Infinite Loops Jimmy Soni — The Courage of Creative Risk (EP.214)
May 2, 2024
Author and friend-of-the-show Jimmy Soni discusses the future of publishing, the changing world of book marketing, the courage of creative risk, and emphasizes the importance of trying new things. Topics include traditional publishing stasis, talent spotting, self-publishing challenges, and the value of collaboration in publishing.
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Broken Incentives in Publishing
- Traditional publishing is stuck due to broken incentives favoring predictable backlist revenue over new book success.
- Publishers prioritize a few hits annually, neglecting ongoing marketing needs for most books.
Missed Oprah Sales Opportunity
- Jim O'Shaughnessy’s book struggled to get additional copies printed before Oprah's show appearance.
- Despite the exposure, the publisher did not increase print run, missing a major sales opportunity.
Spend Equal Time Marketing
- Authors should invest as much time marketing their book as writing it.
- Engage communities passionately and actively promote to ensure the book reaches its audience.