🎙️ Writing the book is just the beginning—let’s talk about what it really costs to be an author.
In this eye-opening episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas dive into the hidden expenses of the writing life, from the tangible costs of publishing and advertising to the emotional toll authors rarely discuss.

They unpack both the traditional and self-publishing sides of the industry, exploring how to make smarter financial choices and build a sustainable author career that aligns with your goals not just your wallet.

In this episode they explore:

• The hidden costs behind writing, publishing, and marketing your book 💸
• The trade-offs of self-publishing—more control, but more responsibility
• How advertising and promo expenses can add up fast (and what to prioritize)
• The rise of direct-to-reader sales and what it means for indie authors
• Why sharing financial wins can unintentionally discourage other writers
• Building a reader community that sustains your long-term success
• How knowing your “why” can help you navigate publishing choices with confidence

This episode is a candid, numbers-meet-narrative look at what it takes to build a writing career that lasts.

Answer in comments 👇 What’s been your biggest surprise about the “real” costs of being an author?

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡ https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure 🚀💕 https://ahaaswrites.com/

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/
Young Adult 🧚 https://authorcmnewell.com/
Writing Coach 📚 https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 author costs, self-publishing, traditional publishing, marketing, reader engagement, indie authors, book pricing, advertising, writing community