

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

Jun 20, 2024 • 35min
Starting up an Audience with Joe Pulizzi
In Episode 21, Joe Solari talks with Joe Pulizzi, the founder of The Tilt and Content Marketing Institute. Pulizzi, a seasoned expert, shares practical insights from his journey of growing a massive email newsletter audience and hosting major industry events. They discuss the strategic importance of audience building and diversifying revenue streams, and the significance of creating valuable assets like intellectual property. This episode is a goldmine of actionable advice for authors looking to expand their reach and revenue in the digital age.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Jun 13, 2024 • 31min
Building a Loyal Fan Base
In Episode 20, Author Nation Conference Director Jamie Davis explores the essential topic of building a loyal fan base with Ream CEO Michael Evans, Author Helper Suite Co-Founder Ben Zackheim, and bestselling author Kevin McLaughlin. They discuss strategies like understanding your audience deeply, creating memorable 'magic moments,' and effectively using tools to track and manage reader engagement. This episode offers invaluable insights for any indie author aiming to nurture their readers and cultivate a dedicated following.Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

5 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 52min
Direct Sales For Authors with Pierre Alex Jeanty
Key player in the author world, Pierre, discusses 2024's direct sales for authors. They explore the shift towards personalized engagement, reader-oriented experiences, and repurposing content. Emphasis on creating related products, understanding audience needs, and not relying on rented land. Exciting insights on leveraging expertise for additional revenue streams and upcoming Author Nation Live conference.

May 30, 2024 • 18min
What's New at Author Nation?
In Episode 18, Author Nation team members Mandie Stevens, Chelle Honiker, Suze Solari, and Jen B. Green share their detailed planning process and excitement for the inaugural 2024 show. They discuss their approach to creating a welcoming environment that supports networking and learning for authors at different career stages. RAVE Coordinator Mandie also reveals exclusive updates on this year's author-reader event. Whether you're an author, a reader, or just interested in the world of writing, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into an event that promises to be a highlight of the literary calendar.Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

May 23, 2024 • 56min
Introducing Soundbooth Theater: Our 2024 Audio Sponsor
Jeff Hays and Emily Labes-Royce from SoundBooth Theatre discuss their innovative approach to narrating audiobooks, focusing on collaboration and community engagement. They delve into their work on Dungeon Crawler Carl, showcasing their immersive audio experience. The conversation also highlights their upcoming involvement at AuthorNation as a major narration sponsor.

May 16, 2024 • 50min
Epic Announcement: Story Wars/Author Nation Partnership
Join the team behind Story Wars as they discuss the origins and evolution of this unique live storytelling event. From quirky prompts to virtual competitions leading to a Vegas finale, the podcast explores the creative and competitive spirit of Story Wars. Get ready for an epic announcement about Story Wars at the upcoming AuthorNation conference!

May 9, 2024 • 38min
Making Your Fans Feel Special with Phil Mershon
In Episode 15, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari chats with Social Media Examiner's Director of Experience Phil Mershon about enriching audience interactions and making lasting impressions. Phil discusses leveraging his introversion to tailor event environments that make every attendee feel valued and connected. They also delve into creating moments that extend beyond the event, such as personalized interactions that enhance reader engagement.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

May 2, 2024 • 34min
Making a Great First Impression with Your Personal Branding
In episode 14, host Kevin Tumlinson welcomes guests Suze Solari and Arpit Mehta to discuss the importance of personal branding for authors. Suze, a personal stylist and image consultant, shares how authors can weave their personal style into their professional brand, using examples like Jonathan Yanez. Arpit, a visual artist and Author Nation's professional photographer, discusses his approach to capturing the essence of an author through headshots, emphasizing understanding their motivations. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on visually communicating one's brand, making it essential for any author looking to make a lasting impression.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Apr 25, 2024 • 37min
Discover More About Your Customers with Geniuslink
In Episode 13, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Jesse Lakes, CEO and Co-Founder of Geniuslink. Joe and Jesse discuss Geniuslink's potential for authors, focusing on its ability to help locate and connect with readers online. Jesse explains how Geniuslink, initially designed for affiliate marketing within the iTunes ecosystem, serves both new authors and experienced marketing teams globally. He also discusses the concept of universal book links and the differences between Geniuslink and Booklinker. Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.

Apr 18, 2024 • 37min
AI Update Q2 2024
In Episode 12, Author Nation Managing Director Joe Solari sits down with Future Fiction Academy's Elizabeth Ann West to explore AI's evolving role in publishing. Elizabeth discusses her software, Rexy, designed to optimize authors' writing efficiency by sequencing prompts and integrating with Notion. She underscores the necessity for authors to stay informed about AI advancements to harness their potential responsibly, enhancing both productivity and creative output. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the ethical intersection of technology and literature.
Check out Future Fiction Academy's free course at https://futurefictionacademy.com/free.
Join us live in November at www.authornation.live or suggest a topic or host at www.authornation.live/deepdive.