Your Path to Book Publishing – Details, episodes & analysis

What is an author brand really built on?

This episode of Your Path to Book Publishing pulls together key insights from the recent author branding series, including lessons inspired by conversations with Jill Schulman, author of The Bravery Effect, and branding expert Ty Schmidt. 

At the center of the discussion is a simple but important truth: an author brand is not built only through visuals, content, or visibility. It is built through reputation, relationships, clarity, and consistent action over time. 

The episode explores why a book often acts as an ambassador for an author’s brand, why genuine engagement matters more than passive posting, and why many authors delay meaningful progress by telling themselves “someday.” It also offers a reminder that author branding is often a messy process, but that does not mean something is going wrong. In many cases, the mess is part of building something real. 

By the time you finish listening, you’ll learn:

•  Why reputation is one of the strongest foundations of an author brand 
•  How relationships help shape visibility and long-term trust 
•  Why authors need to move beyond “posting and ghosting” 
•  How “someday” can quietly delay a book and brand for years 
•  Why authors should think of themselves as the guide, not the hero, in their readers’ journey 

For authors who have been thinking about their brand but are unsure where to focus, this episode offers a practical invitation: choose one takeaway and apply it. A stronger author brand is built one decision, one relationship, and one action at a time. 

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

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Building an author brand can feel messy.

You are trying to figure out how your brand connects to your book, how your book supports your brand, and how to actually show up online in a way that feels clear, consistent, and real.

In this episode of Your Path to Book Publishing, Zach talks with Ty Schmidt about what actually helps people pay attention to your brand. Together, they unpack why branding is not just about graphics, logos, or posting content. It is about the relationships and reputation you build over time and what people come to know you for.

Ty shares insights from her background in journalism, social media, and brand-building, along with practical advice for authors who feel overwhelmed by all the different platforms and pressure to do everything at once.

By the time you finish listening, you’ll learn:

• Why relationships and reputation are such a powerful part of author branding
• How to get clearer on who you are and what your brand stands for
• Why authors do not need to be on every platform to build momentum
• How to engage online in a way that actually builds connection
• Why “posting and ghosting” is not enough if you want people to remember you

Ty also shares a simple but challenging question authors should ask themselves: Who are you in 12 words or less? That clarity can become a foundation for how you show up online, communicate your message, and connect with the people you want to serve.

If you have been overthinking your author brand or feeling like you need to do more before you can start, this episode is a helpful reminder that progress matters more than perfection, and that sometimes the best place to begin is by choosing one platform, one message, and one way to start showing up consistently.

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

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CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Many nonfiction authors believe the first milestone of writing a book is finishing a draft.

It’s not.

In this episode of Your Path to Book Publishing, we explore the often-overlooked stage that determines whether your writing flows, your publishing decisions make sense, and your marketing actually connects.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by too many book ideas…
If you’ve rewritten the same chapter multiple times…
If you’re unsure who your book is really for…

This episode addresses the real issue underneath those frustrations.

Because most authors don’t have a productivity problem.
They have a positioning problem.

And without solving that first, the rest of the author journey — from book development to publishing to marketing — becomes harder than it needs to be.

Inside this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why “having too many ideas” is often a warning sign
• The hidden phase of the author journey most writers skip
• How lack of clarity quietly slows down writing and decision-making
• A simple way to test whether your book concept is strong enough to move forward

If you want to write faster, publish smarter, and build a nonfiction book that actually lands with readers, this episode will help you rethink where the journey truly begins.

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

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Episode OverviewIn this episode of "Beyond the Book," we tackle the significant yet often overlooked aspect of hiring a ghostwriter for your book project. We discuss when and why an author might consider bringing a ghostwriter on board, outlining the benefits, roles, and signs that indicate the need for one.

Key Points Discussed:

• Understanding Ghostwriters: Breaking down the misconception that ghostwriters are solely for writing, and exploring their broader role in idea development and editing.
• When to Consider a Ghostwriter: Delving into the reasons for hiring a ghostwriter, such as enhancing idea development, tackling the actual writing process, or providing developmental editing.
• The Roles of a Ghostwriter: Exploring the different roles a ghostwriter can play – from being an ideation partner to handling the writing or acting as a developmental editor.
• Cost and Timeline Factors: Understanding how the amount of work you delegate to a ghostwriter affects both the cost and timeline of your project.
• Recognizing the Need for a Ghostwriter: Identifying signs that you might benefit from a ghostwriter, such as time constraints, writing skill limitations, or the need for quality enhancement.
• Making an Informed Decision: The importance of understanding your strengths and weaknesses as an author and how a ghostwriter can complement your skills.

Action Item:

Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses as an author and assess whether a ghostwriter could help enhance your project.

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyondthebook 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

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Episode Overview

In this episode of "Beyond the Book," we delve into the complex yet rewarding realm of co-authorship. We discuss the potential benefits and challenges of co-authoring a book and provide essential advice for those considering this collaborative journey.

Key Points Discussed:

• Co-Authorship Realities: Understanding that co-authorship is more than a casual agreement and can be as intricate as a business partnership.
• Why Choose a Co-Author: Examining the reasons behind opting for co-authorship, whether it's filling knowledge gaps, improving writing, or gaining added credibility.
• Approaching it Like a Business: Treating co-authorship as a serious business partnership, considering factors like decision-making, equity, and profit distribution.
• Setting Clear Expectations: The importance of clear communication and understanding roles, commitments, and legal implications of co-authorship.
• Defining Contributions and Structure: Deciding each co-author's contributions, the book's structure, and whether to have a unified voice or distinct voices from each author.
• Alternatives to Co-Authorship: Exploring other options when full co-authorship isn't necessary, such as limited contributions or acknowledgments.
• Challenges of Multiple Authors: A cautionary tale about the complexities and potential complications when involving multiple co-authors.

Action Item:

• Carefully weigh the pros and cons of co-authorship and make an informed decision about entering into such a partnership.

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyondthebook 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

In this episode, we dive deep into the essentials of building your own community as an author. We explore the advantages and challenges of being a community leader and offer practical steps to establish and grow your own group.

Key Points Discussed:

• Community Building Basics: Understanding the initial steps in creating a community, including choosing the right platform (like email newsletters, Facebook groups, etc.) and understanding the trade-offs of each.
• Social Media Dynamics: The nuances of fostering growth and connections in social media groups, and the importance of monitoring group dynamics.
• Effort and Growth: Insights into the initial heavy lifting required to launch a community and strategies for maintaining engagement and consistency.
• Finding Super Fans: The value of building a community in identifying and nurturing super fans who can amplify your efforts.
• Providing Value: Emphasizing the importance of offering genuine value to your community members to build long-lasting relationships.

Action Item:

• Decide whether you are ready to build your own community and start making connections today.

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyondthebook 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Episode Overview:

Learn about the introduction to the significance of community building for authors, with an emphasis on the various experiences and impacts of being part of communities.

Key Highlights:

• The diversity of community forms available to authors, ranging from social media groups to more traditional forums.
• The role of community participation in enhancing an author's brand.
• Strategies for choosing the right community that aligns with an author's interests and expertise.
• Tips for contributing effectively to existing groups and establishing a credible voice and brand.
• Insights into creating one's own author community, including understanding where the target audience congregates.
• Discussion on alternative communication channels for building communities, such as email newsletters, Substack, Slack, and WhatsApp.
• The balance between quantity and quality in different community building channels.

Action Items:

• Encouragement for listeners to identify and participate in communities relevant to their interests.
• Guidance for those considering starting their own author community.

Upcoming Content:

Future episodes will focus on the intricacies of building and managing a community, along with key considerations for starting one.

Engagement Opportunities:

Invitation for listeners to engage with the podcast by visiting the website for Q&A sessions and author coaching.

Actionable Insights:

For today, your action item is to explore what communities you can participate in and, if you want to start a community, what that might look like

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyondthebook 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

In this episode, we dive into the perplexing challenge of selling books in the current market, despite their affordability.

Key Statistics:

• A startling revelation from a YouGov.com survey: In 2023, only 54% of Americans read at least one book, implying 46% read none.
• Reading habits breakdown: 5 books a year places you in the top 33%, 10 books in the top 21%, and 50 books in the top 1%.

Discussion Points:

• Evolving Reading Habits: Understanding how content consumption is shifting from traditional books to digital platforms.
• The Impact of Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Emphasizing the power of recommendations in promoting books.

Author's Journey:

• The Book as an Extension of the Author: Exploring how a book represents the author’s brand and identity across various platforms.
• Content Strategy: Encouraging authors to think beyond the book and consider their overall content strategy.

Four Key Strategies for Authors:

1. Multiple Interactions: Ensuring readers engage multiple times with your content for better brand engagement.
2. Clarity in Offering: Highlighting the importance of clear, concise communication of your expertise and the value proposition of your content.
3. Creating Engaging Books: Aiming to write books that not only attract but retain reader interest, encouraging recommendations.
4. Symbiotic Relationship Between Brand and Book: Understanding how each published piece, be it on social media, newsletters, or podcasts, nurtures the author's brand.

Actionable Insights:

Encouragement to create compelling content that resonates and is share-worthy.

Strategies to increase reader engagement and word-of-mouth marketing.

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyond-the-book 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

THE AUTHOR  EDGE VIRTUAL SUMMIT 

Where Writing, Branding, and Marketing Converge!

Friday, February 2, 2024

SAVE 50% WITH EARLY BIRD PRICING AND ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL BONUSES

Register at www.juxtabook.com/authoredgesummit 

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Episode Overview:

• The episode explores the impact that every book, regardless of its scope, has on both the author and the readers.
• Discussion on how writing, whether published or not, is a transformative experience for authors.
• Emphasis on the varied and often surprising impacts a book can have on its readers.

Key Points:

The Transformative Power of Writing:

• Exploring how the act of writing, be it fiction, non-fiction, or research, profoundly affects the author.
• Writing as a transformative journey, regardless of publication.

Unexpected Impacts on Readers:

• The episode underlines the importance of authors considering the potential impact of their work.
• Recognizing that a book's influence can be intentional or unintentional, large or small, and sometimes surprising.

Personal Story: "Curious George Makes Pancakes":

• Sharing a personal anecdote about how "Curious George Makes Pancakes" inspired the host's young son.
• The story illustrates how a simple children's book led to a charitable initiative by the son, who organized an ice cream fundraiser for a local children's hospital.
• The event's success and the positive experience of buying and delivering toys to the hospital.

Reflective Questions for Authors:

1. What impact do you envision your book having?
2. Inviting authors to consider and list the potential personal impacts, reader impacts, and unexpected outcomes their writing might generate.
3. Encouraging thoughts on how a book might inspire others to write or take positive actions.

Podcast Website: www.juxtabook.com/podcasts/beyond-the-book 

Submit a Question:  To submit a question and to see the show notes, please visit https://www.juxtabook.com/beyondthebook and press the appropriate button.

Learn more about Your Path to Book Publishing by visiting Juxtabook.com  and discover if traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid publishing is right for you. 

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Instagram @juxtabookpress

Connect with the Host on LinkedIn: @ZachKristensen

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!
CONNECT WITH US: Website | Instagram | Facebook