

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

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.

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.