
Self Publishing and Book Marketing for Authors, Coaches, Speakers with Profitable Publishing®
Ashley D. Shepard | Self Publishing Consultant and Book Marketing Strategist·31 episodes·Monthly
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Ashley D. Shepard teaches coaches, speakers & consultants to turn expertise into profitable books — 25 episodes of brand, business, and authority building.
Episodes
Latest Episode
October 8, 2026 · 39m
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 23:08 The Power of Book Launches 25:03 Preorder Results 26:09 How Preorders Covered Unexpected Expenses 28:38 Using Preorders to Cover Author Events 29:08 Join the Presell Your Book Live Event 31:34 The Business Side of Books 34:05 Keeping Your Audience Engaged 35:24 Best Seller Status Even AFTER Release RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Kristine D. Smith at Order Koko at the Library: Join Presell Your Book Challenge to learn more success strategies and mistakes to avoid: CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD: Website: Facebook: YouTube: Instagram: LinkedIn: Threads: 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?
More Episodes
Aug 14, 2026 · 22m
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. TAKEAWAYSWhy some posts get more likes How the platform can affect your post’s pathWhy posting and ghosting hurts engagementWhy repeating “buy my book” posts don’t work What to share instead to build authority and interestCHAPTERS00:00 - Why some social posts flop while others take off05:39 - Choosing the wrong platform09:28 - Being relatable, but not relevant13:16 - Posting and ghosting instead of engaging17:06 - Not treating your book like a business20:18 - What to share instead: insights, strategies, and case studiesRESOURCES:→Profitable Publishing® with Preorders www.preorderprofits.com/book →Episode 2: Treat your book like a business https://youtu.be/WJD-lxGldEs →Episode 3: Is social media the right marketing platform for your book? https://youtu.be/0QEAkX7hdg8 →Episode 22: Five books to help you treat your book like a business https://youtu.be/BONX6sMgLrs CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ProfitablePublishing YouTube:www.youtube.com/@ProfitablePublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/profitablepublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@profitablepublishing 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 engagementsWhy do my social media posts get likes but no book salesHow do I market my book on social mediaWhat to post to get book salesWhy do my book promo posts get ignoredWhat kind of content should business authors post
Jul 23, 2026 · 19m
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.TAKEAWAYSWhy creating experiences with your book increase salesWhy selling more than one copy of your book is simplerThree ways that don’t rely on social media posting to sell books Why only focusing on Amazon KDP can be more work CHAPTERS00:00 Why Selling Outside of Amazon is Important00:57 Your Book as a Business Asset04:07 Create an Experience Around Your Book07:55 Sell Your Book in Bulk12:31 Use Speaking Gigs to Sell More Books17:51 Key Takeaways and Next StepsRESOURCES:→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: https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner →Episode 27: Paula Banks Used Preorders to Pay for Editing https://youtu.be/fM2i1ThxYWM?si=iKK42ggCj44c-Pj-→Episode 6: Why Best Seller Status is Overrated https://youtu.be/--g1wUN0vaY?si=cpCMsf8Eik3qdT9fCONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube:www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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
Jul 15, 2026 · 16m
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. TAKEAWAYSHow preorders help prevent coming out of pocket for self publishingWhy she chose not to use Amazon for her presaleHow having a step by step processes for preorders makes your book launch easierHow email marketing helped her sell out her preorder bundlesCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Welcome of Guest Paula Banks02:12 Paula's Experience Before A Preorder03:03 Biggest Takeaways from Preorder Profits™ Course05:11 What Changes Paula Will Do Next Time09:05 How Preorders Ease Self Publishing Costs 10:47 How having an authority book increases options for clients14:14 Rinse and Repeat Your Preorder KnowledgeRESOURCES 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/PartnerCONNECT WITH PAULA: Website: https://paulaybanks.com Instagram: www.instagram.com@authorpaulabanks CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ProfitablePublishing YouTube:www.youtube.com/@profitablepublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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?
Jul 1, 2026 · 29m
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. TakeawaysWhy writing the next book to sell your last book is bad advice for youHow a book helps you to move into a new industryWhat to do before you write your next book5 ways to see when it’s time to publish your next book CHAPTERS000:00 Introduction to Profitable Publishing05:53 The Flawed Concept of Writing for Sales08:07 How One Book Can Leave A Legacy11:19 The Legacy of a Single Book15:43 Five Ways to Know When to Write Your Next BookRESOURCES 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 CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube:www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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 bookHow to make your nonfiction book more reader friendlyHow to keep readers engaged in a business bookHow to write a business book people will readBest way to sell booksHow to market my books How to get more page readsHow to write a book to generate leads as a coach or consultantHow to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultantsHow to use your book to build authority and get clientsHow to write a book that gets sales How to use a book to grow your coaching business
Jun 24, 2026 · 23m
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.TakeawaysWhy 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 successfulCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Common Self-Publishing Mistakes08:33 The Importance of Marketing Before Publishing14:22 Understanding Pre-Orders Off Amazon18:12 The Value of Delegation in Publishing23:31 Strategies for Attracting Your AudienceRESOURCES MENTIONED:→Get support to presell your book to raving fans and generate income in the Preorder Profits™ Program https://Www.PreorderProfits.com/Join →Episodes mentioned: https://profitablepublishing.riverside.comMarketing: 12, 23 Hiring Help: 4 & 16 Selling on your site: 23CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube:www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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 finishHow to write an engaging nonfiction bookHow to make your nonfiction book more reader friendlyHow to keep readers engaged in a business bookHow to write a business book people will read
Jun 17, 2026 · 18m
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 LEARNWhy most authors miss out on 10x their eBook income How selling on your website allows you to connect with your audience betterStrategies that increase customer engagement and connection through your websiteCHAPTERS00:00 The Importance of Selling Books on Your Website02:32 Increase Your Income04:14 Building Connections with Readers09:42 Creating Content and Social Proof14:44 How Selling On Your Site Squashes Imposter SyndromeRESOURCES 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 CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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 websiteHow do I sell my book without AmazonIs it better to sell books directly or through AmazonHow do authors make more money selling directWhat platform should I use to sell my book from my websiteDo I need a publisher to sell books on my own siteCan I sell my book on my website and Amazon at the same timeWhy don't more authors sell books from their own websiteHow do I get paid directly from book salesWhat do I need to sell books from my own site
Jun 11, 2026 · 21m
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 LEARNThe pros of starting to market process before publishingHow market research makes a better bookWhy waiting until the book is done to market is backwardsCHAPTERS00:00 The Importance of Pre-Publishing Marketing03:39 Understanding Your Audience09:46 Creating Your Book with Market Research13:39 Engaging Readers in the Writing Process19:19 Recap and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES 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 Ep 7 → Find Your Readers https://profitablepublishing.riverside.com/e/7-find-your-readers-marketing-for-authors-book-as-a-business-asset-when-self-publishing CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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 reviewsHow to get more page readsHow to sell my bookHow to use a self-published book to attract clientsHow to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultantsHow to use your book to build authority and get clientsHow to tell if my book is good enoughHow to use a book to grow your coaching businessSelf-publishing a book to grow your consulting businessHow to get clients from a self-published book
Jun 3, 2026 · 23m
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 LEARNFive books to read to treat your book like a businessHow using business principles increases your success as an authorWhy treating your book as an asset instead of a liability is so importantCHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:48 From Author to Business Owners05:51 The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington Focus and Efficiency08:29 Write Useful Books by Rob Fitzpatrick: Solving Reader Problems11:26 Profitable Publishing with Preorders by Ashley D. Shepard: Income from Preorders14:41 Uncloned® Marketing by Audria Richmond: Standing Out in Your Niche15:57 Profit First by Mike Michalowicz: Prioritizing Profitability21:57 Recap and ConclusionRESOURCES 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)Full list of books and (Amazon affiliate) links: 12 Week Year: https://amzn.to/4kBnKqLWrite Useful Books: https://amzn.to/3H6VmP9Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders: https://amzn.to/3HeQSpB UnCloned® Marketing: https://amzn.to/43dxfH0Profit First: https://amzn.to/4kF3yViCONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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.
May 29, 2026 · 19m
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 LEARNHow a well written book can shorten sales calls4 ways your book can better support your leads and current clients Why book buyers make better clients CHAPTERS00:00 The Power of a Well-Written Book07:22 Enhancing Client Engagement and Understanding10:21 Visual Learning and Comprehension12:14 Facilitating Deeper Conversations16:27 Qualifying Leads Through ReadingRESOURCES MENTIONED:→Ready to have an expert project manage and produce your book while you still keep your rights and royalties? Apply to the Profitable Publishing® Partner Service to learn how to outline, write, publish, a well written book that elevates your business or brand. Click here to book a call or secure your spot: https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing 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 finishHow to write an engaging nonfiction bookHow to make your nonfiction book more reader friendlyHow to keep readers engaged in a business bookHow to write a business book people will readHow to get more book reviewsHow to get more page readsHow to write a book to generate leads as a coach or consultantHow to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultantsHow to use your book to build authority and get clientsHow to write a lead magnet book for your businessHow to use a book to grow your coaching business