Marketing as an author isn’t just about selling books—it’s about building lasting reader connections. This week, indie author and marketing expert Bonnie Paulson joins Author Nation's Joe Solari to explore community-driven marketing and how indie authors can foster long-term engagement. Learn how to scale your efforts, automate smartly, and create a marketing strategy that grows with your career. Episode Resources: 🚀 Check out Bonidi here . 🌐 Join the Author Nation Community : Connect with lik...
Mar 20, 2025•45 min•Season 2Ep. 6
The future of book sales is evolving, and direct-to-reader strategies are at the forefront. This week on State of the Nation, Joe Solari is joined by Curios Founder Grant Powell and SVP of Customer Success Greg Keogh to discuss how their platform is revolutionizing direct sales for authors. Learn how indie authors can use Curios to sell books, offer exclusive content, and build stronger reader relationships—all without relying on traditional retailers. Episode Resources: 🚀 Check out Curios here...
Mar 04, 2025•46 min•Season 2Ep. 5
How do you turn casual readers into lifelong fans? This week, Joe Solari sits down with bestselling horror author David Viergutz to explore how indie authors can go beyond books to create immersive reader experiences. From building direct sales funnels and leveraging ScareMail to crafting high-engagement content, David shares how he’s transformed his brand into a thriving, reader-focused business. Whether you write horror or any other genre, this episode is packed with insights on audience engag...
Feb 20, 2025•46 min•Season 2Ep. 4
How can indie authors build sustainable careers in today’s ever-changing market? This week on State of the Nation , Joe Solari is joined by Sean Platt , founder of Sterling & Stone and co-author of Write. Publish. Repeat. They discuss the evolution of indie publishing, the rise and fall of algorithm-driven strategies, and why direct sales are becoming more critical than ever. From Kindle Unlimited to Hollywood adaptation deals, this episode breaks down what’s next for self-published authors....
Feb 13, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 3
What does it take to thrive as an indie author in today’s fast-changing landscape? This week on State of the Nation, “The Voice of Author Nation” Kevin Tumlinson joins Joe Solari to explore the shift from rapid release to artisan storytelling, why strong author communities are the key to long-term success, and how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping indie publishing. Episode Resources: 🚀 Check out Kevin Tumlinson's work here . 🌐 Join the Author Nation Community : Connect with like-minde...
Feb 06, 2025•52 min•Season 2Ep. 2
What separates hobbyist writers from successful, long-term authorpreneurs? In our Season 2 opener, renowned sci-fi author and Professional Conduct Committee Chair Jonathan Brazee sits down with Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari for a candid discussion on crafting a career in indie publishing, navigating industry shifts, and treating writing like a business. Episode Resources: 🚀 Explore Jonathan Brazee's work here . 🌐 Join the Author Nation Community: Connect with like-minded authors a...
Jan 30, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In Episode 51, Managing Director Joe Solari chats with the Western Empire queens, Jocelyn Lindsay , Elaine Canyon , and Amber Washer . They dive into CrossWrite, our exciting new accountability and goal-tracking system designed to help authors stay on track and reach their goals. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about community, collaboration, and making big creative moves! Episode Resources: 🌐 Join the Author Nation Community : Connect with like-minded authors and access exclusive resour...
Jan 16, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 51
In Episode 50, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari welcomes back Elizabeth Ann West , CEO of Future Fiction Academy , for the Q4 2024 AI update. They dive into the latest advancements in AI, how major tech players like Amazon and Anthropic are shaping the future, and what these shifts mean for indie authors. Tune in to discover how AI tools can streamline your business, boost creativity, and keep you competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Join us live in November at www.authornati...
Jan 09, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 50
In Episode 49, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari is joined by indie author Lula White . Lula shares practical self-publishing strategies from her journey as a former trial lawyer turned author of angsty, climactic romance and historical fiction that keeps readers up at night. Tune in for insights on leveraging wide and direct sales strategies to reclaim creative control and foster deeper reader engagement. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or...
Jan 02, 2025•51 min•Season 1Ep. 49
In Episode 48, Author Nation 's Joe Solari sits down with author and educator Troy Lambert to explore the intersection of storytelling and career-building. Troy shares his expertise on plotting, audience engagement, and the importance of knowing your “why” as an author. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this episode offers actionable insights to help you craft stories and a career that lasts. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or s...
Dec 26, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 48
In Episode 47, Author Nation 's Joe Solari sits down with cozy mystery author Diana Xarissa to discuss her journey from hobbyist to six-figure indie author. Diana shares her unique approach to writing multiple series, maintaining a year-ahead schedule, and building a loyal readership that spans over 150 books. Whether you’re a fan of cozy mysteries or looking for inspiration to sustain a long-term writing career, this episode is packed with insights and strategies. Join us live in Novemb...
Dec 19, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 47
In Episode 46, Author Nation 's Joe Solari is joined by Bookvault 's Alex Smith and Curtis Roberts-Argrav to discuss how their platform is changing the game for indie authors. From innovative features like sprayed edges and bespoke editions to seamless direct sales integrations, Bookvault offers tools to help authors elevate their books and connect with readers. Whether you’re considering Kickstarter campaigns or exclusive collector editions, this episode is packed with insights into how...
Dec 12, 2024•25 min•Season 1Ep. 46
In Episode 45, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari with Chelle Honiker and Alice Briggs , co-founders of Indie Author Magazine , to explore how their publication empowers independent authors. They share the magazine’s origin story, its role as a trusted resource for indie authors, and how it blends timeless principles with modern tools to help authors thrive. The discussion also covers trends in publishing, the resurgence of print, and actionable insights for building sustainab...
Dec 05, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 45
In Episode 44, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with post-apocalyptic author Tara Ellis to talk about her unique journey through multiple genres and her passion for crafting gripping stories. Tara dives into her creative process, balancing the business of writing with storytelling, and the challenges of staying inspired in a competitive industry. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, this conversation is full of inspiration and pract...
Nov 28, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 44
In Episode 43, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Alex Newton, CEO and Founder of K-lytics , for an in-depth discussion on data-driven publishing. They explore the evolution of Kindle Unlimited, the importance of genre trends, and how K-lytics helps authors make informed decisions about what to write and how to market. From rising opportunities in digital publishing to the power of analytics in understanding reader demand, this episode offers invaluable insights...
Nov 21, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 43
In Episode 42, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Damon Courtney , the creator of BookFunnel , to discuss how this essential tool empowers authors to connect directly with readers. Damon explains ways BookFunnel can support direct sales, boost audiobook accessibility, and streamline reader engagement. They also reflect on industry shifts, like the rise of audiobooks and direct-to-consumer models, and how authors can use these trends to build sustainable, profitable care...
Nov 14, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 1Ep. 42
In Episode 41, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari speaks with Shannon Humphrey , indie author and chair of the Professional Conduct Committee, about creating a respectful, inclusive space at Author Nation and elevating professionalism across the publishing industry. Shannon discusses the development of the Author Nation Code of Conduct and offers insights on setting standards that empower authors while promoting safety, trust, and community growth at events. Join us live in November at ...
Nov 07, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 41
In Episode 40, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari interviews “the Voice of Author Nation” and indie publishing expert Kevin Tumlinson . Kevin reflects on his self-publishing career, including the challenges of writing burnout, the decision to shift away from rapid release, and finding a balance between creative ambition and sustainable growth in today’s evolving publishing world. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.li...
Oct 31, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 40
In Episode 39 , Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Reedsy co-founder Ricardo Fayet to discuss how Reedsy helps authors build their publishing teams. They dive into Reedsy’s curated marketplace, the power of developmental editing, and how AI is impacting the industry. Ricardo also shares insights on Reedsy’s evolution over the past decade and their popular writing tool for authors. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www...
Oct 24, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 39
In Episode 38, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Draft2Digital 's COO Dan Wood and Corporate Communications lead Jim Azevedo. The trio discusses the evolution of Draft2Digital, their acquisition of Smashwords, and the ongoing transition for authors to their platform. They also explore changes in the indie publishing landscape, from the impact of AI and advertising strategies to the growing demand for print-on-demand services. Join us live in November at www.authornat...
Oct 17, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 38
In Episode 37, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with bestselling post-apocalyptic and thriller author Franklin Horton to discuss his writing journey, from early rejections to indie success, and explore his creative process in crafting compelling stories. Tune in for an insightful discussion on building immersive fictional worlds, developing a loyal fan base, and navigating the evolving landscape of publishing. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or sugg...
Oct 10, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 37
In Episode 36, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari discusses the latest AI updates with Elizabeth Ann West , CEO of Future Fiction Academy . They explore the newest trends and tools shaping the future of indie publishing and offer insights into how authors can adapt to the fast-evolving AI landscape. Packed with practical tips, this episode is your guide to staying ahead in the world of AI-driven content creation. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a to...
Oct 03, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 36
In Episode 35, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Dave Chesson , creator of Kindlepreneur, to discuss how emerging technologies are reshaping the publishing world. Together, they explore how authors can leverage tools like Chesson's Atticus to improve collaboration, streamline book formatting, and maintain greater control over their work in the ever-evolving self-publishing landscape. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host...
Sep 26, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 35
In Episode 34, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari and bestselling thriller author Ernest Dempsey discuss how to keep storytelling fresh over multiple books. Dempsey shares insights on balancing genre expectations with creative risks and his decision to venture into new genres. Tune in to hear Dempsey’s tips for maintaining momentum in long-running series and his thoughts on navigating shifts in the publishing landscape. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or su...
Sep 19, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 34
In Episode 33, Author Nation ' s Managing Director Joe Solari and CEO of Future Fiction Academy Elizabeth Ann West discuss how AI is reshaping the publishing world. They dive into the newest AI tools, the future of multimedia content creation, and share tips on how authors can use these innovations to boost their writing and marketing. Tune in for a fresh take on what’s next for indie authors and practical advice you can put to use right away. Join us live in November at www.authorn...
Sep 12, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 33
In Episode 32, Author Nation ' s Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with bestselling author, Kevin Tumlinson , to discuss the future of author events and the innovative approach of The Signing Store at RAVE. Discover how this new system aims to streamline book sales, enhance reader interactions, and create a more profitable experience for authors. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for indie publishing. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live ...
Sep 05, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 32
In Episode 31, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari and Written Word Media 's Mike Hourigan delve into effective strategies for enhancing book discoverability and building a strong reader community. Gain valuable insights on innovative marketing techniques, data analysis, and promotional tools to boost your book's success in the competitive publishing landscape. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive ....
Aug 29, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 31
In Episode 30, Author Nation ' s Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with authors John P. Logsdon and AG Riddle to explore their unique journeys in the publishing world. Join the conversation on marketing, building a reader community, and navigating the evolving self-publishing landscape. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive ....
Aug 22, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 30
In Episode 29, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari explores the power of data with John P. Logsdon , COO of Author Helper Suite . Tune in for actionable insights on using data to boost your book sales, optimize your marketing strategy, and grow your reader community. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive ....
Aug 15, 2024•29 min•Season 1Ep. 29
In Episode 28, Author Nation 's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Sarah Gilbert from Lulu to discuss innovative strategies for non-fiction authors using print-on-demand services. Join the conversation to learn about effective distribution, direct sales, and the latest tools Lulu offers to help authors grow their reader community and boost book sales. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive ....
Aug 08, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 28
