In this engaging conversation, W. Terry Whalin, an acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing and the author of over 60 books, debunks common publishing myths that hinder aspiring writers. He emphasizes the need for personal accountability in promoting one’s work and reveals the truth about the myth of publisher-driven marketing. Terry also discusses the importance of redefining what it means to be a writer, encourages proactive engagement with the publishing community, and highlights the reality behind the allure of major media appearances, like Oprah's show.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Terry's Wake-Up Blogging Moment
W. Terry Whalin took 100% responsibility for his writing success after realizing he did little to promote his books.
Through consistent blogging, he became recognized among top content producers alongside notable authors like Seth Godin.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Vet Publishers and Own Platforms
Authors should perform due diligence to vet publishers by researching complaints online.
Build your platform on owned assets like websites and newsletters, not on rented platforms like Facebook or Instagram.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Authors Must Market Themselves
Don't rely solely on your publisher to market and sell your book; their capacity is limited.
Authors must proactively engage in marketing efforts to promote their own books.
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This book is divided into six sections: The Fundamentals of Success, Transform Yourself for Success, Build Your Success Team, Create Successful Relationships, Success and Money, and Success in the Digital Age. It emphasizes the importance of taking 100% responsibility for your life, clarifying your life purpose, setting and achieving goals, and surrounding yourself with positive and successful people. The book includes exercises, lessons, and inspiring stories from successful individuals to help readers apply the principles in their daily lives.
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Left Behind
A Novel of the Earth's Last Days
Tim LaHaye
Jerry B. Jenkins
Left Behind is the first book in the Left Behind series and narrates the story of the Rapture and its immediate aftermath. The novel follows characters such as Rayford Steele, a pilot, and Buck Williams, a journalist, as they navigate a world where millions of people, including all children and babies, have suddenly vanished. The story delves into Christian eschatology, particularly dispensationalism and premillennialism, and introduces the character of Nicolae Carpathia, who is revealed to be the Antichrist. The book sets the stage for the seven-year Tribulation period and the formation of the Tribulation Force, a group of Christians resisting the Antichrist's reign.
First Place
First Place
Carole Lewis
Jumpstart your publishing dreams
W. Terry Whalin
10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed
10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed
If you've ever thought about becoming a published author, today’s episode will dispel some myths you might believe to be true.
Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about several Publishing Myths that hold you back from becoming a successful author.
My industry expert is… W. Terry Whalin. Terry understands both sides of the editorial desk--as an editor and a writer. He worked as a magazine editor whose work has appeared in more than 50 publications. A former book acquisitions editor for several publishers and a former literary agent, Terry is an acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing. He has written more than 60 books through traditional publishers, covering a wide range of topics, from children’s books to biographies and co-authored works. Over 20 years ago, Terry wrote a diet book in eleven days called First Place by Carole Lewis, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Terry’s newest book is 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed (Morgan James Publishing).
We cover several myths found in Terry's book during today's episode. You can get your physical copy for only $10 (includes shipping), plus this special comes with over $200 worth of free bonuses. Get Terry's special offer at publishingoffer.com
Your Best Writing Life 
