

Author Nation: State of the Nation
Joe Solari
Welcome to the Author Nation podcast, your go-to source for all things indie publishing and self-publishing!
Join us as we explore the evolution of the industry, discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by indie authors, and dive into the importance of community, branding, and personal relationships. From tips and tricks for building a successful long-term career to insights on professional standards in publishing, we've got you covered.
Get ready to be inspired, informed, and empowered on your journey as an indie author. Subscribe now and be part of the Author Nation community!
Join us as we explore the evolution of the industry, discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by indie authors, and dive into the importance of community, branding, and personal relationships. From tips and tricks for building a successful long-term career to insights on professional standards in publishing, we've got you covered.
Get ready to be inspired, informed, and empowered on your journey as an indie author. Subscribe now and be part of the Author Nation community!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 2, 2025 • 51min
Lula White: From Trial Lawyer to Bestselling Romance Author
In Episode 49, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari is joined by indie author Lula White. Lula shares practical self-publishing strategies from her journey as a former trial lawyer turned author of angsty, climactic romance and historical fiction that keeps readers up at night. Tune in for insights on leveraging wide and direct sales strategies to reclaim creative control and foster deeper reader engagement.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Dec 26, 2024 • 42min
Troy Lambert on Plotting, Tropes, and Finding Your Audience
In Episode 48, Author Nation's Joe Solari sits down with author and educator Troy Lambert to explore the intersection of storytelling and career-building. Troy shares his expertise on plotting, audience engagement, and the importance of knowing your “why” as an author. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this episode offers actionable insights to help you craft stories and a career that lasts. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Dec 19, 2024 • 46min
Crafting Cozy Capers with Diana Xarissa
In Episode 47, Author Nation's Joe Solari sits down with cozy mystery author Diana Xarissa to discuss her journey from hobbyist to six-figure indie author. Diana shares her unique approach to writing multiple series, maintaining a year-ahead schedule, and building a loyal readership that spans over 150 books. Whether you’re a fan of cozy mysteries or looking for inspiration to sustain a long-term writing career, this episode is packed with insights and strategies.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Dec 12, 2024 • 25min
Direct Sales and Special Editions: How Bookvault Empowers Indie Authors
In Episode 46, Author Nation's Joe Solari is joined by Bookvault's Alex Smith and Curtis Roberts-Argrav to discuss how their platform is changing the game for indie authors. From innovative features like sprayed edges and bespoke editions to seamless direct sales integrations, Bookvault offers tools to help authors elevate their books and connect with readers. Whether you’re considering Kickstarter campaigns or exclusive collector editions, this episode is packed with insights into how print-on-demand can support your author career.Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Dec 5, 2024 • 52min
Indie Author Magazine
In Episode 45, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari with Chelle Honiker and Alice Briggs, co-founders of Indie Author Magazine, to explore how their publication empowers independent authors. They share the magazine’s origin story, its role as a trusted resource for indie authors, and how it blends timeless principles with modern tools to help authors thrive. The discussion also covers trends in publishing, the resurgence of print, and actionable insights for building sustainable, creative careers.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Nov 28, 2024 • 39min
Tara Ellis: Crafting Post-Apocalyptic Worlds and Beyond
In Episode 44, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with post-apocalyptic author Tara Ellis to talk about her unique journey through multiple genres and her passion for crafting gripping stories. Tara dives into her creative process, balancing the business of writing with storytelling, and the challenges of staying inspired in a competitive industry. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, this conversation is full of inspiration and practical insights.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Nov 21, 2024 • 47min
K-lytics with Alex Newton: Data-Driven Publishing Insights
In Episode 43, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Alex Newton, CEO and Founder of K-lytics, for an in-depth discussion on data-driven publishing. They explore the evolution of Kindle Unlimited, the importance of genre trends, and how K-lytics helps authors make informed decisions about what to write and how to market. From rising opportunities in digital publishing to the power of analytics in understanding reader demand, this episode offers invaluable insights for authors looking to stay ahead in a competitive market.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Nov 14, 2024 • 1h 12min
BookFunnel with Damon Courtney: Direct Sales and Beyond
Damon Courtney, the creator of BookFunnel, joins the discussion to unveil how his tool empowers authors with direct sales and audiobook accessibility. He emphasizes the industry's shift towards direct-to-consumer models, reflecting on the rise of audiobooks. Damon offers insights on establishing trust with readers, using automated email marketing effectively, and fostering loyalty through excellent customer service. He also shares innovative strategies to navigate the digital landscape, allowing authors to enhance their marketing approaches and connect deeper with their audience.

Nov 7, 2024 • 35min
Shannon Humphrey on Professional Conduct
In Episode 41, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari speaks with Shannon Humphrey, indie author and chair of the Professional Conduct Committee, about creating a respectful, inclusive space at Author Nation and elevating professionalism across the publishing industry. Shannon discusses the development of the Author Nation Code of Conduct and offers insights on setting standards that empower authors while promoting safety, trust, and community growth at events.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Oct 31, 2024 • 49min
Kevin Tumlinson
In Episode 40, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari interviews “the Voice of Author Nation” and indie publishing expert Kevin Tumlinson. Kevin reflects on his self-publishing career, including the challenges of writing burnout, the decision to shift away from rapid release, and finding a balance between creative ambition and sustainable growth in today’s evolving publishing world.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.