Roadmap to Referrals
Ep #383: A Conversation with My Publisher
Host: Stacey Brown Randall
Guest: Jesse Finkelstein, Page Two Publishing
Date: October 14, 2025
Episode Overview
In this candid and insightful conversation, Stacey Brown Randall welcomes her publisher, Jesse Finkelstein of Page Two Publishing, to discuss the behind-the-scenes realities of publishing a book. The episode centers on Stacey’s soon-to-be-released book, The Referable Client Experience, and explores core topics such as how publishers select authors, the differences between publishing models, the rigor of the editorial process, and the importance of strategic partnership between author and publisher. Both share personal anecdotes, industry wisdom, and practical advice, making the episode invaluable for anyone curious about, or planning, a book project.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. The “Countdown” to the New Book Launch
[00:05–04:21]
- Stacey shares her excitement and exhaustion leading up to the launch of The Referable Client Experience, available across formats next week.
- She introduces exclusive bonuses (digital workbook, discounts on bulk purchases, a free masterclass) for early purchasers.
- Announces that Jesse, her publisher at Page Two, will join to demystify the publishing process.
Notable quote:
"It's one of those things that you're like so excited and, and so over it all at the same time."
—Stacey, [04:47]
2. The Author-Publisher Relationship
[04:21–06:59]
- Stacey describes being referred to Page Two as particularly meaningful, tying back to her core philosophy on referrals.
- Jesse emphasizes the long, strategic partnership that occurs when working on a book together.
- Both reflect on the 18-month journey of bringing the book to life.
Notable quote:
"It's beautiful that way in a very fast paced world to have this kind of partnership where we're working together to craft something of such high integrity and quality over time."
—Jesse, [07:15]
3. What Publishers Look for in Authors
[07:00–09:02]
- Jesse explains that Page Two carefully curates its author list, seeking those who "change the conversation in their field," are “at the top of their game,” and solve real problems for readers.
- They value authors who frame ideas clearly, provide elegant solutions, and bring unique insights.
- A partnership is built on mutual respect for expertise.
Notable quote:
"People who are not only contributing to the dialog, but you're actually changing the way we think about it. That's what we look for."
—Jesse, [08:37]
4. Traditional vs. Hybrid vs. Self Publishing
[09:02–13:38]
- Jesse provides a publisher’s breakdown of the three primary models:
- Traditional Publishing: Publisher licenses your rights, fronts costs, and controls production, design, timing, etc.
- Self Publishing: A DIY approach; authors oversee all aspects, sometimes hiring freelancers.
- Hybrid Publishing: Sits between traditional and self-publishing; authors retain rights, pay for production, and receive a higher share of earnings. Hybrid publishers, like Page Two, don't license rights but rigorously support authors.
- Stacey shares she chose hybrid for the control and support it offers, aligning with her entrepreneurial style.
Notable quote:
"For us, the question was, how do we better serve the authors we really want to work with? ... Ultimately, we are in service to our authors."
—Jesse, [10:48]
5. Author Control & The Editorial Process
[13:38–18:46]
- Stacey values the control inherent in hybrid publishing but also didn’t want to “go it alone.”
- She discusses the rigorous editorial process with Page Two, including working with multiple editors to refine her craft.
- Jesse underscores that a good publishing partnership combines respect for the author’s unique market insights and the publisher’s expertise.
Notable quotes:
"I don't really play well in the sandbox. I kind of like to control and own my own world and make my own decisions."
—Stacey, [13:38]
"You came in saying you were looking for that rigor... I really want to amplify my message and I want the best possible team to help me do it."
—Jesse, [16:42]
6. Creating a Standalone Companion Workbook
[18:46–22:34]
- Stacey and Jesse discuss the decision to separate the workbook from the main text with this second book.
- The workbook is designed to guide readers in implementing what they learn, not just to supplement the concepts.
- This companion is presented as a tool for reflection and action, adding depth to the book for readers who want to make tangible changes.
Notable quotes:
"It's not enough to just leave the ideas. You need people to be able to implement them."
—Jesse, [18:46]
"If you're reading the book and you're like, okay, here we go, another exercise... I think having that one place that you can go and be like, yes, I can digitally, or I can print it... do this exercise and do this work, I think is really important."
—Stacey, [19:16]
7. Reflections on Growth & Continuous Improvement
[15:41–22:52]
- Stacey reflects on her first book’s enduring success but acknowledges she’s become better at her craft and could improve on it now.
- Both discuss the natural inclination of authors to find imperfections and the importance of seeking continuous improvement.
- Jesse reiterates choosing a partner who truly honors your market knowledge.
8. The Strategic Value of the Publisher-Author Partnership
[22:53–24:36]
- Stacey emphasizes the necessity of a publishing partner who contributes strategic thinking about the coherence of her body of work.
- Jesse highlights the need for clarity and communication in any partnership.
Notable quote:
"No matter what the model is that you're in, [be sure] you're putting on the table what's important to you, being clear about that all the way through so that people can step up and do their best work for you."
—Jesse, [23:58]
9. Practical Advice for Aspiring Authors
[24:36–26:18]
- Jesse invites listeners to explore working with Page Two, mentioning a rigorous submission form designed to help authors clarify their vision.
- Stacey endorses the submission form as a useful tool, whether or not the writer is ready to proceed.
Memorable Moments & Quotes
- "My kids say the equivalent for sure." —Jesse, on family indifference to publishing success [05:34]
- "I was like, should I just put a copy in the bathroom? Because that may be where you're gonna [read it]." —Stacey, [05:36]
- "You're in service to your audience... all the way along you've been saying, I really need the workbook as well." —Jesse, [18:46]
- "This has become required reading for our team. And the Workbook Companion is going to offer such a great way to allow ourselves, our team, to see themselves in it." —Jesse, [21:16]
- “Let’s do it again.” —Jesse, inviting Stacey to repeat the process [24:36]
Key Timestamps
- [00:05] – Stacey introduces the episode and pre-launch bonuses
- [04:21] – Jesse joins and discusses excitement over launching the book
- [07:00] – What Page Two seeks in authors
- [09:02] – Breakdown of publishing models
- [13:38] – Stacey’s rationale for choosing hybrid publishing
- [16:42] – The realities and rigor of the editorial partnership
- [18:46] – Importance and development of the companion workbook
- [21:16] – Application of the workbook for teams
- [24:36] – Jesse's practical advice for aspiring authors
- [25:12] – Where to learn more about Page Two
Conclusion
Stacey and Jesse’s conversation offers an honest, practical behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce a meaningful, market-shifting book in today’s publishing landscape. Listeners gain clarity on the different publishing avenues, hear firsthand about the creative and editorial journey, and take away actionable advice on choosing the right publishing path. The episode reinforces the value of a collaborative partnership and a client-centered approach—echoing the foundational philosophy of both The Referable Client Experience and Stacey’s broader work.
For more resources, links to Page Two, and information about Stacey’s upcoming book and bonuses, visit the Show Notes at staceybrownrandall.com/383.