Audiobook Connection - Behind the Scenes with the Creative Teams

Hosted by Becky Parker Geist

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300

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Oct 2026

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About the show

Engaging conversations with Authors, Narrators, Post-production audio engineers, Marketing teams as well as audio book listeners and fans. Go behind the scenes with audiobook creators as host Becky Parker Geist guides the conversation to discover the surprises, victories and challenges in publishing and producing audiobooks. Ideal for indie authors, small publishers, audiobook fans, and anyone interested in a behind-the-scenes peek into the audiobook world - as well as authors and publishers looking for tips from the pros on production and marketing. Behind-the-scenes interviews with audiobook creators as well as audiobook production and marketing tips - with episodes weekly. #C-Suite Radio.

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60 recent

October 15, 2026Episode 34632 min

AC-I-346 Beyond Prognosis: Living Life to the Fullest with Christine "Kippy" Hoene

What if the key to living life to the fullest isn’t mastering something new, but having the courage to begin? In this inspiring episode, Becky sits down with entrepreneur, adventurer, and author Christine “Kippy” Hoene to discuss her memoir, The Whistler’s Daughter: Defying My Prognosis One New Sport at a Time, narrated by Carrie Brewer. Living with muscular dystrophy and several other health conditions, Kippy has spent nearly three decades challenging expectations by learning more than 40 sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, kite surfing, surfing, mountain biking, and aerial arts. Despite medical prognoses about her physical limitations, she continues to embrace new experiences, pursue adventure, and discover joy in being a beginner. Kippy shares the deeply personal journey behind writing her first book, from finding her voice through journaling to navigating the challenges of editing, reflection, and vulnerability. She discusses why sharing failures and uncomfortable experiences matters just as much as celebrating accomplishments, and how learning something new can transform our understanding of what’s possible. Becky and Kippy also go behind the scenes of bringing The Whistler’s Daughter to audiobook, exploring the narrator selection process, collaborating on accents and pronunciations, and the unique experience of hearing your own life story told in another person’s voice. Kippy’s philosophy is a powerful reminder: You don’t have to be great at something to find joy in doing it. Life is a gift, and embracing it means continuing to learn, explore, and make the most of the opportunities available to us. 🎧 Listen to the audiobook: The Whistler’s Daughter by Christine “Kippy” Hoene, narrated by Carrie Brewer, available through AMPlify Audiobooks . Connect with Kippy on her Website and blog: https://thewhistlersdaughter.net AMPlify Audiobooks: https://amplifyaudiobooks.com Pro Audio Voices: https://proaudiovoices.com Watch the video of this interview Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #AudiobookConnection #ChristineHoene #KippyHoene #TheWhistlersDaughter #BeckyParkerGeist #AMPlifyAudiobooks #ProAudioVoices #Audiobooks #AudiobookNarration #AuthorJourney #Memoir #InspiringStories #Resilience #LivingLifeToTheFullest #DisabilityRepresentation #PersonalGrowth #NeverStopLearning #Adventure #AuthorLife #BehindTheScenes

October 8, 2026Episode 34518 min

AC-T-345 The Human Connection: Notes from The Flathead Writers Conference

In this episode, Becky shares reflections from her time at the Authors of the Flathead Writers Conference in Montana and explores the profound, human-to-human exchange that defines true audiobook storytelling. As technology advances, authors face tempting offers like free AI-generated narration. Becky dives deep into why "free" might actually come at a high cost to your brand. Drawing on recent trends from the Audio Publishers Association, she discusses the declining listener interest in AI voices and why a poor narration experience can actually act as a barrier between an author and their audience. Is it better to have no audiobook at all than one that alienates your readers? Join us as we discuss the importance of protecting your reputation, the value of human vibration in storytelling, and how to choose the right path for your literary journey. In this episode, we cover: Insights from the Authors of the Flathead Writers Conference. The "human-to-human" essence of professional narration. Why listener trends are shifting away from AI voices. The risk of "negative value" when choosing low-quality narration. How to build momentum and earn higher royalties with AMPlify Audiobooks. AMPlify Audiobooks – Empowering authors to earn more and connect directly with listeners. Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #audiobooks #storytelling #authorlife #narrator #publishing #audiobookconnection #amplifyaudiobooks #writingcommunity

October 1, 2026Episode 3441 hr 1 min

AC-I-344 Business Acumen & Seeing the Big Picture: Kevin Cope on the Skills Every Leader Needs

Have you ever felt disconnected from your company's mission, or struggled to understand how your specific role impacts the bottom line? In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Cope, author of the Wall Street Journal and New York Times bestselling book, Seeing the Big Picture. Kevin shares his powerful journey—from his time at the Covey Leadership Center to founding Acumen Learning—and explains the critical "gap" that exists in modern organizations: the disconnect between functional expertise and business acumen. Whether you are a frontline employee, a mid-level manager, or a sales professional, understanding how a company makes money is the key to increasing your credibility, advancing your career, and driving meaningful results. In this episode, we discuss: The Cost of Disengagement: Why a lack of business understanding leads to a massive global productivity loss. Seeing the Big Picture: How to move beyond your specific department to understand profit margins, cash flow, and company objectives. Business Acumen for Sales Success: How to transition from a "product expert" to a "trusted business advisor" by solving your client's financial challenges. Practical Tips: Simple habits to build your business literacy, from tracking industry news to asking the right questions in leadership meetings. Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Acumen Learning: acumenlearning.com Explore Seeing the Big Picture: seeingthebigpicture.com Discover more audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #BusinessAcumen #SeeingTheBigPicture #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #SalesSuccess #AudiobookConnection #ProfessionalDevelopment #FinancialLiteracy

September 24, 2026Episode 34328 min

AC-T-343 Spotify's Free AI Audiobook Tool: What Authors Need to Know

In this episode, Becky pulls back the curtain on Spotify's recent announcement regarding its free AI audiobook narration tool. While the offer of "free" narration may seem like a lifeline for self-published authors, there are significant complexities and hidden costs that every creator must consider before hitting submit. Becky dives deep into the technicalities of the Spotify/Eleven Labs partnership, the royalty structures, and—most importantly—the worldwide non-exclusive license authors are granting in exchange for this service. We also analyze recent consumer data from the Audio Publishers Association (APA) to see how listeners actually feel about AI-generated voices. Is the cost-saving benefit worth the potential loss of listener trust and content control? In this episode, we discuss: The Fine Print: Understanding the 5-book limit, the 150,000-word cap, and the rapid-fire publishing process. Licensing & Rights: What it actually means to give Spotify a worldwide non-exclusive license for "product development, testing, training, and modeling." Listener Trends: Breaking down the latest APA survey data regarding the declining interest in AI narration and the rising percentage of listeners who actively dislike AI voices. Value vs. Cost: A look at how professional narration builds a brand and why quality remains the most important factor in long-term success. Better Alternatives: How platforms like AMPlify Audiobooks are helping authors maintain control over pricing and earn higher royalties. Resources Mentioned: https://amplifyaudiobooks.com/ https://www.audiopub.org/ Connect with us: Have thoughts on AI narration? We want to hear from you! Email us at: ac@proaudiovoices.com #Audiobooks #SelfPublishing #Spotify #AInarration #AuthorTips #AudiobookConnection #AmplifyAudiobooks #WritingCommunity

September 17, 2026Episode 34233 min

AC-I-342 Behind the Audiobook: David Lee on Fewer Pills, More Paws and the Healing Power of Pets

In this episode, Becky sits down with David Lee, PharmD, PhD, a veteran pharmacist and the founder of MyRxPro, to discuss his transformative new book, Fewer Pills, More Paws: Caring for Your Aging Parents and Lessons from Our Pets. Drawing from 20 years of pharmaceutical experience, David shares a refreshing and vital perspective on "deprescribing"—the importance of using medications more precisely to avoid the risks associated with polypharmacy in older adults. He discusses the challenges of navigating a complex healthcare system and how caregivers can be empowered with the right tools to ensure safe, effective care for their loved ones. Beyond the clinical science, David explores the profound, healing connection between humans and animals. He reveals how the intuitive care we provide to our pets—observing non-verbal cues and practicing presence—can be applied to caregiving and our own mental well-being. From reducing anxiety to practicing mindfulness, discover how the bond with our furry friends can help us navigate life's most challenging transitions. In this episode, you’ll learn about: The risks of over-medication in older adults and the concept of deprescribing. Practical tools for caregivers to manage healthcare and nursing home interactions. How observing pet behavior can improve human caregiving skills. The physiological benefits of animal companionship, including stress reduction and mindfulness. Connect with the Guest: Website: www.myrxpro.com Listen to the audiobook version of Fewer Pills, More Paws on Amplify Audiobooks. Watch the video of this interview Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #Audiobooks #Caregiving #SeniorHealth #PetConnection #Mindfulness #Deprescribing #AudiobookConnection #HealthyAging #Wellness #MyRxPro

September 10, 2026Episode 34134 min

AC-T-341 How Audiobooks Affect Your Brain

In this episode, Becky dives deep into the science and artistry of listening. Inspired by a recent article in The Epoch Times, Becky explores the fascinating question: Does your brain process audiobooks differently than printed text? While studies suggest that listeners may sometimes struggle with retention in dense, academic material, Becky argues that the "format" isn't the problem—it's the performance. We discuss the critical role of the narrator in maintaining listener attention, the importance of strategic pausing, and why "audio-native" manuscript preparation is a game-changer for nonfiction authors. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Science of Sound: How the brain's speech system helps us decode meaning in both audio and text. The Narrator Variable: Why high-quality performance and pacing are the keys to preventing "mind-wandering." Audio-Native Strategies: How authors can adapt dense content (like textbooks) to include natural reminders and cues for better retention. Fluency & Learning: The benefits of simultaneous reading and listening for second-language learners and struggling readers. A Glimpse of Storytelling: Stick around for a moving sample from the memoir Something Worth Saving by Mary Means, narrated by Marie Hoffman. Whether you are an author looking to maximize your book's impact or a listener curious about the cognitive benefits of audio, this episode provides essential insights into the evolving world of audiobooks. Resources Mentioned: Amplify Audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com – Empowering authors with higher royalties and better marketing tools. The Epoch Times article How Audiobooks Affect your Brain Connect with us: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with a fellow book lover or author! Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #Audiobooks #Narration #Podcast #AuthorTips #AudiobookProduction #BrainScience #Storytelling #AmplifyAudiobooks #AudiobookConnection

September 3, 2026Episode 34056 min

AC-I-340 The Healing Power of Art and Storytelling with Madam Snowflake

In this moving episode, Becky sits down with musician and author Madam Snowflake (Emily Richards) to discuss her groundbreaking immersive audiobook experience, Rise Up Babylon. What began as a journey of survival through severe injury and bed rest transformed into a profound creative outpouring. Madam Snowflake shares the incredible story of how her musical compositions and narrative became intertwined, evolving from a concept for a Broadway musical into a unique, scored audiobook designed to be experienced through headphones. In this episode, we explore: The Genesis of Rise Up Babylon: How stillness, meditation, and physical recovery opened a new channel for storytelling. Art as a Tool for Healing: How writing and performing helped navigate the profound grief of losing a sister and repairing fractured family dynamics. The Craft of Immersive Audio: A behind-the-scenes look at the four-year production process, involving Grammy-winning producers and orchestral scoring to create a "movie for the mind." The Renaissance of Connection: A discussion on the importance of the arts in shaping collective consciousness and the power of truly listening to one another. Whether you are an author looking to expand your medium, a musician exploring narrative, or a listener seeking stories that touch the soul, this episode offers profound inspiration on the transformative power of human expression. Links & Resources Discover Rise Up Babylon: riseupbabylon.com Connect with Our Guest: madamsnowflake.com/ , emilyrichards.com/ Empower Your Audiobook Journey: amplifyaudiobooks.com Watch the video of this interview Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection

August 27, 2026Episode 33921 min

AC-T-339 The 2026 Audiobook Distribution Shakeup Part 4

In this episode, Becky wraps up her series on the 2026 distribution shakeup. Moving beyond the "what" of the changes, Becky dives deep into the "how"—providing an actionable strategy for authors and publishers to navigate the evolving landscape. Whether you are seeking simplicity, maximum reach, or maximum revenue, Becky breaks down the ideal combination of distributors to ensure your stories don't just exist, but thrive. Learn why relying solely on Audible might be a strategic mistake and why anchoring your distribution with AMPlify Audiobooks can transform your bottom line through higher royalties, direct customer relationships, and gamified marketing tools. In this episode, you will learn: Distribution Models: How to choose between single-distributor simplicity and wide-reach strategies. The AMPlify Audiobooks Advantage: Why direct distribution and community-driven platforms offer better long-term ROI than standard retailers. Critical Deadlines: A vital reminder regarding the ACX royalty model changes and the December 31st, 2026, deadline. Marketing Tools: An introduction to "marketing quests," events, and book clubs designed to help authors build real momentum. Audiobook Sample: Stick around to hear a captivating clip from How to Master the Art of Being the Worst Salesperson by Brian Panosian. Relevant Links: Amplify Audiobooks Authors Republic IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association) Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection Listen to the Full Series: If you missed the previous episodes regarding the distribution shakeup, be sure to check out the Audiobook Distribution Shakeup Series . Check out the Ultimate Audiobook Launch Strategy series to build your foundation. #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #BookMarketing #AudiobookDistribution #AmplifyAudiobooks #PublishingStrategy #Authorship

August 20, 2026Episode 33859 min

AC-I-338 Writing and Executing Your Next Chapter- Interview with Bobby Kelly

In this episode, Becky sits down with Bobby Kelly, personal systems strategist and author of The Next Chapter Starts Now. Bobby shares the incredible, high-speed story of how he wrote his entire book in just ten hours by dictating his thoughts while pacing his backyard. We dive deep into the intersection of performance psychology, mindset, and physical habits, exploring how to move past feeling "stuck" to achieve consistent follow-through in both life and business. Bobby also pulls back the curtain on the technical side of audiobook production. Drawing from his 35 years in the fitness industry, he shares invaluable professional tips for authors who choose to narrate their own work—including how to set up a DIY home studio, how to manage vocal fatigue, and the "5-4-3-2-1" method to make post-production editing seamless for your sound engineer. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Execution Strategy: How to identify your "next chapter" and build systems to reach it. Rapid Writing Techniques: The benefits of dictation and speaking your truth for nonfiction authors. Audiobook Pro-Tips: Practical advice on recording, managing ambient noise, and handling emotional content during narration. Distribution Realities: Insights into the complexities of navigating major retailers and expanding your reach. Connect with our guest: BobbyKelly.com Listen to audiobooks: Amplify Audiobooks Watch the video of this interview Watch the Ultimate Audiobook Launch Series Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection

August 13, 2026Episode 33733 min

AC-T-337 The 2026 Audiobook Distribution Shakeup - Part 3

Stop whispering into the void and start building real momentum! In this third installment of our series on the 2026 audiobook distribution shakeup, Becky dives deep into the complex world of where your stories land and how much you actually keep. Are you "going wide" just to be everywhere, or are you actually reaching your customers? We break down the pros and cons of the major players, including: The Big Shifts: Understanding the changes at Spotify, Voices INaudio, and the murky new royalty structures at ACX. The Library Connection: How to navigate rentals and checkouts through Overdrive and Hoopla. Wide Distribution vs. Direct Sales: Why a "cast a wide net" strategy works best when paired with powerful direct-to-consumer tools. The AMPlify Revolution: Discover how AMPlify Audiobooks is changing the game by combining distribution with marketing, offering higher royalties (65% of gross!), and—most importantly—building a real community through features like "Reflections" and real-time listener connection. Whether you are an author struggling to earn back your investment or a narrator looking to understand the landscape, this episode provides the roadmap you need to deepen your impact and broaden your reach. In this episode, you'll learn: The critical difference between a percentage of "retail price" vs. "net." Why an audiobook is a complex "package of files" and why delivery systems matter. How to use community tools, author pages, and live events to turn listeners into superfans. The ultimate strategy: Wide distribution for discovery + AMPlify Audiobooks for connection. Relevant Links: 🌐 Amplify Audiobooks 🌐 Authors Republic Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection #Audiobooks #AuthorTips #BookMarketing #AudiobookDistribution #AmplifyAudiobooks #IndieAuthor #Podcast #Storytelling #AudiobookConnection