The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers Casting A Wider Net: Author Brand And The Writing Business With JD Barker
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Jun 9, 2025 
JD Barker, a New York Times bestselling author known for his thrillers and collaboration with James Patterson, discusses how to broaden an author's reach and navigate the publishing landscape. He shares insights on the importance of personal fulfillment in writing and the emotional undercurrents of creativity. The conversation also covers the benefits of indie publishing, collaborative branding, and strategic networking within the writing community. Barker emphasizes the need for versatile marketing techniques to build a successful author brand.
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Own Imprint with Simon & Schuster
- JD Barker created his own imprint at Simon & Schuster to gain freedom and access to print distribution and big box retailers.
- He manages ebooks independently and lets Simon & Schuster handle print sales and distribution for selected books.
Cast a Wider Net Strategy
- Choose publishing path based on casting the widest net and reaching the largest audience.
- Let high-profile books go through traditional publishers for broader marketing and distribution.
Overcoming Fear to Network
- JD Barker shares how he asked Lee Child for a blurb in an elevator despite his own introversion.
- He values risk of rejection less than missed opportunities and always takes chances to connect.
