How to Publish an Audiobook without a Print/Ebook Edition

Many of our clients have always wondered if it is possible to publish their audiobook without having a print or ebook version out for sale, the answer is YES.

Submitting an audiobook for distribution can be exciting, allowing authors and publishers to reach a wider audience through various platforms. While some distribution channels have specific requirements, it is possible to submit an audiobook even if you don't have a print or ebook edition available.

In this article, we will explore the process of submitting an audiobook without a print/ebook edition, highlighting the exceptions and guidelines for each distribution platform.

1) Understanding the Audible Exception

Audible, one of the leading audiobook distribution platforms, has a specific requirement for authors and publishers. To distribute an audiobook on Audible, it is mandatory to have an ebook or print copy listed on Amazon. This requirement ensures that Audible users can access the companion ebook or print version of the audiobook.

If you do not have a print or ebook edition available on Amazon, you will be unable to distribute your audiobook on Audible. Therefore, it is crucial to meet this prerequisite if you plan to target Audible's large audience.

2) Exploring Other Distribution Channels

Fortunately, Audible is the exception rather than the rule when it comes to submitting an audiobook without a print or ebook edition. Most other audiobook distribution platforms allow authors and publishers to upload their audiobooks without any accompanying print or ebook versions.

We reached out directly to Findaway voices, the world's largest audiobook distributor. They said:

“If you do not have the print/ebook on Amazon.com, you would not be able to distribute to Audible and would have to leave them unselected from distribution. This is the only exception; every other distributor allows for you to upload the audiobook without a print/ebook edition.”

This means you still have an opportunity to distribute your audiobook and reach a diverse range of listeners!

3) Step-by-Step Instructions for Submitting Audiobooks

To submit your audiobook without a print or ebook edition, follow these general instructions:

Research Audiobook Distribution Platforms:

Explore various distribution platforms such as Findaway Voices, Author's Republic, and many more. Understand their submission guidelines, pricing structures, and royalty options.

Prepare Your Audiobook Files:

Ensure that your audiobook is professionally recorded, edited, and meets the required audio quality standards. Convert your audiobook into the preferred file format specified by the distribution platform. Also, we have audiobook production services that can help you throughout this entire process.

Create an Account:

Sign up or create an account on the chosen distribution platform. Provide the necessary information such as your name, contact details, and payment preferences.

Upload Your Audiobook:

Follow the platform's instructions to upload your audiobook files. This typically involves selecting the appropriate file format, naming your audiobook, and providing any additional metadata required.

Set Pricing and Distribution Preferences:

Determine the pricing for your audiobook, taking into consideration the platform's suggested retail price and your desired royalty rate. Select the regions where you want your audiobook to be available for distribution.

Review and Confirm:

Carefully review all the information provided, including pricing, distribution preferences, and any terms of service. Once you are satisfied, confirm your submission.

4) Maximizing Your Audiobook's Reach

While submitting your audiobook without a print or ebook edition opens up numerous distribution opportunities, it is essential to consider other formats as well. Creating a companion print or ebook edition of your audiobook can enhance the overall reading experience for your audience. Additionally, having multiple formats available allows you to reach a broader range of readers who may prefer different mediums. Therefore, if resources permit, consider creating a print or ebook edition alongside your audiobook to maximize your reach and potential revenue streams.

Conclusion

Submitting an audiobook without a print or ebook edition is possible, with the exception of Audible, which requires a companion print or ebook listed on Amazon. However, most other distribution platforms offer authors and publishers the flexibility to upload audiobooks independently. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you can successfully submit your audiobook and reach a wider audience of listeners.

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If you need help turning your book into an audiobook, we offer remote audiobook production and editing services that will help you reach a wider audience and increase your book sales. 

Listen to some of our audiobook samples here to get started.

How Starting a Podcast Can Grow Your Business

Podcasting is one of the fastest-growing media channels worldwide. According to a report by Forbes, there are now over 5 million podcasts and 70 million episodes to choose from in 2023. The United States is the biggest market for podcasts, with 100 million people actively listening - up from 82 million in 2021. This makes podcasting a great place for businesses to reach their target audience. In fact, podcast advertising revenue is expected to go from $1.4 billion in 2021 to $4 billion by 2024.. with these impressive statistics, it's no surprise that more and more businesses are leveraging podcasts as part of their marketing strategies.

If you are now interested in creating a podcast for your business and have no idea where to start, check out this article, it is a detailed step by step guide on how to start your podcast.

Let’s get into the:

10 reasons why starting a podcast can help you grow your business:

1. Reach a broader audience: A podcast allows you to reach a larger audience and connect with people who might not have discovered your business otherwise. With podcasting, you can reach people while they're driving, exercising, or doing household chores, which makes it more accessible than other forms of content.

2. Establish authority in your industry: Creating a podcast allows you to position yourself as an expert in your industry. By sharing your knowledge, insights, and opinions on relevant topics, you can establish yourself as a thought leader and gain credibility with your audience.

3. Build trust and loyalty: When people listen to your podcast regularly, they'll start to feel like they know you and your business personally. This creates a sense of familiarity, which can lead to increased trust and loyalty.

4. Increase engagement and customer retention: A podcast allows you to engage with your audience on a more personal level. By discussing topics that interest them and answering their questions, you can build a relationship with your listeners that keeps them coming back for more.

5. Generate leads and sales: Podcasts can help you generate leads and sales by promoting your products or services within the show. According to a study by Midroll, 63% of podcast listeners bought something a host had promoted on their show. Don’t start a podcast for the only purpose of selling, however if you add value, build your listeners, it will be a lot easier to have new clients coming to you.

6. Repurpose content: Podcasts can be repurposed into blog posts, social media content, and other forms of content, which can help you save time and maximize your reach. One great podcast episode can turn into lots of different content pieces to reach people all over.

7. Low barrier to entry: Starting a podcast is relatively easy and inexpensive, especially compared to other forms of media like TV or radio advertising. Anyone can start a podcast, and now with AI it has made it even easier to get ideas, talking points, etc… to get up and running. We help successful businesses, entrepreneurs, and leaders throughout the entire podcast creation process on a professional level, who don’t have time to do it themselves. However, if you are just getting started you can definitely take it on.

8. Differentiate yourself from competitors: Podcasting is still a relatively new medium, so by creating a podcast, you can differentiate yourself from competitors who aren't yet using this form of content. However, it is becoming more popular, so it's essential to lean into your uniqueness. I recommend focusing on personality and value. Don't strive for perfection; instead, aim for authenticity. The beauty of podcasting is that it's a conversation that isn't super formal. It's a way to connect with your audience and let them see who you are, who your guests are, and share experiences and lessons that will be beneficial to their lives.

9. Analyze listener data: Podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts provide analytics on listener data, including demographic information, listening habits, and engagement metrics. This information can help you refine your content strategy and make data-driven decisions. As your metrics grow, you’ll be able to test new ideas, concepts, products, and services to see their potential with your audience.

10. Collaborate with other businesses and influencers: Podcasting provides an opportunity to collaborate with other businesses and influencers, which can help you reach new audiences and build relationships in your industry. This is huge! High status people that would have been much harder to reach, will now have a reason to talk with you. Although it’s not guaranteed it’s a lot more likely they will be open to it, especially if you tell them what’s in it for them.

Here's a sample script you can use to convince a potential guest to come on your podcast:

Hi [Guest Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I'm reaching out because I'm a big fan of your work and I think you'd be a great fit for my podcast, [Podcast Name]. I would be honored if you could take some time out of your schedule to join me for an interview.

I would love to hear your insights on [relevant topic related to the guest's expertise]. Your expertise in this area would be invaluable to my listeners, who are always looking for new perspectives and ideas to help them [describe your audience's interests or goals].

Here are some benefits of being a guest on my podcast:

• Gain exposure: As an established podcast with a [number of episodes] and growing audience, your appearance on our show would help increase your visibility to a wider audience.

• Share your expertise: Your insights and knowledge in [relevant topic] could be really beneficial to my listeners and help establish you as an authority in your field.

• Network: Being a guest on our podcast would give you the opportunity to connect with other guests who share your interests, and build relationships that could lead to future collaborations.

Please let me know if you're interested in being a guest on our show. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Make sure to add your own personality to this script, and that any compliments you give are true and genuine. Don’t just copy it word for word. Hope this helps you get started on your podcasting journey!

Conclusion

Podcasting is a powerful tool for businesses to grow their audiences, establish authority, build trust and loyalty, and generate leads and sales. With the low barrier to entry, the ability to repurpose content, and the opportunity to collaborate with others, podcasting is a highly effective marketing channel that should be considered as part of your business's marketing strategy.

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If you need help making your podcast sound amazing, we offer podcast editing, mixing, and mastering services that can help elevate your brand and clearly share your message.

Learn more about our podcast production services and hear a sample of our work here. We look forward to adding massive value to your podcast development process.

How to Get Your Audiobook on Spotify

Great news for all authors, Spotify is now carrying audiobooks! This means you will be able to easily reach an entire new audience of listeners. Spotify has over 400 million active users and keeps growing, this is an amazing opportunity for your audiobook to be discovered.

We help a lot of our clients get on Audible going through the ACX, as that has been the standard market place for Audiobooks and continues to be so. However it is advisable to be in as many places as possible to meet listeners where they are at.

Wether you already have an audiobook on audible (with a non-exclusive deal), or you are an author that is in the process of wanting to create an audiobook, this step by step guide will make it simple for you to get on Spotify!

If you are an independent/self-published author, the easiest way to get on Spotify is using Findaway Voices.

What is FINDAWAY VOICES?

Findaway Voices is the world's largest audiobook distributor. They give you access to the entire listening world through retail and library partners ranging from major global brands to fresh new startups. The company is now owned by Spotify, to grow in the audiobook space.

How to Upload Your Audiobook on Spotify

In order to upload your audiobook on Spotify you will need to sign up for an account with Findaway Voices here. Then you'll need to provide some basic information about yourself like your Name, Email, Password, etc... It will also show this:

Make sure to select Author if you already have an audiobook and you just want to use their distribution platform. If you are an author and don’t have an audiobook yet, you can narrate it yourself using our innovative audiobook production services, or we can handle the entire process with one of our narrators. We’ve worked with top publishers like Penguin Random House, Scribe Media, and Amazon.

1. Once you've signed up, you'll be taken to the dashboard. Click on the "Upload" button to begin the process.

2. Findaway Voices will ask you to provide some information about your audiobook, including the title, author, and narrator.

3. Next, you'll need to upload your audiobook files. Findaway Voices accepts a variety of formats, including MP3, WAV, and FLAC. You can either upload the files directly or use an FTP client to transfer them.

4. After your files have been uploaded, you'll need to review the metadata for your audiobook. This includes things like the cover image, the description, and the pricing.

5. Once you're satisfied with the metadata, you can choose which distribution channels you want to use. Make sure to select Spotify as one of your distribution channels.

6. Findaway Voices will then distribute your audiobook to Spotify, as well as other platforms like Audible, Apple Books, and Google Play.

7. After your audiobook has been distributed, you'll be able to track its sales and earnings through the Findaway Voices dashboard.

Conclusion

I hope this guide was helpful! Remember that in order to upload your audiobook to Spotify you will have to have a non-exclusive deal with Amazon (ACX). There is pros and cons, because if your audiobook is exclusive with amazon you will be on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes, and get to keep much higher royalties, however they set the price of your audiobook and you can’t sell it anywhere else. That’s a decision you will have to decide, let me know what you end up going with in the comments below!

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If you need help turning your book into an audiobook, we offer remote audiobook production and editing services that will help you reach a wider audience and increase your book sales. 

Listen to some of our audiobook samples here to get started.