Self-Publishing Ask Me Anything 4-7-25

Puzzled by platforms? Flummoxed by formatting? Ask me anything about self-publishing! If I don't know, I'll try to find out.

If you’re new to self-publishing, it can seem overwhelming. Even if you’ve published several books, it seems like there’s always something new to learn.

There are lots of aspects to being an indie publisher, which means there are lots of questions.

I’m here to help!

Today’s our first Ask Me Anything! If you’ve got a question about self-publishing, whether it’s about platforms, formatting, selling direct, KU, or whatever, I’ve got the answer.

And if I don’t have the answer, I’ll try my darnedest to find out.

How does Ask Me Anything work?

Easy! Leave a comment on this post today, April 7, 2025. That’s it! I’ll keep an eye out and answer throughout the day. If I can’t get to everything today, I’ll keep answering until I can.

Can I reply to the email instead?

Let’s keep this in the comments, because if you have a question, others may, too.

What kind of questions can I ask?

Anything related to self-publishing! You can also ask me about my personal experience producing my own books as well as anthologies with other authors.

Heck, you could even ask me personal questions, and I might answer those as well. (If you read my Diary of a Cockeyed Optimist, you know I’m pretty open.)

Got any examples?

Sure! Below are a few questions I’ve had personally, and some I didn’t think to ask until I started publishing. Some will be more helpful for newbies, and some may help more experienced authors.

• Is there inexpensive software I can use to format my book?

• What is BookFunnel, and why would I want to use it?

• Do I have to pay taxes when I order my author copies?

• How do I get my book into libraries or indie bookstores if I’m self‑published?

• Do I need to set up a business entity before I hit publish?

• How do I collect sales tax when I sell direct from my website?

• Are there tools to track my royalties across multiple stores?

•  Can I update a book after it’s live, and will readers get the new version?

How much does it cost?

This first Ask Me Anything is open to everyone, so it’s free! Future AMAs will be for members. Even if you don’t sign up, I offer a free 7-day trial, so you’ll be able to read others’ questions. Get details here.

I didn’t see this until April 8. When’s the next one?

Our next Ask Me Anything will be May 5, 2025, and will take place the first Monday of the month unless otherwise noted.

What happens next?

1. Drop your question in the comments—anything from “What trim size should I pick?” to “How do I stop staring at the publish button?” is fair game.

2. Check back during the day. I’ll pop in regularly with answers, links, and the occasional terrible pun.

3. Keep the conversation going. If someone asks something you’ve already figured out, feel free to jump in with your own experience. We learn faster together.

I’ll gather the most‑asked questions and turn them into deeper dives for future posts (free and paid), so don’t be shy—your curiosity helps everyone.

Ready? Ask away, and let’s demystify self‑publishing one question at a time!

Now it’s your turn… Ask Me Anything!