Author Nation: State of the Nation

Michael Stewart, Head of Community at Sudowrite, discusses powerful AI tools designed to help authors overcome writer's block and stay organized. He details how AI-driven features like Story Bible and voice modeling streamline the writing process, allowing creatives to focus on what they love. Michael shares the origins of Sudowrite and highlights the importance of community engagement through their 15,000-member Discord. He encourages a mindset shift towards curiosity about AI, emphasizing it as a resource that complements hard creative work.

AI narration isn’t the future — it’s already here. In this week's episode, Joe Solari talks with Phil Marshall, founder of Spoken, about how his platform is transforming audiobook creation for indie authors. Phil shares how Spoken’s AI lets writers design custom voices, produce full-cast audiobooks in hours, and distribute affordably — all while keeping creative control. 🎧 Check out Spoken here: spoken.press🌐 Connect with like-minded authors and access free resources in our online community here: community.authornation.live 💬 Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here: https://discord.gg/KqFFwb6ATv🎟️ Don’t miss out on Author Nation 2025! Secure your spot here: authornation.live

What does it take to build lasting visibility as an author in a constantly changing world?In this episode, Joe Solari talks with Desireé Duffy — founder of Black Château, Books That Make You, and The BookFest — about how to think strategically, stay agile, and integrate your marketing to reach readers in meaningful ways. Desireé shares how she built a multi-channel ecosystem connecting authors and readers through PR, events, and media—and why chasing trends like TikTok isn’t nearly as powerful as understanding your unique creative path. Listen in to learn how to future-proof your marketing, build long-term visibility, and connect authentically in today’s crowded publishing landscape.Episode Resources:🏰 Learn more about Black Château here: blackchateauenterprises.com📚 Visit Books That Make You here: booksthatmakeyou.com🏆 Check out The BookFest here: thebookfest.com🌐 Connect with like-minded authors and access free resources in our online community here: community.authornation.live 💬 Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here: https://discord.gg/KqFFwb6ATv🎟️ Don’t miss out on Author Nation 2025! Secure your spot here: authornation.live

Audiobooks are now the fastest-growing format in publishing, expanding more than 25% each year. Are you in the game?This week, Joe Solari is joined by Madeline Shue, Head of Author Growth at ElevenLabs, to discuss the launch of ElevenReader, a new publishing model that lets you create and sell audiobooks directly to your readers — with full control, fair royalties, and no unnecessary barriers.Madeline breaks down how ElevenReader is helping authors earn more with audio through its AI-powered app, all while tracking real-time analytics like drop-off rates and completion percentages. Listen in to learn why this free tool is shaking up the audiobook world, and how authors like you can use it to access brand-new readers.Episode Resources:🚀 Check out ElevenReader here.🌐 Join the Author Nation Community: Connect with like-minded authors and access exclusive resources in our online community here. 💬 Join Our Discord: Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here. 🎟️ Buy Show Tickets: Don’t miss out on the next Author Nation event! Secure your spot here.

Your next big launch doesn’t need to start with Amazon.This week, Joe Solari is joined by Oriana Leckert, Head of Publishing at Kickstarter, to explore how authors are taking control of their publishing futures—one campaign at a time.You’ll hear how our Kickstart Together cohort has launched over 30 author-led campaigns and raised more than $179,000 in its first year. Whether you’re a debut author funding your first book or a seasoned pro offering exclusive rewards to your superfans, crowdfunding can help you grow your audience and build a sustainable author business.Learn what’s working, what to avoid, and how to tap into a platform built for storytelling.Episode Resources:🚀 Check out Kickstarter here.📚 Join the cohort here.🤝 Support live projects here.🌐 Join the Author Nation Community: Connect with like-minded authors and access exclusive resources in our online community here. 💬 Join Our Discord: Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here. 🎟️ Buy Show Tickets: Don’t miss out on the next Author Nation event! Secure your spot here.

In this engaging discussion, UK narrator and audio innovator Simon Patrick shares his journey of creating passive income through voice licensing with ElevenLabs. He reveals how helping his daughter publish her first book sparked his venture into audiobooks. Simon delves into the transformative impact of AI on audiobook production, the importance of facilitating young writers, and how technology is reshaping the publishing landscape. He highlights initiatives that empower authors to utilize audio tools, fostering creativity and new revenue opportunities.

What does it look like to build a writing career before you can even vote? In this inspiring episode, Author Nation's Joe Solari sits down with 22-year-old indie author Abby Patrick to explore her journey from homeschooled teen with a story idea to multi-published author, Instagram bookfluencer, and playwright. Whether you’re an emerging author, a parent of a creative teen, or a veteran writer curious about the next generation, this episode is a must-listen.Episode Resources:🚀 Check out Abby Patrick's work here.🌐 Join the Author Nation Community: Connect with like-minded authors and access exclusive resources in our online community here. 💬 Join Our Discord: Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here. 🎟️ Buy Show Tickets: Don’t miss out on the next Author Nation event! Secure your spot here.

Marketing as an author isn’t just about selling books—it’s about building lasting reader connections. This week, indie author and marketing expert Bonnie Paulson joins Author Nation's Joe Solari to explore community-driven marketing and how indie authors can foster long-term engagement. Learn how to scale your efforts, automate smartly, and create a marketing strategy that grows with your career.Episode Resources:🚀 Check out Bonidi here.🌐 Join the Author Nation Community: Connect with like-minded authors and access exclusive resources in our online community here. 💬 Join Our Discord: Dive into real-time discussions and connect with authors across the globe in our Discord group here. 🎟️ Buy Show Tickets: Don’t miss out on the next Author Nation event! Secure your spot here.

Join Grant Powell, the innovative founder of Curios—a direct sales platform revolutionizing how authors connect with readers—and Greg Keogh, SVP of Customer Success, as they explore the future of book sales. They discuss empowering indie authors to sell directly and engage with their audience, emphasizing independence over traditional publishing models. Learn about overcoming the social media hurdle, leveraging free content for visibility, and the importance of creator control in today’s digital landscape.

David Viergutz, a bestselling horror author known for his immersive storytelling and innovative marketing, joins to discuss transforming casual readers into loyal fans. He shares insights on building direct sales and utilizing ScareMail for deeper connections. From evolving into a multimedia storyteller to mastering pricing strategies for profitability, David emphasizes engagement and personalization. This engaging conversation dives into the importance of community building and crafting memorable reader experiences, applicable to any genre.