In this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, Heneka Watkis-Porter sits down with publishing industry veteran Michele DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design. With over 50 years in the book publishing world, Michele brings a wealth of knowledge on how authors can take control of their publishing journey, avoid scams, and profit from their passion. She breaks down the evolution of self-publishing, revealing how independent authors can compete with traditional publishers—and win—by maintaining ownership, setting industry-standard quality, and being smart about their choices.
Whether you’re a first-time writer or a seasoned author, Michele’s guidance provides a blueprint for building a successful, scam-free publishing experience.
The Power of Self-Publishing: Profit, Control & Protection
Michele is clear: self-publishing isn’t just an alternative—it’s a business decision. Authors can maintain creative control, keep more of their earnings, and bring their books to market without signing away their rights. But with this freedom comes responsibility. Michele warns against shady hybrid publishers that charge high production fees and still claim a share of your royalties. Her advice? If you’re paying for the work, own the outcome—including your files, your ISBNs, and your book’s future.
Heneka echoes the importance of being informed, noting how many aspiring authors fall victim to scams due to lack of publishing knowledge.
Competing With Traditional Publishing: Yes, You Can
Michele debunks the myth that self-published books are inferior. With platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, and a focus on professional-quality design, editing, and typesetting, indie authors can match—and often exceed—the quality of traditional publishers. The key? Following industry standards and never cutting corners. “Readers don’t care how a book is published,” Michele says, “only that it’s well done.”
She urges authors to purchase their own ISBNs through Bowker, which allows them to retain full control over the book in all its formats—eBook, paperback, or hardback.
Beware of Bestseller Promises: What Really Matters
Not every book needs to hit a bestseller list to be valuable. Michele shares how many authors use their books to grow their businesses, enhance credibility, or drive speaking engagements. In fact, chasing the “bestseller” label—especially via scammy pay-to-play programs—can lead authors away from what really matters: solving a real problem for a real audience.
She encourages writers to focus on the impact of their message, not artificial accolades.
Smart Marketing for Smart Authors
Marketing doesn’t start after you publish—it begins before the first word is written. Michele lays out a clear strategy: identify your target audience, understand the problem your book will solve, and then position it as a solution. She recommends a 12-week coaching program tailored to each author’s publishing goals, noting that a clear plan and realistic expectations can make all the difference.
Heneka and Michele agree that success comes from aligning your message with your audience’s needs—not from gimmicks or manipulation.
A Safe Space for Aspiring Authors
Throughout the episode, Michele’s passion for helping authors is evident. Her website, 1106design.com, offers transparent pricing, service details, and free educational content to guide authors every step of the way. More importantly, she offers her support without pressure, reminding listeners that trustworthy guidance should never come with strings attached.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How to avoid scams and bad deals in the publishing industry
- Why self-publishing can be more profitable and empowering than traditional routes
- How to meet traditional publishing standards on your own
- Why owning your ISBNs and production files matters
- Smart marketing tactics for positioning your book as a business tool
- The truth about bestseller programs—and what really drives book success
This episode is a must-listen for any aspiring author ready to publish with confidence, clarity, and control. Tune in, take notes, and share it with someone who dreams of becoming a published writer—without the pitfalls.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION:
Now it’s time for our Community Connection segment! We’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode or any questions you have for Drewbie or Heneka—email us at heneka@henekawatkisporter.com or WhatsApp us at 876-849-2571.
Also, don’t forget about the upcoming LeadHerShip Cruise, where leaders like YOU can network and grow aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas! This four-day event combines empowerment with transformative learning against the stunning backdrop of the Bahamas. Contact us at heneka@henekawatkisporter.com or WhatsApp 876-849-2571 for more details!
CONTACT Michelle Defilippo:
Website: 1106design.com
TRENDING NOW:
Here’s an eye-opening stat: Authors lose over $500 million annually due to predatory publishing scams—and AI-generated books are flooding platforms like Amazon faster than ever before. This makes professional design and marketing more important than ever.
If you enjoyed this episode of The Entrepreneurial You, subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave a rating, and share it with your friends. Visit henekawatkisporter.com to download a free eBook on how to conduct podcast interviews like a pro!
AFFIRM WITH ME:
I am an empowered author who makes informed decisions about my book.
