Don't Write That Book

Happy Money Habit Release Week! In this episode, AJ and Mike celebrate the release of their new book. Mike updates listeners on launch week activities, what the marketing team has been up to behind the scenes, and how listeners can apply some of the steps to their own launches. There’s even some deep book geekery in how you can print run for your physical copy. Ultimately, it’s a celebration of th...

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the importance of structure when writing a prescription nonfiction book or even a creative nonfiction book, like a memoir. They’re prepared for all the pushback new authors have with respect to a structured outline and solid fundamentals, and will even explain how creating your book's scaffolding allows for creative freedom. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast...

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss the organization that goes into working on multiple books at the same time. AJ likens it to a multilane highway – sometimes you’re zooming in the fast lane, other times you downshift to focus on other aspects. For Mike, he prefers to be all in, heh, on the writing, then put everything into the next phase of a book’s life. And of course, their admiration for Ste...

In this episode, AJ and Mike break down sponsorships for authors. Grab a pen and notebook, because this week is chock-full of how tos and details for any author, from nonfiction to memoir to fiction, to learn how to utilize the power of a sponsor to fund the book, the publication, the launch, and even ongoing programs, podcasts, and more. They hold nothing back! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcas...

In this episode, Mike and AJ address another listener’s question about how to write and share supportive content for one’s must-read book. From planting your flag as the authority in your area of expertise to building your newsletter and circle of authorial friends to even launching a podcast, our team covers the what, how, and why every author should be creating content that supports their transf...

In this episode, authors will learn everything they need to include in their bios. AJ and Mike share the different types of bios, from short social media bios to longer bios meant for the interior of your book and everything in between. You’ll also learn what not to include to avoid looking like a newbie. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start rece...

In this second of a two-part episode, AJ and Mike answer another reader email in which they’re asked to explain how authors know when they’re “done,” this time with a focus on marketing. They detail what they think keeps authors from even getting started with marketing, give clear examples of what authors can do right now to get it going, and explain when enough is enough. Be sure to visit https:/...

In this first of two parts episode, AJ and Mike answer another reader email in which they’re asked to explain how authors know when they’re “done.” How much outlining is enough? When does one know when their fundamentals are right? What about self-editing? Our duo tackles these tough questions with clear examples so authors know when it’s okay to move on to the next big thing in writing their must...

In this episode, AJ and Mike answer a reader email in which they’re asked to describe the emotional journey they each face when writing a book. It’s a deeply personal episode where they both expose the highs and lows, the exalted moments, and the suffering that comes from pouring one’s heart out to write a must-read. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name t...

In this episode, Mike shares his experience of shooting his new TV show, The Four-Minute Money Maker on Vizio. They chat about how authorship can inform performance on stage or in front of a camera, and how being on camera can inform how you write and tell stories. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to...

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the pros and cons of giving Amazon exclusivity to your book, be it by print, eBook, or audiobook. How can this affect your reach? How can this affect your ability to get into a local store or library? Should you look for alternatives to the 800-pound publishing gorilla, and what would that look like? All this and more in today’s episode! Guess what?! We started...

In this episode, our duo take an audio walk down memory lane to share all the little and big picture items of authorship that they wish they’d known before starting the journey. They’ll talk about negotiating contracts, getting permission to share titles, fighting for tone, and more with editors, and even more in between. The hope is that it will make the listener’s journey easier! Guess what?! We...

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss one of the most important aspects of authorship: forming partnerships with other authors! Book bundles, speaking engagements, webinars, and more, our duo shares real-life examples of authors working together to have a greater impact.  Guess what?! We started a YouTube channel, where you can watch us in action. Subscribe and sign up for notifications to know whe...

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the to-dos and not-to-dos with working with your developmental and copy editors. They also share some cautionary tales and ways for authors to communicate more effectively with their editors and publishers during the production process of their must-reads. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their n...

In this 100th episode, AJ and Mike first take a walk down memory lane with a gag they came up with to get big-name endorsements for Mike’s book and laugh so hard they can’t catch their breath. They also address a listener’s question about how two authors can write a book together. Our duo holds nothing back and gives it to listeners straight. If you’re going to have a partnership like theirs, you...

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the number of women in publishing today, and the answer might surprise you! They’ll also share their experiences in publishing with respect to their gender, with AJ offering a mindset shift she’d like to see in more women who publish. Mike also gives an update on some cool marketing coming for their next book, The Money Habit. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodca...

In this episode, AJ and Mike address some important dos and don’ts for back cover copy. If you didn’t know, back covers were so important; now you do! They’ll walk through some cautionary tales, offer ways to increase your visibility and connection with your reader, and even explain what authors should consider when publishing a paperback versus a hardback with a dust jacket. See? There’s a lot to...

In this episode, Mike and AJ answer a listener’s email about their fears of doing all the things with respect to marketing their book. Our duo offers sage advice on how to get in front of those fears, and one of the biggest ways to keep moving forward is to send in the troops! They’ll offer organic ways to connect with other authors, how to shift your mindset to go from fear to fearless, and when...

In this episode, AJ and Mike answer a listener’s question about author collaboration. Not only can authors work together, but the whole process is a team sport! From interviews and co-authors to working with publicists, agents, and more, our duo breaks down the process of working on a book as a team. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving...

In this episode, Mike and AJ have a frank conversation about an aspect of publishing many authors forget: the life of a good book is long! They’ll detail ways they’ve seen authors go wrong and, more importantly, offer ways for authors to go right. If you want to write a book that’s a must-read, this is a must-listen! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name t...

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss AJ’s philosophy on a core message for a book, what it is, and most importantly, how to craft one. They’ll talk about ways to determine if you’ve got yours nailed or if you have to go back to the drawing board, and give listeners tips on how to refine their book’s core message. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to st...

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss the newest findings of cognitive decline with heavy reliance on LLMs, language learning models, like ChatGPT and others. They’ll dive into ways authors can “ethically” use AI and what they miss when they lean too heavily on AI in developing their must-read books and beyond. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start...

In this episode, Mike and AJ break down the strategy for parlaying writing books into a successful speaking career. Mike gets granular with pay structure, expectations from audiences, and where he believes speakers go wrong in their career. They also have a mini debate on whether organizers should bulk buy your book or if speakers should compel the audience to make a purchase live, and why. Be sur...

In this episode, Mike and AJ catch listeners up on the state of production for their forthcoming book, The Money Habit, including working with Page Two’s graphics design team, efficient ways to power through proofreading, and Mike’s current state of getting an “in” with the MacMillan Publishing’s sales team for marketing purposes. We’re keeping hope alive! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com...

In this episode, AJ and Mike give listeners sage advice should they encounter a book on the topic the listener is currently writing. Spoiler alert: keep writing! Our duo will explain why it’s not as dire as the author may believe, and how they can leverage the other book into proof to nab a publishing deal. It’s another episode of keep calm and keep writing! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.co...