Welcome to Profitable Publishing™! This podcast is for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a book that builds their brand, attracts their clients, and supports real business growth. This isn’t for authors who just want to get their book out there.
This is for business owners who want to position themselves as the go expert in their field and serve their audience on a deeper level.
If you help your readers get a result it’s time to leverage your book to do the same for you: open doors to speaking opportunities, attract premium clients, develop lasting partnerships, and make consistent income. This podcast shows you how to turn your expertise into a profitable publishing™ strategy aligned to your book.
On this podcast, you’ll learn how to:
Align your book with your brand identity, services, and offers
Build authority and visibility as a thought leader in your industry
Get consistent book sales before, during, and long after you launch
Go beyond royalties by turning your book into an income generating offer
Use your book to qualify clients, secure paid speaking gigs, sell your book to groups and not just individuals
Create a strategic book to attract leads or support clients
This isn’t just about selling more books.
This podcast is for business owners who know their book can open doors, land speaking opportunities, premium services, partnerships, and consistent income.
Profitable Publishing™ is hosted by Ashley D. Shepard is a 5x author, book marketing strategist, and self publishing consultant who supports independent and self published authors with generating revenue before they release. She’s also an Atlanta area wife and mom of two who understand building your author brand in the margins of your day.
It’s time to publish and market on your own terms, grow your brand intentionally, and use your book as a true business asset to support clients or generate leads.
So if you’re a coach, consultant, author, or service provider, subscribe now and discover how to make your book the most powerful part of your brand. Click play today to start your profitable publishing™ journey today.
Discover shows related to Self Publishing and Book Marketing for Authors, Coaches, Speakers with Profitable Publishing®, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
Ep 30: Preorder Success Even When Life Gets Hard with Kristine D. Smith | Writer | Book Marketing
Season 1 · Episode 30
Thursday, October 8, 2026 • Duration 39:10
Preorders for authors are one of the most powerful book marketing tools you an use no matter how big or small your audience. Author Kristine D. Smith shares her journey towards discussing the challenges she faced in marketing her book and the support she received as a client of Ashley. If you’re feeling like life has too much going on to have a successful book launch, then this is the episode for you.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How preselling your book helps with cover author expenses
Strategies to get your readers involved in the launch process
How preorders can encourage speaking opportunities
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Profitable Publishing and Guest Introduction
00:59 Success Strategies for Pre-Order Book Launches
06:56 Seeing Results While Life is Hectic
14:54 Learning from Big Name Authors
18:10 How Your Book Launch Opens the Door For Speaking Gigs
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Preorders for authors, audience engagement, book marketing, author strategies, reader insights, profitable publishing®, self-publishing, book research, marketing strategies, ideal reader
How do I have a successful preorder for my book?
How do I set up a preorder for my self-published book?
Should I host my book preorder on Amazon?
How do I sell book preorders on my website?
How do I increase book sales before my launch?
How do I use a book preorder to cover publishing costs?
What mistakes do authors make with book preorders?
Why is my Amazon KDP preorder not selling?
How do I use my book preorder to grow my audience?
29. 5 Reasons Why Your Social Media Isn't Attracting Book Buyers | Marketing for Authors & Coaches
Season 1 · Episode 29
Friday, August 14, 2026 • Duration 22:50
If you’ve ever wondered why everyday posts get tons of social media engagement but posts about your book get ignored, then this is the episode for you. This episode breaks down why that happens and how to create content that attracts the right readers, supports your book, and builds authority instead of random engagement.
TAKEAWAYS
Why some posts get more likes
How the platform can affect your post’s path
Why posting and ghosting hurts engagement
Why repeating “buy my book” posts don’t work
What to share instead to build authority and interest
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Why some social posts flop while others take off
05:39 - Choosing the wrong platform
09:28 - Being relatable, but not relevant
13:16 - Posting and ghosting instead of engaging
17:06 - Not treating your book like a business
20:18 - What to share instead: insights, strategies, and case studies
28. 3 Ways to Sell Your Book Outside of Amazon & Social Media | Self Publishing for Business Owners
Season 1 · Episode 28
Thursday, July 23, 2026 • Duration 19:53
Most authors assume that selling books on Amazon KDP or in bookstores are the only ways to sell thousands of copies. However, there are quite a few ways to sell your book other places and in large numbers. Ashley focuses on 3 ways to diversify your sales channels, viewing books as business assets, & creating engaging experiences for readers.
The conversation covers the benefits of bulk sales to organizations and leveraging speaking engagements to enhance book visibility and sales. You’ll get practical examples and insights to help authors maximize their book's sales potential.
TAKEAWAYS
Why creating experiences with your book increase sales
Why selling more than one copy of your book is simpler
Three ways that don’t rely on social media posting to sell books
Why only focusing on Amazon KDP can be more work
CHAPTERS
00:00 Why Selling Outside of Amazon is Important
00:57 Your Book as a Business Asset
04:07 Create an Experience Around Your Book
07:55 Sell Your Book in Bulk
12:31 Use Speaking Gigs to Sell More Books
17:51 Key Takeaways and Next Steps
RESOURCES:
→GET MORE INFO/BOOK A CALL: Ready to get 1 on 1 support to outline and write your book while a team project manages the publishing process while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand. Book a call:
27. How Business Owner Paula Banks Used Email Marketing & Social Media to Sell Out Her Preorders
Season 1 · Episode 27
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 • Duration 16:38
Many self published and indie authors focus on preorders in ways that might not be the most effective when it comes to profit. Instead, focusing on connecting with your audience can help you presell your book and reach your readers. In this episode, you’ll learn about how Author Paula Y. Banks of Eion Books and Lit Kids Create used email marketing and the power of social media to sell out of her preorder book bundles. As well, Banks shares how her preorder funded editing for her authority book.
TAKEAWAYS
How preorders help prevent coming out of pocket for self publishing
Why she chose not to use Amazon for her presale
How having a step by step processes for preorders makes your book launch easier
How email marketing helped her sell out her preorder bundles
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Welcome of Guest Paula Banks
02:12 Paula's Experience Before A Preorder
03:03 Biggest Takeaways from Preorder Profits™ Course
05:11 What Changes Paula Will Do Next Time
09:05 How Preorders Ease Self Publishing Costs
10:47 How having an authority book increases options for clients
14:14 Rinse and Repeat Your Preorder Knowledge
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
→BOOK A CALL: Ready to get 1 on 1 support to outline and write your book while a team project manages the publishing process while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand. Book a call:
26. 5 Ways to Know It’s Time to Write Your Next Book | Self Publishing for Coaches & Indie Authors
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 • Duration 29:23
It’s common advice to say writing your next book will sell your last book, but that’s not always the case. Focusing on creating a good book that readers can’t put down can sometimes be a better option. Find out 5 ways to know when it’s time to write or publish your next book or if you should revisit your current book.
Takeaways
Why writing the next book to sell your last book is bad advice for you
How a book helps you to move into a new industry
What to do before you write your next book
5 ways to see when it’s time to publish your next book
CHAPTERS
000:00 Introduction to Profitable Publishing
05:53 The Flawed Concept of Writing for Sales
08:07 How One Book Can Leave A Legacy
11:19 The Legacy of a Single Book
15:43 Five Ways to Know When to Write Your Next Book
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
→BOOK A CALL: Ready to get 1 on 1 support to outline and write your book while a team project manages the publishing process while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand. Book a call:https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner
25. Self Publishing Mistakes To Avoid for Coaches, Consultants, Authors, Speakers, & Business Owners
Season 1 · Episode 25
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 • Duration 23:58
Self published and indie authors have a lot of decisions to make in a short amount of time. Take a listen to five common mistakes to avoid on your journey to publishing a book. You’ll learn about the importance of breaking free from traditional publishing rules, starting marketing before the book is finished, and understanding that writing a book doesn't guarantee automatic sales. This episode also highlights the drawbacks of following what every other author does such as hosting preoorders on Amazon or trying to do everything alone.
Takeaways
Why you don’t have to follow traditional publishing rules
Why you shouldn’t wait to market your book
Common misconceptions for new authors
How going against typical publishing advice can help you be successful
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Common Self-Publishing Mistakes
08:33 The Importance of Marketing Before Publishing
24. Should You Sell Your Book on Your Website? How to Increase Income and Connection with Readers
Season 1 · Episode 24
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 • Duration 18:21
Published your book on Amazon? Don’t let that be the only platform you focus on. Instead of only relying on Amazon or bookstores to sell your book, selling on your website increases your income and gives you closer access to your audience. Selling on your site provides more options for readers to connect with you and for you to include extra incentives for purchasing during the preorder period and beyond. Take a listen and share with another author who's on the fence about selling on their site.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Why most authors miss out on 10x their eBook income
How selling on your website allows you to connect with your audience better
Strategies that increase customer engagement and connection through your website
CHAPTERS
00:00 The Importance of Selling Books on Your Website
02:32 Increase Your Income
04:14 Building Connections with Readers
09:42 Creating Content and Social Proof
14:44 How Selling On Your Site Squashes Imposter Syndrome
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
→BOOK A CALL: Ready to get 1 on 1 support to outline and write your book while a team project manages the publishing process while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand. Book a call: https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner
23. Why Marketing Your Book Should Come Before Self Publishing for Authors | Book Marketing
Season 1 · Episode 23
Thursday, June 11, 2026 • Duration 21:01
Most authors wait until their book is in their hands before thinking about book marketing. It's not just asking readers to buy it once it's done. Listen closely to see how to start your marketing before you even start writing.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The pros of starting to market process before publishing
How market research makes a better book
Why waiting until the book is done to market is backwards
CHAPTERS
00:00 The Importance of Pre-Publishing Marketing
03:39 Understanding Your Audience
09:46 Creating Your Book with Market Research
13:39 Engaging Readers in the Writing Process
19:19 Recap and Final Thoughts
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Need support to research, outline, and publish your book while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand.https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner
22. 5 Books to Help with Marketing for Authors | Book As a Business Asset When Self Publishing
Season 1 · Episode 22
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 • Duration 23:14
Successful authors treat their book like a business asset. If your goal is to sell a lot of copies or use it to build authority, you should think of your book as an extension of your brand. These 5 books show you how to apply sales, marketing, and strategies in business for your books.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Five books to read to treat your book like a business
How using business principles increases your success as an author
Why treating your book as an asset instead of a liability is so important
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
02:48 From Author to Business Owners
05:51 The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington Focus and Efficiency
08:29 Write Useful Books by Rob Fitzpatrick: Solving Reader Problems
11:26 Profitable Publishing with Preorders by Ashley D. Shepard: Income from Preorders
14:41 Uncloned® Marketing by Audria Richmond: Standing Out in Your Niche
15:57 Profit First by Mike Michalowicz: Prioritizing Profitability
21:57 Recap and Conclusion
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
→ Learn how to host a profitable preorder from start to finish when you grab your copy of Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders: www.PreorderProfits.com/book (from my site)
21. How your book can shorten sales calls and better qualify clients | Self Publishing for Coaches
Season 1 · Episode 21
Friday, May 29, 2026 • Duration 19:15
A well written book can actually help you land more clients and qualify leads before they even get on a call with you. When your book is positioned properly, clients come to your sales calls knowing you’re a good fit for them because your book has already done the heavily lifting for them. Your book can also support your existing clients to feel more supported.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How a well written book can shorten sales calls
4 ways your book can better support your leads and current clients
Why book buyers make better clients
CHAPTERS
00:00 The Power of a Well-Written Book
07:22 Enhancing Client Engagement and Understanding
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing™ is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
book marketing, self-publishing, sell books, author strategies, book sales, marketing strategies, profitable publishing®, book experiences, speaking engagements
Why do my social media posts get likes but no book sales
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
book marketing, self-publishing, sell books, author strategies, book sales, marketing strategies, profitable publishing, book experiences, bulk book orders, speaking engagements
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
How do I use a book preorder to cover publishing costs?
How do I build an email list as a self published author?
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
How many books to be successful
How to write an engaging nonfiction book
How to make your nonfiction book more reader friendly
How to keep readers engaged in a business book
How to write a business book people will read
Best way to sell books
How to market my books
How to get more page reads
How to write a book to generate leads as a coach or consultant
How to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultants
How to use your book to build authority and get clients
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing™ is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
How to write a nonfiction book readers will actually finish
How to write an engaging nonfiction book
How to make your nonfiction book more reader friendly
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
Can I sell my self-published book on my own website
How do I sell my book without Amazon
Is it better to sell books directly or through Amazon
How do authors make more money selling direct
What platform should I use to sell my book from my website
Do I need a publisher to sell books on my own site
Can I sell my book on my website and Amazon at the same time
Why don't more authors sell books from their own website
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
How to get more book reviews
How to get more page reads
How to sell my book
How to use a self-published book to attract clients
How to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultants
How to use your book to build authority and get clients
How to tell if my book is good enough
How to use a book to grow your coaching business
Self-publishing a book to grow your consulting business
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!
ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.
How to write a nonfiction book readers will actually finish
How to write an engaging nonfiction book
How to make your nonfiction book more reader friendly
How to keep readers engaged in a business book
How to write a business book people will read
How to get more book reviews
How to get more page reads
How to write a book to generate leads as a coach or consultant
How to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultants
How to use your book to build authority and get clients
