How to Publish a Bestseller (Without Getting Scammed) With Michelle DeFilippo

The Entrepreneurial You

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.

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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] or WhatsApp [phone] 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.

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