The Self Publishing Show

Hosted by James Blatch

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450

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Join James Blatch has he navigates the fast changing world of indie publishing. With the biggest guests in the industry and tips on how to stay ahead of the crowd.

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60 recent

June 12, 2026Episode 45126 min

SPS-451: Live at The Self Publishing Show

This week on The Self-Publishing Show, James Blatch and Sissy Mecca record live from SPS Live in London, surrounded by more than 500 authors from around the world. They share the atmosphere from the conference floor, discuss some of the standout sessions, and chat with special guests including volunteer coordinator Adrian Wills, Draft2Digital's Dan Wood, and Doug Pratt and Nick Harvey from the Two Indie Authors podcast. Topics include fandom building, direct sales, the future impact of AI on publishing, conference networking, and the power of community within the indie author world. Key Talking Points Behind-the-scenes insights into running SPS Live The vital role volunteers play in creating a successful conference experience Building author fandom and reader loyalty beyond the ebook Lessons from Damon Courtney's "Taylor Swift Method" presentation Why direct sales and special editions continue to grow in importance The value of author conferences for networking and learning How the indie publishing landscape is changing through AI Why authors need to understand AI, even if they choose not to use it The increasing importance of reader relationships and community building Dan Wood's perspective on industry trends and adapting to change A conversation with Nick Harvey and Doug Pratt about podcasting and the indie author community The unique atmosphere and energy of SPS Live compared to other industry events Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com Draft2Digital: https://www.draft2digital.com BookFunnel: https://bookfunnel.com The Two Indie Authors Podcast Vellum: https://vellum.pub SPS Live: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive

June 4, 2026Episode 45057 min

SPS-450: How to Work a Conference (Not Just Attend One) with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

This week on The Self-Publishing Show, James Blatch and Cissy Mecca share practical advice on how to work a conference rather than simply attend one, ahead of SPS Live in London. They discuss how authors can prepare in advance, choose the right sessions, network confidently, ask useful questions, and turn conference inspiration into real action afterwards. The episode also covers author scams, AI discoverability, changing AI tools, and how writers can use conferences to build meaningful connections and long-term career momentum. Key Talking Points How to prepare before arriving at a conference Why authors should treat conferences as an investment Choosing sessions based on your current goals Making the most of panels, Q&As and speaker access Networking naturally without feeling awkward Why generosity and genuine curiosity help build stronger connections How to take useful notes and turn ideas into action Avoiding post-conference overwhelm Staying alert to scams targeting authors AI discoverability and why metadata, niche positioning and FAQs matter Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com SPS Live 2026 schedule: https://learnselfpublishing.com/schedule SPS Live digital ticket: https://learnselfpublishing.com/spslive-digital Meta's subscriptions: https://www.meta.com/en-gb/help/subscriptions/960854640235758

May 28, 2026Episode 4491 hr 2 min

SPS-449: The New Rules of Book Discovery with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

This week on The Self-Publishing Show, James Blatch and Cissy Mecca discuss the major changes coming to Audible and ACX, including the new royalty model and updated enrolment requirements for audiobook authors. They explore what these changes could mean for indie publishers, the growing opportunities in wide audio distribution, and why authors may want to think beyond Audible. Alongside the industry discussion, there's plenty of SPS banter covering podcast microphones, pop filters, romance conferences, and the ever-changing publishing landscape. Key Talking Points Audible's new royalty model and ACX enrolment changes What indie authors need to know about audiobook distribution updates Exclusive versus wide audio strategies Direct audiobook sales using platforms like BookFunnel Spotify's increasing presence in the audiobook market Concerns around royalty transparency and reporting Why authors need to remain flexible as publishing evolves SPS banter about podcasting, microphones, and author life Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com Use code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions. ACX: https://www.acx.com BookFunnel: https://bookfunnel.com Self-Publishing Show Live: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive The New Rules of Book Discovery PDF

May 21, 2026Episode 44839 min

SPS-448: A Glimmer of Hope in the Age of AI with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

Episode Summary James and Cissy tackle a "bits and bobs" episode covering the changing indie publishing landscape, with a focus on Amazon's evolving AI-driven algorithms and what authors need to do to stay discoverable. They discuss why clear genre signalling, strong metadata, covers, blurbs, titles, and reader expectation alignment are becoming more important than ever. The conversation also touches on pricing psychology, the value readers place on author access and premium offers and the importance of stepping away from mental work with physical hobbies. Key Talking Points Why Amazon's AI and algorithm changes may reward authors who clearly understand and serve their ideal readers. The importance of aligning covers, blurbs, titles, keywords, characters, and genre promise to create a strong reader experience. Why authors should audit their books and metadata rather than panic about the flood of new AI-generated content. Pricing psychology and why readers or clients may value products more when the price reflects that value. The benefit of switching off from mentally demanding creative work by doing something physical and absorbing outside writing. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com Becca Syme: https://betterfasteracademy.com https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/barnes-and-noble-james-daunt-ai-books-b2978925.html https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNRtQCMNE/ https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNRtQD3nA/ Self-Publishing Show Live: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive SPS Live 2026 Party: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/party-on-the-boat

May 14, 2026Episode 44749 min

SPS-447: You Are Your Brand with Isabelle Knight, James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy are joined by PR expert Isabelle Knight to discuss why authors are not just selling books, they are also building a brand readers can connect with. Isabelle explains how indie authors can identify their own author story, understand what sets them apart, and use that foundation across websites, newsletters, social media, events, and publicity opportunities. The episode also touches on Amazon's AI categorisation issues, Meta ad frustrations, upcoming romance conferences, and why professional author presentation matters more than ever. Key Talking Points Why author branding starts with understanding your own story and what readers associate with you. How to identify what makes your books distinct from others in the same genre. Why readers connect with the emotional truth behind your books, not just the plot or trope. How indie authors can use their author story across bios, websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, festivals, and events. Why marketing should align with both your ideal readers and what you genuinely enjoy doing as an author. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com Build Your Author Brand / Isabelle Knight: https://buildyourauthorbrand.com Romance Writers of Australia Conference: https://romanceaustralia.com/pages/events Romance Writers of New Zealand: https://www.romancewriters.co.nz/event/2026-rwnz-conference-registration/ Self-Publishing Show Live: https://selfpublishingshowlive.com

May 7, 2026Episode 44641 min

SPS-446: The Boxset Experiment with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy dive into the growing world of direct sales, Etsy stores, and special edition books, exploring how indie authors are expanding beyond Amazon and turning their books into premium gift products. They also discuss the importance of professional branding photography, why readers increasingly connect with authors personally, and the latest Meta AI lawsuit involving pirated books used for training AI models. The episode features a detailed behind-the-scenes look at James's new Cold War-themed Etsy shop experiment, complete with slipcase box sets, MI6-style packaging, collectible golf balls, and premium gifting ideas inspired by the "gifting economy." Meanwhile, Cissy shares her experience with duplex paperback covers, sprayed edges, Etsy merchandise, and building collectible reader products around her romance worlds. Key Talking points: Why professional author photography matters more than ever Building an author brand in the AI era Readers buying into the author as much as the books The Meta AI copyright lawsuit involving pirated books and LLaMA training Direct sales and Etsy as a growing opportunity for indie authors Turning books into collectible gift products BookVault duplex covers and special editions Creating reader merchandise tied to fictional worlds Using Etsy as a discovery platform for new readers SPS Live updates and upcoming sessions on direct selling Resources mentioned: ProWritingAid – use code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions: https://prowritingaid.com/ SPS Live 2026: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive SPS Party 2026: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/party-on-the-boat

April 30, 2026Episode 44553 min

SPS-445: Real Cops, Real Stories, Better Fiction with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy welcome former Milwaukee police sergeant and author Patrick O'Donnell to discuss his new book, Police Stories: The Rookie Years, and the real-life experiences behind his writing. Patrick shares gripping stories from his early days on patrol, including a near-shooting, a fatal stabbing case, and the realities of policing that often get misrepresented in fiction. The episode also covers indie authors being excluded from a new publishing prize, questions around Amazon's algorithm and Kindle Unlimited, and how writers can use expert communities to make their crime and police procedural details more authentic. Key Talking Points The New Adult Book Prize and why excluding indie authors feels especially frustrating given indie publishing's role in building the genre. Ongoing questions around Amazon rankings, Kindle Unlimited borrows, page reads, and whether indie titles are being pushed down in the charts. Patrick O'Donnell's police career, from rookie officer to sergeant, and how those experiences shaped his nonfiction and fiction writing. A powerful real-life story from Patrick's rookie years involving a knife suspect, a fatal stabbing, and the emotional reality of first responder work. How the Cops and Writers community helps authors get police procedure, crime scenes, law enforcement culture, and investigation details right. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com Cops and Writers Facebook Group: https://facebook.com/groups/copsandwriters Patrick O'Donnell – Police Stories: The Rookie Years: Available on Amazon Indie Writers Club / support page: https://learnselfpublishing.com/support LaunchPad course is open for enrolment: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/launchpad

April 23, 2026Episode 4441 hr 1 min

SPS-444: Why Your Matter Matters with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy break down one of the most overlooked (but powerful) parts of your book: front and back matter. From prologues and epilogues to marketing strategy, they explore what actually works for readers and what might be quietly losing you sales. Expect honest takes (including a strong stance on prologues!), practical tips on optimising your back matter for conversions, and smart ways to turn your book into a reader-retention machine. Plus: writing retreats, live events, and a few unexpected tangents along the way. Key Talking Points Why front matter should be minimal and never get in the way of the reader diving into your story. The truth about prologues (and why many readers skip them entirely) vs when they can work. How epilogues (especially in romance) can add value and even drive reader engagement. The importance of a single, clear call-to-action at the end of your book to maximise conversions. Smart strategies for back matter marketing, including bonus content, newsletter signups, and reader retention tactics. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com Indie Writers Club (join for retreats & community): https://learnselfpublishing.com/support AI Summit: https://aisummit.indieauthortraining.com Writer Retreat (New Zealand – August): Indie Writers Club Self-Publishing Show Boat Party (London) 11th June 2026: https://learnselfpublishing.com/party-on-the-boat

April 16, 2026Episode 44342 min

SPS-443: Draft2Digital's New Charge! with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy dig into Draft2Digital's newly announced fees, including a one-off activation charge for new accounts and a yearly maintenance fee for low-earning accounts, and discuss why the reaction from authors has been so strong. They explore what the change says about the growing pressure of AI-generated low-quality uploads, the real cost of running author-facing distribution platforms, and whether small fees are now becoming unavoidable across the industry. Alongside that, they revisit the wider AI debate in publishing, discussing why some authors continue to resist the technology while others are embracing it for admin, analysis, and workflow support. The episode also touches on BookVault special editions, upcoming events, and James's AI translations webinar. Key Talking Points Draft2Digital's new pricing model, including the $20 activation fee for new accounts and the $12 annual maintenance fee for authors earning under $100 a year. Why Draft2Digital's decision is tied to the growing problem of AI-generated low-quality uploads and the cost of filtering them. The continuing debate around AI in publishing, including resistance from some authors and the argument that readers, not gatekeepers, will ultimately decide what succeeds. The difference between low-quality AI "slop" and thoughtful, professional uses of AI in business processes and publishing workflows. BookVault box sets, special editions, and how premium physical products can create new opportunities for authors selling direct or at events. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com Draft2Digital: https://draft2digital.com AI Translations Webinar: https://learnselfpublishing.com/translationswebinar Indie Writers Club / support page: https://learnselfpublishing.com/support BookVault: https://bookvault.app

April 9, 2026Episode 44251 min

SPS-442: Inside the SPS Live Schedule with James Blatch & Cissy Mecca

James and Cissy continue their exploration of how AI is transforming the business side of self-publishing, focusing on practical workflows that help authors save time and make better decisions. They also discuss planning for Self Publishing Show Live, including shaping the agenda and what attendees can expect from this year's event. Alongside this, the conversation highlights how authors can use AI as a powerful assistant for admin, marketing, and organisation - gaining efficiency without sacrificing creativity. Key Talking Points How AI can streamline everyday author admin tasks and reduce time spent on repetitive work. Building simple AI workflows to improve productivity and decision-making. Discussion around The Self Publishing Show Live, including agenda planning and event expectations. Why authors should focus on using AI as an assistant rather than a creative replacement. How efficiency and better systems can give authors a competitive edge in a crowded market. Links & Resources Mentioned ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions) https://prowritingaid.com Self Publishing Show Live 2026: https://learnselfpublishing.com/spslive Self Publishing Show Live Boat Party: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/party-on-the-boat Indie Writers Club Patreon: https://learnselfpublishing.com/support