Don't Write That Book

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss all about validating your book’s content before and during writing. They call this “test driving” your content, to see if your content really resonates with readers. Identifying where your readers get confused, overwhelmed, or bored helps to improve your book to better serve your audience. Mike and AJ give actionable steps on how to execute these “test drives.” Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: Test Drive Your Content video program Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike talk about all things special editions and why they might just increase your audience engagement. Special editions are dominated by fiction books, but why not non-fiction? AJ and Mike weigh the pros and cons and why polling your fanbase first is always the best strategy. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Rise of the You-prenuer, by Chris Ducker Different is Better than Better, Sally Hogshead Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike debate whether AI causes intellectual atrophy or is a potential augmentation tool for authors. AJ brings up both the loss of creativity and the ethical issues of AI’s training data. Mike argues that can be helpful with tools such as transcription and summarization. This is an episode you do not want to miss. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: AJ's Summer Camp Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ address the stinky 800-pound gorilla rummaging through your pockets: the grifter authors. In this audience-inspired episode, they’ll share how authors can come across with authenticity and deliver on their book’s promise and not be the type of author who’s just looking to make a buck? In this world of easy money grabs, learn how to be an author who delivers. This is one you won’t want to miss! Be sure to visit  https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: High Agency Human, by Vickie Lanthier  Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike lay the groundwork for summer progress on your must-reads. Bonus, they don’t require you to actually open your manuscript and type! This hour, listeners will learn how to gather and bank information from their ideal readers at a time when many of us are taking vacations or otherwise struggling to stay super-focused on our manuscripts. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: AJ’s (free!) Summer Camp sign-up People Can’t Drive You Crazy if You Don’t Give Them the Keys, by Dr. Mike Bechtle Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ address feeling nervous about the book, either nervous that they don’t have the authority to write on it, to worries it could flop. (And all the other elements to book writing that can stymie an author!) Our duo shares the things that give them pause or outright nail-biting worry because surprise! Even successful authors have worries. But for this hour, Mike and AJ will calm those fears with tips and tricks they use to keep moving forward. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: “A Writer’s Worst Fear,” by Jane Friedman Fearless Writing, by William Kenower Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss a question they hear from new authors often: What’s the ROI (return on investment) in writing a book? They each define what they believe the key point is with different points of view on how to achieve that result. Should authors treat their book like a business proposition or a bonus to their business? Tune in to hear it from our dynamic duo to find out! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: World Famous, by David Tyreman Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike walks AJ through THE MONEY HABIT’s launch day, a whopping twelve hours of special guests, marketing ideas, and more. Not even technical glitches could stop the show! Well, they did, but they got everything back on track quickly, due to Mike’s intrepid team behind the scenes. Listeners will learn the tech used, how the parade of authors and guests was managed, and ultimately if Mike thought it was worthwhile. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, it’s all the data! Mike breaks down the numbers so far with respect to bulk buys for his new book, The Money Habit. Large and small orders, how the logistics of shipping played out, and more – nothing is left out. Did AJ manage to convince Mike that bulk buys are as important as individual sales, or did Mike finally win a debate? You’ll have to listen to find out! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Path to the Main Stage, with Li Hayes Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike answer one of the most common questions they get from first-time authors. How the heck are you supposed to get an endorsement for your book? How do you ask a Big Name someone for a shout-out? This week our duo not only tells you the dos, they give you the absolutely do nots so authors can ask the Big Ask in a way that feels good. They’ll even cover how to follow up on a “no” and why it’s not always a closed door. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: The Coaching Habit, Michael Bungay Stanier Scale Solo, Pia Silva Rich Relationships, Selena Soo Before the Bestseller, Alex Strathdee The Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck, Mark Manson Running with Lions, Julian Winters Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sexual abuse, while not in detail, it may be disturbing and/or triggering to some listeners and viewers. In this surprise episode, Mike and AJ break down the Amy Griffin controversy and how authors can learn from it. Amy Griffin authored the book The Tell, in which she recounts a repressed memory of alleged sexual abuse. However, Griffin’s classmate, Jane Doe, filed a lawsuit saying that the alleged story of SA was not Griffin’s, but Doe’s. Mike and AJ discuss the issue of authors taking stories that aren’t their own and how to learn from other stories without creating a false narrative. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app.

In this episode, Mike breaks down all the data he’s managed to collect so far since publishing The Money Habit in January 2026. He updates AJ on bulk buys, individual orders, how he ran orders through third-party systems like Porchlight, and how pre-sales added up, and more. He’ll lay out whether they met or missed his team’s expectations. If you’re into juicy data, this is the week you won’t want to miss! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: Nir Eyal, Hooked Mike’s Monday Night Reading (Audio) Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ debunk the weird myth that persists that authors can’t make a profit from writing a must-read. What’s the ROI on writing a prescriptive nonfiction book? Sure, there’s parlaying your book sales into speaking gigs, but this week our duo lays out ways that authors can increase their sales and generate real income. The ideas might surprise you! (And you’ll learn our duo’s desert island books, too.) Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Vickie Lanthier, High Agency Human Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss what authors who don’t have the luxury of a long launch runway can do so they’re not ready to take a long walk off a short pier by publishing day! Our seasoned pros offer guidance on what authors should skip, and where they should focus their time and attention to maximize their launches without sacrificing their sanity. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Vickie Lanthier, High Agency Human Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss all the ways authors can maximize a longer runway for their book launch. They discuss big asks, relationship building, why pre-orders matter and everything in between. A year to half a year may seem like too much time, but our duo explains how that time will fly by – and how to manage that time so authors have the best launch they can. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: The Dysregulated Kid, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ share times in their authorship careers when life came hard and interrupted their flow. What steps do they take to keep “in the book” and keep it as a priority? Each shares moments that tested them and what concrete actions they took to persevere. AJ includes her “writing prescription” for when you want to walk away. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: My Favorite Murder, Episode 501 (Explicit content warning!) Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ hold nothing back and give their listeners every question they should ask themselves when deciding their publishing path. And the sooner an author asks themselves some of the biggies, the less wasted time, heartbreak, and struggle down the road. It’s not as simple as you may think, and you may be surprised by the alternatives our duo shares! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: Joyspan, Dr. Kerry Burnight AJ’s Writing Sprint Marathon sign up (Free!) Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ talk about the one thing your must-read book better do: deliver on its promise. It isn’t about making pie-in-the-sky promises but understanding your reader and what their chief concerns truly are. It’s about checking in along the way to offer tiny wins. And for the rest, you’ll have to tune in and give this week a listen! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: I Will Teach You to be Rich, Ramit Sethi Too Much, Terri Cole The Book of Alchemy, by Suleika Jaouad Reset, Dan Heath Take Breaks, Work Better, John Briggs Time Freedom, Brian Herriot AJ’s Writing Sprint Marathon sign up (Free!) Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB    

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss potential pitfalls in the publishing process. They’ll share experiences they wish they could do over or avoid completely, like having too large a first print run and inviting strangers into your home to talk about their big book idea when they’re secretly nude yogis. (It turned out okay, but yikes!) This is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Stig Severinsen, deep sea swimmer Defy, by Dr. Sunita Sah High Agency Human, by Vickie Lanthier Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn  

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss an area of promotion often associated with fiction authors, but one they know absolutely helps authors of prescriptive nonfiction: public readings! Listeners will learn how to create a reading, how to promote it, and how to use that opportunity to increase book sales and readership. And speaking of, you’re coming to Mike’s Monday Night Reading, aren’t you? Check the show notes to register for the free event (and see how it’s done by a pro!). Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Mike’s upcoming Monday Night Reading, where he’ll read selections from The Money Habit. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

Happy Money Habit Release Week! In this episode, AJ and Mike celebrate the release of their new book. Mike updates listeners on launch week activities, what the marketing team has been up to behind the scenes, and how listeners can apply some of the steps to their own launches. There’s even some deep book geekery in how you can print run for your physical copy. Ultimately, it’s a celebration of the hard work our duo put in and a recommitment to providing real relief for their readers. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: Mike’s upcoming Monday Night Reading, where he’ll read selections from The Money Habit. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the importance of structure when writing a prescription nonfiction book or even a creative nonfiction book, like a memoir. They’re prepared for all the pushback new authors have with respect to a structured outline and solid fundamentals, and will even explain how creating your book's scaffolding allows for creative freedom. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: E-Myth, by Michael E Gerber Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss the organization that goes into working on multiple books at the same time. AJ likens it to a multilane highway – sometimes you’re zooming in the fast lane, other times you downshift to focus on other aspects. For Mike, he prefers to be all in, heh, on the writing, then put everything into the next phase of a book’s life. And of course, their admiration for Steven Pressfield’s process of managing multiple projects is the defining “how do you do it?” for the episode. You’ll have to listen to find out!  Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike break down sponsorships for authors. Grab a pen and notebook, because this week is chock-full of how tos and details for any author, from nonfiction to memoir to fiction, to learn how to utilize the power of a sponsor to fund the book, the publication, the launch, and even ongoing programs, podcasts, and more. They hold nothing back! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Exactly What to Say, by Phil Jones AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ address another listener’s question about how to write and share supportive content for one’s must-read book. From planting your flag as the authority in your area of expertise to building your newsletter and circle of authorial friends to even launching a podcast, our team covers the what, how, and why every author should be creating content that supports their transformational books. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Joyspan, by Dr. Kerry Burnight Scaling Up, by Verne Harnish The Alter Ego Effect, by Todd Herman AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, authors will learn everything they need to include in their bios. AJ and Mike share the different types of bios, from short social media bios to longer bios meant for the interior of your book and everything in between. You’ll also learn what not to include to avoid looking like a newbie. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Children’s Illustrator (My Money Bunnies and others), Eevi Jones The Biology of Trauma, by Aimie Apigian AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this second of a two-part episode, AJ and Mike answer another reader email in which they’re asked to explain how authors know when they’re “done,” this time with a focus on marketing. They detail what they think keeps authors from even getting started with marketing, give clear examples of what authors can do right now to get it going, and explain when enough is enough. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Photographer John DeMato AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this first of two parts episode, AJ and Mike answer another reader email in which they’re asked to explain how authors know when they’re “done.” How much outlining is enough? When does one know when their fundamentals are right? What about self-editing? Our duo tackles these tough questions with clear examples so authors know when it’s okay to move on to the next big thing in writing their must-reads. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: AJ’s Authorship Planning Workshop Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike answer a reader email in which they’re asked to describe the emotional journey they each face when writing a book. It’s a deeply personal episode where they both expose the highs and lows, the exalted moments, and the suffering that comes from pouring one’s heart out to write a must-read. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Sustainability Simplified, by Josh Spodek The Gap and the Gain, by Dan Sullivan Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike shares his experience of shooting his new TV show, The Four-Minute Money Maker on Vizio. They chat about how authorship can inform performance on stage or in front of a camera, and how being on camera can inform how you write and tell stories. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises, by Susanne Mariga Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the pros and cons of giving Amazon exclusivity to your book, be it by print, eBook, or audiobook. How can this affect your reach? How can this affect your ability to get into a local store or library? Should you look for alternatives to the 800-pound publishing gorilla, and what would that look like? All this and more in today’s episode! Guess what?! We started a YouTube channel, where you can watch us in action. Subscribe and sign up for notifications to know when new episodes drop: @DontWriteThatBook Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Alignment, by Dr. Katie Keller Wood Joyspan, by Dr. Kerry Burnight Time Freedom Podcast, with Brian Herriot Main Street Millionaire, by Codie Sanchez Kickstarter author Russel Nohelty G.O.A.T. Wisdom, by Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell   Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, our duo take an audio walk down memory lane to share all the little and big picture items of authorship that they wish they’d known before starting the journey. They’ll talk about negotiating contracts, getting permission to share titles, fighting for tone, and more with editors, and even more in between. The hope is that it will make the listener’s journey easier! Guess what?! We started a YouTube channel, where you can watch us in action. Subscribe and sign up for notifications to know when new episodes drop: @DontWriteThatBook Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: On Writing Well, by William Zinsser Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss one of the most important aspects of authorship: forming partnerships with other authors! Book bundles, speaking engagements, webinars, and more, our duo shares real-life examples of authors working together to have a greater impact.  Guess what?! We started a YouTube channel, where you can watch us in action. Subscribe and sign up for notifications to know when new episodes drop: @DontWriteThatBook Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Smart Money for Authors with Garrett Gunderson and AJ Harper Unhinged Habits, by Jonathan Goodman (Pre-order) Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the to-dos and not-to-dos with working with your developmental and copy editors. They also share some cautionary tales and ways for authors to communicate more effectively with their editors and publishers during the production process of their must-reads. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Scar Tissue ,by Melissa Dlugolecki Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this 100th episode, AJ and Mike first take a walk down memory lane with a gag they came up with to get big-name endorsements for Mike’s book and laugh so hard they can’t catch their breath. They also address a listener’s question about how two authors can write a book together. Our duo holds nothing back and gives it to listeners straight. If you’re going to have a partnership like theirs, you have to have clear lines of communication.  They even share what to avoid and how to structure royalties.  Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ discuss the number of women in publishing today, and the answer might surprise you! They’ll also share their experiences in publishing with respect to their gender, with AJ offering a mindset shift she’d like to see in more women who publish. Mike also gives an update on some cool marketing coming for their next book, The Money Habit. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Big Freakin’ Change, by Cara Poppitt Get Good with Money, by Tiffany Aliche Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike address some important dos and don’ts for back cover copy. If you didn’t know, back covers were so important; now you do! They’ll walk through some cautionary tales, offer ways to increase your visibility and connection with your reader, and even explain what authors should consider when publishing a paperback versus a hardback with a dust jacket. See? There’s a lot to talk about!  Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ answer a listener’s email about their fears of doing all the things with respect to marketing their book. Our duo offers sage advice on how to get in front of those fears, and one of the biggest ways to keep moving forward is to send in the troops! They’ll offer organic ways to connect with other authors, how to shift your mindset to go from fear to fearless, and when to bring folks in to help with the big asks. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Oregon Trail Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike answer a listener’s question about author collaboration. Not only can authors work together, but the whole process is a team sport! From interviews and co-authors to working with publicists, agents, and more, our duo breaks down the process of working on a book as a team. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: The Desire Map, by Danielle LaPorte I Will Teach You to be Rich, by Ramit Young Money, by Kevin Roose Your Best Financial Life, by Anne Lester Great Work ,  by Amanda Crowell Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ have a frank conversation about an aspect of publishing many authors forget: the life of a good book is long! They’ll detail ways they’ve seen authors go wrong and, more importantly, offer ways for authors to go right. If you want to write a book that’s a must-read, this is a must-listen! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Three Doors Moby Dick, by Herman Melville The Alchemist, by Paul Co-ELLE-o The Café at the Edge of the World, by John Streleky AJ’s YouTube channel Adayla, the Official Pig Wrangler Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss AJ’s philosophy on a core message for a book, what it is, and most importantly, how to craft one. They’ll talk about ways to determine if you’ve got yours nailed or if you have to go back to the drawing board, and give listeners tips on how to refine their book’s core message. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Big Freakin’ Change, by Cara Poppitt Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike discuss the newest findings of cognitive decline with heavy reliance on LLMs, language learning models, like ChatGPT and others. They’ll dive into ways authors can “ethically” use AI and what they miss when they lean too heavily on AI in developing their must-read books and beyond. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ break down the strategy for parlaying writing books into a successful speaking career. Mike gets granular with pay structure, expectations from audiences, and where he believes speakers go wrong in their career. They also have a mini debate on whether organizers should bulk buy your book or if speakers should compel the audience to make a purchase live, and why. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Comfort Crisis, by Michael Easter Reset, by Dan Heath Avid Reader, by Robert Gottlieb The Book of Alchemy, by Suleika Jaouad Friction, by Roger Dooley Li Hayes, speaker agent at GoLeeWard Too Much , by Terri Cole

In this episode, Mike and AJ catch listeners up on the state of production for their forthcoming book, The Money Habit, including working with Page Two’s graphics design team, efficient ways to power through proofreading, and Mike’s current state of getting an “in” with the MacMillan Publishing’s sales team for marketing purposes. We’re keeping hope alive! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, AJ and Mike give listeners sage advice should they encounter a book on the topic the listener is currently writing. Spoiler alert: keep writing! Our duo will explain why it’s not as dire as the author may believe, and how they can leverage the other book into proof to nab a publishing deal. It’s another episode of keep calm and keep writing! Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Auction Ninja Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Mike and AJ do some much-needed navel gazing about the books they’d love to write if time and current commitments weren’t a factor. Their answers might surprise you! Plus, they’ll offer ways for authors to capture those ideas so they can have new ideas at the ready for that moment when life opens up for a new book. Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app.   Books/Resources Mentioned: In Search of You, by Kasey Compton Tales of the City, by Armistead Maupin Get Signed, by Lucinda Halpern Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

In this episode, what if we not only ignored the 800-pound gorilla in the room, but paid attention to a smaller gorilla? Mike and AJ remind listeners of all the many ways to get around, relying on Amazon for book sales, and even include direct links in the show and in the show notes. Thanks for the listener email from author Josh Spodek that inspired this episode! (And be sure to check out his book, Sustainability Simplified.) Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe, and leave a review on your podcast app. Books/Resources Mentioned: Sustainability Simplified, by Josh Spodek Bookshop.org Draft2Digital (eBook sales) Findaway Voices (audio books) Dave Chesson at Kindleprenuer, direct sales article Connect with AJ & Mike: AJ Harper, website  Write A Must-Read   Free resources AJ’s Socials: Facebook LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz, website All books   Mike’s Socials:  IG FB LinkedIn

Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app.Check out Burned by Julie Bee. Thank you to Julie for sponsoring today’s episode!Books/Resources Mentioned:Writer BewareDefy, by Dr. Sunita SahConnect with AJ & Mike:AJ Harper, website Write A Must-Read  Free resourcesAJ’s Socials:FacebookLinkedInMike Michalowicz, websiteAll books Mike’s Socials: IGFBLinkedIn

Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app.Check out Burned by Julie Bee. Thank you to Julie for sponsoring today’s episode!Books/Resources Mentioned:The program AJ cautions againstWeller Smith DesignConnect with AJ & Mike:AJ Harper, website Write A Must-Read  Free resourcesAJ’s Socials:FacebookLinkedInMike Michalowicz, websiteAll books Mike’s Socials: IGFBLinkedIn

Check out Burned by Julie Bee. Thank you to Julie for sponsoring today’s episode!Be sure to visit https://dwtbpodcast.com for more information and add your name to start receiving their newsletter. If you’d like to support this show, rate, subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app.Books/Resources Mentioned:Time Anxiety, by Chris GuillebeauJohn Bates, speaking coach (for private training)HEROIC Public Speaking (for elite training)Connect with AJ & Mike:AJ Harper, website Write A Must-Read  Free resourcesAJ’s Socials:FacebookLinkedInMike Michalowicz, websiteAll books Mike’s Socials: IGFBLinkedIn