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The Self-Publishing with Dale Podcast

Dale L. Robertsselfpublishingwithdale.com
The Self-Publishing with Dale Podcast is devoted to teaching you relevant and up-to-date information in the world of self-publishing. Subscribe today!
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Episodes

From Idea to Manuscript: Dale Roberts' 24 Hour Writing Challenge

Join Sylvia Hubbard for the fourth installment in her interview series with Dale Roberts, diving into his book How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours. Discover the proven techniques Dale uses to conquer writer’s block, maintain focus with the Pomodoro method, and stay accountable from idea to finished manuscript. Packed with fast writing strategies and practical tips, this episode is perfect for authors who want to write more efficiently without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re new to wri...

Aug 14, 202545 minSeason 1Ep. 292

New KDP Rule Affects Your eBooks | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 11, 2025)

Your KDP dashboard just got a quiet update—and if you breeze past it, your ebook might lose out on visibility. In this week’s Self-Publishing News, we break down what Amazon added, why it matters, and how it ties into a much bigger conversation around accessibility. Plus, we cover new promo tools, AI changes, and a warning about scammers targeting indie authors. It's a busy week, and you don’t want to miss what’s shifting under your feet. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPub...

Aug 12, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 292

Authors Who Win Know This One Trick: Networking

Most authors think writing a great book is enough, but if no one knows you exist, how will they find it? The authors who succeed understand the power of relationships. In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling author and founder of Motown Writers Network, Sylvia Hubbard, to talk about how real success comes from connection. We’ll unpack what networking really means, how to do it without feeling fake, and why collaboration always beats competition. Sylvia Hubbard - https://sylviahubbard.com Netw...

Aug 07, 202555 minSeason 1Ep. 291

Nigerian Prince Returns… and He Wants to Market Your Book | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 5, 2025)

Scammers are back with a new scheme that targets indie authors using the old Nigerian prince angle—except now, they want to market your book. Meanwhile, Bookshop.org is showing major growth with $1 million in ebook sales, but most authors still don’t know what it is or how to access it. And Findaway Voices is officially gone, with INAudio taking the reins. What does that mean for your audiobooks? Let’s break it all down in this week’s publishing news update Bookshop.org Reports 65% Growth, E-boo...

Aug 05, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 291

Email Marketing for Authors: Get More Readers Fast! | AuthorLetter

Want to grow your reader base and sell more books? Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for authors but are you using it the right way? Join me for an exclusive interview with Nikolai Viljoen from AuthorLetter, where we’ll break down the best email marketing strategies, common mistakes to avoid, and how to automate your list growth. If you’re ready to take control of your author platform, don’t miss this live conversation! Author Letter - https://authorletter.com/ Subscribe to The S...

Jul 31, 202534 minSeason 1Ep. 290

[BREAKING] Amazon KDP Just Changed Its Keyword Rules | Self-Publishing News (July 28, 2025)

Amazon KDP just rolled out a new look for the dashboard—and that's not all. They've also updated their keyword rules, and Kindlepreneur breaks it all down in plain English. Plus, PublishDrive has released a comprehensive guide to accessibility in digital publishing for 2025. Get all the latest updates and author opportunities in this week’s indie publishing news roundup. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.c...

Jul 29, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 290

Avoid These Editing Fails with Jeanne De Vita

Before you send your manuscript to an editor, there’s work to be done. In this episode, I sit down with Jeannie De Vita—writing instructor at UCLA Extension, second-generation author, and bestselling romance writer under her Callie Chase pen name—to break down what separates a polished draft from an expensive mess. We’re talking best practices for prep, common mistakes authors make, and how to make your editor love you (and your manuscript). Book Genie - https://www.book-genie.com/ Subscribe to ...

Jul 25, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 289

Ingram Waives Print Fee via PublishDrive | Self-Publishing News (July 21, 2025)

Major updates this week in the publishing world: one major distributor is waiving its print market access fee for the next 12 months, while others are making key changes to how authors get paid or discover new readers. Plus, a brief outage, fresh promotional opportunities, and a couple of interviews you don’t want to miss. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://Dale...

Jul 22, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 289

The Best Kept Secrets in Book Marketing (2025) | Angela Yuriko Smith

Tired of book marketing advice that doesn’t work in the real world? Angela Yuriko Smith—author, president of the Horror Writers Association, and creator of Authortunities—joins me live to reveal how authors are finding real visibility through the power of strategic promotion. We’ll dig into how to make the most of book fairs, awards, conferences, and more—and why most authors overlook the marketing gold that’s right in front of them. If you’re looking for practical ways to grow your readership w...

Jul 18, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 288

Radish Ends, Booktrovert Begins: Big Publishing Moves

Radish Fiction is officially shutting down by December 2025. NetGalley just launched a consumer-facing discovery site called Booktrovert. And ACX is testing voice replica AI for audiobook narration. In this week's news update, I cover the latest shifts in the self-publishing world—including a deepfake interview warning, AI narration breakthroughs, and a major indie publishing milestone from Spoken.press. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my emai...

Jul 15, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 288

How to Scale Your Author Business (Without Burnout) | Jonny Andrews

Tired of trying to do everything as an author? Jonny Andrews joins me to break down how to grow your author business without the stress. We’re talking systems, mindset, and strategy—so you can stop spinning your wheels and start building real momentum. If you're ready to scale smart, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Scale Your Hustle - https://scaleyourhustle.com/ Faceless Business Empire - https://facelessbusinessempire.com Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPubli...

Jul 11, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 287

What a Judge Just Said About AI & Copyright | Self-Publishing News (July 7, 2025)

Major news just dropped in the world of AI and copyright, and authors need to pay attention. A federal judge made a surprising ruling about how AI models can use books, and it could change everything. Plus, new opportunities for indie authors with MailerLite, PublishDrive, Bookvault, and more. Catch up on everything happening in publishing this week. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channe...

Jul 08, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 287

Mastering Amazon Ads: A Beginner’s Guide for Indie Authors

Struggling to make Amazon Ads work for your books? In this exclusive interview, Dale L. Roberts sits down with Sylvia Hubbard to unpack the biggest challenges and questions authors face when advertising on Amazon. From targeting to budgeting to measuring success, this video offers indie authors a roadmap to smarter, more effective advertising strategies. Whether you're just getting started or looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation will shift your mindset and equip you to take action. ...

Jun 24, 20251 hr 7 minSeason 1Ep. 286

How an Indie Author Won 50+ Book Awards on a Budget | Ross Brand of Livestream Universe ​

Think book awards are only for big-budget authors? Think again. In this episode, I’m joined by indie author Ross Brand, who’s won over 50 book awards using Book Award Pro, even on the free plan. He shares how to choose the right awards, save money, and turn wins into long-term visibility. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to submit your book, this is it. Ross Brand - http://livestreamuniverse.com Ross on YouTube - @livestreamuniverse1966 Ross on Substack - https://rossbrand.substack.com Ross's B...

Jun 20, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 285

Major Shakeup in Author Platforms: What You Need to Know | Self-Publishing News (June 16, 2025)

A major shift in the book world is brewing as Everand acquires Fable, signaling a new direction for online book clubs and author-reader engagement. Meanwhile, Amazon has quietly cut more jobs—this time in the books division—raising questions about the future of publishing operations. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Authors can tap into a fresh wave of events like the Book Launchers summit, the ALLi podcast, and the upcoming Author Nation conference to stay ahead of the curve. If you’re serious ...

Jun 17, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 285

What Successful Authors Do Differently in 2025 | Emma Boyer of Written Word Media

If your book promotions aren’t working, it might be time to level up. Emma Boyer of Written Word Media returns to reveal what top authors are doing differently—and how you can apply those strategies in 2025. From advanced promo timing to new reader trends, we’re digging into what actually works right now to sell more books. Written Word Media - http://writtenwordmedia.com/ Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks...

Jun 13, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 284

BREAKING NEWS: Amazon Kills Hourly Rank Updates | Self-Publishing News (June 9, 2025)

Amazon just made a major update that could reshape how your books perform on the platform. In this news segment, we break down what’s happening, how it could affect rankings, and what indie authors should keep in mind moving forward. Plus, important updates from Kobo, MailerLite, AppSumo, and more. YouTube for Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/YouTubeBook Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Cha...

Jun 10, 202528 min

Fix Your Story’s Structure with These 5 Key Scenes | Kristina Stanley of Fictionary

Struggling to structure your novel? Learn how five key scenes can shape your story’s success. Kristina Stanley, founder of Fictionary and the School for Writers and Editors, joins us to share how these scenes vary across genres like romance, fantasy, and mystery. We’ll also explore free tools available to help you build stronger story structure, no matter your experience level. Fictionary - https://DaleLinks.com/Fictionary (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPu...

Jun 06, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 283

Urgent: Publisher Rocket Ends Lifetime Deal | Self-Publishing News (June 2, 2025)

Big changes are coming fast for indie authors. KDP is slashing royalties for print books under $9.99 starting next week. Meanwhile, Publisher Rocket is ending its lifetime license—soon, it’ll be monthly only. Plus, Spotify for Authors is moving features over from Findaway Voices and confirming promo code honors. Here’s what you need to know. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my...

Jun 03, 202514 minSeason 2Ep. 283

How to Win Book Awards Without Wasting Money | Outstanding Creator Awards

Think book awards are just about luck or deep pockets? Think again. In this interview, I sit down with Steven Seril, indie author and founder of the Outstanding Creator Awards, to talk about how authors can actually win book awards—without wasting time or money. We cover the biggest do’s and don’ts of submitting to contests, what judges really look for, and how to use awards to build your author brand. If you're thinking of entering a competition, watch this first. Outstanding Creator Awards - h...

May 30, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 282

IngramSpark Rolls Out NEW Tools, Are They Worth It? | Self-Publishing News (May 26, 2025)

In today’s indie author news update, we’re diving into the latest feature rollouts from IngramSpark, an exciting new marketing tool from Barnes & Noble Press, and a handful of cutting-edge book promotion services you’ll want to check out. We’re also covering updates from Apple Books, a powerful book structure fix from Fictionary, and wrapping up with a huge giveaway opportunity you don’t want to miss. Tune in and find out what’s new and what’s hot in self-publishing! Book Award Pro - https:/...

May 27, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 282

The Ultimate Indie Author Sales Strategy: What I’d Do If I Had to Start Over

What if you had to start from scratch? In this episode, I’ll share the exact roadmap for indie authors, how to build a brand from nothing, and what actually works for long-term success. Whether you’re a new author or a seasoned pro, this is your playbook for more book sales. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Member...

May 22, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 281

Amazon’s New Print Cut: Greed or Survival? | Self-Publishing News (May 19, 2025)

Amazon KDP just announced a major change to print royalties, and the publishing world is buzzing. In this week’s self-publishing news, we cover the updated royalty rates, what it means for paperback authors, and how it may or may not tie into the rise of low-content and AI-generated books. We also look at a major court ruling that could finally open the door for easier mobile eBook sales, plus a new report from the U.S. Copyright Office on artificial intelligence and training data. If you care a...

May 20, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 281

How to Sell Audiobooks (Even If You Can’t Afford a Narrator)

Want to publish an audiobook but can’t afford a narrator? Discover AI narration vs. professional narration, where to distribute audiobooks, and how to market them effectively. Audiobooks are growing FAST—don’t miss out on this huge revenue opportunity! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLin...

May 16, 202532 minSeason 1Ep. 280

New Tools, Real Scams, and Big Author Warnings | Self-Publishing News (May 12, 2025)

Scams are getting smarter—and authors are the new target. In this week’s publishing news, we cover what to avoid, what to watch for, and the latest tools helping indie authors succeed. Plus, the U.S. Copyright Office just made your publishing life a lot easier. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https:...

May 13, 202518 minSeason 1Ep. 280

How to Run Profitable Ads Without Losing Your Shirt

Scared of losing money on ads? Learn how to start small, scale up, and make your ads profitable without overspending. Whether you’re using Amazon Ads, Facebook Ads, or BookBub, these ad strategies will help you turn clicks into sales. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Advertising for Books - https://DaleLinks.com/AdsBook Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join C...

May 08, 202523 minSeason 1Ep. 279

Findaway Voices Is Gone? What Authors Need to Know | Self-Publishing News (May 5, 2025)

Something big is happening in the audiobook world—Spotify just changed how indie authors distribute their audiobooks, and it could impact your publishing future. In this week’s Self-Publishing News, I’ll break down what’s happening with Findaway Voices and the brand-new company INAudio. Plus, updates from Laterpress, PublishDrive, and a new feature inside Dibbly Create that could change how you write your next book. All that and more in the self-publishing news this week! Book Award Pro - https:...

May 06, 202517 minSeason 1Ep. 279

How to Automate Your Book Sales (So You Can Write More Books)

What if your books could sell themselves? Discover how to automate book marketing, set up sales funnels, and use email sequences to generate consistent book sales on autopilot. Work smarter, not harder, and free up more time to write! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email newsletter - https://DaleLinks.com/SignUp Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships...

May 02, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 278

Publisher Rocket Just Got a Major Upgrade | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 28, 2025)

Major updates are shaking up the self-publishing world this week! A popular author tool just expanded its reach, a new feature could help you earn more from your book sales, and indie authors now have a surprising new way to boost their global discoverability. Plus, one important deadline is coming fast—you don't want to miss it. Let’s dive in! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to...

Apr 29, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 278

Book Promotion Myths That Keep You Broke

Think you need expensive ads or a huge following to sell books? Think again! This episode busts common book marketing myths, exposes money-wasting tactics, and reveals what actually gets results. Stop making these mistakes and start selling more books today! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Promotional Strategies for Books - https://DaleLinks.com/PromoBook My List of Book Promo Lists - https://DaleLinks.com/BookPromos Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - htt...

Apr 22, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 277
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