Athena Dean Holtz is the co-founder of Redemption Press and host of Always Faithful Radio Group, mentions the book Nam Vet: Making Peace with your Past (paperback here | e-book here) and how it sold 10,000 copies before it got a press behind it and has gone on to sell hundreds of thousands. Self-publishing can be an incredible tool, especially if you have an already-built audience.

Athena’s Publishing Tips

Be teachable!!! Use an editor, and critique group!
Have someone critique who isn’t your “yes” person and doesn’t know your entire back story. Too much familiarity can cause your reader to subconsciously fill in the gaps.
A speaker (or anyone who has a built-in audience) may need product right away – and self-publishing is a great way to fill this need.
Recommends Lightning Source for Print on Demand
Take the Time to Set Up:
- Cover
- Editing & Critiquing
- Layout
Walk around Barnes and Noble and check out what you like. Write down your themes and commonalities so you can get the branding you want.

Always Faithful Radio Show

Athena is the host of the Always Faithful Radio Show on KCISradio.com. You can check out her author interviews on Fridays at 1 PM and you can catch her Periscoping the live interview and the replays here!

Tips for Being Interviewed on the Radio

Make sure to have suggested questions so you know where the conversation is going.
Have your answers to the questions ready!
Think through a sound byte answer {15-30 seconds max}, and give that first. If they ask more, they will ask.
Don’t be long-winded. The host needs to pop in and “refresh” with the audience.