In today’s episode of I Am Refocused Radio, host Shemaiah Reed sat down with publishing expert Terry Whalin to dive deep into the often misunderstood world of book publishing. Terry, a seasoned professional with decades of experience and a personal history of working with hundreds of authors, brought valuable insights that left both aspiring and established authors with actionable advice and a clearer understanding of what to expect when navigating the publishing industry.
Setting Realistic Expectations in Publishing
One of the key themes of the conversation was managing expectations. Terry opened the discussion by addressing the common myths many authors believe about publishing and how these misconceptions can derail their success. He shared from his wealth of knowledge, breaking down the publishing process and highlighting how much of it is out of an author’s direct control.
For many first-time authors, the dream of publishing a book often comes with the expectation of instant success. Terry spoke about the importance of understanding that the journey is more nuanced. “The road to success in publishing isn’t immediate or guaranteed, but there are practical steps authors can take to set themselves up for long-term success,” Terry explained.
Debunking Publishing Myths
Terry’s book, 10 Publishing Myths, was a central topic of the interview, where he offered listeners an opportunity to rethink common myths that can lead to frustration. From unrealistic expectations about the sales potential of a first book to misunderstandings about the role of publishers, Terry debunked several ideas that could prevent authors from taking effective actions in their publishing careers. His candid insights were a great reminder that the world of publishing requires more than just writing a great book—it takes persistence, strategic thinking, and patience.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Authors
Throughout the interview, Terry also shared some tangible advice for authors looking to succeed. He emphasized the importance of building an author platform, actively engaging with readers, and understanding that writing the book is only the beginning. Terry advised authors to take practical steps to promote their work, collaborate with their publishers, and continuously adapt to the ever-evolving industry.
Terry’s experience working with hundreds of authors allowed him to share real-world examples of those who took deliberate actions to achieve success. His insights into the balance of control and flexibility in publishing offered encouragement to those feeling overwhelmed by the process.
A Must-Listen for Anyone Interested in Publishing
Today’s conversation was more than just a typical interview—it was a masterclass in understanding the publishing world from someone who has been at the forefront of the industry for decades. Terry’s down-to-earth approach, coupled with his expertise, made for a valuable episode that all authors and aspiring writers should listen to.
We are thankful to Terry for taking the time to share his knowledge with our audience. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or looking to better understand the publishing process, Terry’s advice provides a realistic and motivating blueprint for success.
To hear the full interview with Terry Whalin, head over to I Am Refocused Radio and listen now. And don’t forget to check out his book, 10 Publishing Myths, for even more insights on how to make your publishing journey a success.
