The Writing Biz

Laura Williams

5.0 (1)
Entrepreneurship
Updated Weekly

The Writing Biz podcast helps writers think like entrepreneurs, offering practical strategies for platform building, revenue growth, marketing systems, and mindset development to create sustainable, professional writing businesses.

2d ago

The Truth About Author Income Streams

Discover how to transform your writing business into a diversified intellectual property firm by leveraging multiple income streams for authors beyond just book sales and more writing business ideas. 🖊️FULL TRANSCRIPT AND MORE: https://thewritingbiz.com/the-truth-about-author-income-streams/ #selfpublishing #howtopublishabook #authorpreneur #writingtips #indieauthor #authorplatform #authorrevenue #auhtorincomestream #indieauthorincome🤩MY GUEST:Matty Dalrymple, author and host of The Indy Author PodcastWEBSITE: https://www.mattydalrymple.com/YOUTUBE: @TheIndyAuthorPodcast 📚BOOKS MENTIONED: From Page to Platform: How to Succeed as an Author Speaker by Matty Dalrymple & Michael LaRonn (Book): BUY PAPERBACK: https://amzn.to/4v7bGCQ BUY EBOOK: https://amzn.to/4f326vJThe Podcast Guest Playbook by Matty Dalrymple & Michael LaRonn (Book): BUY PAPERBACK: https://amzn.to/4xNexDh BUY EBOOK: https://amzn.to/4aQQo4Q⭐SUBSCRIBE and listen to The Writing Biz podcast here: @Thewritingbizpodcast 📰SUBSCRIBE to my weekly newsletter. Be the first to know about new episodes! https://thewritingbiz.com/subscribe-to-the-writing-biz-today/💻WORK WTIH ME!To learn more about Laura Williams Pages, and how I can help you build an author brand that sells books visit: https://laurawilliamspages.com/‼️To SIGN UP for your FREE Site audit visit: https://laurawilliamspages.com/free-site-audit/⭐FOLLOW US⭐Website: https://thewritingbiz.comYouTube: https://youtube.com/@thewritingbizpodcastBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/onthewritingbiz.bsky.socialFacebook: https://facebook.com/onthewritingbizX: https://x.com/OnTheWritingBiz👋🏼Hi! What is one non-writing income stream you have implemented in your author business that has provided the most stability or growth, and how did you overcome the initial challenge of launching it?🔨TOOLS FOR YOUR WRITING BIZ💫Sign up for GOOGLE WORKSPACE and organize your business in one place: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/RNTN💫PodMatch: Helps the right podcast guests & hosts find each other faster and automates administrative work, so you can focus on what matters: recording interviews that serve listeners. Terrific for authorpreneurs!https://www.joinpodmatch.com/thewritingbiz 💫Are you looking for an easy, reliable newsletter service? Check out the one I use and love, BeeHiiv: https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Laura-Williams💫Booklaunchers: https://booklaunchers.com/alk/ref/TheWritingBiz/ Self-Publishing for thought leaders made easy. Build your authority and brand with expert guidance tailored to your non-fiction book success.--This video is not sponsored. Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.ABOUT THIS VIDEO:In this episode, we sit down with Matty Dalrymple, an accomplished indie author known for her Lizzie Ballard thrillers and Anne Kinnear suspense novels, to discuss the critical transition from "writer" to "authorpreneur.""Giving yourself an opportunity to play is sometimes the foundation of real concrete financial benefits." - Matty DalrympleMatty shares her expertise as a member of the International Thriller Writers and Alliance of Independent Authors, providing actionable strategies for nonfiction and fiction authors to diversify income through speaking, consulting, and smart platform building.EARNINGS & LEGAL DISCLAIMER: All content provided by The Writing Biz is for educational and informational purposes only. The external links provided in this description contain affiliate links, meaning the creator receives a small financial commission if you choose to purchase through them. This channel complies fully with FTC guidelines regarding digital disclosures. Please review official platform rules before implementing publishing strategies.

41 min
Jun 23

The Ugly Truth About Book Deals

If you're a self-published author trying to earn an income from your books, this episode covers the brutal reality of the modern publishing landscape. Learn how to ditch the broken traditional system and scale your author income using professional self-publishing frameworks and targeted Amazon advertising. In this episode, prize-winning author and founder of InkLab Editing & Publishing, Michael Totten, breaks down exactly how to navigate the shift from traditional publishing to a highly profitable indie author career. "You've got a really high bar. You have to be basically perfect in order to get through this gauntlet. Agents just spent six seconds instead of nine seconds on your manuscript, and they didn't realize they actually had a good one." - Michael Totten We pull back the curtain on why traditional book advances have cratered—revealing why "$5,000 is the new $50,000"—and why corporate publishers expect you to do all your own book marketing anyway. Michael shares invaluable writing advice on the technical errors that instantly get manuscripts rejected by agents, including the exact dialogue mechanics you can fix in just 45 minutes. You'll learn actionable freelance writing tips on how to invest your marketing budget strategically, why Facebook ads fail for most books while Amazon ads crush it, and how to scale up your self-publishing efforts by treating your work like a real business. If you want to stop waiting for permission from corporate gatekeepers and discover how to make money writing on your own terms, this discussion is for you. FULL TRANSCRIPT Timestamps: 0:00 — Intro1:05 — Why Traditional Publishing is Broken2:45 — The Reality of Author Platforms & Marketing6:25 — The Nightmare Grid of Finding a Literary Agent10:15 — The 10% vs. 70% Royalty Reality Check12:10 — Professionalizing Indie Publishing: Covers & Editing14:15 — How to Sell Your Book Safely via Amazon Ads19:55 — Why You Can't Edit Your Own Writing24:00 — Hidden Manuscript Flaws: Dialogue Mechanics & Head Hopping34:00 — Using Beta Readers to Fix a Broken Ending43:05 — The InkLab Ecosystem & Finding Professional Editors53:20 — Outro & ResourcesMichael Totten's Official Website InkLab Editing & Publishing Michael's Best-Selling Book: Write, Edit, Publish: What Every Writer Needs to Know But Only an Editor Will Tell You ⭐FOLLOW US⭐The Writing Biz WebsiteOn YouTubeBlueSkyFacebookX TikTok

54 min
Jun 16

The Secret to Book Design for Writers

If you are a self-published author trying to earn an income from your books, this episode covers the critical mistakes writers make during the book design and formatting process. Learn how to maximize your reader's experience and increase book sales using proven, genre-specific positioning layouts. "The cover’s not for you, the cover is for your reader.” - Victoria Wolf In this episode, book designer Victoria Wolf breaks down exactly how to align your exterior cover art and interior typography with real marketplace expectations. We dive deep into why treating your cover as a personal decorative project instead of a strategic book marketing asset will tank your sales. Victoria reveals her unique "live Zoom design" framework that streamlines collaborative book editing, and explains how to navigate the technicalities of Amazon KDP and IngramSpark. Whether you are dealing with a messy Microsoft Word file or trying to salvage AI-generated artwork, this conversation provides actionable writing advice to ensure your book looks like it belongs on a major bookstore shelf. "A cover is not decorative. It has a job. It is supposed to market your book, and it's supposed to evoke emotion..." - Victoria Wolf 0:00 — Intro 0:58 — The Most Common Formatting Headaches 03:30 — The "Reader-First" Cover Design Shift 06:00 — How to Match Genre and Subgenre Trends 11:53 — The Scientific Formula for Interior Readability 16:54 — KDP Paper Choices: Cream vs. Groundwood 21:40 — Navigating IngramSpark, ISBNs, and Marketing Strategy 23:37 — The Mechanics of Children's Book Illustration Layouts 28:00 — Live Zoom Designing & Correcting AI Typography 35:56 — Where to Spend Your Budget: Editing vs. Covers 43:21 — Portfolio Review and Closing Thoughts Connect with Victoria Wolf and check out her portfolio at: https://wolfedesignandmarketing.com Watch on YouTube: @WolfsOnBooks FULL TRANSCRIPT: https://thewritingbiz.com/the-secret-to-book-design-for-writersDon't miss an episode! Sign up to get new episodes, special guest interviews, resources, and more! Subscribe to our Newsletter!FOLLOW US:Website: https://thewritingbiz.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThewritingbizpodccastBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/onthewritingbiz.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbizX: https://x.com/OnTheWritingBizFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbiz

45 min
Jun 9

Self-Publishing Doesn't Have to Be Painful

If you want to know exactly when your manuscript is ready for the world and how to navigate the complicated steps of publishing without wasting thousands of dollars, this video is for you. In this episode, self-publishing expert Leanne Janzen from FriesenPress breaks down exactly how to transition from a creative writer to a successful project manager who actually sells books. "Hitting publish isn't the end, it's the beginning." — Leanne Janzen If you're a self-published author trying to earn an income from your books, this episode covers the heavy lifting required after you write the final sentence. Learn how to balance your time and money budgets using reliable freelance writing tips and professional writing advice. Leanne shares crucial self-publishing tips that every indie author needs to hear, including why "done is better than perfect" and how an early manuscript evaluation can save you from unnecessary developmental editing costs. "Done is better than perfect because you're never going to get it perfect on your own." — Leanne Janzen We dive deep into the real-world mechanics of book marketing for indie authors. If you've been wondering how to write a book that actually performs well on platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing, you need to understand that hitting publish is just the beginning. We discuss how to find reputable tools for writers, why standard graphic designers fail at book promotion, and how to build a genuine author business. Whether you are navigating Amazon KDP for beginners or deciding between full-service indie publishing and pulling together an a la carte team, this conversation will help you map out your career. Timestamps: 0:00 — Intro 0:35 — Why "Done is Better Than Perfect" for Authors 2:35 — The Shocking Shift From Creative to Project Manager 6:10 — How to Spot Reputable Publishing Partners and Avoid Scams 9:40 — Balancing Your Time Budget vs. Your Financial Budget 12:45 — Why Street Graphic Designers Cannot Design a Book Cover That Sells 14:40 — FriesenPress Deep Dive: Manuscript Evaluations & Standalone Services 18:50 — The Brutal Reality of Book Promotion: Hitting Publish is Just the Start 21:30 — Author Branding vs. Book Branding 25:55 — How Introverted Writers Can Master Face-to-Face Networking 29:46 — Outro Learn more about FriesenPress Free Resources: Check out our newly redesigned author tools page.

30 min
Jun 2

How to Build a Book Business Plan

Learn how to treat your book as a product and build a sustainable career by creating a strategic author business plan. "The book is a product, and that product has its own business plan." — Nina Amir In this episode, Nina Amir breaks down exactly how to move from "aspiring author" to successful business owner. Whether you are looking for self-publishing tips or planning a traditional book launch, having a clear business roadmap is the most effective way to ensure your book finds its audience. "The publisher becomes your venture capital partner... they're not just backing the project, they're backing you." — Nina Amir Nina shares actionable writing advice on why you shouldn't just dive into drafting without a plan, how to identify your unique place in the market, and why your book needs to be built on a foundation of professional planning. We also discuss how to overcome imposter syndrome, navigate neurodivergence in the creative process, and why hiring a developmental editor is the best investment you can make in your writing. If you want to learn how to make money writing and finally get your work in the hands of readers, this conversation is for you. Timestamps: 0:00 — Intro 0:34 — Why you need an author business plan 6:28 — Diversifying income streams 13:51 — Overcoming writing blocks & imposter syndrome 26:19 — Writing with ADHD & neurodivergence 33:35 — The value of developmental editing 38:07 — Final thoughts & resources Resources: Visit NinaAmir.com Nonfiction Writers University The Inspired Creator Community FULL TRANSCRIPT FOLLOW US:WebsiteYouTubeBlueSkyFacebookXFacebook

40 min
May 26

Luna Westish: Overcoming ADHD Obstacles in the Self-Publishing Process

In this episode of The Writing Biz, host Laura Williams sits down with author and environmental researcher Luna Westish to explore the intricate intersection of neurodiversity, the self-publishing industry, and sustainable business practices. Luna pulls back the curtain on her winding journey from writing non-fiction climate reports and childhood cult essays to publishing her debut novel, Meet Me At The Ruins. She shares invaluable, practical strategies for authors navigating the administrative hurdles of self-publishing with an ADHD brain, emphasizing the importance of building personalized environments, honoring productivity swings, and rejecting rigid, standard industry advice that harms creative flow. The conversation also shifts into a vital, eye-opening discussion on the ethics of modern authorship. Luna shares her perspective on the heavy environmental tolls of generative AI and digital workflows, challenging creators to build localized economies and adopt eco-friendly habits within their indie author businesses. Throw Out the Rules: Why the standard "write 15 minutes every morning" rule can freeze an ADHD writer, and how to design your own executive-functioning scaffolding. The Business Inertia: Practical insights into overcoming the overwhelming administrative "next hundred steps" of formatting, marketing, and self-publishing. Listen to Your Productivity Swings: Navigating medication shifts, managing chronic illness flares, and shedding the capitalist shame of low-energy days. The Eco-Conscious Author: Unpacking the hidden environmental impacts of generative AI, email storage, and data usage. Treating your writing workspace, schedule, and business as an unfolding experiment rather than a static goal. Learn more about Luna: lunawestish.com FULL BLOG POST & TRANSCRIPT FOLLOW US: Website: https://thewritingbiz.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thewritingbizpodccast BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/onthewritingbiz.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbiz X: https://x.com/OnTheWritingBiz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbiz

44 min
May 19

Brandon Janous on "Just Do" & The Author Life

Brandon Janous, founder of Blue Hat Publishing, explains how authors can maintain 100% ownership of their rights and royalties while navigating the modern publishing landscape. Discover why the "Just Do" mindset is essential for any writer looking to turn their story into a professional book without the "shady" hurdles of the industry. In this episode, Brandon Janous joins Laura Williams to discuss the gap between finishing a manuscript and getting it into the hands of readers. Brandon shares his personal story of writing as therapy following his late wife's cancer diagnosis, a journey that eventually led to his book Just Do and the founding of Blue Hat Publishing. We explore the "service-based" publishing model where authors keep their royalties, own their Amazon accounts, and maintain complete creative control. Brandon also provides a reality check on book marketing, reminding authors that they are always their own best advocates. Beyond the business, we talk about "whole face" presence—the vital practice of setting strict boundaries to ensure your writing business never comes at the cost of your family. Whether you are exploring traditional publishing, self-publishing, or a hybrid service model, Brandon’s insights will help you identify your goals and protect your creative property. Learn how to find a "book friend" to walk you through the process so you never have to write alone. Learn more about Blue Hat Publishing Order “Just Do” by Brandon Janous BLOG POST & TRANSCRIPT #WritingBiz #BlueHatPublishing #AuthorRights #SelfPublishing #JustDo #WritingCommunity #AuthorTips #BookBusiness FOLLOW THE WRITING BIZ: Website YouTube BlueSky X Facebook Instagram TikTok

36 min
May 12

Building Learning Equity in Your Writing Business

Scale your author career with Michael La Ronn, who has published over 100 books while working a full-time job. Learn how to leverage "Learning Equity" and navigate the 2026 AI landscape to reach more readers. In this episode of The Writing Biz, host Laura Williams talks with prolific author Michael La Ronn about the concept of "Learning Equity"—the value of the knowledge you acquire to run your business effectively. Michael breaks down how he achieved competence without the grueling 10,000-hour rule by identifying knowledge gaps and avoiding the "Writer Lobotomy". We dive deep into the reality of publishing in 2026, discussing the "AI Layer" that now sits between creators and consumers. Michael shares how understanding these tools is essential to remaining visible in a crowded market. Whether you are a beginner focusing on your first book cover or a veteran looking to automate your business with AI agents, this episode provides a roadmap for sustainable, high-volume production. Master your craft and your business by bridging the gap between being a consumer and a creator. Put your learning equity to work and build a writing portfolio you can be proud of. Learn more about Michael La Ronn: https://www.michaellaronn.com/ Michael’s Podcast, The Writer’s Journey: https://www.michaellaronn.com/podcast/ FULL BLOG POST AND TRANSCRIPT: https://thewritingbiz.com/building-learning-equity-michael-la-ronn FOLLOW US:Website: https://thewritingbiz.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThewritingbizpodccastBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/onthewritingbiz.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbizX: https://x.com/OnTheWritingBizFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/onthewritingbiz

1h 3m

Trailer

The Writing Biz Launch Trailer

Welcome to the official home of The Writing Biz, where we turn talented writers into successful authorpreneurs. If you’ve been looking for a data-driven approach to book marketing and publishing, you’ve finally found your community. This trailer provides a high-level overview of our mission: to demystify the writing business. We know that writing the book is only half the battle; the real challenge lies in publishing a book and finding your audience in a crowded market. Whether you are a debut novelist or a seasoned pro, our goal is to provide the tools, strategies, and peer support you need to navigate the 2026 publishing landscape. When you join our community, you aren't just getting another "how-to" guide. You are getting a seat at the table with experts who understand the nuances of the modern market. We cover the foundational pillars that every writer needs to master: Strategic Publishing: Navigating the pros and cons of indie, traditional, and hybrid paths in the current year. Aggressive Marketing: Learning how to best reach your readers and how to create your writer brand. The Business of Books: Managing royalties, intellectual property rights, and the long-term scalability of your backlist. And so much more! Building a writing career is a marathon, not a sprint, but you don't have to run it alone. The Writing Biz is here to ensure that your voice is heard and your books are sold. Hit subscribe, join the movement, and let's turn your manuscript into a masterpiece of business. Connect with us: Website: https://thewritingbiz.com YouTube: @Thewritingbizpodcast Facebook: facebook.com/thewritingbiz BlueSky: @onthewritingbiz.bsky.social Linked In: @laurawilliamswriter/ X: @thewritingbiz If you would like to be a guest on The Writing Biz please fill out this form.

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1 min

The Writing Biz podcast helps writers think like entrepreneurs, offering practical strategies for platform building, revenue growth, marketing systems, and mindset development to create sustainable, professional writing businesses.

Creator

Laura Williams
Years Active

2K
Episodes

14
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Laura Williams
Show Website

The Writing Biz