The Truth About Publishing: Why Authors Must Market Their Own Books

In this episode, Mitch Carson sits down with author, editor, and publishing strategist Terry Whalin to uncover what it really takes to succeed as an author in today’s marketplace. Terry breaks down the biggest myths in publishing, why authors must take ownership of their own marketing, and how consistent daily action builds lasting visibility over time.He shares the “Rule of Five,” a powerful daily promotional practice that helped launch Chicken Soup for the Soul, and explains how authors can grow readership through simple, steady habits like blogging, newsletters, and podcast outreach. Terry also opens the door on overlooked opportunities including library sales, pre-launch communitybuilding, and how true bestseller momentum happens organically—not just by buying your way to the top.Whether you’re writing your first book or planning your next release, this conversation gives you realistic, proven steps to build your platform, sell more books, and stay relevant in the long run.Resources Mentioned:• Free bonus chapter: The 11th Publishing Myth — terrylinks.com/11thmyth• $10 Book + $200 in bonuses: publishingoffer.com----------If you like this episode, don't forget to check the following links: You can schedule a strategy call with me using this link: https://www.getinterviewedguaranteed.com/meetwithmitch⁠⁠ If you want to be a podcast guest, you can apply here: https://www.getinterviewedguaranteed.com/podcastguest You can find me here:https://www.mitchcarson.com/⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/MitchCarsonOfficial/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mitchcarsonofficial/⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/MCarsonOfficial/⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchcarsoninstantcelebrity/⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@MitchCarsonOfficial⁠⁠ My Amazon Book Links:The Amazing Authors of Singapore: https://a.co/d/cp9KjC1The Silent Salesmen: https://a.co/d/b4eqa2D If you're serious about publishing and selling more books on Amazon, you need the right data.That’s why I use Publisher Rocket—it’s like having a book marketing expert in your pocket:https://mitchauthor--rocket.thrivecart.com/publisher-rocket-mitch-author/5e8f51fc1dd46/