Author Nation: State of the Nation

In Episode 15, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari chats with Social Media Examiner 's Director of Experience Phil Mershon about enriching audience interactions and making lasting impressions. Phil discusses leveraging his introversion to tailor event environments that make every attendee feel valued and connected. They also delve into creating moments that extend beyond the event, such...

In episode 14, host Kevin Tumlinson welcomes guests Suze Solari and Arpit Mehta to discuss the importance of personal branding for authors. Suze, a personal stylist and image consultant, shares how authors can weave their personal style into their professional brand, using examples like Jonathan Yanez. Arpit, a visual artist and Author Nation's professional photographer, discusses his approach...

In Episode 13, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Jesse Lakes, CEO and Co-Founder of  Geniuslink .  Joe and Jesse discuss Geniuslink's potential for authors, focusing on its ability to help locate and connect with readers online. Jesse explains how Geniuslink, initially designed for affiliate marketing within the iTunes ecosystem, serves both new authors and experienced...

In Episode 12, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Future Fiction Academy 's Elizabeth Ann West to explore AI's evolving role in publishing. Elizabeth discusses her software, Rexy, designed to optimize authors' writing efficiency by sequencing prompts and integrating with Notion . She underscores the necessity for authors to stay informed about AI advancements to...

In Episode 11, Author Nation Managing Director  Joe Solari sits down with BookFunnel 's  Damon Courtney to explore the platform's robust features. Damon explains how BookFunnel has expanded its services to include tools for distributing advanced reader copies, managing direct sales, and delivering audiobooks. He highlights how BookFunnel's data on reader behaviors helps authors refine...

In Episode 10, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with bestselling authors Nicoli Gonnella and Dakota Krout to discuss the burgeoning LitRPG genre and the role of platforms like Royal Road and Patreon in publishing. They share their personal paths to success in serialized fiction, emphasizing the need for consistency and dedication. This episode offers a deep dive into how emergi...

In Episode 9, host  ⁠ Kevin Tumlinson ⁠ is joined by Author Nation Programming Committee Chair Chelle Honiker  and Lulu.com 's VP of Marketing Matt Briel  to discuss the evolving landscape of book marketing. They explore how direct sales, user-generated content on platforms like TikTok, and AI can build trust and enhance authenticity in marketing strategies. Tune in as they highlight the cruci...

In Episode 8, host ⁠ Kevin Tumlinson ⁠ is joined by Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari and Lulu.com 's VP of Marketing Matt Briel . They explore the ins and outs of direct sales through platforms like Shopify, leveraging print-on-demand services, and the unique features Lulu offers, such as their 'order import tool' for fulfilling diverse order types. Dive into the conversation...

In Episode 7, host ⁠ Kevin Tumlinson ⁠ explores the world of travel hacking with Points Maven Kelly Butler and Author Nation Programming Committee Chair Chelle Honiker . They dive into strategies for getting to Las Vegas for the Author Nation conference with minimal costs, utilizing everything from mileage runs to credit card rewards. Learn how everyday expenses can unlock first-class experiences...

In Episode 6, host  ⁠ Kevin Tumlinson ⁠ discusses the intricacies of programming the largest indie author education conference with Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari⁠ and Programming Committee Chair Chelle Honiker ⁠ . Discover how they tailor the conference experience with specialized tracks for various expertise levels and emphasize the importance of unbiased, factual presentations. Kevi...

In Episode 5, host ⁠ Kevin Tumlinson ⁠ , Author Nation’s ⁠ Chelle Honiker ⁠ , and  ⁠ Joe Solari⁠ , along with bestselling author ⁠ Johnny B. Truant⁠ explore the dynamic between writing to market and pursuing innovative storytelling. They discuss the importance of discovering untapped markets and leveraging new technologies to enhance storytelling. Tune in to learn how embracing innovation while st...

In Episode 4, host  Kevin Tumlinson , Author Nation’s Chelle Honiker , and  Joe Solari , along with bestselling author Johnny B. Truant , explore what it means to achieve a fulfilling writing life. They share personal stories and insights on the importance of community, redefining success beyond financial gains, and aligning one’s writing career with personal values and joys. Tune in for inspirati...

In Episode 3, host Kevin Tumlinson explores the power of networking in the publishing world with Author Nation's Chelle Honiker , Joe Solari , and bestselling author Johnny B. Truant . They share their personal experiences and insights on building connections with authors, readers, and industry professionals, highlighting the transformative effects of such networks. The episode also offers pra...

In Episode 2, host Kevin Tumlinson delves into personal definitions of success with Author Nation's Chelle Honiker and Joe Solari , alongside bestselling author Johnny B. Truant . Listen as they share insights on shifting focus from purely monetary goals to valuing freedom, experiences, and self-reliance. The discussion also covers the importance of adapting to changing circumstances and maint...

Welcome to Author Nation's State of the Nation podcast! In Episode 1, host Kevin Tumlinson discusses the evolution of indie publishing with Author Nation's Chelle Honiker , Joe Solari , and bestselling indie author Johnny B. Truant . Discover how self-publishing has transitioned from a side hustle to a sustainable career, and explore the key roles of community, branding, and professionalis...