Alexa's Book Marketing & Publishing Chat
Host Alexa Bigwarfe interviews authors and publishing professionals about their struggles, stories, and success routes. The podcast covers book marketing, publishing advice, book launches, and tips for growing a book-focused business. It offers encouragement and resources for authors and industry professionals, emphasizing the #bettertogether community.
Episodes
Assisted Self-Publishing Done Right, with Ruth Schwartz
Ruth Schwartz has spent 14 years turning finished manuscripts into well-published books, and decades in publishing before that. She breaks down why so many self-published books look broken, what to check before you hire anyone, and how to get a print and ebook edition you are actually proud of.
Grief Becomes Purpose: 9/11 Stories with Ann Van Hine and Holly Little
On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Alexa honors two authors who transformed loss into purpose. Ann Van Hine's husband, an FDNY firefighter, never came home that day. Holly Little lost her brother. Both have written memoirs that honor the dead and help others heal. Their stories remind us why we write, and why we must be seen.
How to Get Speaking Gigs (and Keep Them) with Sasha Simmons
Speaking is half talent and half business. Sasha Simmons, founder of Speak Life LLC and author of 20 Major Keys to Establish Your Own Greatness, breaks down her SLAB framework for crafting a speech that lands, then shares the unglamorous work of actually getting booked: cold calls, persistent follow-up, and building the reel that sells you.
Bootstrap, Investors, or Crowdfunding? feat. Hannah Jacobson
Bootstrap, investors, or crowdfunding? Hannah Jacobson built Book Award Pro from a spreadsheet into the world's largest database of legitimate book awards. She and Alexa break down how to fund an author or publishing business, price your work so you stop losing money, and own the platform you build on.
Why Your Author Income Is Stuck (And It Is Not Your Writing)
Forty-four percent of indie authors earn one hundred dollars a month or less. Usually the gap is not craft, it is structure. Alexa breaks down the four business skills separating authors who plateau from authors who compound: money systems, legal foundations, a profitable model, and new markets. Bootcamp is August 21 to 22.
The Reader Is Your Co-Writer: Speculative Fiction with Heather Davis {ep. 230}
Heather Davis coaches speculative fiction writers and runs Worldshift, the conference built for the authors sci-fi and fantasy spaces keep overlooking. She and Alexa unpack why your reader is your co-writer, how genre-specific community protects a career, and what to do when your genre's sales cycle drops. For writers who want craft and business.
How to Spot Scams Targeting Authors & more with Patricia Marshall of Luminare Press {ep. 229}
Patricia Marshall, CEO of Luminare Press and Lucent Book Group, reveals why publishing scams are proliferating, how authors can protect themselves, and why AI is a tool—not a shortcut. We dig into GEO, the changing landscape of book discoverability, and what indie authors truly need in their corner.
Audiobooks Are No Longer Optional: The $30 Billion Shift Every Author Needs to Understand {ep. 228}
Audiobooks have eclipsed ebooks and are racing toward a $30 billion U.S. market by 2030. Award-winning producer Mary Catherine Jones returns to break down when to invest, what it really costs, why narration makes or breaks a book, the truth about AI voices, and how to use audio to grow your list.
Your Voice Is the Revolution: A Raw, Unscripted Conversation About Why We Write ⭐ {ep. 227}
In this raw, unscripted episode, Alexa gets real about the state of the world in 2026 and why women's voices — in books, on stages, and in every medium — matter more than ever. A deeply personal call to action for authors, speakers, and publishing professionals who are here to make a difference.
Red Flags, Real Costs, and the ROI Nobody Wants to Talk About — Joel Pitney of Launch My Book {ep. 226}
Joel Pitney, founder of Launch My Book, pulls back the curtain on the self-publishing assist model — what it is, who it's for, and how to tell the good companies from the sharks. He shares red flags to watch for, the real cost of publishing well, and why you probably won't make your money back on Book One.
How Somatic Practices Set Authors (and Everyone Else) Free with Melanie Smithson {ep. 225}
"I'd Rather Be Dancing": How Somatic Practices Set Authors (and Everyone Else) Free. Licensed somatic psychotherapist and award-winning author Melanie Smithson joins Alexa to discuss her book Shake Yourself Free: 81 Somatic Practices to Let Go of Limitation. From unprocessed emotions and the wisdom of the body, to somatic tips for writers and lessons from going on dozens of podcasts — this one mov
Managing Writing Anxiety with Rhonda Douglas {ep. 224}
Writer's block isn't a character flaw — it's your nervous system trying to protect you. Book coach Rhonda Douglas of Resilient Writers joins Alexa to unpack creative anxiety, biologic hacks that calm your sympathetic nervous system, why pantsers need just enough outline, and how to train your brain that writing feels good.
Let Amazon Do Your Marketing: The Four-Book-Per-Year Method with Maria Secoy {ep. 223}
Romantic suspense author and All Write Well founder Maria Secoy reveals how indie authors can let Amazon's algorithm do the marketing heavy lifting for their first few books. Learn the four-book-per-year method, why sequencing beats hustle, and how to find your author brand before spending a dime on ads.
27 Books, Female Firefighter Heroes & Why Most Writers Quit Right Before They Make It - Constance Phillips {ep. 222}
Romance author Constance Phillips has published 27 books in 15 years—including her Sunnydale series and the To Protect and Serve firefighter/police spinoffs. She joins Alexa to talk small-town romance, writing four books a year, bending gender stereotypes, vendor shows, and the mindset that keeps her writing through the slow seasons.
The Booked Club: How One Author Turned Wanderlust Romance Into a Whole Ecosystem
Romance author Cher Terais didn't plan to start a travel agency — her readers practically demanded it. She joins Alexa to share how Wanderlust Romance became The Booked Club, Wanderlust Retreats, and a virtual Night in Morocco, plus the Instagram strategy that's turning her characters into viewers.
7 Women Who Gave All - Memorial Day{ep. 220}
In this special Memorial Day episode, Alexa Bigwarfe shares the powerful—and too often untold—stories of seven remarkable American women who gave their lives in military service. From the first Native American woman killed in combat to elite combat photographers and Marine officers, this tribute honors their legacy and explores why storytelling matters. Alexa also highlights authors writing about
Author-Forward Marketing Lessons from 8 Authors {ep. 219}
Fresh from moderating an author-forward marketing panel at the Piedmont Publishing Symposium, Alexa shares what she learned and replays a Book Launch in a Box panel with five indie authors across five genres — on launch timelines, building social proof from zero, the second-book payoff, and why marketing only feels gross when it isn't real.
GEO - The Big Change in Author Discoverability {ep. 218}
The way readers find books has changed — and most marketing advice hasn't caught up yet. In this episode, Alexa breaks down exactly what shifted in book discovery in 2025–2026, (readers searching on AI and what GEO is), what it means for authors across every genre, and what practical steps you can take this week to become more visible.
Self-Publishing Demystified: Costs, Timelines, & What Authors Need to Know with Leanne Janzen {ep. 217}
Curious about self-publishing? In this episode, Alexa talks with Leanne Janzen of Friesen Press about the full publishing process, costs, timelines, and the role of AI. Get an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn your manuscript into a professionally published book.
Getting beyond the "Icks" of Book Marketing with Alexa Bigwarfe {ep. 216}
Book marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or uncomfortable. In this episode, Alexa shares how to shift your mindset, simplify your strategy, and approach marketing through storytelling and connection. Learn how to build your audience, start earlier, and create a marketing plan that actually feels good—and works.
Lisa Carrington Firmin on Writing, Healing, and Owning Your Story {ep. 215}
Lisa Carrington Firmin shares her journey from Air Force commander to author and advocate, revealing how writing helped her heal from trauma and PTSD. This inspiring conversation explores storytelling, resilience, and the power of using your voice to create connection, community, and lasting impact.
From Rock Bottom to Rock Tours: Reinventing Your Life and Business with Nicole Stocker-Heinrich
Nicole shares her powerful journey from forced career beginnings to global success, personal upheaval, and entrepreneurial reinvention. This episode dives into resilience, bold decisions, and building a business that supports your creative dreams—proving it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
Overthinking Is Blocking You—Here’s How to Let It Go {ep. 213}
Writer's block, business blocks, feeling powerless to move forward... overthinking is keeping you stuck—but your intuition already knows the answer. Learn how to trust yourself, use the PAUSE method, and create space for clarity and aligned action. Alexa shares this analysis from some chapters in the book: Don't Believe Everything You Think.
The Reason Your Marketing Isn't Working {ep. 212}
Refreshing your sales page and wondering why no one’s buying? In this episode, Alexa breaks down the real reasons book and service sales stall—and it’s not your talent. Learn how messaging clarity, email strategy, visibility, and collaboration create a clear path from discovery to purchase.
From Author to Paid Speaker: Building a Profitable Speaking Business with Dr. Kate Watson {ep. 211}
Dr. Kate Watson joins Alexa Bigwarfe to share how authors can expand their influence — and income — through public speaking. Learn how to find your first stages, package your expertise, and price your value, not your time. Stop saying “someday” and start saying “I am a speaker.”
Collaborate to Create: How to Successfully Co-Author a Nonfiction Book {ep. 210)
Thinking about co-authoring a nonfiction book? In this episode, Alexa Bigwarfe talks with Matty Dalrymple about how to find the right partner, align expectations, divide responsibilities, split royalties, avoid pitfalls, and turn your book into speaking and consulting opportunities.
The Assumptions Sabotaging Your Author Business (And What to Do Instead) {ep. 209}
In this Momentum Moment, Alexa shares 12 dangerous assumptions authors and publishing professionals make—and how those assumptions quietly sabotage book sales, launches, courses, and collaborations. Inspired by The Four Agreements, this episode is a wake-up call to stop guessing, start asking, and build your business with clarity and intention.
Finding Joy in Submission: How to Get Your Short Fiction and Essays Published with Dennis James Sweeney {ep. 208}
Author and creative writing professor Dennis James Sweeney joins Alexa Bigwarfe to discuss how short fiction, essays, and poetry can jumpstart your publishing journey. Learn to find the right literary magazines, submit with confidence, and rediscover joy in the creative process through community, curiosity, and connection.
Messaging That Attracts (and Repels): Why Clarity Is the Real Growth Strategy {ep. 207}
Clear messaging isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about attracting the right people. In this Momentum Monday, Alexa breaks down how unclear messaging hurt event conversions, what she learned from direct audience feedback, and how authors and publishing professionals can refine messaging to drive alignment, sales, and sustainable growth.
Why Creative Entrepreneurs Need Immersive Conferences (Not Just Another Stage) {ep. 206}
What if conferences didn’t end with a swag bag and overwhelm—but real connections and action? In this episode, Julie Loken and Dom Damaskey share why immersive, relationship-driven conferences like Cre8tiveCon are redefining how authors, creatives, and entrepreneurs grow visibility, media reach, and impact.
Know Yourself: Why Self-Awareness Is the Secret to Sustainable Success {ep. 205}
In this Momentum Moment, Alexa Bigwarfe shares why knowing yourself is essential for sustainable success as an author or creative entrepreneur. She explores Human Design, burnout, strengths and gaps, self-limiting beliefs, and collaboration. Learn how alignment improves focus, supports better hiring decisions, and helps you build a business that fits.
Professional Self-Publishing, Editorial Excellence, and the Real Publishing Timeline with Kathy Meis {ep. 204}
In this episode of Alexa’s Publishing Chat, Alexa Bigwarfe welcomes Kathy Meis, founder and CEO of Bublish, for an in-depth conversation about what it truly takes to publish a professional, market-ready book in today’s crowded publishing landscape.
Engineering Your Memoir: Writing with Structure and Emotion with Wendy Dale {ep. 203}
Memoir coach Wendy Dale joins Alexa to share her revolutionary six-step Memoir Engineering System. Learn how to build memoirs with structure, plot, and emotional resonance—no more trial and error. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your life story into a page-turner, this episode is for you.
Bounced from the List? The Email List Goldmine You’re Probably Ignoring {ep. 202}
Many authors focus on growing their email list—but forget to maintain it. In this Momentum Monday episode, Alexa Bigwarfe reveals how reviewing bounced subscribers helped her re-engage hundreds of readers and why this simple task can boost engagement, sales, and deliverability for authors and publishers.
How to Get Authentic, Verified Reviews for Your Book with Flavia Kennedy {ep. 201}
Former Fortune 50 executive turned author, Flavia Kennedy, joins Alexa to reveal how she built Get Authentic Book Reviews, a community helping authors get legitimate, verified reviews. Learn how the platform works, why verified reviews matter for Amazon success, and how authors can build credibility through authentic reader feedback.
2026 Goals, Quarterly Planning, and Building a Life-First Publishing Business {ep. 200}
Episode 200! Alexa kicks off 2026 with a powerful solo episode on goal-setting, seasons of focus, and building a life-first business. Learn her quarterly planning method, how to map money seasons, and what’s coming for Women in Publishing Summit, the Columbia in-person event, and the 2026 Paris writing retreat.
Slow down to Speed Up! Realistic Planning for 2026 {ep. 199}
In this Momentum Monday episode, Alexa challenges the rush-rush-rush mindset that sabotages authors and publishing professionals. She breaks down why “slowing down to speed up” is essential for successful book launches, platform growth, and sustainable progress—and how to plan realistically for a thriving 2026.
Publicity That Works: Building Media Momentum for Your Book with Kourtney Jason of Pacific & Court {ep. 198}
Publicist and author Kourtney Jason joins Alexa to break down how authors can effectively pitch their books to media outlets, set realistic expectations, and collaborate for long-term visibility. Learn how to use earned media, build momentum, and make every publicity hit count toward your author brand.
When You Don’t Have a Plan: A Real-Time Content Strategy Wake-Up Call {ep. 197}
In this Momentum Monday, Alexa uses a completely unplanned episode as a live case study in why content strategy matters. She breaks down the stress of winging it, how to connect your posts to real outcomes, and why a 2026 content plan (and the Content Strategy Bootcamp) will change everything.
Building Confident, Sustainable Author Businesses with Olivia Zugay of Story Flow Solutions {ep. 196}
Author business coach Olivia Zugay, founder of Story Flow Solutions, joins Alexa Bigwarfe to share how she helps authors confidently manage their publishing journeys. From planning realistic timelines and preventing burnout to building a long-term author brand, Olivia offers practical strategies for sustainable success in today’s book world.
When Going Viral Doesn't Sell Books - Momentum Monday {ep. 195}
Alexa reveals why a viral Instagram post with over 100,000 views and 400 new followers did absolutely nothing for her author business. In this Momentum Monday, she unpacks the difference between visibility and aligned visibility and offers a simple exercise to help you create content that truly connects and converts.
Panel: From Overwhelmed to Connected: The Power of Community {ep. 194}
In this live episode from Author Nation in Las Vegas, Alexa Bigwarfe sits down with YA author C.C. Robinson, editor Dakota Nyght, and travel writer Annie Slade to talk conferences, community, tools, AI, and why you should never try to build an author career alone in a changing publishing landscape.
Momentum Monday: Visibility vs. Momentum — What Happens After They Find You {ep. 193}
Alexa shares how she gained 100 targeted followers on TikTok in 10 days—and why visibility alone isn’t enough. Learn how to turn social media growth into book sales, email subscribers, and real momentum by building a clear content strategy and reader journey. A must-listen for authors trying to grow online.
100 Words a Day: How to Build Sustainable Momentum with Dallas Woodburn {ep. 192}
Author and book coach Dallas Woodburn shares compassionate, practical tactics for building a writing routine that actually sticks. From 100-words-a-day momentum to seasonal resets, ritual cues, and accountability, this episode is your nudge to trade guilt for grace—and finally make steady progress on your book, your way.
Momentum Monday: Make Conferences Count — How to Build Momentum from Live Events ep. 191
Attending a conference soon? Don’t just show up—show up strategically. In this Momentum Monday, Alexa Bigwarfe teaches authors and publishing professionals how to use live events to create authentic, high-visibility social media content that connects, converts, and keeps building momentum long after you’re home.
Writing with ADHD: Tips, Tools, & Support for Neurodivergent Authors with Kate Allyson {ep. 190}
Book coach and editor Kate Allyson joins Alexa to talk about writing with ADHD and autism. From managing shiny-object syndrome to using tools like voice memos and AI to stay productive, this episode is packed with compassionate strategies for neurodivergent authors ready to share their stories.
From Chaos to Clarity: Momentum Monday {ep. 189}
Feeling scattered in your author marketing? In this Momentum Monday, Alexa Bigwarfe breaks down how to go from chaos to clarity with a clear, achievable content strategy that connects your daily posts to your big-picture goals—so you can build momentum, consistency, and confidence in your author business.
DIY Writing Retreats: How to Recharge, Refocus, and Finish Your Book with Rhonda Douglas {ep. 188}
Author and writing mentor Rhonda Douglas joins Alexa to share how writers can create affordable, restorative DIY retreats to refocus and finish their books. Learn how to plan budget-friendly getaways, make time to write, and use creative breaks to boost productivity. Perfect for authors seeking momentum and inspiration.
The Secret to Never Running Out of Content: Momentum Monday ep. 187
Do you struggle with coming up with content for your social media to promote your author or publishing professional business? Here are some quick tips to help you!
Authors Against Abuse: How Writers Are Using Storytelling to Shatter Silence and Support Survivors {ep. 186}
Writers can change the narrative on abuse. Learn how I Know Why She Stayed and the Authors Against Abuse initiative empower authors to support survivors. Survivors Kasey Rogers and K. J. “Kat” Harrowick share how writing became a tool for healing after financial abuse.
Still Standing: Lessons from 12 Years in Publishing Books with Alexa Bigwarfe {ep. 185}
In this milestone episode, Alexa celebrates 12 years since publishing her first book and shares hard-won lessons on building a business that lasts. From community and collaboration to content and consistency, she offers five actionable tips to help authors and publishing pros keep going — even when times get tough.
Mastering Instagram for Authors: Strategies, Updates, and Real Conversations with Alexa Bigwarfe & Raewyn Sangari {ep. 184}
Alexa Bigwarfe and social media strategist Raewyn Sangari unpack the newest Instagram trends and share practical, stress-free tips for authors. Learn how to grow your audience, connect authentically, and use new tools like reels, carousels, and trial reels to turn social media into your strongest marketing ally.
Collaboration, Community, & Clean Romance with Victorine E. Lieske {ep. 183}
Bestselling author Victorine E. Lieske shares how she went from hobbyist to New York Times and USA Today lists, co-founded The Writing Gals, and built a career in clean romance. Alexa and Victorine discuss craft, community, and business strategies every author can use to build a sustainable career.
Successful Book Launch Strategies with Aimee Ravichandran {ep. 182}
Award-winning marketer Aimee Ravichandran of Abundantly Social joins Alexa to talk about how authors can build buzz, plan launches effectively, and understand the difference between PR and marketing. From credibility boosters like awards to smart ad strategies, Aimee shares practical insights for self-published and indie authors ready to shine.
Memoir Magic: Writing, Marketing & Selling Your Story with Jennifer Wilkov {ep. 181}
Memoirs can transform lives—but only if they’re written and marketed the right way. In this episode, Jennifer Wilkov of Your Book Is Your Hook shares her path from bestselling author to memoir consultant, why memoirs matter, how to make them marketable, and actionable strategies to share your story with impact.
Fueling Book Sales with Email: Emma Boyer on Written Word Media’s Promo Power {ep. 180}
Emma Boyer of Written Word Media explains how targeted email promos (Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy) boost downloads, sales, and read-through, plus how launch packages, giveaways, and consistent cadence build momentum. Learn genre-fit best practices, pre-launch strategy, and why growing your owned audience is essential for long-term success.
From Manuscript to Mic: Everything you neeed to know about Audiobooks with MaryCatherine Jones {ep. 179}
Audiobook producer Mary Catherine Jones unpacks costs, timelines, narration choices, distribution (exclusive vs. wide), library access, AI realities, and marketing moves that actually sell audiobooks. Learn smart paths for every budget, how to use your audiobook as a promo engine, and when authors should narrate—plus a special community discount.
Building a Fierce Independent Press: A Conversation with Read Furiously’s Samantha Atzeni {ep. 178}
Independent publishing isn’t easy—but it’s deeply rewarding. In this episode, Alexa talks with Samantha Atzeni of Read Furiously about creating space for overlooked voices, sustaining a traditional press in a POD world, and the power of community and activism in shaping the next decade of independent publishing.
Finding Healing Through Humor: Writing Memoir with Dana Bowman {ep. 177}
Author and humorist Dana Bowman joins Alexa’s Publishing Chat to share how humor transforms heavy topics into stories of hope and connection. From recovery to grief to the challenges of writing memoir, Dana explains how laughter helps both writers and readers process pain while finding joy and resilience.
From Surviving to Empowering: How Beth Jones Built a Healing Business from Her Book {ep. 176}
Beth Jones shares how she turned her personal healing journey into a book, a framework, and a thriving business. Learn why self-publishing gave her the freedom to create courses, retreats, and a podcast that empower survivors—and how writing can be a catalyst for both personal and professional transformation.
Publishing Trends, Discoverability, and Industry Insights from Publishing University 2025 {ep. 175}
Alexa shares her biggest takeaways from Publishing University 2025 — including AI opportunities, censorship battles, and discoverability strategies for authors and publishers. Learn how to adapt to industry changes, optimize Amazon metadata, leverage ARC teams, and build sustainable publishing careers through collaboration, innovation, and strategic marketing.
The Future of Digital Publishing, Creator Revenue, and Direct Sales with Curios {ep. 174}
Greg from Curios joins Alexa to discuss direct digital sales for authors, the power of email lists, and how Curios gives 100% of ebook and audiobook revenue back to authors. Discover how their Creator Fund rewards uploads and sales — and why disrupting publishing means going direct and building community.
Mythic Memoir: Reclaiming Your Story Through Fairy Tales with Elisabeth Sharp McKetta {ep. 173}
Author and Harvard/Oxford instructor Elisabeth Sharp McKetta shares how myths and fairy tales can be powerful tools for writing memoir. Learn how “mythic memoir” helps you find structure, protect vulnerability, and reclaim your voice. A must-listen for writers interested in storytelling, healing, and making sense of life through art.
From Anxious Author to Bold Promoter: How Kae Wagner Built a Book Marketing Mindset {ep. 172}
Kae Wagner shares how she transformed from an anxious introvert into a confident book promoter. Learn how mindset, simple habits, and series strategies helped her grow book sales and visibility. She offers practical tips for daily marketing, overcoming fear, and using Amazon to your advantage.
What Every Author Should Know About Hybrid Publishing with Michelle Vandepas {ep. 171}
Michelle Vandepas of GracePoint Publishing joins Alexa to unpack the world of hybrid publishing, red flags to avoid, and how to align your book with your bigger purpose. Learn what questions to ask, what you're really paying for, and why GracePoint is a great home for mission-driven authors.
The Truth About Self-Publishing: Debunking the Biggest Myths with Joel Pitney {ep. 170}
Joel Pitney, founder of Launch My Book, joins Alexa to bust common self-publishing myths, from bookstore dreams to Amazon hacks. They dive deep into what it really takes to succeed in publishing—plus, how his company helps authors publish professionally without giving up creative control. This episode is a must-listen for authors navigating the complexities of publishing and looking to make inform
5 Authors Share Their Book Marketing Journeys {ep. 169}
Alexa is joined by five dynamic authors from different genres to talk all things book marketing—what worked, what didn’t, and how the Book Launch in a Box program helped them succeed. Real advice, real results, and a whole lot of encouragement for authors at every stage.
From Author to Entrepreneur: Building a Bookish Business that Works! {ep. 168}
Alexa Bigwarfe and Hannah Jacobson dive deep into business-building for authors and publishing pros. They cover funding models, pricing mistakes, automation, AI tools, and the essential mindset shift from "just an author" to entrepreneur. It's honest, funny, and full of hard-won wisdom. A must-listen for creative business owners!
The Stories of 7 Women Who Gave All - Memorial Day Tribute {ep. 167}
In this special Memorial Day episode, Alexa Bigwarfe shares the powerful—and too often untold—stories of seven remarkable American women who gave their lives in military service. From the first Native American woman killed in combat to elite combat photographers and Marine officers, this tribute honors their legacy and explores why storytelling matters.
Alexa also highlights authors writing about
How BookFunnel Supercharges Author Marketing with Damon Courtney {ep. 166}
Damon Courtney, CEO of BookFunnel, joins Alexa to share how authors can use BookFunnel for more than just ebook delivery. From building email lists and distributing audiobooks to selling direct and collaborating with other authors, Damon covers the essential tools that make BookFunnel a must-have for indie success.
Writing Soulful Nonfiction with Danielle Anderson of InkWorthy Books {ep. 165}
Meet Danielle Anderson of InkWorthy Books—a soulful nonfiction coach and publishing pro with a passion for helping authors write books that heal, inspire, and change the world. In this episode, Danielle walks us through her unique 6-phase approach to writing and publishing soulful nonfiction, including what most authors miss, how to revise like a pro, and why your “why” matters more than your word
From Ghostwriting to Global Bestsellers: JD Barker’s Savvy Moves that Grew His Author Business {ep. 164}
JD Barker shares how his talent and strategic business decisions—like trademarking his name and building multiple revenue streams—paved the way for a powerhouse fiction career, including co-authoring with James Patterson. Learn how smart authorpreneurship helped him grow beyond books and into a scalable creative empire.
Luminare Press - Hybrid vs. Self-Publishing with Patricia Marshall {ep. 163}
Publishing expert Patricia Marshall breaks down the differences between hybrid and self-publishing, shares her journey founding Luminare Press, and offers vital advice for authors navigating publishing choices in a fast-changing industry.
Make Marketing Fun Again: How to Promote Your Book Without Losing Your Mind {ep. 162}
In this inspiring solo episode, Alexa shares how to shift your mindset around book marketing and turn it into something you actually enjoy. From leveraging your strengths to building buzz through authentic relationships, this is a must-listen for any author dreading the “M” word.
Is Substack Right for You? with Claire Tak {ep. 161}
Claire Tak shares how she uses Substack to grow her audience, share her memoir journey, and connect with other writers—without the overwhelm of traditional platforms.
Building Author Community & Confidence with Brooke Black {ep. 160}
Brooke Black joins Alexa to talk about building strong author communities, navigating the unknowns of publishing, and how The Hive Collective empowers writers at every stage. Whether you're querying or self-publishing, you'll find insight, support, and inspiration in this episode.
Self-Publishing Secrets for Children's Book Authors with Karen Ferreira {ep. 159}
In this episode, Alexa chats with Karen Ferreira, founder of Children’s Book Mastery, about the journey of writing, publishing, and marketing children’s books. They explore traditional vs. self-publishing, common pitfalls, and how authors can find success by aligning strategy with personality. A must-listen for aspiring children’s book creators!
Books Born from Grief: Writing to Heal and Help with Nathalie Himmelrich {ep. 158}
Alexa talks with author and therapist Nathalie Himmelrich about the healing power of writing, how grief informed her six books, and why authors don’t need to be marketing experts to make an impact. They dive into book inspiration, business alignment, and how storytelling serves as a bridge between pain and purpose.
Hot Sh*t & High Standards: Women Redefining Publishing {ep. 157}
This powerful panel brings together trailblazing women in publishing to share their personal journeys, industry challenges, and unwavering hope for the future. From systemic inequities to breakthrough moments, discover how these leaders are rewriting the rules, building community, and lifting each other up—one story, one voice, one book at a time.
International Women's Day: Amplifying Your Voice with Karen Strauss {ep. 156}
In this episode, Alexa Bigwarfe interviews Karen Strauss, founder of Hybrid Global Publishing. Karen shares her journey from traditional publishing to hybrid publishing, the challenges authors face, and the hidden costs of publishing. Learn how a book can elevate your business, establish authority, and open doors to new opportunities.
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