In this conversation, Peter Anthony interviews Michele DeFilippo, an expert in self-publishing. They discuss the benefits of having a published book for business owners and entrepreneurs, the challenges of writing and self-publishing a book, and the services provided by Michele's publishing company. The main steps in the publishing process are editing, cover design, typesetting, proofreading, and printing. Michele emphasizes the importance of professional services and the misconception that a traditional publisher is necessary. In this conversation, Peter Anthony and Michele DeFilippo discuss the process of publishing books, focusing on printed books and e-books. They cover topics such as choosing keywords and descriptions for book listings, the best platforms for publishing books (including Amazon and IngramSpark), the benefits of self-publishing, the importance of maintaining control over your book, and the option of creating audiobooks. Michele also shares her own book, 'Publish Like the Pros,' which provides an overview of the publishing industry.

Takeaways

Having a published book is a great way for business owners and entrepreneurs to showcase their expertise and tell their customers more about their business.

The biggest challenge in self-publishing is finding accurate information online and understanding that a traditional publisher is not necessary.

The publishing process involves steps such as editing, cover design, typesetting, proofreading, and printing.

Professional services, such as editing and book design, are crucial for creating a high-quality book.

Authors should focus on writing their manuscript and then seek help from experts in the publishing industry. Choose keywords and descriptions carefully when listing your book on platforms like Amazon.

Consider using both Amazon's KDP and IngramSpark for the widest distribution and lowest cost.

Self-publishing allows authors to maintain control over their books.

Audiobooks can be created as an additional format for your book.

Michele DeFilippo offers a book called 'Publish Like the Pros' that provides an overview of the publishing industry.

Sound Bites

"It's a great way to tell your customers about your business."

"A book is kind of like a college diploma. It proves that you were able to put in four years worth of effort."

"Independent publishing means you are the publisher and you don't need a publisher."

"By using both of these platforms together, you get the widest distribution at the lowest cost."

"We can do all sorts of things for people. We can build a website. We can help you with your audio book. We can help with marketing and promotion, whatever the author needs."

"I normally recommend a professional narrator because they just do, they know how to breathe and they're trained and they know how to make the book come to life in a way that most people just can't do."

Chapters