Demystifying Self-Publishing with Tellwell
Books & Literature
About
Demystifying Self-Publishing with Tellwell is a podcast that unpacks the world of self-publishing, helping authors navigate the complexities of the industry with expert insights and real-life stories. In each episode, host Alyssa interviews industry professionals, successful authors, and publishing experts to explore the nuances of bringing a book to life independently. Whether you're an aspiring author or already on your publishing journey, this podcast offers the knowledge and inspiration you need to thrive in the world of self-publishing.
Episodes
- How Daniel Stolfi Turned Cancer Into Comedy, Healing, and Hope
Daniel Stolfi transformed his experience with stage 3 lymphoma into a source of inspiration, using comedy and storytelling to create a hit solo show, raise funds for cancer charities, and self-publish a memoir. This episode explores his jo…
- The Creative Mindset Shift That Changes Everything (with Miriam Schulman)
Miriam Schulman, an artist and author, shares her transition from Wall Street to a successful creative entrepreneur. The episode highlights the importance of mindset shifts, community, and authentic action for success in the creative and s…
- The Secret to Staying Creative for Life with Nancy Beiman
Nancy Beiman, with decades of animation experience, shares insights on lifelong creativity, the shift from collaborative filmmaking to independent comic creation, and sustaining an artistic practice.
- The Science of Storytelling (and How to Finally Finish Your Manuscript) with Suzy Vadori
Bestselling author and book coach Suzy Vadori discusses the science of storytelling, its impact on reader psychology, and the benefits of book coaching. She also shares practical advice for completing a manuscript and explains the differen…
- Use Your Voice and Get Speaking Gigs with Leisa Reid
Leisa Reid discusses how authors can leverage their books for speaking opportunities, addressing public speaking fears and building a platform. The episode explores transforming a book's message into engaging talks to connect with audience…
- Beyond the Bestseller Badge with Julie Broad: What Really Drives Book Success
Author Julie Broad discusses effective self-publishing strategies, emphasizing strategic positioning, pre-launch marketing, and leveraging books as business assets for authority and revenue. The episode covers the reality of bestseller sta…
- The Secret to Writing a Book That Connects with Dinah Laprairie
This episode features Dinah Laprairie discussing the journey of writing a book, focusing on mindset, structure, and publishing choices. It addresses common author struggles like feeling stuck, organizing ideas, and overcoming the fear of e…
- What Successful Self-Published Authors Do Differently With Nataly Restokian
Alyssa interviews author Nataly Restokian about her transition to self-publishing, emphasizing authenticity, overcoming fear, and the healing power of writing. Restokian shares insights on connecting with readers and navigating the awards…
- That Book Is Dangerous: Who Decides What We’re Allowed to Read? A Conversation with Adam Szetela
Writer Adam Szetela joins Tellwell to discuss his book "That Book Is Dangerous!", exploring how fear, moral panic, and the culture wars are influencing publishing decisions and the stories that get told.
- Choosing Your Publishing Path: Traditional, Hybrid, or Self-Publishing — Julie Broad | Fireside Chat
This episode discusses the three major publishing paths: traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing, to help authors decide which route best suits their goals. Julie Broad, an Amazon #1 bestselling author, shares insights on each model, incl…
- Twin Voices, One Mission: Empowering Kids Through Storytelling
Sisters Ashley and Brianna share their self-publishing journey, detailing their children's book aimed at promoting self-confidence and mental health awareness. They discuss challenges, marketing, and the empowering nature of storytelling.
- From Daydreams to Bookshelves: Zlata’s Self-Publishing Story
Alyssa interviews young author Zlata about her self-publishing journey, including inspirations, the creative process, and how writing aids in managing anxiety and ADHD. Zlata discusses family support, challenges, relatable themes, and futu…
- Crowdfunding for Authors: Building Support Around Your Story
This episode features author and book coach Julie Colvin discussing crowdfunding for authors, the therapeutic benefits of writing, and the importance of vulnerability. They explore how authors can build support for their projects and navig…
- Beats, Books & Breakthroughs: Joe Lyons Talks 'Pain Remixed'
Host Alyssa speaks with author Joe Lyons about his debut book "Pain Remixed." They discuss the book's themes of trauma, grief, and mental health, Lyons's journey, the shift to self-publishing, and mental health advocacy.
- Breaking Myths: The Truth About Vaping and Harm Reduction with Dr Mark Tyndall
In this episode, Dr. Mark Tyndall shares his journey advocating for harm reduction and writing about vaping. He covers public perception, cultural differences, regulatory hurdles, and the potential of vaping as a public health revolution,…
- Manuscript to Market: Kay Sparling on Espionage, History, and Self-Publishing
Kay Sparling, author of the Cold War thriller 'Mission: Thaw', shares her writing process, the blend of history and fiction in her novel, and her self-publishing journey on Demystifying Self-Publishing.
- Empowered Authors, Evolving Industry: Tellwell's Vision For The Future
This episode discusses Tellwell's future plans for its 10-year anniversary, featuring new initiatives like a partnership program and the Empowered Authors Summit, as detailed by Business Development Manager Ben Belding.
- Legacy of Love: Heather Shtuka's Story of Hope and Advocacy
In this episode, author Heather Shtuka shares her journey of writing "Missing From Me" after her son's disappearance, highlighting themes of grief, advocacy, legacy, and community support.
- Beyond the Pages: Monika Blichar's Book and Plushie Duo
This episode features self-published children's author and artist Monika Blichar, discussing her journey of creating books and merchandise. Learn about her unique self-publishing, marketing, and crowdfunding approaches.
- Vulnerability as a Superpower: Blaise Hunter's Journey to Finding Her Voice
Author and speaker Blaise Hunter discusses her journey of writing through pain and finding her voice, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in storytelling and activism. The episode covers authenticity, self-publishing, and advocacy.
- Indigenous Storytelling and Paths to Healing with Elaine Alec
Elaine Alec, an Indigenous author, shares her self-publishing experience with 'Calling My Spirit Back,' discussing authentic storytelling, healing, and the challenges of traditional publishing. She highlights the importance of vulnerabilit…
- Unlocking the Power of Manifestation with Monica Martinez
In this episode, Monica Martinez discusses manifestation for personal and professional growth, sharing her experiences in real estate and strategies for aligning thoughts, emotions, and actions. The conversation covers overcoming mental bl…
- The Legacy of Don Cherry: A Family Story
Host Alyssa and Tellwell Founder Tim Lindsay talk with Tim Cherry about his late sister Cindy's book, "The Don Cherry Story." They discuss family, legacy, organ donation, and the Cherry family's hockey experiences, touching on Don Cherry's…
- Passion, Publishing & Publishing: From Startup to 5,000+ Stories with Tellwell's Tim & Monica
Tellwell founders Tim Lindsay and Monica Martinez discuss their entrepreneurial journey, international expansion, company culture, and the importance of storytelling and purpose in running a business.
- Inside the Mind of a Ghostwriter with Tobi Nifesi
In this episode, ghostwriter Tobi Nifesi shares insights into his profession, detailing the collaborative process, ethical aspects, and common misconceptions. He outlines his approach with authors, emphasizing understanding their voice and…
- Marketing, Mistakes & Momentum: Ben St. James on Indie Author Success
This episode features author Ben St. James discussing his self-publishing journey, effective marketing strategies for indie authors, and the importance of community and strategic planning. They cover timing in marketing, personal branding,…
- Preserving History Through Literature with "Kalman & Leopold" Author Richard K. Lowy
Richard K Lowy discusses preserving Holocaust history through his book "Kalman & Leopold," detailing the emotional process of documenting his father's experiences and honoring historical voices.
- From Author to Authorpreneur with Brand Visibility Expert Kim Speed
Alyssa talks with brand visibility expert Kim Speed about building a personal brand as an author. They cover strategies for authorpreneurship, including identifying readers, authenticity, and funding projects.
- Behind-the-Scenes of Book Distribution with Simon Page
This episode of Demystifying Self-Publishing features Alyssa and Simon discussing book distribution, marketing strategies, and the publishing industry. Key topics include discoverability, book formats, global distribution, royalties, and d…
- Creating A Fantasy World with Author Peter Gribble
Author Peter Gribble shares his experience writing the fantasy series 'The City of Magicians,' detailing his world-building process, the significance of daily writing, and his self-publishing journey. He discusses childhood inspiration, ch…
- Common Misconceptions About Editing with Managing Editor, Simon Ogden
Simon Ogden discusses the editing process for self-published authors, addressing common misconceptions and the importance of editing to enhance the reader's experience. The conversation also touches on maintaining an author's unique voice…
- The Influence of Book Coaching & Collaboration with Jennie Nash
This episode features Jennie Nash discussing the importance of book coaching and collaboration in self-publishing. Nash highlights the need for writer support, accountability, and early reader engagement, while addressing common writing pi…
- Understanding Mental Health Through Literature with Lisa Bournelis
Host Alyssa and author Lisa Bournelis discuss the creation of the children's book 'Louie and the Dictator,' which addresses anxiety and OCD. They examine the role of storytelling in mental health, the self-publishing process, and the impor…
- Exploring Marketing Do's & Don't for Children's Books with Katie Hennessey
In this episode, Alyssa and Katie Hennessey discuss marketing strategies for self-published children's books. They cover topics including author branding, school and library engagement, the importance of reviews, and leveraging digital pla…
- Overcoming the Author's Inner Critic with Jennifer Chapin
Jennifer Chapin, publishing consultant and author, shares her experiences with writing and the shift from non-fiction to fiction. The episode highlights the role of writing workshops in prisons and the importance of authenticity and person…
- The Evolution of Book Promotion with Author, Karen Cumming
Host Alyssa speaks with author Karen Cumming about her writing career, including journalism and book inspiration. They discuss financial literacy, book promotion strategies in a changing media landscape, and the impact of AI on writing.
- Navigating Vulnerability in Memoir Writing with Self-Published Author Karen Harmon
Karen Harmon shares her experience self-publishing five books, including memoirs and fiction. She details the challenges of writing personal stories, the importance of vulnerability, and her transition to teaching memoir writing, discussin…
- Debunking Self-Publishing Myths with Tellwell Publishing Consultant Mitch Anderson
Mitch Anderson and Alyssa discuss the evolution and realities of self-publishing, debunking common myths about quality, marketing, and profitability. They emphasize author control, the potential for profit, and the necessity of professiona…
- The Evolution of Self-Publishing with Tellwell CEO & Founder Tim Lindsay
In the first episode, host Alyssa talks with Tim Lindsay, CEO and founder of Tellwell Publishing, about his journey and the evolution of the self-publishing industry. They cover author challenges, vanity publishing, the success of self-pub…