Kobo Writing Life Podcast
#359 – The Importance of Indie Publishing with Rakuten Kobo CEO Michael Tamblyn
Dec 24, 2024
Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo since 2009 and a passionate advocate for books and technology, shares his inspiring journey in the publishing world. He discusses the evolution of indie publishing and its significance, the rise of hybrid authors, and the balance between traditional and indie pathways. Tamblyn emphasizes the importance of diversifying publishing options and the joy of enhancing readers' experiences through innovative technology. He also shares personal anecdotes, including his unique approach to climbing mountains and the creative processes behind writing.
52:56
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Quick takeaways
- Michael Tamblyn highlights the transformative role of indie publishing in enabling authors to connect directly with readers, fostering a diverse literary landscape.
- The podcast emphasizes the evolving balance between digital and print books, as technology enhances the reading experience and shifts consumer preferences.
Deep dives
Michael Tamlin's Journey to Kobo
Michael Tamlin shares his unique journey into the book industry, highlighting how he started in a bookstore after studying music composition. His early career saw him transitioning from handling books in a physical store to taking a bookstore online, which became Canada's first. This experience set him on a path through significant moments in the publishing industry, including the rise of digitization. His perspective emphasizes the serendipity of entering the industry during transformative times, a factor he attributes to his sustained enthusiasm and ability to adapt.
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