
The Self-Publishing with Dale Podcast
The Self-Publishing with Dale Podcast teaches listeners relevant and up-to-date information in the world of self-publishing. Hosted by Dale L. Roberts, the show covers various aspects of self-publishing to help authors succeed.
Episodes
Fake IngramSpark Sites Are Targeting Authors | Self-Publishing News (July 2, 2026)
Fake IngramSpark websites are targeting authors, and one case hit close to home in my own Discord community. IngramSpark also shared updates on AI, metadata, schools, libraries, and publishing fraud. We'll also cover the Smashwords Summer/Winter Sale, Kindlepreneur's latest keyword advice, new indie author survey data from Written Word Media, and so much more. Dibbly Create - https://DaleLinks.co
AI Just Hit More Publishing Platforms | Self-Publishing News (May 28, 2026)
AI tools are showing up across more self-publishing platforms, and authors need to know what is changing. In this Self-Publishing News update, we cover new AI tools from IngramSpark, Laterpress, and Spoken, along with audiobook updates from Audible and Voices by INAudio. We also look at Bookvault pricing changes, author events, and a quick mid-year survey from Written Word Media. Dibbly Create -
ACX Royalty Changes Are Here | Self-Publishing News (May 8, 2026)
Audible is rolling out a new ACX royalty model, and indie authors need to understand what's changing. We'll cover the new audiobook royalty rates, concerns around pooled payouts, Spotify for Authors distribution terms, IngramSpark metadata research, AI audiobook tools, and author scams. Stay informed before you make your next publishing move. Dibbly Create - https://DaleLinks.com/DibblyCreate (af
FTC Cracks Down on Misleading Author Income Claims | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 29, 2026)
The FTC just hit Publishing.com and the Mikkelsen Twins with a $1.5 million settlement, and that is only part of this week's self-publishing news. I also cover impersonation scammers targeting authors, Spotify expanding deeper into audiobooks and print discovery with Bookshop.org, a helpful new KDP Select calculator from Kindlepreneur, and more rapid-fire updates authors need to know. If you care
[BREAKING] Draft2Digital Just Added New Fees | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 16, 2026)
Draft2Digital just rolled out new fees, Barnes & Noble Press tightened its print book rules, and more self-publishing platforms are making changes that authors need to watch closely. In this Self-Publishing News update, we cover the latest Draft2Digital changes, Barnes & Noble Press policy updates, Bookvault shipping increases, Apple Books updates, and more. If you are a self-published author, thi
Amazon KDP Rolled Out New Features | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 8, 2026)
Amazon KDP quietly rolled out a few new updates, and authors should take notice. I cover the new dashboard changes, the updated Rights and Pricing page, and the new ability to download your latest manuscript or cover file. Plus, I break down The New York Times expanding audio best-seller lists, a scam warning from Writer Beware, cautionary notes from Book Bounty, and a rapid-fire newsflash featuri
MORE Signs Amazon Wants You to Bring the Traffic | Self-Publishing News (March 27, 2026)
Amazon's latest algorithm changes are giving authors more proof that they need to bring their own traffic, while KDP print quality concerns keep pushing some authors to look at other options. In this self-publishing news update, I cover new insights from Written Word Media, a trust-shaking Grammarly lawsuit, LaterPress AI tools, Voices by INaudio, Draft2Digital features, and more. You'll also hear
Amazon's Category Problem Is GETTING WORSE | Self-Publishing News (March 19, 2026)
Amazon's latest updates are raising concerns for self-published authors, as hundreds of new KDP categories may actually be hurting book discoverability instead of helping it. In this Self-Publishing News update, we break down the growing issue of ghost categories, along with what authors can do to stay visible. We also cover Amazon's push into AI-powered ads, new metadata guidance from Barnes & No
Draft2Digital Reveals AI Problem Flooding Nonfiction | Self-Publishing News (Mar. 10, 2026)
Draft2Digital is finally explaining why dozens of nonfiction categories were blocked last year, and the answer points to a growing issue with AI flooding parts of the nonfiction marketplace. We also look at fresh market insights from PublishDrive, issues surfacing around the BookBounty review exchange platform, and several updates authors should keep on their radar across distribution, tools, and
[BREAKING NEWS] Draft2Digital and Bookshop Reach 4 Million Readers
Draft2Digital and Bookshop just opened a new path for indie authors to reach bookstore-first readers, with Bookshop serving around four million customers. We talk through what this partnership changes, how ebooks show up on Bookshop, how local bookstores benefit, what authors earn through the normal retail split, and how Bookshop affiliates can add extra upside. We also cover expectations, discove
You Might Not Get Paid in AI Settlements | Self-Publishing News (Jan. 13, 2026)
This week's self-publishing news covers why some authors get paid while others do not, including how rights reversion can affect payouts tied to AI settlements and future legal actions. We also touch on important updates and conversations involving Writer Beware, the Authors Guild, Apple Books, Spoken, ProWritingAid, Twin Flames Studios, and a new discussion on networking for authors. All that and
Draft2Digital Raises Print Costs for 2026 | Self-Publishing News (Jan. 6, 2026)
Draft2Digital has confirmed a print cost increase starting February 1, 2026, following similar changes across the print industry. IngramSpark confirms free revisions are coming, while platform risk, Amazon KDP, audio growth, and new author opportunities round out the first Self-Publishing News of the year. Here is what authors need to know. Author Nation After Party (digital replay) - https://Aut
KDP Rolls Out Two Big Changes for Authors | Self-Publishing News (Dec. 23, 2025)
Kindle Direct Publishing announced two major updates that authors need to understand. Changes to digital rights management are raising questions, while a new ebook pre-order feature could reward authors who are prepared. We also cover AI entering the reading experience, audiobook discovery tied to BookTok, platform updates, and opportunities authors should watch heading into 2026. YouTube Channel
Amazon's New Kindle Feature Raises Concerns | Self-Publishing News (Dec. 16, 2025)
Amazon quietly rolled out a new Kindle feature that places AI directly inside books, raising questions authors should understand. This week's Self-Publishing News also covers major audiobook platform updates, new distribution and monetization options, and review compliance shifts tied to Amazon enforcement. These changes affect how authors publish, promote, and protect their work moving into the n
IngramSpark Raises Costs Again | Self-Publishing News (Dec. 9, 2025)
IngramSpark announced new pricing and a higher market access fee that affects every author using their platform. Draft2Digital revealed a major shift in Smashwords royalties, especially for lower priced ebooks. Written Word Media released new survey data showing what separates hobbyists from the authors earning real money. All that and more in the self-publishing news this week. YouTube Channel M
Baker & Taylor Shift That Could Hurt Your Reach | Self-Publishing News (Dec. 2, 2025)
Holiday cutoffs, platform updates, and a major distribution move are shaping the publishing world this week. One company picked up a key piece of a system that almost shut down, and this change could affect how your books reach readers. A few author services also shared new updates, warnings, and opportunities worth exploring. Catch everything you need to know in today's self-publishing news. My
The Best Author Deals of Black Friday 2025
Black Friday brings the biggest savings of the year for authors, and I rounded up the deals you will not want to miss. From writing tools to book promotion to web hosting, these offers help you grow your author business without breaking the bank. Check the show notes for all the links and deadlines. Grab what fits your goals before the sales end. Full disclosure: Most of these links are part of af
Draft2Digital Drops a Surprise Update | Self-Publishing News (Nov. 24, 2025)
Draft2Digital made another move this week, and it has authors talking. Also, find out about the latest shift in their distribution landscape along with industry updates from Spotify, Bookvault, ALLi, and more. We also revisit the Share and Sell spotlight from IngramSpark and update authors on several new opportunities heading into the holiday season. YouTube for Authors (paperback) – https://Dal
KDP Drops a Feature NOBODY Expected | Self-Publishing News (Nov. 11, 2025)
Amazon rolled out a new KDP feature that could change how authors reach global readers. This roundup walks through what happened and why it matters without spoiling anything. If you publish through KDP or go wide, you need to know what just launched. Stay sharp and stay informed. KDP: Introducing Kindle Translate in Beta - https://www.kdpcommunity.com/s/article/Introducing-Kindle-Translate-in-Bet
Amazon's NEW Algorithm Upends Book Rankings | Self-Publishing News (Oct. 21, 2025)
Big changes are hitting the publishing world. Amazon's new algorithm is shaking up book rankings, libraries are adjusting after Baker & Taylor's collapse, and Spotify's audiobook listeners just jumped 36%. I'll also cover new scams every author should know about, a wild mayo-scented book promotion, and how you can shape the future of indie publishing through this year's Written Word Media survey.
My YouTube Channel Was Deleted… | Self-Publishing News (Oct. 14, 2025)
My YouTube podcast channel was deleted without warning, leaving me searching for answers. Meanwhile, Baker & Taylor faces closure, PublishDrive partners with ElevenReader for AI audiobooks, and Bookvault unveils new Spot UV and foil upgrades. BookBaby highlights proven ad strategies that drive real sales, and Spoken earns ALLi's highest rating for author trust. It's a week packed with big shifts,
KDP Expands Global Reach and Opens New Ad Options | Self-Publishing News (Oct. 7, 2025)
KDP just expanded its print distribution to new global markets, giving authors more reach than ever before. Meanwhile, Amazon Ads opened up Sponsored Brands access for every author, even if you only have one book. There's also plenty happening around the publishing world, from major events to author opportunities you won't want to miss. Tune in for the latest industry updates, insights, and surpri
Spotify Launches BookTok Hub for Audiobooks | Self-Publishing News (Sept. 23, 2025)
Spotify and TikTok are teaming up to change how readers discover audiobooks, but that's just the beginning. In this week's self-publishing news, Draft2Digital responds to the KDP Select library shift, CraveBooks rolls out new perks, and the founder of Book Award Pro shares why niche awards might be more powerful than you think. - The Final 3 | My Kickstarter Campaign - https://DaleLinks.com/Kicks
KDP Select Glitch? Page Reads Drop to Zero | Self-Publishing News (Sept. 16, 2025)
Worried about your KDP Select reads dropping to zero? Some authors are reporting strange behavior inside Kindle Unlimited, while a major AI lawsuit involving $1.5 billion hits a possible roadblock. Plus, new tools for library discoverability, podcast interviews that don't sell books, and surprising updates from the review and marketing world. It's a packed week of self-publishing news you don't wa
UPDATE: KDP Quietly Confirms MAJOR Change | Self-Publishing News (Sept. 2, 2025)
KDP has quietly confirmed a huge change to the Select program, and we've got the update. Plus, big audiobook news from ElevenLabs, a lifetime discount on Authorbase, and a special report from Jane Friedman on the past decade of publishing. All that and more in the Self-Publishing News for September 9, 2025. The Final 3: Your Publishing Playbook, Rewritten - https://DaleLinks.com/Kickstarter Email
KDP's Hidden Update Just Changed the Game | Self Publishing News Sept 2, 2025
Self-publishing just took a few sharp turns, and indie authors need to keep up. From changes to distribution programs to new tools and publishing features, the landscape continues to shift. In this week's roundup, we break down the biggest developments and what they could mean for your author business. Whether you're just starting out or deep in the game, you won't want to miss these updates. Sour
YouTube for Authors: How to Sell More Books with Video
In this interview with Sylvia Hubbard, I dive into why YouTube is one of the most powerful tools for authors today. We explore how indie authors can grow an audience, increase visibility, and sell more books without being a full-time content creator. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your brand, this conversation is full of practical tips to help you get more from your video con
Amazon, AI, and Audiobook Chaos | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 26, 2025)
Authors are buzzing over a new discovery in Audible's terms—and it could mean major changes to royalties and transparency. From audiobooks and AI tools to record-breaking sales and hidden fine print, this week's news covers it all. Don't miss your chance to act on limited-time offers and stay ahead of the curve. One overlooked line in KDP could explain everything. Sources: My Kickstarter Campaign
The Ugly Truth About Publishing Nobody Tells Authors
In this episode, Dale L. Roberts breaks down the complex world of publishing for authors, from distribution systems and accessibility to the differences between hybrid and vanity publishing. Learn how perma-free books can be used as an effective marketing strategy, why returns matter, and what it takes to succeed when going wide. Whether you're new to publishing or an experienced indie author, thi
Audible's New Royalty Model Screws Authors | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 18, 2025)
In this week's self-publishing news, we cover Audible's controversial new royalty system that leaves authors earning pennies on the dollar, Amazon's broken AI book summaries, and a major class action lawsuit against Anthropic over pirated training data. We also spotlight new free author courses from CraveBooks, sales from ProWritingAid and MailerLite, and ALLi's latest contest for indie writers. P
From Idea to Manuscript: Dale Roberts' 24 Hour Writing Challenge
Join Sylvia Hubbard for the fourth installment in her interview series with Dale Roberts, diving into his book How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 24 Hours. Discover the proven techniques Dale uses to conquer writer's block, maintain focus with the Pomodoro method, and stay accountable from idea to finished manuscript. Packed with fast writing strategies and practical tips, this episode is perfect f
New KDP Rule Affects Your eBooks | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 11, 2025)
Your KDP dashboard just got a quiet update—and if you breeze past it, your ebook might lose out on visibility. In this week's Self-Publishing News, we break down what Amazon added, why it matters, and how it ties into a much bigger conversation around accessibility. Plus, we cover new promo tools, AI changes, and a warning about scammers targeting indie authors. It's a busy week, and you don't wan
Authors Who Win Know This One Trick: Networking
Most authors think writing a great book is enough, but if no one knows you exist, how will they find it? The authors who succeed understand the power of relationships. In this episode, I'm joined by bestselling author and founder of Motown Writers Network, Sylvia Hubbard, to talk about how real success comes from connection. We'll unpack what networking really means, how to do it without feeling f
Nigerian Prince Returns… and He Wants to Market Your Book | Self-Publishing News (Aug. 5, 2025)
Scammers are back with a new scheme that targets indie authors using the old Nigerian prince angle—except now, they want to market your book. Meanwhile, Bookshop.org is showing major growth with $1 million in ebook sales, but most authors still don't know what it is or how to access it. And Findaway Voices is officially gone, with INAudio taking the reins. What does that mean for your audiobooks?
Email Marketing for Authors: Get More Readers Fast! | AuthorLetter
Want to grow your reader base and sell more books? Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for authors but are you using it the right way? Join me for an exclusive interview with Nikolai Viljoen from AuthorLetter, where we'll break down the best email marketing strategies, common mistakes to avoid, and how to automate your list growth. If you're ready to take control of your author platf
[BREAKING] Amazon KDP Just Changed Its Keyword Rules | Self-Publishing News (July 28, 2025)
Amazon KDP just rolled out a new look for the dashboard—and that's not all. They've also updated their keyword rules, and Kindlepreneur breaks it all down in plain English. Plus, PublishDrive has released a comprehensive guide to accessibility in digital publishing for 2025. Get all the latest updates and author opportunities in this week's indie publishing news roundup. Subscribe to The Self-Pub
Avoid These Editing Fails with Jeanne De Vita
Before you send your manuscript to an editor, there's work to be done. In this episode, I sit down with Jeannie De Vita—writing instructor at UCLA Extension, second-generation author, and bestselling romance writer under her Callie Chase pen name—to break down what separates a polished draft from an expensive mess. We're talking best practices for prep, common mistakes authors make, and how to mak
Ingram Waives Print Fee via PublishDrive | Self-Publishing News (July 21, 2025)
Major updates this week in the publishing world: one major distributor is waiving its print market access fee for the next 12 months, while others are making key changes to how authors get paid or discover new readers. Plus, a brief outage, fresh promotional opportunities, and a couple of interviews you don't want to miss. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Su
The Best Kept Secrets in Book Marketing (2025) | Angela Yuriko Smith
Tired of book marketing advice that doesn't work in the real world? Angela Yuriko Smith—author, president of the Horror Writers Association, and creator of Authortunities—joins me live to reveal how authors are finding real visibility through the power of strategic promotion. We'll dig into how to make the most of book fairs, awards, conferences, and more—and why most authors overlook the marketin
Radish Ends, Booktrovert Begins: Big Publishing Moves
Radish Fiction is officially shutting down by December 2025. NetGalley just launched a consumer-facing discovery site called Booktrovert. And ACX is testing voice replica AI for audiobook narration. In this week's news update, I cover the latest shifts in the self-publishing world—including a deepfake interview warning, AI narration breakthroughs, and a major indie publishing milestone from Spoken
How to Scale Your Author Business (Without Burnout) | Jonny Andrews
Tired of trying to do everything as an author? Jonny Andrews joins me to break down how to grow your author business without the stress. We're talking systems, mindset, and strategy—so you can stop spinning your wheels and start building real momentum. If you're ready to scale smart, this is the episode you've been waiting for. Scale Your Hustle - https://scaleyourhustle.com/ Faceless Business E
What a Judge Just Said About AI & Copyright | Self-Publishing News (July 7, 2025)
Major news just dropped in the world of AI and copyright, and authors need to pay attention. A federal judge made a surprising ruling about how AI models can use books, and it could change everything. Plus, new opportunities for indie authors with MailerLite, PublishDrive, Bookvault, and more. Catch up on everything happening in publishing this week. Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https:/
Mastering Amazon Ads: A Beginner's Guide for Indie Authors
Struggling to make Amazon Ads work for your books? In this exclusive interview, Dale L. Roberts sits down with Sylvia Hubbard to unpack the biggest challenges and questions authors face when advertising on Amazon. From targeting to budgeting to measuring success, this video offers indie authors a roadmap to smarter, more effective advertising strategies. Whether you're just getting started or look
How an Indie Author Won 50+ Book Awards on a Budget | Ross Brand of Livestream Universe
Think book awards are only for big-budget authors? Think again. In this episode, I'm joined by indie author Ross Brand, who's won over 50 book awards using Book Award Pro, even on the free plan. He shares how to choose the right awards, save money, and turn wins into long-term visibility. If you've been waiting for a sign to submit your book, this is it. Ross Brand - http://livestreamuniverse.co
Major Shakeup in Author Platforms: What You Need to Know | Self-Publishing News (June 16, 2025)
A major shift in the book world is brewing as Everand acquires Fable, signaling a new direction for online book clubs and author-reader engagement. Meanwhile, Amazon has quietly cut more jobs—this time in the books division—raising questions about the future of publishing operations. But it's not all doom and gloom. Authors can tap into a fresh wave of events like the Book Launchers summit, the AL
What Successful Authors Do Differently in 2025 | Emma Boyer of Written Word Media
If your book promotions aren't working, it might be time to level up. Emma Boyer of Written Word Media returns to reveal what top authors are doing differently—and how you can apply those strategies in 2025. From advanced promo timing to new reader trends, we're digging into what actually works right now to sell more books. Written Word Media - http://writtenwordmedia.com/ Subscribe to The Self-P
BREAKING NEWS: Amazon Kills Hourly Rank Updates | Self-Publishing News (June 9, 2025)
Amazon just made a major update that could reshape how your books perform on the platform. In this news segment, we break down what's happening, how it could affect rankings, and what indie authors should keep in mind moving forward. Plus, important updates from Kobo, MailerLite, AppSumo, and more. YouTube for Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/YouTubeBook Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - http
Fix Your Story's Structure with These 5 Key Scenes | Kristina Stanley of Fictionary
Struggling to structure your novel? Learn how five key scenes can shape your story's success. Kristina Stanley, founder of Fictionary and the School for Writers and Editors, joins us to share how these scenes vary across genres like romance, fantasy, and mystery. We'll also explore free tools available to help you build stronger story structure, no matter your experience level. Fictionary - http
Urgent: Publisher Rocket Ends Lifetime Deal | Self-Publishing News (June 2, 2025)
Big changes are coming fast for indie authors. KDP is slashing royalties for print books under $9.99 starting next week. Meanwhile, Publisher Rocket is ending its lifetime license—soon, it'll be monthly only. Plus, Spotify for Authors is moving features over from Findaway Voices and confirming promo code honors. Here's what you need to know. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (af
How to Win Book Awards Without Wasting Money | Outstanding Creator Awards
Think book awards are just about luck or deep pockets? Think again. In this interview, I sit down with Steven Seril, indie author and founder of the Outstanding Creator Awards, to talk about how authors can actually win book awards—without wasting time or money. We cover the biggest do's and don'ts of submitting to contests, what judges really look for, and how to use awards to build your author b
IngramSpark Rolls Out NEW Tools, Are They Worth It? | Self-Publishing News (May 26, 2025)
In today's indie author news update, we're diving into the latest feature rollouts from IngramSpark, an exciting new marketing tool from Barnes & Noble Press, and a handful of cutting-edge book promotion services you'll want to check out. We're also covering updates from Apple Books, a powerful book structure fix from Fictionary, and wrapping up with a huge giveaway opportunity you don't want to m
The Ultimate Indie Author Sales Strategy: What I'd Do If I Had to Start Over
What if you had to start from scratch? In this episode, I'll share the exact roadmap for indie authors, how to build a brand from nothing, and what actually works for long-term success. Whether you're a new author or a seasoned pro, this is your playbook for more book sales. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSel
Amazon's New Print Cut: Greed or Survival? | Self-Publishing News (May 19, 2025)
Amazon KDP just announced a major change to print royalties, and the publishing world is buzzing. In this week's self-publishing news, we cover the updated royalty rates, what it means for paperback authors, and how it may or may not tie into the rise of low-content and AI-generated books. We also look at a major court ruling that could finally open the door for easier mobile eBook sales, plus a n
How to Sell Audiobooks (Even If You Can't Afford a Narrator)
Want to publish an audiobook but can't afford a narrator? Discover AI narration vs. professional narration, where to distribute audiobooks, and how to market them effectively. Audiobooks are growing FAST—don't miss out on this huge revenue opportunity! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subsc
New Tools, Real Scams, and Big Author Warnings | Self-Publishing News (May 12, 2025)
Scams are getting smarter—and authors are the new target. In this week's publishing news, we cover what to avoid, what to watch for, and the latest tools helping indie authors succeed. Plus, the U.S. Copyright Office just made your publishing life a lot easier. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.
How to Run Profitable Ads Without Losing Your Shirt
Scared of losing money on ads? Learn how to start small, scale up, and make your ads profitable without overspending. Whether you're using Amazon Ads, Facebook Ads, or BookBub, these ad strategies will help you turn clicks into sales. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Advertising for Books - https://DaleLinks.com/AdsBook Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - ht
Findaway Voices Is Gone? What Authors Need to Know | Self-Publishing News (May 5, 2025)
Something big is happening in the audiobook world—Spotify just changed how indie authors distribute their audiobooks, and it could impact your publishing future. In this week's Self-Publishing News, I'll break down what's happening with Findaway Voices and the brand-new company INAudio. Plus, updates from Laterpress, PublishDrive, and a new feature inside Dibbly Create that could change how you wr
How to Automate Your Book Sales (So You Can Write More Books)
What if your books could sell themselves? Discover how to automate book marketing, set up sales funnels, and use email sequences to generate consistent book sales on autopilot. Work smarter, not harder, and free up more time to write! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Subscribe to my email n
Publisher Rocket Just Got a Major Upgrade | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 28, 2025)
Major updates are shaking up the self-publishing world this week! A popular author tool just expanded its reach, a new feature could help you earn more from your book sales, and indie authors now have a surprising new way to boost their global discoverability. Plus, one important deadline is coming fast—you don't want to miss it. Let's dive in! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro
Book Promotion Myths That Keep You Broke
Think you need expensive ads or a huge following to sell books? Think again! This episode busts common book marketing myths, exposes money-wasting tactics, and reveals what actually gets results. Stop making these mistakes and start selling more books today! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Promotional Strategies for Books - https://DaleLinks.com/PromoBook My L
Audiobooks Just Got Bigger—Here's Why | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 21, 2025)
Scammers are targeting authors, a major audiobook platform is expanding into new countries, and a new tool promises to simplify website building for indie writers. Plus, I uncovered a lesser-known audiobook distribution option you'll want to keep your eye on. All that and more in this week's self-publishing news roundup—don't miss it. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate
SEO Is Dead Thanks to Amazon's AI | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 14, 2025)
Amazon is rolling out multiple AI-powered features, from recap generators on Kindle to Rufus, their new conversational shopping tool. Plus, they've launched a generative AI tool for sellers and announced a new reading sample update for eBook pre-orders. Meanwhile, copyright lawsuits against OpenAI and Microsoft are heating up, and Spotify is now accepting audiobook submissions. Get the latest on h
How to Make Money with Print Books (Even with Low Sales)
Print books aren't dead! Discover how to price your print books for profit, which print-on-demand platforms work best, and how to sell more paperbacks without breaking the bank. If you're looking to maximize your earnings, this episode is for you! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Sources: Print Book Sales Saw a Small Sales Increase in 2024 - https://www.publ
Author Arrested Over Disturbing Allegations | Self-Publishing News (Apr. 7, 2025)
Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) rolled out new features and analytics for account holders, plus I share deeper insights into ACX's new digital voice narration with the cloning capabilities. Kobo Plus expanded into two new regions. National Novel Writing Month shut down; what happened and what can authors do now? And an Australian erotica author has been arrested due to some disturbing allegation
AI Tools That Can Boost Your Book Sales (Without Killing Your Brand)
AI is changing the publishing industry! Learn how authors can use AI for marketing, ads, and book optimization, which AI tools actually help you sell more books, and what ethical AI usage looks like for indie authors. Stay ahead of the game with these AI-powered strategies! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Mentioned Tools & Affiliate Links: ChatGPT - https:/
Major Publishing Updates Authors Need to Know | Self-Publishing News (Mar. 17, 2025)
Big changes are happening in self-publishing! Bookvault expands to Canada, Libro.fm reports massive audiobook subscriber growth, and Dibbly Create launches new support features. Plus, Creativindie's Derek Murphy just relaunched a free 3D book cover mockup tool and a universal book link service. Stay tuned for everything you need to know about these industry updates and how they impact indie author
Direct Sales for Authors: Is It Worth It?
Selling your books outside of Amazon? Learn how direct sales for authors can increase profits, build reader relationships, and grow your brand. Discover the best platforms for selling books direct, how to set up your own storefront, and whether selling direct is right for you. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Mentioned resources & affiliate links: Gumroad - h
Amazon Kills Free KDP Tools for Authors | Self-Publishing News (Mar. 10, 2025)
Amazon KDP is quietly removing two critical tools for formatting your books. The Association of American Publishers notes a 6.5% increase in book profits in 2024. Bookvault is expanding into Australia and now has print on demand Down Under. And, Apple Books for Authors announced new category rollouts from 2024 for your books. All that and more in the self-publishing news for this week. Book Award
Mastering Keywords & Categories: Your Secret Weapon for Sales
Keywords and categories make or break your book's discoverability. Learn how to find the right keywords, choose profitable categories, and boost your book's ranking on online stores. Whether you're on Amazon, Kobo, or selling wide, these SEO strategies for authors will help you sell more books effortlessly. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Mentioned products (
Kindle Vella Is Officially Gone | Self-Publishing News (Mar. 3, 2025)
Amazon officially closed down Kindle Vella this past week. Smashwords is running their annual Read an Ebook Week, find out how this is an incredible promotional opportunity. The Kindlepreneur Dave Chesson just rolled out updates for his Book Description Generator. Barnes & Noble Press shared details about their partnership with the audiobook platform Author's Republic. ProWritingAid rolled out a n
The 80/20 Rule for Authors: How to Focus on What Sells
Are you wasting time on things that don't move the needle? Discover the 80/20 rule for book marketing, how to focus only on what works, and cut out time-wasting tasks that don't lead to sales. If you want smarter strategies that save time and bring results, don't miss this! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfP
You No Longer Own Your Kindle Books? Here's Why! | Self-Publishing News (Feb. 24, 2025)
Amazon is removing the ability to download and backup Kindle ebooks. And on the same day they roll out that change, Amazon will be closing down Kindle Vella. IngramSpark has a few marketing opportunities this month, as well as a giveaway for five free books. Findaway Voices by Spotify announced an agreement to distribute digitally-narrated audiobooks by Elevenlabs. And so much more in the self-pub
Book Marketing for Broke Authors: What Actually Works?
No budget? No problem! You don't need a big advertising spend to market your book effectively. Learn free and low-cost book marketing strategies that actually work, how to sell more books with minimal effort, and where to focus your time for maximum impact. If you're an indie author on a budget, this episode is a must! Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Mentione
BIG NEWS: Bookvault Announces MAJOR Update! | Self-Publishing News (Feb. 7, 2025)
Bookvault made a major announcement about box sets and slip cases for authors. The self-publishing company PublishDrive will be down for scheduled maintenance. Smashwords is having their annual Read an Ebook Week in March. The Kindlepreneur Dave Chesson updated his article about direct sales for authors and the stats are pretty surprising (in a good way)! Laterpress leaked some insider info you wi
Why Your Book Isn't Selling (And How to Fix It)
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Scam that Protects Authors from Scams?! | Self-Publishing News (Feb. 10, 2025)
Writer Beware discovered a new company that is so supposed to protect authors from scams, but some things are not quite right. Amazon is offering refunds on unused Kindle Vella tokens in March. KDP upgraded their virtual voice software. And, the US Copyright Office released the second part of a report on registering a copyright of a publication created by AI. All that and more in the self-publishi
Email Marketing That Sells Books: Build a List of Raving Fans
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BREAKING: IngramSpark Changes Pricing & Fees | Self-Publishing News (Feb. 3, 2025)
IngramSpark announced changes in print book pricing and an increase in their market access fee. Circana Bookscan shared stats on book sales in 2024 and it's looking things are improving. And, Overdrive announced that 2024 was a record-breaking year for digital lending. All that and more in the self-publishing news for Feb. 3, 2025. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate) S
Get 5-Star Book Reviews Faster with These Expert Tips
Struggling to get reviews? We'll reveal effective strategies for getting real, honest reviews quickly and consistently. Learn how to boost your credibility and social proof, making your book more appealing to new readers. Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) Reviews for Books - https://DaleLinks.com/ReviewsBook The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages - https://dalelinks.com
$44 Million Scam Busted, What You NEED to Know | Self-Publishing News (Jan. 27, 2025)
The Kindlepreneur Dave Chesson is on a roll lately, as he's updated his deep dive article about choosing the right categories for your book on Amazon. IngramSpark dropped an email this past week with a trifecta of opportunities. And, three people have been indicted in an alleged $44 million scam targeting elderly authors. Find out what you need to know and what you should do to prevent scams like











