportunities. For example, positioning your book as a vehicle for massive impact rather than focusing solely on individual clients.
  
  
• Monetization strategies for authors:
  
  
  • Beyond book sales: Acknowledge that most authors don’t become wealthy from book sales alone.
  • As a feeder: Use the book to introduce coaching, memberships, or courses.
  • For leverage: Build a brand and vision that attracts collaborations, large-scale deals, or other major opportunities.
    
    
• Practical advice for dream building and impact creation:
  
  
  • Dedicate specific time each week to think big, whether that’s reaching out to influencers, pitching large-scale collaborations, or refining your vision.
  • Limit working hours for "lifestyle money" (e.g., 25 hours per week or less) to focus on generational wealth and impactful projects.
    
    
• Key tips for writing and aligning your book with your vision:
  
  
  • Get on the playing field: Understand your audience’s pain points and write a book that solves their problems.
  • Utilize beta readers: Share your drafts with a group who can comment on clarity, resonance, and areas for expansion.
  • Ensure alignment with your big vision while focusing on practical solutions you’ve already mastered.
    
    
• Nikki’s actionable mindset shift:
  Don’t get stuck in survival mode. Pay your bills, but allocate time and resources to dream-building and thinking beyond the day-to-day grind.
  
  
• Special resource for listeners:
  Nikki offers scholarships to a university program sharing strategies for thinking big, creating opportunities, and leveraging your book.
  
  
  • How to apply: DM Nikki the word “Alexa” on Instagram @NikkiNashOfficial for details.

• Check out her bestselling book, Market Your Genius, for strategies to turn your expertise into a profitable business.

• Introduction to Leanne Janzen and FriesenPress:
  
  
  • Leanne’s journey in publishing, starting as a publishing specialist and now leading the sales team at FriesenPress.
  • FriesensPress, a 15-year-old self-publishing service provider, has celebrated publishing its 10,000th title.
  • The range of services offered, including editing, cover design, formatting, distribution, and personalized support through a publishing specialist.
    
    
• FriesenPress and Women in Publishing Summit Partnership:
  
  
  • FriesenPress is sponsoring the Women in Publishing Summit for the first time.
  • Special offer: $150 off manuscript evaluations for summit attendees.
    
    
• Manuscript Evaluation Benefits:
  
  
  • Detailed editorial feedback tailored to the manuscript.
  • Metadata recommendations, including BO codes and search keywords.
  • Examples of how the manuscript could look after editing.
  • Editing recommendations from proofreads to developmental edits.
    
    
• Self-Publishing Considerations:
  
  
  • The importance of budget and timeline when deciding between self-publishing and traditional publishing.
  • How self-publishing allows for greater control, especially for time-sensitive or niche projects.
  • Budget planning: Evaluating money vs. time in the publishing process.
    
    
• Benefits of Working with a Service Provider:
  
  
  • Simplifies project management by coordinating all publishing steps.
  • Offers ongoing support, such as adapting to industry changes (e.g., returnable status for online retailers).
  • Empowers authors through coaching on marketing tools, website management, and social media strategies.
    
    
• Debunking Misconceptions About Self-Publishing:
  
  
  • High-quality self-published books can be indistinguishable from traditionally published ones.
  • Many well-known books, like Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, started as self-published works.
    
    
• Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing:
  
  
  • Traditional publishing requires significant marketing efforts from the author, similar to self-publishing.
  • Even if traditional publishing is the goal, self-publishing can be a valuable stepping stone or alternative.
    
    
• Marketing and Promotion:
  
  
  • Essential for both traditionally and self-published authors.
  • FriesenPress educates authors on building their platforms and developing marketing strategies.
    
    
• Key Takeaways for Authors:
  
  
  • Self-publishing is a viable and respected option in today’s industry.
  • Authors should prioritize editing, professional design, and marketing efforts to create a polished product.
  • The publishing journey is unique to each author, and understanding your goals will help determine the best path forward.
    
    

• Women in Publishing Summit and FriesenPress collaboration: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/friesenpress
• Manuscript evaluation offer: $150 off for summit attendees.
• FriesenPress services and author support.

• Reflections on a Personal Anniversary: Alexa commemorates the 13th anniversary of her daughter Kathryn’s passing and shares how this event shaped her journey as a writer, publisher, and creator of the Women in Publishing Summit.
  
  
• The Power of Writing to Heal: Writing became a vital tool for Alexa's healing, leading to her first book, which has since helped thousands of grieving mothers. She later created a beautiful Journal for Grieving Mothers as well. You can find both of these books in the resources section below.
  
  
• Importance of Community: She emphasizes the value of community in the publishing world, highlighting how authors, editors, designers, and marketers all play crucial roles in supporting each other.
  
  
• Leveraging AI for Efficiency: Alexa discusses how AI tools can be used to create marketing content quickly, sharing her own experience with using ChatGPT to generate a blog post on short notice.
  
  
• Encouragement for Writers: A powerful message about the impact of words and the importance of believing in the value of your stories, regardless of genre or subject.
  
  
• Resilience and Overcoming Challenges: Alexa candidly shares the personal and professional challenges she faced in 2024, including medical issues, and how she used them as fuel for growth and inspiration.
  
  
• Updates on the Women in Publishing Summit: Insights into the upcoming 2025 virtual conference, its workshops, networking events, and how it supports authors and publishing professionals.
  
  
• The Role of Publishing Professionals: A heartfelt acknowledgment of how editors, graphic designers, and other industry professionals contribute to the success of books and authors.
  
  
• Exciting New Projects: Alexa announces her upcoming talk at the Independent Book Publishers Association’s Publishing University on how authors and publishers can protect their work and businesses.
  
  
• Gratitude - to the community, to the team behind Alexa at WritePublishSell and the Women in Publishing Summit and how much everyone has been so incredible
  
  
• Looking Ahead to 2025: Alexa shares her hope for a renewed spirit and bigger accomplishments in the new year, encouraging listeners to persist with their dreams and goals.
  
  
• Upcoming Podcast Episodes: A sneak peek at interviews with sponsors of the Women in Publishing Summit, focusing on their services and advice for authors.
  
  

• The Sisterhood of Healing Hearts: Permission to Thrive Journal A Six Month Guided Journal for Grieving Mothers

• Sunshine After the Storm: A Survival Guide for the Grieving Mother
• The Women in Publishing Summit

• The importance of building an author network and community for long-term career growth.
• How connecting with other authors helps manage the inner critic and provides motivation.
• The value of having a purposeful network to support marketing efforts and book promotion.
• Collaborations like book swaps, newsletter swaps, and co-authoring as great ways to expand reach and promote books.
• The benefits of attending conferences, meeting like-minded authors, and participating in shared world anthologies to grow your audience.
• Tips for finding the right collaborators, including reaching out to authors in your genre and fostering genuine relationships.
• How maintaining relationships through regular meetings or mastermind groups can nurture collaborations and spark new ideas.
• Encouragement to be brave and reach out to others in the writing community, even if you're just starting out.
• Danica’s recommendation to try her 21-day SMS course for new authors

• Author Ever After: Danika’s community and support platform for romance authors.
• Romance Author Mastermind – A conference for romance writers.
• Various collaboration formats: Shared worlds, anthologies, newsletter swaps, and BookBub review swaps.

• What Are Writing Rituals?
• The Importance of Writing Rituals
• Examples of Writing Rituals
• Writing Rituals in Community
• Post-Publication Rituals
• Elizabeth’s Coaching and Retreat Offerings

• Atomic Habits by James Clear – inspiration for habit stacking.
• Elizabeth’s books: Smart Self Care for Busy Women and Sacred Celebrations.
• Elizabeth’s website: ElizabethBarbour.com
• WIP School – Alexa’s community for structured writing sessions and accountability.

• the importance of knowing how to refer to and write about Native Americans; terminology matters - differences between “American Indian,” “Native American,” and “First American.”
• Is it okay for authors who aren’t Native American to write about them?
• How to start researching a tribe's history and culture and whether or not you should approach a tribal community for researching their story
• How to build relationships so that you avoid common stereotypes in your writing
• Cultural sensitivity - for example, is it okay to say Happy Thanksgiving?
• Sarah's course designed to help writers authentically represent Native American characters.

• Five Stereotypes to Avoid When Writing About Native Americans – Free eBook by Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer.
• Fiction Writing American Indians course: Available at fictioncourses.com/americanindians with the code “WIPFWA” for a $50 discount.
• Sarah’s book on Choctaw Code Talkers of World War I.

• How JF has successfully published short fiction in books that are not advertised, launched a literary podcast and became the President of the Canadian Authors Association’s Toronto Branch
• Why an author network is important
• The 3 biggest mistakes one can make when networking and how to avoid them
• How to use the author network

1. Transitioning into Romance Writing: Kristi Dosh (Savannah Carlisle) and Lindsay Gibson share how they moved from careers in sports journalism and grief memoir writing into romance fiction. Both found joy and fulfillment in creating heartwarming love stories.
   
   
2. The Therapeutic Power of Fiction: Lindsay talks about how writing fiction allows her to control the narrative, offering a therapeutic escape from real-life trauma. Kristi echoes this, noting how she used writing to rewrite her own personal stories with happier endings during difficult times.
   
   
3. The Long Road to Publication: The authors highlight the importance of persistence, with both sharing stories of extensive revisions, rewrites, and years spent polishing their manuscripts before landing publishing deals. The message: writing a marketable book takes time and patience.
   
   
4. The Benefits of Working with a Small Press: Both authors speak highly of their experience with Harpeth Road, a small woman-owned press. They discuss the hands-on support they received, from developmental editing to marketing strategies, and why it’s important to thoroughly research publishers to find the right fit.
   
   
5. Organizing a Collaborative Book Tour: Kristi and Lindsay, along with fellow author Nancy Nagle, organized their own book tour. It was Kristi’s idea, and the trio planned a series of events along the East Coast. They discuss how working with other authors made the tour more fun, less daunting, and helped draw a bigger crowd. They emphasize that collaborating with fellow authors is a great way to reach more readers and build connections.
   
   
6. Collaboration Over Competition: They also highlight how teaming up with other authors helps increase visibility, foster a sense of community, and create opportunities for cross-promotion rather than competition.
   
   
7. The Power of Cross-Promotion: The authors discuss how promoting each other’s books helps build a larger, more engaged audience. They emphasize that readers of romance want more stories, and sharing the spotlight with other authors can benefit everyone.
   
   
8. Staying True to Your Passion: The authors stress the importance of writing what you love. They advise aspiring authors to read widely in their genre and stay true to their own voice, rather than chasing trends.
   
   

• Maximizing Book Sales Globally: opportunities in the international markets for expanding book sales and reaching a wider audience.
• Finding the Perfect Literary Translator: what you should look for in a translator to make sure that your investment has better chances to pay off
• what the main features of a literary translation contract in most European countries are when it comes to copyrights.
• The impact of machine translation on book publishing and how it can affect the authenticity of your translated work.
• Boost Translated Book Marketing: Explore effective marketing strategies tailored specifically for promoting translated books to a diverse audience.
• Understand Legal Aspects of Translation: Gain insights into the legal considerations and implications of international book translations to navigate potential challenges and protect your work.
  
  

• Why is there a fear of putting your voice out into the world?
• Crafting Powerful Stories: Discover the art of storytelling in nonfiction writing and captivate your readers with compelling narratives.
• Full-Service Writing Solutions: Explore a range of comprehensive writing services to support and enhance your nonfiction author journey.
• Who am I Writing For? (Ideal Reader): Uncover effective strategies to identify and connect with your target audience in the nonfiction genre.
• Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes: Learn to steer clear of pitfalls and errors commonly made by nonfiction authors, ensuring a smoother writing process.
• Success tips and when you should write a book
  
  A #1 International Bestselling author, Karen Rowe is the owner of Front Rowe Seat, a full service writing firm. She is a nonfiction expert who, for the past fifteen years has specialized in working with first-time authors and entrepreneurs to uncover their own unique and powerful story. Karen has a special fondness for memoir, self-help, business and leadership books. Helping authors create an instant connection with themselves and with their marketplace, she has worked on over 140 books to date! A transplant from the Great White North, Karen lives in Tampa, FL with her husband, and two rescue cats. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, yoga, riding her bike and going to the beach.
  
  Learn more here:
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarenrowe/
  
  Website: https://www.karenrowe.com
  
  Book writing course: http://bookwritingmaster.com

• The importance of finding a missionally aligned publisher (in TCP's case: feminist and queer with a commitment to BIPOC writers)
• how to find mission-aligned publishers who share your values and support your vision as an author.
• Angela's story of why she created Tehom Center Publishing to fill a lack in the industry
• the importance of intersectional feminism in the publishing industry and how it can shape the future of literature.
• effective marketing strategies for books on social justice causes 
• creative strategies for launching books that align with your values and reach a wider audience.
• how to empower BIPOC queer feminist authors through inclusive and supportive publishing practices.
• The role of publishing in social justice and activism
• How writing/telling the stories of revolutionary women and nonbinary kindred can change the world
• Angela's free Feminist Editing Guide: https://mailchi.mp/0e9a4144e769/feminist-editing
  
  Dr. Angela Yarber is an award-winning author of eight books and the founder of Tehom Center Publishing, an imprint publishing feminist and queer authors, with a commitment to elevate BIPOC writers. In addition to traditional, independent publishing at no cost to authors, Tehom Center Publishing also offers 1:1 and group coaching aimed at empowering authors in their book writing, book marketing, and authorpreneurship. Dr. Yarber holds a Ph.D. in Art and Religion from UC Berkeley and her work has been featured in Forbes, NPR, HuffPo, Ms Magazine, The Independent, and the television show Tiny House Nation.  For more, please visit www.tehomcenter.org

• Sharissa's project to fund women's writing projects: Project Seed Money
• Project Seed Money provides a monthly grant funding female authors at $1,500.00 a month to be used for writing expenses
• How women are still underrepresented in the publishing industry,  her reason for starting this program
• How to amplify female voices
• the expenses of self-publishing and strategies to obtain financial support for your writing journey as a woman author.
• how to bring your story to life in a compelling way
• tips for successfully writing a memoir
• crowdfunding as a tool for funding your book publishing journey and connecting with your audience.
• techniques for building a dedicated and engaged audience for your memoir, paving the way for successful book promotion and sales.
  
  

• how Derek went from being a broke valet parker to a bestselling author, selling over 100,000 books using mostly free and low-cost marketing strategies (he got into personal development and started writing fitness blogs, which eventually led him to publish a book.)
• Why you shouldn't give up after a launch that isn't successful.  (first book didn’t do well, but he kept learning about marketing until his third book became a big hit, making $6,000 in 11 days!)
• Derek focused on learning marketing strategies, and his book consistently hit #1 in competitive categories. 
• the importance of book reviews for authors, especially when launching a new book  (aim for 10 to 20 reviews early on to help with promotion)
• Build your email list! This is key to anyone serious about selling more books!
• Strategies for Reviews: ask for genuine feedback from readers and use methods like viral giveaways to build an email list. From there, authors can engage with readers and ask for reviews.
• Hollywood Pitch Formula: Derek shares a strategy called the Hollywood Pitch Formula, which helps your book stand out. It’s all about combining two concepts to create a memorable hook (e.g., "Die Hard on a bus" for the movie Speed).
• How to engage reviewers: To find reviewers, he suggests reaching out to people who already review books in your genre and giving them a clear and engaging pitch.
• Follow-Up with Readers: To encourage readers to leave reviews, Derek recommends using surveys. This approach allows authors to get feedback and, potentially, a review with minimal effort on the reader’s part. He emphasizes following up in a non-pushy way, asking questions like, "How are you enjoying the book?" before asking for a review.
• Final Thought: Getting positive reviews can be a great motivator for authors to push harder in their marketing efforts.
  
  

• We discuss why authors hate marketing and how to make it fun.
• Best tips for growing your audience.
• Why finding new readers is critical to your success.
• And more.
  
  

• Joni's Writing Center in Vermont, and how she started that
• The ways we writers get in our own way... and how to move past them
• The importance of being inspired when you're writing
• How to deal with feedback and the power of positive feedback
• Dealing with self-sabotage and negative self-talk
• Joni's book for writers: Good Naked: How to Write More, Write Better, and Be Happier (Amazon aff link)
• Joni's new book: Party Like It's 2044: Finding the Funny in Life and Death (Amazon aff link) - finding the funny in life

• how this happened to her - Alexa received a demand to cease using the PublishHer name for the podcast, because it is too similar to another company. 
• Alexa's lawyer's response and suggested response
• Why you should consider trademarking your brand and what you can do to protect your own business and brand (recommend seeking advice from a trademark lawyer) - Do you need a Trademark? A trademark typically protects brand names and logos used on goods and services. https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/basics/trademark-process#step2
• Resource: The USPTO allows you to search Trademark's - no need to hire a lawyer to see if something already exists. Search HERE

•  learn how the elements of a book proposal attract agent and publisher interest
• clarify your book idea so you can write it
• learn how the proposal is actually the scaffolding of the book you want to write
• take steps to start your publication journey

• Mastering the Art of Podcasting: Unlocking Proven Strategies for Authors and Creators to Amplify Their Reach and Impact.
• Captivating Audiences: Unveiling the Power of Podcast Tours for Successful Book Launches.
• Crafting Compelling Speaking Topics: Empowering Authors to Command Attention and Inspire Action Through Engaging Presentations.
• Embodying Authenticity: Harnessing the Influence of Podcast Guest Presence to Forge Meaningful Connections with Listeners.
• The Power of Storytelling: Building Lasting Relationships and Cultivating Loyalty through Author-Centric Podcasts.

• Visit the MLG Collective website to access free pitching tips and tips on how to be a great podcast guest under the Free Resources section.
• Check out Michelle Glogovac's personal website, MichelleGlogovac.com, to learn more about her services and access additional resources.
• Purchase the book How to Get on Podcasts by Michelle Glogovac, available on various platforms including Amazon, Bookshop.org, and Books-A-Million.
• Connect with Michelle Glogovac on social media platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to stay updated on her latest insights and offerings.
• Attend the Women in Publishing Summit workshop hosted by Michelle Glogovac to learn about creating a podcast book tour and maximizing the promotional potential of podcast appearances.
  
  

• Alpha Readers: Early-stage readers who see raw drafts and help keep the story on track, particularly valuable for serial fiction.
• Editing Process: Sometimes editors are used before beta readers, especially for early books in a series, to address major plot holes.
• Beta Readers: Read more polished drafts and provide feedback on the overall reader experience.
• Editing Costs: Discussion on reducing costs over time with strong alpha and beta teams, emphasizing the importance of continuous feedback.
• Community Feedback: Importance of genre-specific and fan feedback in shaping the narrative and deciding on content visibility within the platform.
• Tools and Platforms: Mention of Ream Stories, a platform for authors, and its subscription model for chapters, highlighting its features for author and reader engagement.
• Subscription Platform Concept: Similar to Patreon, where tiers are set by authors offering various benefits like free books and exclusive content to subscribers.
• Community Engagement: Discusses involving super fans in decision-making, such as website design, through higher-tier subscriptions.
• Comparative Value: Contrasts traditional publishing (like Disney's vault) with the ongoing access and community engagement of subscription models.
• Time Management and Commitment: Highlights the challenge of balancing writing with other responsibilities and emphasizes the importance of planning and consistency.

•  How nonfiction book proposals differ from fiction queries. Nonfiction requires a detailed proposal, including an overview, competitive analysis, audience analysis, marketing plan, and annotated table of contents. Memoirs, although nonfiction, often follow different rules and may use a hybrid approach. 
•  Identifying competitive titles and its importance.
•  Defining a specific audience rather than claiming a broad appeal. This helps in targeted marketing and increases the book’s chances of success. 

• Writing - a LOT - to publish frequently and grow the backlist
• The importance of building an email list for increased engagement and readership.
• The benefits of newsletter swaps to expand your author network and reach new readers.
• How Ellie Achieved bestseller status as an indie author
• Her rapid book release strategy to maximize impact and visibility in the market.
• The importance of collaboration and the changing landscape of book lists.
• Writing schedules, outlining process, and the challenges of maintaining a fast-paced writing routine.
• Reflections on the challenges of balancing writing, social media engagement, and administrative tasks. 
• The importance of meeting reader expectations in writing.
• Why having a healthy backlist and diversifying formats like audiobooks and large print matters
• Ellie's three indispensable tools in the writing business: Mailerlite for newsletters, Canva for graphic design, and Vellum for book formatting. 

• Learn to maximize your writing productivity with effective time management strategies.
• Discover the benefits of outsourcing for authors and how it can streamline your writing process.
• Explore the lifestyle benefits of building a location-independent writing career.
• Uncover the importance of incorporating rest into your creative professional routine for optimal productivity.
• Discover how to use time blocking and energy management to 4x your productivity—and free up more time for rest
• Learn why most of us have the definition of productivity wrong—and how we should define it instead
• Understand why hustle culture is dangerous to our health and how to reframe toward balance—while scaling your business, brand, or impact
• Listen to the power of discretionary time and how it can transform your work (and life!)
• My top tips for productivity: email/social/news-free mornings, move meetings to the afternoon, email blocking, etc.
• Why you need to start from the vision and work backwards to build a business to support the life you want
• Stacy's program, Idea to Launch, is launching soon! Find out more here! 

• How to leverage connections as starting points for speaking engagements
• Negotiating for assets beyond speaking fees, such as professional event photos, testimonials, and referrals
• Essential steps to kick start a successful and impactful speaking career.
• How to empower yourself to seize public speaking opportunities and break barriers in the professional world
• Crafting a Captivating Keynote Speech: Learn the secrets to building a keynote speech that captivates and inspires audiences
• How to structure your talks and her formula to deliver concise, impactful messages
• The Mic Drop Workshop: A comprehensive program to learn everything you need to know to build your speaking career
• Visit here to learn more about her upcoming FREE challenge and the full program. https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/micdrop

• Analyzing your manuscript with the Autocrit tool enhances quality and reduces editing costs for self-publishing authors.
• Dictating your voice to text streamlines the writing process and improves manuscript quality while minimizing editing expenses.
• Mastering fiction writing skills elevates the quality of your manuscript, resulting in reduced editing costs for self-publishing authors.
• Implementing genre conformity in book writing optimizes manuscript quality and decreases editing expenses for self-publishers.
• Check out Autocrit and get your lifetime license at https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/autocrit
  
  

• Alexa Bigwarfe gives a short overview of what's to come in Season 4
• Alexa shares some encouragement around taking the small steps to see big wins
• Habit stacking - what is it, why is it important
• Life's short - don't push off til tomorrow what you can do today
• Join for upcoming webinars and workshops at https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/events

• Larissa's Writing Journey: Larissa shares her unexpected entry into writing when she created a sci-fi novel based on a game she and her husband developed. This experience led her to become passionate about helping others tell their stories.
• Book Release: Larissa discusses her recent book, "How to Write a Book: Memoirs and Autobiographies," which focuses on guiding individuals through the process of writing and sharing their life stories.
• Transition to Book Coaching: Larissa explains how she transitioned from a career in the chemical industry to become a book coach, emphasizing the importance of making connections, networking, and learning from mentors in the writing industry.
• Advice for Aspiring Authors: Larissa encourages aspiring authors to start writing without waiting for the "perfect time." She highlights the importance of taking the leap and pursuing the dream of writing a book.
• Details on Coaching Program: Larissa describes her coaching program, targeting coaches in service-based industries who are looking to grow their businesses by incorporating book writing into their marketing strategy.

• Her new book of poems and love, I Still Have Love to Give
• Exploring different genres to expand your writing skills and finding your unique voice in the literary world.
• Why she started writing in the genre of Mafia romance (largely because she understand its marketability)
• How poetry is a powerful tool for personal healing and emotional expression.
• Marketing challenges specific to writing nonfiction poetry as a romantic suspense/mafia author and what it was like to try to reach a new audience
• Finding your niche as a writer to stand out in the competitive literary landscape.
• And more!

• Finding the Right Editor: The conversation explores the factors to consider when finding the right editor. Genre expertise is highlighted as crucial, and the Editorial Freelancers Association and Reedsy are suggested as valuable resources for discovering editors.
• Understanding Types of Editing: Jenny outlines the five main types of editing: manuscript critique, developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading. The conversation stresses the importance of understanding the order of these edits and their focus on different aspects of the book.
• Author's Mindset During Editing: The discussion touches on the emotional aspect of the editing process, acknowledging that it can be overwhelming for authors. It emphasizes the role of an editor as a supportive partner rather than someone aiming for perfection.
• The Role of an Editor: Jenny shares her philosophy as an editor, stating that the goal is not necessarily to achieve a perfect book but to elevate it to the next level. The importance of manageable and achievable feedback for authors is highlighted.
• The Importance of Genre Knowledge: The conversation stresses the significance of an editor understanding the author's genre and even subgenre. This knowledge helps in providing relevant guidance and maintaining consistency with genre conventions.
• Resources for Finding an Editor: The episode suggests utilizing platforms like the Editorial Freelancers Association and Reedsy for discovering suitable editors. It also emphasizes the value of author referrals for finding trusted editors.

• How community was important to her journey even early on. 
• The significance of community in publishing for mutual growth and success through things like joint promos and sharing resources.
• The theme of the 2024 Women in Publishing Summit is Better Together. (Get your ticket here.)
• Different types of support - from encouragement and commiseration to mentorship and parts of your publishing process.
• The benefits of being a part of the Women in Publishing Summit Community

• Understanding Enneagram Types for Writers: Mary Adkins, a writing coach, discusses how knowing your Enneagram type, a personality assessment tool, can help writers understand their motivations and navigate through challenges.
• Personal Writing Journey: Mary shares her personal journey as a writer, from quitting her law job to becoming a novelist. She emphasizes the challenges of finding a literary agent, highlighting the importance of persistence and finding the right fit.
• Traditional Publishing Timeline: Mary sheds light on the lengthy timeline involved in traditional publishing, from acquiring an agent to the book hitting shelves. This insight is crucial for aspiring authors to set realistic expectations.
• Working with Enneagram Types in Writing Goals: Mary explains how she helps writers set goals based on their Enneagram types. Different types may struggle with distinct challenges, and tailoring writing goals to individual personalities can enhance productivity.
• Writing Goals Beyond Word Count: Mary suggests various writing goals beyond word count, such as page count, scene count, or finding pockets of time for writing. The goal is to align writing practices with an author's Enneagram type and lifestyle.
• Encouragement for Aspiring Authors: Mary emphasizes that authors don't need extensive time to write a book. With the right goal-setting and understanding of their motivations, writers can complete a draft even in the midst of a busy life.
• Book Incubator Program: Mary introduces her program, the Book Incubator, which helps writers finish their books and prepare them for pitching to agents. The Enneagram aspect is just one component of this comprehensive program.
• You Can Make It Happen: Mary leaves listeners with the message that aspiring authors can make their writing goals a reality if they truly want it. Despite life's challenges, commitment and determination can lead to successful book completion.

• Definition of Reach: Reach is more than just having a larger audience. It includes expanding the audience plus creating a lasting impact.
• Effective Strategies for Social Media Marketing:
• Show up consistently on social media with value.
• Understand the importance of moving your audience from social media to your website.
• Use social media to find and form relationships but recognize that these relationships can be somewhat superficial.
• Building Online Presence:
• Start early and be patient. Building an online audience takes time.
• Translate online connections into offline relationships for a more holistic connection.
• Consistency over time is crucial for building an audience.
• Long-Term Approach to Book Marketing:
• Book marketing is a long-term commitment, more like a daily commitment to something rather than a race with a finish line.
• Utilize the calendar to find thematic opportunities to promote your book throughout the year.
• The Reach Framework:
• The book "Reach: Create the Biggest Possible Audience for Your Message, Book, or Cause" introduces the Reach Framework, focusing on the importance of a website, email marketing, and social media.
• Four Reach Commitments: Value, Consistency, Longevity, and Generosity.
• Generosity in Marketing:
• Generosity involves giving away valuable content, ideas, and time.
• Giving away as much as possible can help build trust and connections with the audience.
• Amplifying marginalized voices and providing support for their messages is crucial.
  
  Final Thoughts:
• Building reach is about making a lasting difference with your ideas and inspiration, not just about fame or making money.
• Authors should stay focused on the value they aim to bring to the world and persevere in their efforts.

• Becky's company, Weaving Influence, can be found at Weaving Influence.
• Connect with Becky personally at Becky Robinson.
• Listen to Becky's podcast, the "Book Marketing Action" podcast, for book marketing tips. Be sure to check out my podcast with Becky - Demystifying Amazon.
• Grab her book Reach: Create the Biggest Possible Audience for Your Message, Book, or Cause
• Offer for the Audience:
• Becky offers a free copy of her book to those interested. Email her at becky@weavinginfluence.com for details.

• Sara's upcoming poetry collection Wild Gardens, which is coming out through Kelsay Books in 2024
• Sara's take on “show, don’t tell”: why it's important to use both showing and telling in your writing, and when it's ideal to use one or the other
• Her work as a book coach and editor
• Get her special offer for our Women in Publishing Summit Community

• Wendy's writing journey & how she found her way into children's books
• challenges of finding an illustrator for children's books 
• how Wendy started illustrating
• how and when she created Create Away Design and Publishing, offering services from illustration to book design and publishing guidance.
• as the author of children's books AND paranormal fiction, Wendy discusses the challenges of marketing diverse genres, and building audiences for each.
• Wendy shares her experiences participating in events, festivals, and author alley events at bookstores as part of her marketing strategy
• We delivered into tips on Bookstore and local Events

• Wendy encourages authors not to put all their eggs in one basket, especially in traditional publishing.
• She advises authors not to let minor obstacles, like obtaining ISBN numbers or barcodes, hinder them from self-publishing.

• Why writing is such a powerful tool for healing
• Tools for writing to heal
• Different ways you can write to heal
• Resources - which can be found at https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/healing

1. Transition from Television to Novels: Leslie's shift from writing for TV shows like "The Wild Thornberrys" and "Sweet Valley High" to novel writing highlights the fluidity and adaptability in a writer's career.
2. The Art of Writing Dialogue: Emphasizing her love for writing dialogue, Leslie underlines its importance in bringing characters to life, a skill honed from her TV writing days.
3. Journey of Self-Discovery: Leslie's novel isn’t just about romance but also about the protagonist’s journey to self-love and empowerment, a theme she passionately advocates.
4. Challenges of Writing a Novel: Leslie candidly shares the challenges she faced while writing her first novel, especially in constructing a cohesive middle section. Her experience underlines the importance of planning and structuring a novel.
5. Learning from Mistakes: Her first novel took 4.5 years due to a learning curve, emphasizing the value of learning from mistakes and the iterative nature of writing.
6. Role of a Developmental Editor: Leslie stresses the importance of working with a developmental editor from the early stages of writing to streamline the process.
7. Multi-Perspective Storytelling: She discusses experimenting with different narrative perspectives, providing readers with a more rounded understanding of the characters.
8. Embracing the First Draft: Leslie encourages embracing the “crappy first draft” as a necessary step in the writing process.
9. Community and Networking: She underscores the importance of building a community, networking with other authors, and leveraging social media for marketing and getting feedback.
10. Marketing and Publishing Insights: Leslie gives practical advice on marketing and finding a publisher, highlighting the necessity of investing in marketing, even when working with traditional publishers.

• Dr. Ellington's journey to write this book, despite it being outside of her normal areas of focused
• Why she was so passionate about bringing the topic of Black hair to the forefront
• Writing about difficult topics
• Why writers shouldn't be afraid to bring their message to the world
• Tips for authors who do want to advocate/ bring about activism through the books
• Her book, Black Hair in a White World 

• The power of storytelling in promoting social justice issues and how to amplify your message through books; story telling as a form of activism
  
  
• The impact that books can have in raising awareness about social justice issues and gain insights on how to effectively engage readers.
  
  
• The unique and powerful role that books can play in emotional marketing among Gen Z and Millennial readers, connecting with them on a deeper level.
  
  
• The value of collaboration and the expansion of services in the publishing industry, and learn how to leverage partnerships to amplify social justice efforts through books.
  
  
• Insights into how to leverage books as a platform to create various productions and platforms for social justice stories, expanding the reach and impact of your message.

• The challenges and solutions to starting and completing a writing project
  
  
• The importance of setting realistic goals and accountability in your writing process, 
  
  
• Insights into various publishing options and models for authors, including hybrid publishing, giving you the knowledge to make informed decisions about your own publishing path.
  
  
• The challenges of making a living solely from book sales and the need for multiple revenue streams in the writing industry, enabling you to strategize and diversify your income sources.
  
  
• The long-term nature of building a successful writing career and the importance of persistence and adaptability, inspiring you to keep going and evolve as a writer even when faced with setbacks.
  
  
• The FREE webinar they'll be hosting to help authors through the process. 

• How it all began, from the publication of Sunshine After the Storm: A Survival Guide for the Grieving Mother to Kat Biggie Press, Write|Publish|Sell and eventually the Women in Publishing Summit - and all the other things in between
• Our favorite projects along the way
• The 10 year celebration page
• The new healing journal for grieving mothers: The Sisterhood of Healing Hearts: Permission to Thrive. A 6 Month Guided Journal for Healing Mothers
• The importance (and power of) community
• What we love about the Women in Publishing Summit
• What's coming up next
• And so much more!

• How to identify key media outlets, journalists, and influencers in your niche or industry, and create a plan to reach out to them and land coverage for your book.
• Being a source of expertise for magazines - reach out to the editors with information for potential stories
• Utilizing your BYLINE in articles to gain more attention
• When to start your marketing efforts and the key things you need to be doing
• The importance of your email list
• Why National media is critical if you want to land on a best sellers list
• Why you need to GET SOCIAL
• And more!
  
  
  

• How to unearth the benefits and necessities that collaboration introduces in the dynamic landscape of publishing.
• Explore the powerful impact of diversity in shaping fruitful collaborations.
• Grasp dynamic techniques to assert your book's position effectively in the competitive market.
• Witness the significance of uplifting fellow authors through literary citizenship and what that means.
• Decipher the relevance of the perspective on professional services payments in publishing.

• Visit the YouTube channel to watch the special episode of the Publisher podcast where Alexa Bigwarfe and Pam Sheppard discuss collaboration in the publishing industry. Be sure to subscribe while you're there!
• Check out the IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association) conference, which brings together small and medium-sized publishers, author publishers, and self-publishing authors who are serious about the business of publishing.
• The Women in Publishing Summit Community! Get on the email list to learn about all upcoming opportunities, or check out the events page at https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/events
  
  

• Understand how DIY MFA homes in on fiction and genre writers, opening up new avenues of storytelling and engagement.
• Gain insights into the unique analytical techniques taught by DIY MFA, geared towards enriching your literary perspective and writing abilities.
• Recognize the convenience and adaptability of DIY MFA's courses, designed to accommodate diverse interest levels and schedules.
• Uncover the smooth enrollment procedure and the ready accessibility of DIY MFA's courses, bringing superior writing instruction to your doorstep.
• Grasp the fundamental values of DIY MFA and their indispensable part in guiding your literary journey, inspiring originality, and enhancing your narrative capacity. 

• Visit the DIY MFA website: This is the official website of Gabriela Pereira's DIY MFA program. Here, you can find information about the program, including courses, resources, and community opportunities.
• Check out the DIY MFA book: Gabriela Pereira is the author of DIY MFA: Write with Focus, Read with Purpose, and Build Your Community. This book is a comprehensive guide to creating your own MFA experience and is available for purchase on various online platforms, such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

• The indispensable contribution of archives in supplementing research and crafting insightful write-ups.
• How to exploit archives for polished research work essential in writing.
• Amy Tector's riveting encounter with using primary sources from archives to fuel her literary creations.
• Canada's National Archives Library and Archives Canada collection of historical records and documents.
• Why you should explore the archives in your local area or the archives related to your specific writing interests to uncover hidden stories and insights.
• Consider incorporating archival research into your own writing process to bring a unique perspective and depth to your stories.
• The importance of encouraging people to support indie authors by buying their books and spreading the word!
• Amy Tector's debut novel, The Honeybee Emeralds, available now.
  
  Unveiling the mysteries of the past, Amy Tector takes us on a thrilling journey through archives in her latest book, The Honeybee Emeralds. But what happens when the young archivist stumbles upon a body hidden in the art vaults? With historical authenticity and unexpected twists, this gripping novel will leave readers on the edge of their seats, desperate for answers.

• Scribe Media shutting down - amongst rumors that AI is killing the Ghostwriting industry - https://ghostwritersandco.com/scribe-media-shutting-down/
• The fear around AI
• Authors Guild - taking a position against AI (Not part of the Author's Guild? They are the premier organization for supporting and protecting Authors. Save $20 on your membership here.)
• How AI is impacting the publishing industry
• The positive uses of AI for business owners
• Copyright protections for AI - see the guidance and information put out on AI and copyrights by the copyright office
• The challenge of proper citation when you're using AI
• The dangers of getting advice from people who claim to be "experts" in the industry
• As publishers - how do we even know if we've received a book written by AI? - There's software like plagiarism software - but it gets quickly outdated
• Hopefully AI will never be able to capture the emotions and human experience in fiction books but nonfiction books are at risk for high AI
• AI is here now and we have to deal with it; can't hide from it

• Writing and publishing a book can feel slow, confusing, and lonely... but it doesn't have to.
• Accountability
• Mindset Awareness
• Guidance & mentorship
• Community
• She Gets Published Mastermind Info & Application: shegetspublsihed.com/mastermind

• Her author journey
• The things that made a difference in her book sales, pushing her up to the top of the charts
• Why she's decided to self-publish AND traditionally publish - simultaneously!
• How InkersCon came to be
• Save $50 with the coupon code ALEXA until mid August, 2023!

• Interview with Fauzia Burke on marketing your book through your website
• Pub Site free trial and discount: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/pubsite

• SEL or social emotional learning and why it is important to teach it to children
• Why Sheryl wrote her book: Baby Dragon's Big Sneeze: A Picture Book About Empathy and Trust for Children Age 3-7
• Pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing from a self-published author perspective
• Tips for children's book authors
• So much more!
  
  Sheryl Bass holds a master’s degree in Social Work and has studied child development. She uses these insights to inform her picture book writing. Sheryl also holds a master’s degree in Journalism and is currently working in public relations. Her goal in creating Be-Kind Publishing is to produce lighthearted rhyming stories with gentle themes of teamwork and friendship. Sheryl resides just outside of Chicago, IL with her husband and two terriers.
  
  Learn more here: http://www.be-kindpublishing.com
  
  

• Adventure Writing - Why Travel is THE Way Hone Your Craft
• Travel is the best thing we know to spark an adventurous spirit and inspire creativity
• Travel WRITING offers opportunities to be inspired by PLACE and CHARACTER like nothing else.
• The Wayfaring Writer Retreats -  a rare opportunity for a small group of writers to immerse themselves in their craft while experiencing the food, drink, art, and history of foreign places
• Writers to step out of their comfort zones and into using all their senses. 
• Together Cami and Lisa have visited nearly 50 countries and know first-hand the impact that travel has had on their writing
  
  

• Why Sherry wrote You Can Make a Difference! A Creative Workbook and Journal for Young Activists and included interviews with four student leaders
• Why this book is needed now (all actions by people of all ages are more important than ever!)
• How to empower others through your writing
• How she created and sustains a supportive container for writing (making writing and illustrating a sanctuary space/ritual)
• Tips for authors who want to be more inclusive in their writing
• How to be the beacon of love for marginalized people