The Smart Publishing Impact Series

Jonathan & Renée Lautermilch
  • 5.0 (3)
  • BOOKS
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The Smart Publishing Impact Series is for business owners, coaches, and professionals who want more than just a book. Hosted by Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor, and Jonathan Lautermilch, CEO, this podcast shows how to turn your expertise into a book that builds authority, attracts clients, and creates real opportunities. Through strategy, author stories, and expert insights, you’ll learn how to make your book actually work for your business.

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 58: Best Helper Interlude - Listener Questions About AI

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 58: Best Helper Interlude — Listener Questions About AI Episode Summary: AI is everywhere—and authors are asking the same question: Should I be using it to write my book? In this solo Best Helper Interlude, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, answers one of the most common (and most misunderstood) topics in publishing today: the role of AI in writing a book. Drawing from real listener questions and firsthand experience reviewing manuscripts, Renée breaks down where AI can be helpful—and where it can quietly create major problems. From copyright risks to credibility issues, this episode offers a clear, no-fluff perspective on how to use AI strategically without compromising the quality, ownership, or impact of your book. If you’re thinking about using AI in your writing process, this is an episode you need to hear before you start. What You’ll Hear: The right way to use AI in the book-writing process Why AI-generated books may not be copyright-protected The hidden risk of plagiarism and copyright infringement Why AI-written content often feels generic and lifeless How readers can easily recognize AI-generated writing The credibility risk of “pressing the easy button” The best alternative: recording your book and using transcription How editors turn raw ideas into structured, professional chapters Why authenticity and personal voice still matter more than ever Quote to Remember:“AI can help you think—but it shouldn’t replace your voice.” Mentioned in This Episode: SmartPublishingServices.com – publishing resources and support Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Special Shoutout: Congratulations to Richard G. Powell on hitting bestseller with All This Before 30 🎉 Next Episode: Part 2 of the Best Helper series—Renée and Jonathan return to break down exactly how to create a book that drives real results.

    12 min

  2. APR 16

    Episode 57: Part 1 - Bestsellers Get Attention but "Best Helpers" Close Deals

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 57: Part 1 - Bestsellers Get Attention but "Best Helpers" Close Deals Episode Summary: Sometimes things don’t go as planned—but the message is too important not to share. In this Part 1 episode, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, introduces a powerful concept that’s changing how authors think about success: the difference between a bestseller and a best helper. Due to a recording issue, this episode takes a slightly different format but what you’ll hear is some of the most valuable real-world examples of authors who are using their books the right way. Instead of chasing rankings alone, they’re leveraging their books as tools to build authority, generate opportunities, and create real business results. This episode sets the foundation. In Part 2, Renée and Jonathan will break down exactly how to create a best helper and the mindset required to make your book work for you. What You’ll Hear: Why bestseller status alone doesn’t guarantee success The concept of a “best helper” and why it matters Real-world author examples using books to generate opportunities How one author became a leading authority in cybersecurity using his book How another author leveraged his book to land speaking opportunities and host events How authors transition into new careers using their book as a tool The common thread behind authors who successfully leverage their books Why clarity and intention matter more than rankings Quote to Remember: “Your book isn’t just something you publish—it’s something you use.” Mentioned in This Episode: smartpublishingservices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Connect with Jonathan Lautermilch on LinkedIn Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Next Episode (Part 2): Renée and Jonathan return to break down the how: how to create a best helper, how to structure your book for impact, and how to shift your mindset from writing a book… to building a tool that drives results.

    27 min

  3. APR 9

    Episode 56: Leveraging Your Book Over the Long Term

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode Episode 56: Leveraging Your Book Over the Long Term (With Jonathan Lautermilch) Episode Summary: Most authors think the hard part is writing the book. It’s not. In Episode 56, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, is joined by co-host (and CEO) Jonathan Lautermilch as they break down what actually determines whether your book succeeds: how you leverage it after it’s published. This episode marks the beginning of a new chapter for the podcast—with Renée and Jonathan now co-hosting—and it dives deep into the strategies authors need to turn their book into a long-term asset. From defining your end goal before writing, to using your book as a relationship-building tool, to creating real opportunities through consistent visibility, this episode will challenge how you think about your book—and what it’s really capable of doing. What You’ll Hear: Why writing your book is only the beginning of the journey The biggest mistake authors make after publishing How to define the exact outcome you want your book to create Why your book should be designed as a best helper—not just a bestseller How to reverse-engineer your book based on your business goals The power of giving your book away as a relationship-building tool Why your book is the most effective “business card” you’ll ever have How to use your book to open doors to speaking, partnerships, and clients The concept of “sowing and reaping” in book marketing Why consistency and long-term visibility matter more than launch-day hype Quote to Remember: “Writing the book is just the beginning—the real impact comes from how you use it.” Mentioned in This Episode: The One Hour Author — available on Amazon SmartPublishingServices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Connect with Jonathan Lautermilch on LinkedIn Renée's Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Jonathan's Email: jonathan@thesmartshark.com Jonathan officially joins the podcast as a recurring co-host—bringing deeper insights into marketing, business strategy, and long-term book leverage. Next Episode: More real, tactical strategies to help you turn your book into a platform, a pipeline, and a long-term asset.

    32 min
  4. Episode 55: Building an Ecosystem for Your Book

    APR 2

    Episode 55: Building an Ecosystem for Your Book

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 55: Building an Ecosystem for Your Book Episode Summary: Publishing your book is just the beginning. In Episode 55, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, breaks down one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—strategies in publishing: building an ecosystem around your book. Too many authors write, publish, and hope their book “takes off”… only to feel disappointed when it doesn’t. In this episode, Renée explains why books don’t succeed in isolation—and how a simple, intentional ecosystem can turn your book into a tool for credibility, leads, speaking opportunities, and revenue. Whether your goal is to grow your business, build your personal brand, or create new income streams, this episode will help you design a system that supports your book long after launch day. What You’ll Hear: Why publishing a book without a plan leads to disappointment The importance of defining your goal before you write What a “book ecosystem” actually is (and why you need one) Why a CRM is the foundation of your entire strategy How to capture reader data (that Amazon will never give you) Using QR codes, websites, and free resources to build your audience How to turn your book into a lead generator Real examples of authors using books to land speaking gigs and coaching clients The difference between making money from your book vs. because of your book Why your book should always lead your reader somewhere Quote to Remember: “Your book isn’t the end product—it’s the entry point.” Mentioned in This Episode: smartpublishingservices.com – publishing resources and author support RES CRM – Smart Publishing’s all-in-one ecosystem platform Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Next Episode: A new dynamic begins—Jonathan joins as a recurring co-host to bring deeper insights into marketing, business development, and long-term book strategy.

    19 min
  5. Episode 54: Does Kindle's Ask This Book Feature Present an IP Risk?

    MAR 26

    Episode 54: Does Kindle's Ask This Book Feature Present an IP Risk?

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 54: Does Kindle's Ask This Book Feature Present an IP Risk? Episode Summary: AI is moving fast—but the law isn’t. In Episode 54, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, brings on two intellectual property attorneys to break down one of the most controversial developments in publishing today: Amazon Kindle’s “Ask This Book” feature. Joined by Michael J. Poropat and Travis J. Stockman, this conversation goes beyond surface-level concerns and dives deep into the legal gray areas surrounding AI, copyright, and author rights. From derivative works and consent to AI-generated content and ownership, this episode unpacks what authors actually need to understand as technology continues to evolve faster than regulation. If you’ve been wondering whether AI is helping—or quietly undermining—authors, this episode gives you the legal perspective you won’t hear anywhere else. What You’ll Hear: What Kindle’s “Ask This Book” feature does—and why it’s controversial The legal difference between search vs. derivative work Why lack of author consent is a growing concern How AI-generated answers could misrepresent your content Whether AI training on books qualifies as fair use The risks of AI replacing the reading experience Why transparency (or lack of it) is a major issue The legal implications of using AI to write your book Why AI-generated content may not be copyright-protectable The difference between AI-assisted vs. AI-generated work How authors can think about protecting their intellectual property moving forward Quote to Remember:“You can’t protect what you didn’t create—and AI is changing what creation even means.” Guests Featured in This Episode: Michael J. Poropat, Esq. – Intellectual Property AttorneyTravis J. Stockman, Esq.– Business & Intellectual Property Attorney Mentioned in This Episode: Amazon Kindle (KDP platform) smartpublishingservices.com – publishing education and resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Coming Next: A new chapter for the podcast—Jonathan joins as a recurring co-host, bringing deeper insights into marketing, business development, and long-term book strategy.

    59 min
  6. Episode 53: Don't Be Haunted by Selecting Ghost Categories

    MAR 19

    Episode 53: Don't Be Haunted by Selecting Ghost Categories

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 53: Don't Be Haunted by Selecting Ghost Categories Episode Summary: Choosing the wrong categories on Amazon KDP can quietly sabotage your book’s visibility—and most authors don’t even realize it’s happening. In Episode 53, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, breaks down one of the most overlooked (and increasingly important) parts of publishing: categories—and specifically, ghost categories. These hidden traps can prevent your book from ranking as a bestseller, limit discoverability, and keep your book buried in Amazon’s ecosystem no matter how many copies you sell. Renée walks you through what ghost categories are, how to identify them, and how to strategically choose categories that actually work for you—not against you. She also answers real listener questions about category selection, keyword alignment, and why Amazon sometimes overrides your choices. If you want your book to be seen, found, and ranked—this episode is essential. What You’ll Hear: What Amazon KDP categories actually do (and why they matter) What “ghost categories” are—and why they can kill your rankings Why you only get 3 category choices (and why that matters more now) How Amazon assigns additional categories based on your metadata The critical relationship between keywords and categories Why duplicating category keywords can hurt your discoverability How to identify a ghost category before selecting it Why “general” categories are often a hidden trap How to choose categories that balance relevance and competitiveness Real listener Q&A: why Amazon may change your categories after publishing Quote to Remember: “If your categories and keywords aren’t aligned, Amazon will decide for you—and it may not be in your favor.” Mentioned in This Episode: Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) SmartPublishingServices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Coming Next: Episode 54 features two intellectual property attorneys discussing Kindle’s controversial “Ask This Book” AI feature—and what it could mean for authors’ rights.

    19 min
  7. Episode 52: Securing Speaking Opportunities with Mike "C-Roc" Ciorrocco

    MAR 12

    Episode 52: Securing Speaking Opportunities with Mike "C-Roc" Ciorrocco

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 52: Securing Speaking Opportunities with Mike “C-Roc” Ciorrocco Episode Summary: Many authors dream about turning their book into speaking opportunities—but very few understand how to actually make that happen. In this special guest episode, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, sits down with Mike “C-Roc” Ciorrocco, a highly connected personal branding expert, entrepreneur, and podcast host who has appeared on over 2,000 (and counting) podcasts. C-Roc shares how authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders can use their book as a credibility tool to land podcast interviews, grow their authority, and open doors to speaking engagements. From building visibility to positioning yourself as an expert, this conversation breaks down practical strategies for getting your voice—and your message—onto bigger stages. If writing a book is part of your larger platform strategy, this episode will help you understand how to leverage it for greater reach and influence. What You’ll Hear: Why books and speaking opportunities go hand-in-hand How authors can position themselves as experts in their field The role of podcasts in building visibility and authority How guest appearances can lead to speaking engagements Why personal branding matters for authors What event organizers and podcast hosts look for in speakers How consistent visibility creates momentum for your message Quote to Remember: “Your book is more than a product—it’s a platform.” Guest Featured in This Episode: Mike “C-Roc” Ciorrocco – entrepreneur, personal branding expert, founder of That1, and host of That1 Podcast Mentioned in This Episode: smartpublishingservices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Coming Soon: More expert conversations and deep dives into publishing, intellectual property, and strategies that help authors amplify their voices.

    34 min
  8. Episode 51: Audible vs. Spotify - Where Should You Publish Your Audiobook?

    MAR 5

    Episode 51: Audible vs. Spotify - Where Should You Publish Your Audiobook?

    Episode Title: The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 51: Audible vs. Spotify — Where Should You Publish Your Audiobook? Episode Summary: After the recent Audible AI crackdown discussed in Episode 50, many authors are asking the same question: If not Audible… then where? In Episode 51, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, breaks down the real differences between Audible (ACX) and Spotify for Authors—from the author experience and publishing process to royalties, analytics, and platform flexibility. Having now moved her own audiobooks and several publishing partner titles to Spotify, Renée shares what she’s discovered after working inside the platform: why it’s faster, easier to use, more data-driven, and—most importantly—more author-friendly. If you’re planning to produce an audiobook or deciding where to distribute one, this episode will help you understand the pros, cons, and strategic considerations behind each platform. What You’ll Hear: Why Episode 50 set the stage for this comparison The biggest usability differences between Audible and Spotify for Authors Why Spotify’s publishing workflow is simpler and faster The advantage of being able to add team members to your publishing account How Spotify’s audience insights and listener data help authors understand their readers The 70/30 royalty split for direct audiobook purchases How royalties work for Spotify subscribers The ability to set your own audiobook price (something Audible doesn’t allow) How Spotify integrates distribution through partners like Findaway/INaudio Why Spotify’s processing time (up to 72 hours) is dramatically faster than Audible’s Quote to Remember: “Technology should make publishing more accessible for authors—not more restrictive.” Mentioned in This Episode: Spotify for AuthorsSmartPublishingServices.com – courses, blogs, and publishing resources Connect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the world Email: renee@smartpublishingservices.com Coming Next: Episode 52 features an expert on how authors can secure speaking opportunities—a must-listen for anyone who wants to turn their book into a platform.

    18 min
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About

The Smart Publishing Impact Series is for business owners, coaches, and professionals who want more than just a book. Hosted by Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor, and Jonathan Lautermilch, CEO, this podcast shows how to turn your expertise into a book that builds authority, attracts clients, and creates real opportunities. Through strategy, author stories, and expert insights, you’ll learn how to make your book actually work for your business.

Information

  • Creator
    Jonathan & Renée Lautermilch
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jonathan & Renée Lautermilch
  • Show Website
    The Smart Publishing Impact Series