Indie Author Blueprint

Software subscriptions tend to pile up quietly in an indie author’s business. In this episode, we walk through why a yearly software checkup matters—what to keep, what to cancel, and where upgrading to a paid tool might actually save time and frustration. You’ll also get a practical framework for reviewing your subscriptions with clarity, not guilt, so your tools support the season of writing and...

Confident writers often underestimate how much editing their book really needs. In this episode, Michelle Rayburn explores why indie authors skip or minimize editing, what publishing standards actually require, and how to evaluate what level of editing your manuscript needs. A practical and gentle guide to making wise editorial decisions. https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public...

Is December a good time to publish your book or the worst time of the year to launch? In this episode, Michelle breaks down KDP delays, holiday-shopping behavior, discoverability challenges, and when a December release can actually work. Learn how to decide whether to publish now or wait for a clean January runway. https://indieauthorblueprint.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like t...

In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle dives into the real reasons cover design creates so much anxiety for indie authors. She unpacks the fear of overspending or underspending, the worry about choosing a cover that won’t sell, and the emotional weight that comes from treating cover feedback like personal critique. Michelle shares practical systems to evaluate design with confidence,...

Something in your publishing process not working? As an indie author, you can pivot. In this episode, we explore when and how to change direction—whether that means adjusting your release date, rethinking your cover, switching contractors, or revising your marketing plan. We also talk about the importance of kindness and professionalism when exiting a collaboration, and why contractors may also bo...

You finished your draft—now what? Before you jump straight into publishing mode, there’s a crucial stage that separates hobby projects from professional books. In this mini-workshop for paid subscribers, I’m walking you through what comes after “The End”: preparing your front and back matter, requesting endorsements, deciding whether you need a foreword, and organizing the details that make your f...

In this episode, Michelle shares why ordering a printed proof is one of the smartest steps you can take before publishing your book. She tells the story of a proof copy that revealed more than a few surprises—misaligned headers, tight margins, and a font that felt too small—and explains what every indie author should look for  beyond typos. Learn what to check in your print proof, how to fix commo...

Amazon just tightened Prime sharing (Amazon Family plus required wallet sharing). What does that mean for indie authors? In this episode, I break down what changed, what didn’t, and how to protect your business payments. We’ll also cover KDP’s identity-verification prompts, why they matter, and the one-account rule so you don’t create headaches. Quick checkup reminder included—tune in and keep you...

Going wide with your book isn’t just about uploading to multiple platforms — it’s about creating a publishing plan that lasts. In this episode, we look at the long game: setting realistic expectations, serving bookstores and readers well, and protecting your profit margin so you can keep publishing for years to come. You’ll learn: Why wide distribution is about planting seeds, not instant results;...

Want your book in bookstores and libraries — without giving up your KDP setup? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn walks you through how to add IngramSpark to expand your reach beyond Amazon. Learn how to use your own ISBNs, match your retail price to avoid problems, and set wholesale discounts and returnability so bookstores will actually order your book. Michelle also breaks down a real profit-per...

Thinking about making your book available beyond Amazon? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn breaks down what it really means to “go wide” and how to know if your book — and you — are ready for the next step. She explores the key signs that it might be time to expand your reach, from consistent Amazon sales and reader demand to having a marketing plan in place. Michelle also explains why staying exc...

Tired of listening to podcasts where the only call to action is "Buy my book"? Perhaps you've been taught that "Buy my book" ought to be your main CTA, and now you're wondering why you're losing followers and sales. In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint , Michelle Rayburn explains why that common advice falls flat and how it can actually damage reader trust. Discover practical, community-build...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com Alt text may sound technical, but it’s really just storytelling for readers who can’t see your images. In this episode, Michelle Rayburn explains what alt text is, why Kindle Direct Publishing now requires it for eBooks in Europe (as of June 28, 2025), and how to write simple descriptions that make your...

In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint , host Michelle Rayburn unpacks the key differences between vanity presses, legitimate hybrid publishers, and true indie publishing. She explains the red flags to watch for, what makes a hybrid partnership credible, and how authors can maintain full control by setting up their own imprint. Listeners will come away with clear guidance on how to avoid costly...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com Pen names sound mysterious and freeing—but for indie authors, they can raise tough questions about visibility, privacy, and marketing. In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint , Michelle Rayburn explores the real pros and cons of using a pen name, including the emotional reasons behind the choice and t...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint , host Michelle Rayburn dives deep into the art and craft of publishing. Writing your book is just the beginning. Publishing is where your story truly comes to life. Whether you’re treating it as a hobby or a career, this episode encourages you to shift your min...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com In this episode, we dive into the often-surprising reality of indie publishing: after your book is published, the work is far from over! You might have a few friends and family buy your book, but then what? How do you get the word out and reach your readers? While this episode focuses on the publishing...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com Starting June 10, 2025, KDP reduced the royalty rate from 6 percent to 50 percent for paperback and hardcover books priced below $9.99 in the U.S. If you’ve been pricing your books low to stay competitive, you might be losing money without even realizing it. In this episode, I explain what changed, how...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com Struggling to stay productive as an indie author when life gets chaotic? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn shares practical, sustainable productivity hacks, essential writing tools, and simple review routines to keep your projects moving forward—no matter what life throws your way. Build a workflow that...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to balance writing, publishing, and everything else that comes with being an indie author, this episode of Indie Author Blueprint is for you. Host Michelle Rayburn continues her practical mini-series on productivity and organization, focusing on real-world strategi...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn explores the essential habits and systems every indie author needs to thrive and stay sane on their publishing journey. Through relatable examples and down-to-earth advice, you'll discover why getting organized isn't just for neat freaks—it’s a...

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit indieauthorblueprint.substack.com Are you thinking about publishing your own book but feel overwhelmed by where to start? In this episode of the podcast, I offer a gentle, practical introduction to navigating the world of indie publishing. You'll hear how I moved from writing magazine articles to managing every step of book publishing o...

Curious about why more writers are choosing the indie author path over traditional publishing? In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle Rayburn unpacks the current landscape of publishing, exploring the reasons behind the shift and what it means for writers today. You’ll gain insight into how the industry is changing, the new opportunities available for authors, and what it really takes...

In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, host Michelle Rayburn shares inspiration drawn from bestselling author Kristin Hannah’s writing journey, highlighted in a recent interview on Open Book with Jenna. This lesson takes a closer look at how unexpected paths, personal discipline, and commitment to craft shape a sustainable author career, no matter your publishing route. If you’re an indie auth...

Curious about using AI in your book marketing? In this episode, Michelle Rayburn explores practical, low-pressure ways indie authors can leverage AI for post-publishing tasks—like crafting blurbs, bios, and promotional content—while keeping your voice authentic and creativity front-and-center. Discover where AI fits in your toolbox, without the hype or pressure! Follow Indie Author Blueprint on Su...