

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

Oct 24, 2024 • 36min
Reedsy
In Episode 39, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Reedsy co-founder Ricardo Fayet to discuss how Reedsy helps authors build their publishing teams. They dive into Reedsy’s curated marketplace, the power of developmental editing, and how AI is impacting the industry. Ricardo also shares insights on Reedsy’s evolution over the past decade and their popular writing tool for authors.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Oct 17, 2024 • 54min
Draft2Digital
In Episode 38, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Draft2Digital's COO Dan Wood and Corporate Communications lead Jim Azevedo. The trio discusses the evolution of Draft2Digital, their acquisition of Smashwords, and the ongoing transition for authors to their platform. They also explore changes in the indie publishing landscape, from the impact of AI and advertising strategies to the growing demand for print-on-demand services.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Oct 10, 2024 • 35min
Franklin Horton
In Episode 37, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with bestselling post-apocalyptic and thriller author Franklin Horton to discuss his writing journey, from early rejections to indie success, and explore his creative process in crafting compelling stories. Tune in for an insightful discussion on building immersive fictional worlds, developing a loyal fan base, and navigating the evolving landscape of publishing.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Oct 3, 2024 • 37min
AI Update: 2024 Q3
In Episode 36, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari discusses the latest AI updates with Elizabeth Ann West, CEO of Future Fiction Academy. They explore the newest trends and tools shaping the future of indie publishing and offer insights into how authors can adapt to the fast-evolving AI landscape. Packed with practical tips, this episode is your guide to staying ahead in the world of AI-driven content creation.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Sep 26, 2024 • 35min
Dave Chesson
In Episode 35, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Dave Chesson, creator of Kindlepreneur, to discuss how emerging technologies are reshaping the publishing world. Together, they explore how authors can leverage tools like Chesson's Atticus to improve collaboration, streamline book formatting, and maintain greater control over their work in the ever-evolving self-publishing landscape.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Sep 19, 2024 • 44min
How to Keep it Fresh Over Multiple Books
In Episode 34, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari and bestselling thriller author Ernest Dempsey discuss how to keep storytelling fresh over multiple books. Dempsey shares insights on balancing genre expectations with creative risks and his decision to venture into new genres. Tune in to hear Dempsey’s tips for maintaining momentum in long-running series and his thoughts on navigating shifts in the publishing landscape.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Sep 12, 2024 • 45min
AI Update July 2024
In Episode 33, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari and CEO of Future Fiction Academy Elizabeth Ann West discuss how AI is reshaping the publishing world. They dive into the newest AI tools, the future of multimedia content creation, and share tips on how authors can use these innovations to boost their writing and marketing. Tune in for a fresh take on what’s next for indie authors and practical advice you can put to use right away.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Sep 5, 2024 • 51min
The Signing Store
In Episode 32, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with bestselling author, Kevin Tumlinson, to discuss the future of author events and the innovative approach of The Signing Store at RAVE. Discover how this new system aims to streamline book sales, enhance reader interactions, and create a more profitable experience for authors. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for indie publishing.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Aug 29, 2024 • 47min
Written Word Media
Joe Solari, Managing Director of Author Nation, joins Mike Hourigan from Written Word Media to discuss the evolving landscape of book marketing. They share insights on enhancing discoverability through innovative strategies like email subscriber lists and series promotions. The duo emphasizes the value of audience engagement, leveraging data, and adapting to AI in publishing. They also highlight creative tools for promotions and the emerging importance of short-form videos, all aimed at helping authors navigate the challenges of modern marketing.

Aug 22, 2024 • 1h
Old Dog, No Tricks
In Episode 30, Author Nation's Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with authors John P. Logsdon and AG Riddle to explore their unique journeys in the publishing world. Join the conversation on marketing, building a reader community, and navigating the evolving self-publishing landscape.Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.