Issue #30 - October 2023, Transmedia (Audio, Merch, Special Editions + Alternate Income Streams)

Becca Syme

Indie Author Magazine: How will the strategy of publishing wide play a part in the future of the industry?

Becca Syme: Like anything, I think there will be people who will be successful wide and there will be people who can’t make wide work. Wide is not the “answer” but it’s also not wrong. There is no morality attached to being wide or not wide. But I think wide will likely always be a viable option.

Indie Author Magazine: Do you anticipate that the definition of wide will ever evolve to mean more? If so, where do you see authors going?

Becca Syme: Oh yes, I feel like anything that isn’t Amazon will continue to expand. We are nothing if not creative, as a group, and I anticipate that we’ll continue to proliferate the definition of “wide” publishing.

Indie Author Magazine: On an individual level, direct publishing can equate to greater control over titles, greater royalties, and a closer relationship with readers. What will the trend of authors publishing direct mean for the industry as a whole?

Becca Syme: People who are very motivated to run their own businesses will especially love the control of direct. But I think a lot of people who are not built to run a big business (with a lot of moving parts) are going to get really overwhelmed and struggle. And I think some people will end up flaming out completely in trying to do all the things… which direct sales is ripe for. (It’s totally subjective, of course, like everything.)

Indie Author Magazine: Why does community matter in the future of indie publishing?

Becca Syme: Because the industry is too big… we need to belong somewhere.

Chelle Honiker

Chelle Honiker is an advocate for the empowerment of authorpreneurs, recognizing the importance of authors taking charge of both their craft and careers. In response to this need, she has founded a media and training company dedicated to supporting these creative professionals. As the co-founder and publisher of Indie Author Magazine, IndieAuthorTraining, Indie Author Tools, and Direct2Readers.com, Chelle’s team of more than 80 writers, editors, trainers, and support staff provides resources and insights that help authors navigate the complexities of self-publishing. Her role as the programming director for Author Nation, an annual conference in Las Vegas, further exemplifies her commitment to fostering a community where authors can grow and succeed. With a career spanning over two decades in executive operations and leadership, Chelle has honed her skills in managing complex projects and delivering impactful training programs. Her experience as a speaker and TEDx Organizer has taken her to many countries, where she has shared her insights with diverse audiences.

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