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In this episode, Becky shares reflections from her time at the Authors of the Flathead Writers Conference in Montana and explores the profound, human-to-human exchange that defines true audiobook storytelling. As technology advances, authors face tempting offers like free AI-generated narration. Becky dives deep into why "free" might actually come at a high cost to your brand. Drawing on recent trends from the Audio Publishers Association, she discusses the declining listener interest in AI voices and why a poor narration experience can actually act as a barrier between an author and their audience. Is it better to have no audiobook at all than one that alienates your readers? Join us as we discuss the importance of protecting your reputation, the value of human vibration in storytelling, and how to choose the right path for your literary journey. In this episode, we cover: Insights from the Authors of the Flathead Writers Conference. The "human-to-human" essence of professional narration. Why listener trends are shifting away from AI voices. The risk of "negative value" when choosing low-quality narration. How to build momentum and earn higher royalties with AMPlify Audiobooks. AMPlify Audiobooks – Empowering authors to earn more and connect directly with listeners. Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection   #audiobooks #storytelling #authorlife #narrator #publishing #audiobookconnection #amplifyaudiobooks #writingcommunity

Have you ever felt disconnected from your company's mission, or struggled to understand how your specific role impacts the bottom line? In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Cope, author of the Wall Street Journal and New York Times bestselling book, Seeing the Big Picture. Kevin shares his powerful journey—from his time at the Covey Leadership Center to founding Acumen Learning—and explains the critical "gap" that exists in modern organizations: the disconnect between functional expertise and business acumen. Whether you are a frontline employee, a mid-level manager, or a sales professional, understanding how a company makes money is the key to increasing your credibility, advancing your career, and driving meaningful results. In this episode, we discuss: The Cost of Disengagement: Why a lack of business understanding leads to a massive global productivity loss. Seeing the Big Picture: How to move beyond your specific department to understand profit margins, cash flow, and company objectives. Business Acumen for Sales Success: How to transition from a "product expert" to a "trusted business advisor" by solving your client's financial challenges. Practical Tips: Simple habits to build your business literacy, from tracking industry news to asking the right questions in leadership meetings. Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Acumen Learning: acumenlearning.com Explore Seeing the Big Picture: seeingthebigpicture.com Discover more audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection    #BusinessAcumen #SeeingTheBigPicture #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #SalesSuccess #AudiobookConnection #ProfessionalDevelopment #FinancialLiteracy

In this episode, Becky pulls back the curtain on Spotify's recent announcement regarding its free AI audiobook narration tool. While the offer of "free" narration may seem like a lifeline for self-published authors, there are significant complexities and hidden costs that every creator must consider before hitting submit. Becky dives deep into the technicalities of the Spotify/Eleven Labs partnership, the royalty structures, and—most importantly—the worldwide non-exclusive license authors are granting in exchange for this service. We also analyze recent consumer data from the Audio Publishers Association (APA) to see how listeners actually feel about AI-generated voices. Is the cost-saving benefit worth the potential loss of listener trust and content control? In this episode, we discuss: The Fine Print: Understanding the 5-book limit, the 150,000-word cap, and the rapid-fire publishing process. Licensing & Rights: What it actually means to give Spotify a worldwide non-exclusive license for "product development, testing, training, and modeling." Listener Trends: Breaking down the latest APA survey data regarding the declining interest in AI narration and the rising percentage of listeners who actively dislike AI voices. Value vs. Cost: A look at how professional narration builds a brand and why quality remains the most important factor in long-term success. Better Alternatives: How platforms like AMPlify Audiobooks are helping authors maintain control over pricing and earn higher royalties. Resources Mentioned: https://amplifyaudiobooks.com/ https://www.audiopub.org/ Connect with us: Have thoughts on AI narration? We want to hear from you! Email us at: [email protected] #Audiobooks #SelfPublishing #Spotify #AInarration #AuthorTips #AudiobookConnection #AmplifyAudiobooks #WritingCommunity

In this episode, Becky sits down with David Lee, PharmD, PhD, a veteran pharmacist and the founder of MyRxPro, to discuss his transformative new book, Fewer Pills, More Paws: Caring for Your Aging Parents and Lessons from Our Pets. Drawing from 20 years of pharmaceutical experience, David shares a refreshing and vital perspective on "deprescribing"—the importance of using medications more precisely to avoid the risks associated with polypharmacy in older adults. He discusses the challenges of navigating a complex healthcare system and how caregivers can be empowered with the right tools to ensure safe, effective care for their loved ones. Beyond the clinical science, David explores the profound, healing connection between humans and animals. He reveals how the intuitive care we provide to our pets—observing non-verbal cues and practicing presence—can be applied to caregiving and our own mental well-being. From reducing anxiety to practicing mindfulness, discover how the bond with our furry friends can help us navigate life's most challenging transitions. In this episode, you’ll learn about: The risks of over-medication in older adults and the concept of deprescribing. Practical tools for caregivers to manage healthcare and nursing home interactions. How observing pet behavior can improve human caregiving skills. The physiological benefits of animal companionship, including stress reduction and mindfulness. Connect with the Guest: Website: www.myrxpro.com Listen to the audiobook version of Fewer Pills, More Paws on Amplify Audiobooks. Watch the video of this interview Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection  #Audiobooks #Caregiving #SeniorHealth #PetConnection #Mindfulness #Deprescribing #AudiobookConnection #HealthyAging #Wellness #MyRxPro

In this episode, Becky dives deep into the science and artistry of listening. Inspired by a recent article in The Epoch Times, Becky explores the fascinating question: Does your brain process audiobooks differently than printed text? While studies suggest that listeners may sometimes struggle with retention in dense, academic material, Becky argues that the "format" isn't the problem—it's the performance. We discuss the critical role of the narrator in maintaining listener attention, the importance of strategic pausing, and why "audio-native" manuscript preparation is a game-changer for nonfiction authors. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Science of Sound: How the brain's speech system helps us decode meaning in both audio and text. The Narrator Variable: Why high-quality performance and pacing are the keys to preventing "mind-wandering." Audio-Native Strategies: How authors can adapt dense content (like textbooks) to include natural reminders and cues for better retention. Fluency & Learning: The benefits of simultaneous reading and listening for second-language learners and struggling readers. A Glimpse of Storytelling: Stick around for a moving sample from the memoir Something Worth Saving by Mary Means, narrated by Marie Hoffman. Whether you are an author looking to maximize your book's impact or a listener curious about the cognitive benefits of audio, this episode provides essential insights into the evolving world of audiobooks. Resources Mentioned: Amplify Audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com – Empowering authors with higher royalties and better marketing tools. The Epoch Times article How Audiobooks Affect your Brain Connect with us: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with a fellow book lover or author! Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection    #Audiobooks #Narration #Podcast #AuthorTips #AudiobookProduction #BrainScience #Storytelling #AmplifyAudiobooks #AudiobookConnection

In this moving episode, Becky sits down with musician and author Madam Snowflake (Emily Richards) to discuss her groundbreaking immersive audiobook experience, Rise Up Babylon. What began as a journey of survival through severe injury and bed rest transformed into a profound creative outpouring. Madam Snowflake shares the incredible story of how her musical compositions and narrative became intertwined, evolving from a concept for a Broadway musical into a unique, scored audiobook designed to be experienced through headphones. In this episode, we explore: The Genesis of Rise Up Babylon: How stillness, meditation, and physical recovery opened a new channel for storytelling. Art as a Tool for Healing: How writing and performing helped navigate the profound grief of losing a sister and repairing fractured family dynamics. The Craft of Immersive Audio: A behind-the-scenes look at the four-year production process, involving Grammy-winning producers and orchestral scoring to create a "movie for the mind." The Renaissance of Connection: A discussion on the importance of the arts in shaping collective consciousness and the power of truly listening to one another. Whether you are an author looking to expand your medium, a musician exploring narrative, or a listener seeking stories that touch the soul, this episode offers profound inspiration on the transformative power of human expression. Links & Resources Discover Rise Up Babylon: riseupbabylon.com Connect with Our Guest: madamsnowflake.com/, emilyrichards.com/ Empower Your Audiobook Journey: amplifyaudiobooks.com Watch the video of this interview Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection

In this episode, Becky wraps up her series on the 2026 distribution shakeup. Moving beyond the "what" of the changes, Becky dives deep into the "how"—providing an actionable strategy for authors and publishers to navigate the evolving landscape. Whether you are seeking simplicity, maximum reach, or maximum revenue, Becky breaks down the ideal combination of distributors to ensure your stories don't just exist, but thrive. Learn why relying solely on Audible might be a strategic mistake and why anchoring your distribution with AMPlify Audiobooks can transform your bottom line through higher royalties, direct customer relationships, and gamified marketing tools. In this episode, you will learn: Distribution Models: How to choose between single-distributor simplicity and wide-reach strategies. The AMPlify Audiobooks Advantage: Why direct distribution and community-driven platforms offer better long-term ROI than standard retailers. Critical Deadlines: A vital reminder regarding the ACX royalty model changes and the December 31st, 2026, deadline. Marketing Tools: An introduction to "marketing quests," events, and book clubs designed to help authors build real momentum. Audiobook Sample: Stick around to hear a captivating clip from How to Master the Art of Being the Worst Salesperson by Brian Panosian. Relevant Links: Amplify Audiobooks Authors Republic IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association) Watch the video of this episode Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection    Listen to the Full Series: If you missed the previous episodes regarding the distribution shakeup, be sure to check out the Audiobook Distribution Shakeup Series. Check out the Ultimate Audiobook Launch Strategy series to build your foundation. #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #BookMarketing #AudiobookDistribution #AmplifyAudiobooks #PublishingStrategy #Authorship

In this episode, Becky sits down with Bobby Kelly, personal systems strategist and author of The Next Chapter Starts Now. Bobby shares the incredible, high-speed story of how he wrote his entire book in just ten hours by dictating his thoughts while pacing his backyard. We dive deep into the intersection of performance psychology, mindset, and physical habits, exploring how to move past feeling "stuck" to achieve consistent follow-through in both life and business. Bobby also pulls back the curtain on the technical side of audiobook production. Drawing from his 35 years in the fitness industry, he shares invaluable professional tips for authors who choose to narrate their own work—including how to set up a DIY home studio, how to manage vocal fatigue, and the "5-4-3-2-1" method to make post-production editing seamless for your sound engineer. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Execution Strategy: How to identify your "next chapter" and build systems to reach it. Rapid Writing Techniques: The benefits of dictation and speaking your truth for nonfiction authors. Audiobook Pro-Tips: Practical advice on recording, managing ambient noise, and handling emotional content during narration. Distribution Realities: Insights into the complexities of navigating major retailers and expanding your reach. Connect with our guest: BobbyKelly.com Listen to audiobooks: Amplify Audiobooks Watch the video of this interview Watch the Ultimate Audiobook Launch Series Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection

Stop whispering into the void and start building real momentum! In this third installment of our series on the 2026 audiobook distribution shakeup, Becky dives deep into the complex world of where your stories land and how much you actually keep. Are you "going wide" just to be everywhere, or are you actually reaching your customers? We break down the pros and cons of the major players, including: The Big Shifts: Understanding the changes at Spotify, Voices INaudio, and the murky new royalty structures at ACX. The Library Connection: How to navigate rentals and checkouts through Overdrive and Hoopla. Wide Distribution vs. Direct Sales: Why a "cast a wide net" strategy works best when paired with powerful direct-to-consumer tools. The AMPlify Revolution: Discover how AMPlify Audiobooks is changing the game by combining distribution with marketing, offering higher royalties (65% of gross!), and—most importantly—building a real community through features like "Reflections" and real-time listener connection. Whether you are an author struggling to earn back your investment or a narrator looking to understand the landscape, this episode provides the roadmap you need to deepen your impact and broaden your reach. In this episode, you'll learn: The critical difference between a percentage of "retail price" vs. "net." Why an audiobook is a complex "package of files" and why delivery systems matter. How to use community tools, author pages, and live events to turn listeners into superfans. The ultimate strategy: Wide distribution for discovery + AMPlify Audiobooks for connection. Relevant Links: 🌐 Amplify Audiobooks 🌐 Authors Republic Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection    #Audiobooks #AuthorTips #BookMarketing #AudiobookDistribution #AmplifyAudiobooks #IndieAuthor #Podcast #Storytelling #AudiobookConnection

In this episode, Becky sits down with Dr. John Kirk Boyd, a civil and environmental rights lawyer and the visionary behind the International Bill of Rights: Humanity's Agreement to Live Together. This conversation goes far beyond a standard book review. Dr. Boyd discusses his lifelong mission to move human rights from mere aspirations to enforceable realities through an international judicial architecture. He shares fascinating insights into his legal background—including arguing before the US Supreme Court—and his work on the Russian Constitution. In this episode, we explore: The Mission of Unite for Rights: How the project seeks to extend the historic work of Eleanor Roosevelt and René Cassin to create a modern social contract. Interactive Technology: A look at the "spinning globe" and the "Drafting Through Dialogue" initiative, where global citizens can participate in refining the Bill of Rights. AI as a Collaborator: How Dr. Boyd and his team are utilizing AI (specifically Claude) as a tool for refinement and human-centric collaboration rather than just data scraping. The Power of the "Triad": Why authors should embrace the combination of print, e-book, and audiobook to reach a global audience. A Call to Action: How listeners can participate in this global movement, from signing their names on the digital globe to supporting the growth of the Unite for Rights organization. Whether you are an author interested in the production process or a global citizen concerned about the future of democracy and human rights, this episode offers a profound look at how storytelling and law can converge to shape a better world. Support our work making the audiobook industry a more equitable place HERE: buymeacoffee.com/audiobookconnection    🔗 Relevant Links Unite for Rights: uniteforrights.org Amplify Audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com Watch the video of this interview #HumanRights #InternationalLaw #AudiobookConnection #UniteForRights #GlobalCitizenship #SocialContract #AuthorLife #Podcast #AIforGood #Democracy #AMPlifyAudiobooks

In this second episode in the Audiobook Distribution Shakeup Series, Becky dives deep into the recent changes announced by ACX. As the audiobook industry shifts, authors are facing new contractual models that demand quick decisions. Is the new "member value" calculation actually working in your favor, or is it just another way for the Amazon ecosystem to capture more revenue? Becky breaks down the complexities of the new ACX model, including: The "Member Value" Mystery: What does the new royalty calculation actually mean for your bottom line? Exclusivity vs. Freedom: The pros and cons of the 50% exclusive royalty rate and the new 90-day minimum rule. Discovery and Promotion: Decoding WhisperSync, built-in discovery, and the costs of Amazon advertising. Better Alternatives: A comparison between ACX and high-control platforms like AMPlify Audiobooks, where authors earn significantly higher royalties and maintain total control over pricing and marketing. Whether you are a seasoned author, a narrator, or a publisher, this episode provides the clarity you need to navigate the changing landscape of audiobook distribution. Resources Mentioned: Amplify Audiobooks: amplifyaudiobooks.com Contact Pro Audio Voices: proaudiovoices.com View the video of this episode #Audiobooks #SelfPublishing #AuthorTips #AudiobookDistribution #AmplifyAudiobooks #PublishingIndustry #IndieAuthors

The audiobook landscape is shifting under the feet of authors, and staying informed is no longer optional—it's essential for your success. In this episode, Becky breaks down the major industry changes hitting platforms like ACX, Spotify, and InAudio, and explains why the old rules of distribution no longer apply. In this episode, we dive into: The ACX Royalty Shift: What the move from "retail price" to "member value" actually means for your bottom line and why the math might be working against you. The Findaway/Spotify Split: Navigating the transition from Findaway Voices to the new landscape of Spotify for Authors and InAudio. The Power of Direct Engagement: Why traditional retailers prioritize transactions while new models prioritize connection. AMPlify Audiobooks: An inside look at how the new version of AMPlify Audiobooks is changing the game by offering up to 4x higher royalties, complete pricing control, and community-building tools designed to turn listeners into fans. Whether you are an indie author trying to earn back your production investment or a narrator looking to understand the market, this episode provides the clarity you need to navigate these massive changes. Coming Up in This Series: ACX Decoded: Why the math still favors direct platforms. Going Wide vs. Going Direct: Weighing your distribution options. Building a Winning Distribution Strategy: A roadmap for your audio career. Resources & Links: Amplify Audiobooks: https://amplifyaudiobooks.com/ Pro Audio Voices: Schedule a call with Becky: proaudiovoices.com Authors Republic: For broad distribution alternatives: https://www.authorsrepublic.com/ View the video of this episode #Audiobooks #IndieAuthor #AudiobookDistribution #ACX #AmplifyAudiobooks #AuthorTips #PublishingNews

In this episode, Becky concludes her series on the Ultimate Audiobook Launch Strategy. Moving beyond the initial setup, Becky dives into how authors can move from "selling" to "storytelling" by activating their existing audience ecosystem. Learn how to leverage your current following—from friends and family to mailing lists and social media—to build genuine momentum. Becky shares actionable strategies for marketing your audiobook without being a "bullhorn," including: Activating Your Ecosystem: Using newsletters, guest blogging, speaking engagements, and podcast interviews to share the "behind-the-scenes" journey of your production. Building Strategic Partnerships: How to collaborate with aligned communities, non-profits, and niche groups (like book clubs or advocacy organizations) using targeted discount codes. The Power of Storytelling: Moving away from hard sales by sharing the emotional impact and accessibility benefits of your audio content. Maintaining Momentum: Strategies for post-launch engagement, including responding to listener reflections and hosting live events. The AMPlify Advantage: A deep dive into why launching on AMPlify Audiobooks provides higher royalties, direct listener connection, and unique tools like "Marketing Quests"—gamified, step-by-step guides designed to take the guesswork out of your marketing journey. Whether you are a new author or an established creator, this episode provides the roadmap to stop whispering into the void and start building a thriving community around your voice. AMPlify Audiobooks: AmplifyAudiobooks.com Watch the video of this episode! Connect with us: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with a fellow author or book lover! #AudiobookMarketing #AuthorTips #AudiobookLaunch #AMPlifyAudiobooks #SelfPublishing #PodcastForAuthors #Storytelling #BookMarketing

In this episode, Becky sits down with award-winning writer, filmmaker, and solo performer Skylar Lyralen Kaye (fae/they). We dive deep into the complex creative process behind their recently released non-binary memoir, Bachelorx. The audiobook is a feat of vocal storytelling, featuring 47 distinct characters—including 18 of Skylar's own inner voices. Skylar shares fascinating insights into the technical and emotional challenges of narration, including: Mastering Accents: How they utilized mimicry and digital tools to tackle everything from Puerto Rican to Russian-British accents. The Recording Journey: Moving from a DIY apartment setup to professional studios in Portugal and the importance of vocal pacing. Acting Techniques: Applying the Meisner technique and "Internal Family Systems" to bring authenticity to personal, often painful, memories. The Power of Humor: Using comedy as a survival muscle to navigate the heavy themes of a 35-year marriage and the vulnerability of dating in mid-life. Whether you are an author considering narrating your own memoir or a listener interested in the artistry of voice performance, this episode offers a profound look at how we use art to process trauma, find compassion, and reconnect with ourselves. Lyralen Kaye: https://lyralenkaye.com/ AMPlify Audiobooks: https://www.amplifyaudiobooks.com Pro Audio Voices: https://www.proaudiovoices.com Audiobook Connection: https://audiobookconnection.com Watch this interview on YouTube #AudiobookConnection #Bachelorx #Memoir #AudiobookProduction #NonBinaryVoices #Storytelling #VoiceActing #MeisnerTechnique #AuthorLife #IndieAuthors #AudiobookNarration

In part three of our deep-dive series on mastering your audiobook launch, Becky explores how to transform a simple release into a deep, transformative experience for your listeners. Moving beyond the basics, we discuss how to leverage bonus content and strategic partnerships to build credibility and drive sales.  In this episode, you will learn about: Listener-First Bonus Content: How to use "deleted scenes," author notes, discussion guides, and even curated playlists to create a more immersive experience through platforms like AMPlify Audiobooks. The Power of Reviews: Why human-written reviews provide essential social proof and how to effectively use snippets from professional organizations to build your credibility. Podcast Guesting & Influencer Outreach: Strategies for identifying the right podcasts (even those outside the book niche!), how to prepare as a guest, and the importance of offering value—like exclusive coupon codes—rather than just a sales pitch. Creating Short-Form Content: How to repurpose podcast appearances and behind-the-scenes studio moments into engaging social media clips to maintain momentum. Whether you are a fiction author looking to escape into a new reality or a non-fiction expert aiming to solve real-world problems, this episode provides the tactical roadmap to ensure your audiobook isn't just heard, but remembered. AMPlify Audiobooks: https://www.amplifyaudiobooks.com Pro Audio Voices: https://www.proaudiovoices.com Audiobook Connection: https://audiobookconnection.com #audiobookproduction #indieauthors #audiobooklaunch #audiobookmarketing #amplifyaudiobooks #selfpublishing #AmplifyAudiobooks Watch the video of this episode