192| Self-Publishing, Scams, and What Authors Need to Know with Michele DeFilippo

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Million Dollar Flip Flops, Rodric sits down with Michele DeFilippo — owner of 1106 Design and a publishing expert who has helped more than 4,000 authors self-publish their books since 2001.Michele breaks down the confusion surrounding modern publishing, especially the traps authors fall into when they assume they need a “publisher” when what they really need is the right services. She explains the difference between true self-publishing and the growing wave of middleman publishing companies that charge authors upfront, then also take money from every sale on the back end.Rodric and Michele also talk about AI-generated book garbage flooding Amazon, the misuse of royalties in self-publishing deals, and how authors can protect both their work and their income. If you have a book in you — or one already in progress — this episode is a must-listen.In this episode, you’ll hear:Michele’s path to helping more than 4,000 authors self-publishThe difference between self-publishing and paying the wrong kind of publisherWhy authors often don’t need a publisher — they need expert servicesHow some publishing companies charge authors twiceThe red flags every author should watch for before signing anythingMichele’s take on AI-generated books and why they’re harming publishingWhy “royalty” language can be a warning sign in self-publishing dealsThe common misconceptions authors have about book salesWhy a quality book still matters if you want to build a business with itThe simple questions authors should ask before hiring anyoneHighlights & Timestamps[00:00] The publishing industry’s darker sideMichele opens with a warning about publishers who take authors’ money and still fail to produce a quality book.[00:00] Meet Michele DeFilippoRodric introduces Michele, founder of 1106 Design, who has helped over 4,000 authors self-publish since 2001.[01:00] Rodric’s own publishing lessonsRodric shares that after publishing two books, he learned a lot the hard way and wishes he’d had someone like Michele sooner.[01:00] AI-generated books and publishing garbageMichele explains her concerns about AI-created books flooding the market and why there is no substitute for an author’s real voice.[02:00] Biggest misconceptions authors haveShe breaks down how authors often misunderstand what self-publishing really means.[02:00] What self-publishing originally meantMichele explains that self-publishing used to clearly mean the author was the publisher and kept control and profits.[03:00] The rise of middleman publishersShe explains how many companies now charge authors to publish their books and still take money from every sale.[04:00] Publisher vs. services: what authors actually needRodric asks Michele to clarify the difference between a publisher and simply hiring the right professionals to help.[04:00] How Michele’s company helps authorsMichele explains how 1106 Design provides editing, design, distribution setup, and publishing support in the author’s name.[06:00] The money authors leave on the tableShe explains how many authors are unknowingly earning far less per book because they signed bad publishing deals.[06:00] Rodric on unrealistic publishing expectationsRodric shares how people often misunderstand what success looks like when a book launches.[07:00] Michele on the “100 books sold” mythShe pushes back on the often-repeated statistic that most books sell under 100 copies and explains why that number can be misleading.[08:00] Why authors need protection from scamsMichele talks about the emotional investment authors make in their books and why scams in publishing are especially damaging.[09:00] Rodric’s story about a poet friendRodric shares a story about a friend whose poetry book struggled to find support in traditional publishing.[10:00] Rodric’s message about Million Dollar Flip FlopsRodric shares a quick message about his book and the foundation behind it.[10:00] Where to find MicheleMichele shares where authors can connect with her and download her free book, Publish Like the Pros.[11:00] Michele’s question for the next guestShe asks a simple but powerful question: what is your why?[11:00] Michele’s answer to the previous guest’s questionShe shares the last physical book she read — The Body Keeps the Score — and what it taught her about hidden suffering and compassion.[13:00] Final advice for authorsMichele ends by sharing the specific warning signs and questions authors should use when evaluating publishing offers.Notable Quotes“Some of these publishers just take their money and don’t put out a good book.” – Michele DeFilippo“Authors do not need a publisher. They need services.” – Michele DeFilippo“If they’re offering you a free ISBN, that’s a red flag.” – Michele DeFilippo“If they’re offering to pay you in a royalty, that’s a red flag.” – Michele DeFilippo“There’s no substitute for an author writing down what’s in their heart.” – Michele DeFilippo“When in doubt, be kind.” – Rodric LenhartConnect with Michele🔗 Connect with Michele🌐 Websitehttps://1106design.com📱 Social MediaFacebook https://www.facebook.com/michele.defilippoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/1106design/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/2771108/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@micheledefilippo/videos Twitter https://twitter.com/1106Design Connect with Rodric🎙 Million Dollar Flip Flops Podcast📖 Book: Million Dollar Flip Flops📖 Book: The Magnet, Method & Machine🌍 Foundation: Send a Student Leader Abroad (SASLA)If this episode made you think differently about publishing, authorship, or how to protect your work, share it with someone who needs to hear it.Resources:Million Dollar Flip FlopsFollow Us on Insta Ready to transform your business and your life while making a difference? 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