The Self Publishing Show
Mark Dawson is a best selling self-published author on multiple platforms including Amazon and Kobo. He is the author of the John Milton thriller series and its spin-off Beatrix Rose. In addition, he’s written several ‘Soho Noir' novels. Mark’s breakthrough came when he developed a marketing strategy for promoting and selling his books. His swift success enabled him to quit his 9 to 5 job and he has generated gross revenues of more than a million dollars in less than five years.
Mark has become a leading voice in the self publishing industry and he advocates and teaches a strategy based around offering books for free, mailing list development and social media advertising. In 2015, he published the first version of what is now his acclaimed online course ‘Advertising for Authors’. He has also developed a course for writers at the start of their careers – Self Publishing 101.
James Blatch co-hosts the podcast and he represents the first time, wannabe author. James is a former BBC News journalist who is currently writing his first novel.
Between them James and Mark explore the world of self publishing with a focus on actionable tips for new and experienced indie authors.
Latest episodes
Apr 12, 2024 • 55min
SPS-422: The Audio Explosion with James Blatch and Victoria Gerken from Podium Audio.
Join James and Victoria Gerken from Podium Audio as they discuss how audio is exploding the world of publishing and providing authors with another income stream
Mar 22, 2024 • 47min
SPS-421: Who’s coming to SPS LIVE 2024? With James Blatch and Chris Banks from Prowritingaid
Join James Blatch and Chris Banks as James reveals the speakers and sponsors attending the Self Publishing Show Live in London 2024 and Chris talks about what's new at ProWritingAid and AI, but making sure you add the human touch.
Mar 15, 2024 • 34min
SPS-420: AI: Fear, Loathing and Acceptance
Join James Blatch as he takes on a hot topic of the moment, AI, and how it impacts authors and creators. Should you be afraid or accepting of this new wave of technology?
Feb 9, 2024 • 42min
SPS-419: Targeting Trad Readers (with Michael R. Miller)
Tune into this week’s episode of the Self Publishing Show to hear more from Michael, including whether selling direct would be preferrable to selling on Amazon, why he chooses to publish his audiobooks exclusively on ACX, and why consistency in magic and worldbuilding rules is key for any kind of Fantasy story.
Feb 2, 2024 • 37min
SPS-418: Setting Goals and Building Habits – with Marc Reklau
Marc Reklau went from struggling writer to earning seven-figures, all by applying the same self-help advice he writes about in his books.
Jan 26, 2024 • 26min
SPS-417: Automating Amazon Ads with Merch Jar (with Cameron Scott)
Tired of tweaking your Amazon Ad keywords? Let Merch Jar automate the process for you.
Dec 22, 2023 • 53min
SPS-416: Storytelling on the Tabletop – with Paddy Finn
From novelist to tabletop game creator, Paddy Finn explains how he created a seven-figure company in an industry where the players come up with the stories.
Dec 15, 2023 • 34min
SPS-415: AI & Aggregation with PublishDrive – with Danica Favorite
Danica Favorite describes the benefits of releasing wide with PD and how you can have a say on the future of AI in publishing.
Dec 8, 2023 • 36min
SPS-414: Selling Books Direct with Bookvault – with Alex Smith
Alex Smith, an expert in selling books direct with Bookvault, discusses bypassing royalty cuts and the benefits of selling books directly to readers. The chapter explores Bookvault's platform for indie authors, their aim to build a global print network, and the importance of creating special editions. It also discusses the affordability and quality of their printing services compared to competitors.
Dec 1, 2023 • 45min
SPS-413: Living the Bestseller Life – with Michaelbrent Collings
Michaelbrent Collins is a bestselling trad- and indie-published author and screenwriter who teaches writers the principles of writing success.
