Self Publishing Speakers

A self publishing speaker is someone who educates, inspires, and guides audiences on the topic of publishing books independently-without going through traditional publishing houses. These speakers typically have firsthand experience with platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, or even direct-to-reader models.

They're often authors themselves, but not always. Some are marketers, editors, or coaches who specialize in helping others publish successfully. What sets them apart is their ability to communicate strategies, tools, and mindsets that empower others to take control of their publishing journey.

Self publishing speakers appear in a variety of settings: virtual summits, podcasts, webinars, author conferences, and even corporate events where professionals are learning to use books as business tools. Their talks can range from technical walkthroughs (like how to format an eBook) to high-level strategy (like building an author brand).

Unlike traditional publishing experts, self publishing speakers emphasize speed, control, and ownership. They often advocate for leveraging books as lead magnets, passive income streams, or brand-building tools. And because the self publishing landscape changes rapidly, these speakers are usually on the cutting edge of trends-like AI-assisted writing, serialized fiction platforms, or audiobook distribution.

In short, a self publishing speaker is both a practitioner and a communicator, bridging the gap between doing and teaching in the world of independent publishing.

When you're navigating the ever-evolving world of independent publishing, a self publishing speaker can be the compass that keeps you from getting lost. Here's why they matter.

First, they bring clarity to complexity. The self publishing process involves a maze of decisions-ISBNs, formatting tools, distribution channels, pricing strategies. A skilled speaker breaks all that down into digestible insights. They help you avoid costly mistakes, like choosing the wrong print-on-demand service or launching without a marketing plan.

Second, they offer up-to-date knowledge. The publishing landscape shifts fast. What worked in 2018 might flop today. Self publishing speakers stay current with algorithm changes on Amazon, new monetization models like Substack or Patreon, and emerging trends like AI narration. Their talks are often the fastest way to get a pulse on what's working now.

Third, they inspire action. Hearing from someone who's walked the path-published multiple books, built a reader base, maybe even hit bestseller lists-can be the push someone needs to finally hit 'publish'. That motivation is especially crucial for first-time authors or entrepreneurs using books to grow their brand.

And finally, they build community. Whether it's through a podcast interview or a summit panel, self publishing speakers often spark conversations that lead to collaborations, mastermind groups, or mentorships. They're not just sharing knowledge-they're creating momentum.

So if you're hosting an event, running a podcast, or building a summit, including a self publishing speaker isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a strategic move to deliver real value to your audience.

Self publishing speakers do more than just talk about books-they guide, teach, and empower others to take control of their publishing journey. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Educate Audiences on the Publishing Process.
- They explain how to go from manuscript to published book, covering editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution.
- Example: A speaker might walk an audience through uploading a book to Amazon KDP, step by step.

2. Share Marketing and Monetization Strategies.
- They teach how to build an email list, run book ads, or use a book as a lead magnet for a business.
- Many also cover pricing strategies, launch sequences, and how to get reviews.

3. Inspire Through Personal Experience.
- Most self publishing speakers have published their own books and share real-world lessons-both successes and failures.
- Their stories help demystify the process and make it feel achievable.

4. Customize Talks for Different Audiences.
- For entrepreneurs, they might focus on using books to generate leads.
- For creatives, they might dive into storytelling and audience building.
- For educators or nonprofits, they might explore how books can amplify a mission.

5. Stay Current and Share Trends.
- They often discuss the latest tools, like AI writing assistants or new distribution platforms.
- This helps audiences stay ahead of the curve in a fast-changing industry.

In essence, self publishing speakers are part educator, part strategist, and part motivator. They don't just inform-they activate.

Becoming a self publishing speaker isn't just about writing a book and grabbing a mic. It's about building credibility, crafting your message, and knowing how to land speaking gigs that align with your expertise. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Define Your Niche and Message
- Choose a topic you're passionate about and have experience in. Are you an expert in indie publishing, Amazon KDP, or book marketing? Your niche should be specific.
- Craft a signature talk that solves a problem or delivers a transformation. For example, 'How to Sell 10,000 Books Without a Publisher'.

2. Write and Publish Your Book
- Self-publish your book using platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, IngramSpark, or Draft2Digital.
- Ensure your book is professionally edited, has a strong cover, and includes a call-to-action linking to your speaker page or website.

3. Build Your Speaker Page
- Use a platform like Talks.co to create a speaker profile. Include your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a video clip of you speaking.
- Make it easy for event organizers to book you by including a contact form or booking calendar.

4. Start Speaking Locally and Online
- Reach out to local libraries, writing groups, and online summits. Offer to speak for free to build your portfolio.
- Use Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, virtual event organizers, and summit producers looking for speakers in self publishing.

5. Promote Yourself Consistently
- Share clips of your talks on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.
- Pitch yourself to podcasts and virtual events using a clear speaker one-sheet.
- Collect testimonials and update your speaker page regularly.

Once you've got a few talks under your belt, you can start charging for your expertise. And remember, every great speaker started with one gig. Keep refining your message and showing up.

To be a self publishing speaker, you need more than just a book and a microphone. You need a blend of credibility, communication skills, and a platform that connects you with the right audience. Let's break it down:

1. A Published Book (Obviously)
Your book is your calling card. It proves you've walked the walk. Whether it's a memoir, how-to guide, or business strategy, your book should reflect your expertise and offer value. Self-publishing gives you full control, but make sure it's polished-hire an editor and designer.

2. A Clear Message and Target Audience
What do you want to say, and who needs to hear it? Your message should be focused. Are you helping first-time authors? Teaching entrepreneurs how to monetize their books? The clearer your message, the easier it is to get booked.

3. Speaking Skills
You don't need to be a TEDx veteran, but you do need to engage an audience. Practice your delivery. Record yourself. Join a local Toastmasters group or take an online speaking course. Confidence and clarity go a long way.

4. A Speaker Platform
You need a place where event organizers can find and book you. Talks.co is a great option-it lets you create a speaker page, list your topics, and connect with hosts looking for experts in self publishing.

5. Testimonials and Video Proof
If you've spoken at events, collect testimonials. If not, record a 3-minute demo reel. Show your energy, your message, and your ability to deliver value. This helps build trust with event organizers.

In short, being a self publishing speaker means blending your author credibility with a clear message, solid delivery, and a platform like Talks.co to get discovered. It's not about being famous-it's about being findable and valuable.

Yes, self publishing speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, niche, audience size, and the type of event. Let's unpack the landscape.

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
Many new speakers start with unpaid gigs to build credibility. Think podcasts, webinars, or local writing groups. But seasoned speakers, especially those with bestsellers or a strong personal brand, can command fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience Level: First-time speakers might earn $0-$500 per event. Mid-level speakers can earn $1,000-$3,000. Top-tier speakers can go beyond $10,000.
- Event Type: Corporate conferences and publishing expos pay more than local meetups or online summits.
- Audience Size: The larger the audience, the higher the potential fee. A keynote at a 5,000-person event pays more than a 20-person workshop.
- Location and Format: In-person events often cover travel and lodging. Virtual events may pay less but offer more volume.

Pros and Cons of Paid Speaking
- Pros:
- Direct income.
- Exposure to new audiences.
- Authority-building.
- Cons:
- Competitive.
- Requires marketing and negotiation.
- Payment timelines can vary.

Platforms like Talks.co can help speakers get discovered and booked, especially when you have a polished speaker page and clear topics. While not every gig pays cash, many offer indirect value-like book sales, consulting leads, or media exposure.

Self publishing speakers generate income in multiple ways, and it's rarely just about the speaking fee. Think of it as a revenue ecosystem where each part feeds the other. Here's a breakdown of the most common income streams:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. Event organizers pay speakers to deliver keynotes, workshops, or panels. Rates vary widely, as covered in the 'Do self publishing speakers get paid' section.

2. Book Sales
Every talk is a chance to sell books. Speakers often include a book bundle in their speaking package or sell copies at the back of the room. At virtual events, they link to their Amazon or personal sales page.

3. Online Courses and Coaching
Many speakers offer deeper learning through online courses or coaching programs. For example, a speaker might give a talk on 'How to Launch a Book in 30 Days' and then upsell a $497 course or a $1,000 coaching package.

4. Affiliate Marketing
Some speakers earn commissions by recommending tools like Scrivener, Canva, or self publishing platforms. If you mention these in your talk, you can include affiliate links in your slides or follow-up emails.

5. Consulting and Done-For-You Services
High-ticket services like book launch consulting, ghostwriting, or publishing strategy are common. A speaker might land a $5,000 client from a single talk.

6. Sponsorships and Partnerships
If you have a niche audience, sponsors may pay to be mentioned in your talks or included in your slides. This works well in webinars and summits.

The smartest self publishing speakers diversify their income. They don't rely on one gig-they build a system that turns every talk into a business opportunity.

Earnings for self publishing speakers vary widely, depending on experience, niche, and how diversified their income streams are. Let's look at the numbers and scenarios to give you a realistic picture.
Typical Income Ranges

Experience Level	Per Gig Fee	Annual Income Estimate
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Intermediate	$500 - $3,000	$10,000 - $50,000
Advanced	$3,000 - $10,000	$50,000 - $150,000+

Variables That Affect Income
- Frequency of Speaking: Someone doing 2 gigs a month at $1,000 each earns $24,000/year. Add book sales and coaching, and that could double.
- Backend Offers: Speakers who sell a $997 course or $5,000 consulting package can earn more from one talk than from the speaking fee itself.
- Audience Size and Reach: A talk at a major conference can lead to media coverage, podcast invites, and bulk book sales.
Example Scenarios
- A speaker at a writing summit earns $1,500 for the talk, sells 100 books at $10 profit each, and lands two $2,000 coaching clients. Total: $5,500 from one event.
- Another speaker does 10 unpaid podcasts but gains 500 email subscribers and sells $3,000 in online courses.
The takeaway? Your income as a self publishing speaker depends on how well you leverage each opportunity. The talk is just the start.

If you're an event organizer or summit host wondering what it costs to book a self publishing speaker, the answer depends on several factors. Let's break it down by event type, speaker experience, and what's included.
Typical Speaker Fee Ranges

Speaker Level	Virtual Events	In-Person Events
New Speaker	Free - $500	$250 - $1,000
Mid-Level Speaker	$500 - $2,000	$1,000 - $5,000
High-Profile Speaker	$2,000 - $10,000+	$5,000 - $20,000+

Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel and Lodging: For in-person events, you may need to cover airfare, hotel, and meals.
- Book Bundles: Some speakers offer discounted bulk book purchases as part of their fee.
- Custom Workshops: A tailored workshop or breakout session may cost extra.
- Licensing or Recording Rights: If you want to record and reuse the talk, expect to pay more.
When You Might Get a Discount
- Nonprofits or Educational Events: Speakers may reduce fees or speak pro bono.
- Virtual Summits: Lower overhead often means lower fees.
- Exposure or Lead Generation: If your event offers high visibility or access to a targeted audience, some speakers will waive their fee in exchange for promotion.
Using a platform like Talks.co can help you filter speakers by budget and see exactly what they offer. It also streamlines communication and booking, saving you time and guesswork.

Here's a curated list of standout self publishing speakers who've made a lasting impact on the industry. These are the folks who've not only mastered the craft of publishing but also know how to deliver a message that sticks.

- Joanna Penn: Author of 'How to Market a Book' and host of The Creative Penn podcast, Joanna is a go-to speaker for indie authors. Her talks blend practical advice with future-forward trends like AI in publishing.

- Mark Dawson: Known for his Self Publishing Formula courses, Mark regularly speaks at publishing conferences and webinars. His data-driven approach to book marketing is a favorite among fiction authors.

- Chandler Bolt: Founder of Self-Publishing School, Chandler has spoken at TEDx and major business events. His high-energy style and clear frameworks make him a favorite for entrepreneurs.

- Jane Friedman: A veteran in the publishing world, Jane speaks at universities, conferences, and writer festivals. Her insights into the business of publishing are unmatched.

- Dave Chesson: Creator of Publisher Rocket, Dave is a tech-savvy speaker who breaks down SEO, keywords, and Amazon algorithms in a way that's easy to understand.

- Derek Murphy: A designer and author, Derek combines visual storytelling with publishing strategy. His talks often include live design demos and marketing hacks.

- Tom Corson-Knowles: Author of 'The Kindle Publishing Bible', Tom has spoken at global summits and online events. He focuses on passive income and long-term publishing success.

These speakers have helped shape the self publishing world through their books, talks, and online platforms. They've earned their spots not just by writing, but by teaching others how to thrive.

Looking globally, the best self publishing speakers bring a mix of cultural insight, platform expertise, and audience engagement. Here are some top names from around the world who are influencing the self publishing space:

- Joanna Penn (UK): A true global voice, Joanna speaks at events across Europe, North America, and online. Her international perspective on publishing trends makes her a top choice for global audiences.

- Chandler Bolt (USA): With a worldwide student base through Self-Publishing School, Chandler's talks resonate with aspiring authors from every continent.

- Mark Dawson (UK): His Self Publishing Formula podcast and online courses have a global following. He's spoken at events in the US, Australia, and Europe.

- Ankur Warikoo (India): While not solely focused on publishing, Ankur's talks on content creation and self branding include self publishing as a key pillar. His influence in South Asia is massive.

- Tom Corson-Knowles (USA): With a global audience for his Kindle publishing strategies, Tom's webinars and virtual summits attract attendees from over 100 countries.

- Orna Ross (Ireland): Founder of the Alliance of Independent Authors, Orna speaks at major international book fairs and advocates for indie authors worldwide.

- Michael La Ronn (USA): A prolific author and speaker, Michael brings a unique perspective as a lawyer and sci-fi writer. He's a regular at global writing conferences.

- Ricardo Fayet (France/UK): Co-founder of Reedsy, Ricardo speaks on the business of publishing and author marketing at events in Europe and North America.

These speakers are shaping the global conversation around self publishing. Whether it's through live events, webinars, or summits on platforms like Zoom, they're helping authors everywhere take control of their publishing journey.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions that hold people back from becoming successful self publishing speakers. These myths are surprisingly common, even among seasoned authors or entrepreneurs.

1. You need to be a bestselling author first.
This one trips up a lot of people. The assumption is that unless you've hit the New York Times or Amazon bestseller list, no one will want to hear you speak. But here's the truth: event organizers care more about your message, your niche, and your ability to engage an audience than your book sales. Take Joanna Penn, for example. She built her speaking career around her expertise in indie publishing, not her sales numbers. Her talks are packed with value, and that's what gets her booked.

2. Self publishing speakers don't make real money.
This myth comes from the outdated belief that speaking is just a side hustle or a way to sell books. In reality, many self publishing speakers generate revenue through paid keynotes, workshops, consulting, and digital products. Some even use speaking as a lead generator for high-ticket coaching programs. The book is often just the start of the funnel.

3. You have to be a natural performer.
Nope. Public speaking is a skill, not a personality trait. Many successful speakers started out nervous or awkward on stage. What matters is preparation, clarity of message, and practice. Tools like Toastmasters, speaker coaches, and even virtual summits can help you refine your delivery over time.

4. Virtual events don't count.
With the rise of online summits and webinars, some still think that unless you're on a physical stage, you're not a 'real' speaker. But virtual platforms have democratized speaking. You can now reach global audiences from your living room. In fact, many self publishing speakers are building entire businesses around virtual appearances, podcast interviews, and online workshops.

5. You need a traditional publisher to be taken seriously.
This one's fading, but it still lingers. The reality is, credibility comes from content, not the logo on your book spine. If your book solves a real problem or shares a unique perspective, it can open doors to speaking gigs regardless of how it was published. Just look at people like Mark Dawson or S.J. Scott, who built authority through self publishing and now speak at major industry events.

Let's talk about real people who've turned their self published books into speaking careers. These aren't just authors who happen to speak. These are speakers who've built platforms around their books, their stories, and their expertise.

Take Hal Elrod. His book 'The Miracle Morning' was self published and initially sold through grassroots efforts. But the message resonated. Soon, he was invited to speak at conferences, mastermind groups, and corporate events. His talks weren't just about the book... they were about the transformation behind it. That authenticity built trust, and trust built demand.

Then there's Shaa Wasmund, a UK-based entrepreneur who self published her book 'Stop Talking, Start Doing'. She didn't wait for a publisher to validate her. She used her book as a platform to speak about entrepreneurship, productivity, and mindset. Her speaking gigs now range from intimate workshops to major business expos.

In the tech world, Patrick McKenzie (aka patio11) self published guides on software marketing. He wasn't aiming for bookstores. He was building authority. His writing led to speaking invitations at software and startup events across Europe and the US. His talks are now staples at SaaS conferences.

And let's not forget the education space. Angela Watson self published 'Unshakeable', a book for teachers. Her audience? Educators looking for real-world strategies. She now speaks at teaching conferences, school districts, and online summits. Her book gave her a voice. Her speaking gave it reach.

These stories show that self publishing isn't just about selling books. It's about creating a message that moves people... and then stepping on stage to amplify it. Whether you're in business, education, wellness, or tech, the path is open if you're willing to walk it.

The landscape for self publishing speakers is shifting in some exciting ways. If you're thinking about stepping into this space, or you're already in it and want to stay ahead, here's what to keep an eye on.

First, hybrid events are becoming the new norm. Organizers are blending in-person and virtual formats, which means speakers need to be comfortable delivering value both on stage and on screen. This opens up more opportunities for self published authors who might not have the travel budget or time for every event.

Second, micro-niche authority is gaining traction. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, successful self publishing speakers are carving out tight niches. Think 'mental health for remote teams' or 'AI ethics for educators'. The more specific your message, the more likely you are to get booked for targeted events.

Third, AI and automation tools are changing how speakers prep and promote. From using ChatGPT to draft talk outlines to leveraging tools like Descript for video editing, speakers are becoming more self-sufficient. This is especially helpful for self publishing speakers who often wear multiple hats.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Rise of speaker marketplaces: Platforms like Talks.co and SpeakerHub are making it easier for event organizers to find niche experts.
- Content-first speaking: More speakers are building authority through podcasts, YouTube, and newsletters before ever stepping on stage.
- Global access: With virtual events, speakers from rural or underrepresented regions are getting booked for global audiences.
- Data-driven bookings: Organizers are using analytics to track engagement and ROI from speakers, which means your digital footprint matters more than ever.

Bottom line: the future favors speakers who are agile, authentic, and audience-focused. If you're a self publishing speaker willing to adapt, the opportunities are only growing.

Getting started as a self publishing speaker? You don't need a massive budget or a PR team. What you need is the right toolkit. Here's a curated list of tools and platforms that can help you build your speaking career from the ground up.

1. Talks.co. A smart platform for matching podcast guests and virtual speakers with event organizers. Great for building your speaking resume and getting discovered by niche audiences.

2. Reedsy. If you're still working on your book or planning your next one, Reedsy connects you with top-tier editors, designers, and marketers. A polished book boosts your credibility as a speaker.

3. Canva. Use it to design your speaker one-sheet, presentation slides, or social media graphics. It's intuitive, and the templates are clean and professional.

4. Zoom and StreamYard. Essential for hosting or participating in virtual summits, webinars, or interviews. StreamYard is especially useful if you want to broadcast to multiple platforms at once.

5. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, pitch templates, event contacts, and follow-ups. Think of it as your speaker HQ.

6. Otter.ai. Transcribe your talks, podcast interviews, or practice sessions. Great for repurposing content into blog posts, email newsletters, or social media snippets.

7. SpeakerHub. Another platform to list your speaker profile, find events, and connect with organizers. Especially useful for international gigs.

Pro tip: Don't try to use everything at once. Start with 2-3 tools that solve your immediate needs, like Talks.co for visibility and Canva for your speaker assets. As your speaking career grows, you can layer in the rest.