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Wednesday, April 3
 

7:00pm CDT

Preconference Hang Out
If you’re coming early for Thursday’s preconference sessions, or are in the area already, join us for this no-host meet & mingle in the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile lobby bar. There's no additional fee to participate in this preconference hangout. We'll see you there!

You can email questions about this preconference hang out to Lee Wind at lee@ibpa-online.org.

Speakers
avatar for Lee Wind

Lee Wind

Director of Marketing and Programming, Independent Book Publishers Association
Lee Wind (he/him) is the director of education and programs at the Independent Book Publishers Association. He designs and hosts IBPA educational programs to be both informational and actionable, and is constantly iterating IBPA's book marketing programs to help our members' books... Read More →



Wednesday April 3, 2019 7:00pm - 11:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Hotel Lobby)
 
Thursday, April 4
 

8:30am CDT

Preconference Session -- Practical Advice for Book Metadata (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

Industry studies and publisher anecdotes have shown that the quality of your book metadata has a direct impact on sales and discoverability. This workshop will provide you with an in-depth crash course on this important topic. You will learn about the best methods for tracking and maintaining your book metadata, how to create metadata of the highest quality, what information is most important, industry best practices and recommendations, how different retailers handle the metadata you send them, and various methods for the distribution of your print and ebook metadata. There will be ample time for questions and feedback, as well as examples of publishers who have found success with their metadata.

This workshop will provide you with practical, actionable steps you can take immediately to get the most out of this critical aspect of professional book publishing.

Speakers
avatar for Joshua Tallent

Joshua Tallent

Director of Sales and Education, Firebrand Technologies
Joshua Tallent is an acclaimed teacher and guide on the role of data in publishing, and a vocal advocate for high quality book metadata. He serves as the Director of Sales and Education at Firebrand Technologies (www.firebrandtech.com), where his focus is on helping publishers of all sizes learn about, and find solutions to, their workflow and metadata problems. Joshua can often be found researching odd metadata issues, creating training videos and documentation about Firebrand services, and speaking at conferences... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 8:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

8:30am CDT

Preconference Session -- Publishing Standards: A Deep Dive into the Most Important Checklist Every New Publisher Needs (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

Back by popular demand! IBPA Advocacy Committee members Brooke Warner and Teri Rider present IBPA's Industry Standards Checklist for a Professionally Published Book. This 4-hour workshop is divided into two parts, focusing on (1) editorial and (2) production standards, and details everything a new publisher needs to consider in order to produce professionally published books. Brooke and Teri will include some of the most common mistakes they see new publishers make and will show how following standards can level the playing field for publishers everywhere. Specific examples drive the presentation.

Speakers
avatar for Teri Rider

Teri Rider

Publisher, Top Reads Publishing, LLC
As a visual artist, everything is a spoke that touches the hub of my “art” wheel. I love nature, I rescue animals, I collect books, and my favorite smells are rain, woodsmoke, and used bookstores. I’m a mom and a book midwife.Quite simply, I love to work with authors to build... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Warner

Brooke Warner

Publisher, She Writes Press
Brooke Warner is publisher of She Writes Press and SparkPress, president of Warner Coaching Inc., and author of Write On, Sisters!, Green-light Your Book, What's Your Book?, and three books on memoir. Brooke is a TEDx speaker, weekly podcaster (Write-minded with co-host Grant Faulkner... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 8:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

8:30am CDT

Preconference Session -- Uncharted Territories: How Small Presses and Independent Authors Can Drive Revenue by Selling Subsidiary Rights (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

During this preconference workshop, Georgia McBride will introduce you to concepts you can use to grow your businesses and readership via the exploitation of subsidiary rights. Participants will learn how to open additional revenue lines as well as to how to build world-wide audiences via the successful packaging and selling of subsidiary rights including audio, translation, mobile/gaming, film/TV, merchandise, and book club. Specific focuses are defined below.
  • Audiobooks: working within the audio book market in concert with audio publisher
  • Translation: working with foreign publishers and sub agents, foreign and US tax and reporting considerations, VAT issues, pitching and creating catalogs, rights fairs and other opportunities, translation fees and requirements
  • Foreign and World English: working within the World English market
  • Book Clubs:  working with large book clubs such as Scholastic and School Library Journal
  • Film/TV: working with the  film/TV market, options, getting on the radar of producers, directors, networks, film companies, etc.
  • Large Print and Braille: working with additional formats and book availability opportunities
  • Merchandise: selling to merch and/or toy markets
  • Mobile and Gaming: selling into the hottest emerging market of mobile/gaming/digital

Speakers
avatar for Georgia McBride

Georgia McBride

Publisher, Georgia McBride Media Group (Home of Month9Books, Swoon Romance, and Tantrum Books)
Georgia McBride is the owner of Georgia McBride Media Group, home of Month9Books, Swoon Romance, and Tantrum Books. She is also the founder of #YAlitchat. Georgia McBride Media Group titles have sold to Audible, Blackstone, ListenUP!, and Tantor Media, and have been liscened by Scholastic... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 8:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:30pm CDT

Preconference Session -- Amazon Deep Dive: Leveraging Advantage, Seller Central, Advertising, and Other Programs to Boost Brand and Maximize Sales (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

During this preconference workshop, you'll get up to speed on specialized Amazon programs that can help you reach more customers, increase sales, and expand your brand. Topics will include selling books and other products through Amazon Advantage and Seller Central, optimizing your Amazon product pages using special promotional tools and Amazon's brand registry, and leveraging Amazon Advertising to get in front of shoppers. There will also be a discussion of how to develop new product lines for sale on Amazon and elsewhere.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Lamont

Ian Lamont

Founder, i30 Media Corporation
Ian Lamont is the founder of i30 Media Corporation and the creator of the Lean Media framework. His company publishes IN 30 MINUTES Guides, EASYGENIE genealogy forms, and a line of technology cheat sheets. His media career has spanned more than 25 years across three continents, including a stint in the British music industry and... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 1:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:30pm CDT

Preconference Session -- Audiobooks: Ensuring Your Titles Reach the Widest Possible Audience (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

Audiobooks have become the bright spot of the publishing industry. With double digit growth in audiobook sales over the last six years, entrepreneurial authors and publishers need up to date information about how having their titles available in this high-demand format can expand their audience and maximize their sales. In this session, audiobook consultant and publisher Michele Cobb, and producer and narrator Tavia Gilbert, provide guidance on the key elements of creating, selling, and marketing audiobooks.

Together you will explore:
  • Key statistics about exciting growth in the audiobook industry
  • Keys to informed decision-making around title selection
  • Methods of audiobook production
  • Detailed aspects of the production process, including script preparation, successful partnership with a narrator or producer, and key post production elements
  • Distribution options
  • Marketing your title

You'll also receive answers to the following questions:
  • Who is the best narrator for your novel, non-fiction, or memoir?
  • How do you evaluate voice talent and potential producing partners?
  • Should you self-publish your audio editions, or sell the rights to an audio publisher?
  • When should you release audio of front-list title(s)? Should your backlist be available in audio?
  • How do you ensure your title’s discoverability?

Be ready to interact and participate during this detailed look into the audiobook landscape with two leading industry experts.

Speakers
avatar for Michele Cobb

Michele Cobb

Partner, Forte Business Consulting
Michele Cobb is a recognized expert in the audio industry and a Partner at Forté Business Consulting. Formerly Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the British Broadcasting Corporation audiobooks division, she has served on the Audio Publishers Association (APA) board since 2001... Read More →
avatar for Tavia Gilbert

Tavia Gilbert

Producer, Writer, Acclaimed Narrator
2018 Audiobook Narrator of the Year and 2017 Best Female Narrator Audie Award winner Tavia Gilbert is a producer, writer, and narrator of multiple podcasts and over 600 audiobooks. A nine-time Audie nominee, multiple nominee and winner of Voice Arts Awards, Tavia is the recipient... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 1:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:30pm CDT

Preconference Session -- Public Speaking for the Terrified (ADDITIONAL $59 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a 4-hour preconference workshop. An additional $59 fee is required to attend. 
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

If you'd choose paper cuts over public speaking, this workshop is for you. During this interactive session, Sean Buvala will run you through fun, non-threatening, and gentle story games to help you loosen up. He'll then discuss immediately-useful ways to increase your confidence as you develop, craft, and share your story-based content. As a group, you will practice tips on speaking with others in a clear and calm manner. In the end, you'll give a very short presentation to your fellow (supportive!) workshop participants. This is a body-and-voice interactive, not-recorded workshop that could turn you into the communicator you know you need to be.

Speakers
avatar for Sean Buvala

Sean Buvala

Publisher, The Small-Tooth-Dog Publishing Group
Sean Buvala has been engaged with storytelling and communication since 1986. He started his work by accidentally using active storytelling to convert a classroom of slightly (but comically) homicidal 8th-grade teenagers from angry kids to storytelling practitioners themselves. From... Read More →


Thursday April 4, 2019 1:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

5:30pm CDT

Preconference Session -- Literature & Libations Cocktail Reception
Come one, come all! There's no additional fee to attend this informal cocktail reception. Bring lots of business cards! See you there.

Spend Thursday evening meeting and mingling with the IBPA Publishing University community during our annual LITERATURE & LIBATIONS cocktail reception. This special  networking event is designed to give IBPA Publishing University attendees the chance to gather informally within the conference hotel prior to the official conference kick-off on Friday, April 5th.


Thursday April 4, 2019 5:30pm - 7:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Marriott Ballroom) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

9:00pm CDT

After Hours Hang Out -- Live Jazz Show! (ADDITIONAL $40 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a special preconference session. An additional $40 fee is required to attend. 
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.
  • The venue would like to share this with respect to conversation levels during the show: "We are conversation friendly as long as folks do not compete with the music on stage. Musicians, as well as other patrons visiting the club, need audience respect while performing." Makes sense to us!

For the late night crew interested in a taste of Chicago, we’re headed "out on the town!"

Join your fellow conference-goers at Andy's Jazz Club (a seven-minute walk from the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile hotel) for their 9:30pm live Jazz show! We'll gather in the hotel lobby at 9pm and walk over at 9:10pm as a group.

The $40 registration covers the entry fee and two drink minimum (Pepsi Product Sodas, Hot & Iced Tea, Regular & Decaf Coffee, House Wine By The Glass, All Beers, or Well Spirit Cocktails). You must register to attend.

Learn more about Andy's Jazz Club here: www.andysjazzclub.com and email questions to Lee Wind at lee@ibpa-online.org.

Speakers
avatar for Lee Wind

Lee Wind

Director of Marketing and Programming, Independent Book Publishers Association
Lee Wind (he/him) is the director of education and programs at the Independent Book Publishers Association. He designs and hosts IBPA educational programs to be both informational and actionable, and is constantly iterating IBPA's book marketing programs to help our members' books... Read More →



Thursday April 4, 2019 9:00pm - 11:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Hotel Lobby)
  Preconference, All Levels
 
Friday, April 5
 

8:00am CDT

Small Group Breakfast Meetups (ADDITIONAL $35 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a facilitated preconference conversation over a hot breakfast. An additional $35 fee is required to participate.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

Join other IBPA members for a facilitated conversation over a hot breakfast! Interested in meeting folks interested in the same thing you’re interested in? Join us for our second annual Small Group Breakfast Meetups. We’ll coordinate groups of 10 people around topics of interest such as children’s publishing, diversity in publishing, women in publishing, hybrid publishing, etc. Each group has a leader to guide them and a location to meet in.

Small Group Breakfast Meetup conversation topics include:

  • Author Publishers
  • Benjamin Franklin Award Finalists - 2019 FINALISTS ONLY
  • Chicago Women in Publishing - CWIP MEMBERS ONLY
  • Children's Books
  • Diversity in Publishing
  • Hybrid Publishing
  • Women in Publishing
  • Young Professionals - under 35 years old

Friday April 5, 2019 8:00am - 10:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

11:00am CDT

Welcome First Timers! Learn How to Get the Most out of IBPA Publishing University
Back by popular demand, we’re hosting a special facilitator-led discussion for IBPA Publishing University first timers! Stop by to meet other newbies and learn how to get the most out of your IBPA Publishing University experience. During this session, you’ll have a chance to meet IBPA staff and veteran IBPA Publishing University attendees who will answer questions and provide guidance for navigating IBPA Publishing University in style.

Speakers
avatar for Angela Bole

Angela Bole

CEO, Independent Book Publishers Association
For the past six years, Angela Bole has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the largest book publishing association in the U.S. serving independent publishers and self-published authors. IBPA’s mission is to lead and serve the... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Warner

Brooke Warner

Publisher, She Writes Press
Brooke Warner is publisher of She Writes Press and SparkPress, president of Warner Coaching Inc., and author of Write On, Sisters!, Green-light Your Book, What's Your Book?, and three books on memoir. Brooke is a TEDx speaker, weekly podcaster (Write-minded with co-host Grant Faulkner... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
  Keynote, All Levels

12:30pm CDT

Conference Kick-Off! Welcoming Remarks from IBPA CEO Angela Bole
Welcome! IBPA Publishing University is YOUR conference. It starts and ends with you. During her brief Welcoming Remarks, IBPA's Chief Executive Officer Angela Bole will introduce you to the 2019 program and suggest ways to make the most of your day-and-a-half onsite. Perhaps the greatest advantage you'll gain from attending IBPA Publishing University will come from the power of networking with a dedicated community of people working toward common goals. Find out how best to engage during these brief opening remarks.

Speakers
avatar for Angela Bole

Angela Bole

CEO, Independent Book Publishers Association
For the past six years, Angela Bole has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the largest book publishing association in the U.S. serving independent publishers and self-published authors. IBPA’s mission is to lead and serve the... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 12:30pm - 12:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
  Keynote, All Levels

12:50pm CDT

Opening Keynote -- Rethinking Book Publishing: Innovation and Culture 2019, with Dominique Raccah
In an industry dominated by giant companies, Sourcebooks has grown from small to large while maintaining its independence. During this special keynote address, Sourcebooks' founder & CEO Dominique Raccah will share what she's learned in over 30 years of successful independent publishing. There's nothing Dominique hasn't thought about or tried. Because of this, her IBPA Publishing University keynote address promises to be both inspirational and practical. Start getting to know Dominique (and Sourcebooks) below...then join us for this unique keynote address.

FOUR QUESTIONS FOR SOURCEBOOKS' FOUNDER & CEO DOMINIQUE RACCAH....

Sourcebooks is coming off its best year ever. What sort of success did you enjoy, and to what do you attribute this success?
 
Sourcebooks finished 2017 up 18% in sales, compared to the publishing industry, which finished up 2%. We’re also up 18% in sales year-to-date, in an industry that is up 2%, and we’re anticipating a strong holiday season in the fourth quarter.

We have consistently experienced double-digit growth since the economic downturn in 2008. It was a time when most publishers were cutting back, on staff and acquisitions, but we decided, as a company, that we weren’t going to let what was going on outside our office affect what we were creating inside.

We called it “not business as usual,” and for the last decade, we have continued to meet on a regular basis and are completely transparent about what is going on with our business – the good, the bad and the ugly. Everyone in our organization is involved and is empowered to make an impact in how our business is run. The entrepreneurial spirit runs throughout the company, from my office to the shipping room.

Sourcebooks self-identifies as a company that embraces change. How do you incorporate this concept into your business model?

Most of the changes we’ve made as an organization have responded to a need, either from readers, authors or our retail partners. In the last 10 years, we’ve grown from a nonfiction business into a top 15 children’s book publisher, and a strong player in romance, young adult and adult fiction.

Our Jabberwocky children’s imprint came out of the success we saw in publishing poetry books for kids, our Casablanca romance imprint was born out of a retailer request for more Regency romance, and our Put Me in the Story personalized book program began after we saw that people were customizing our books themselves.

We are always looking for ways to innovate on behalf of authors and readers, and are driven by our belief that books changes lives.

Independent publishers can feel overwhelmed by changes from outside the industry—higher printing costs, for instance, or changes in warehousing. When confronting changes that have a negative impact on your bottom line, how do you adjust?
 
Not to be overly dramatic, but to a publisher it can often seem like pretty much everyone is looking to take something from your bottom line. Your printers want more, outside vendors want more, freight costs rise, your retailers, wholesalers, and distributors want more, and of course authors and illustrators would like an extra cut too.

So as a businessperson – rather than as a publisher – you have to continually be looking for efficiencies and savings to offset the increased costs you can’t control.

At Sourcebooks, we’ve implemented a relatively open book structure for finances that ensures every person in the company knows they can have impact on the bottom line. Simply put, every penny counts, and every individual can make a difference. And for the things you can control, I highly recommend doing some reading and taking courses in negotiation, including getting comfortable with difficult conversations and conflict. Publishing people and booklovers tend to be friendly folks. And we should be. But that doesn’t mean we can’t aggressively control the bottom line.

In an industry dominated by giant companies, Sourcebooks has grown from small to large while maintaining its independence. What sorts of business planning strategies do you recommend to publishers who want to do the same?

It’s pretty wild to look at the company I started in a spare bedroom of my house 31 years ago with just one book and see it become a Top 15 U.S. publisher and the largest woman-owned publisher in North America. We have over 100 employees and publish hundreds of books each year in a variety of categories.

As a publisher, it often feels like you’re wrong more than you’re right. The challenges we have experienced helped turn Sourcebooks into the company it is today. I would urge other publishers to embrace their failures as an opportunity to learn something new, something that can help push you forward.

We’ve also threaded “growth mindset” throughout our corporate culture. It’s meaningful when every person on the team is pushing themselves to recognize that “you don’t know what you don’t know” and strive to understand something new. Mindset can get you to some pretty wild and unexpected places.

Publishing is also a business that’s been way too rooted in the notions of “taste” and “instinct.” Taste and instinct are great, but I’ll take data over my gut any day of the week. Gather and learn from data wherever possible, even if it’s on the smallest of scales. We use data in every single department of the company, and yes that includes (and starts with) editorial.

Finally, I’d recommend publishers continually look to diversify themselves, not only in what they publish but in how they publish as well. We recognized long ago that publishers are often limited by their own vision – and in many cases by their own reading tastes. But our job isn’t to deliver our own tastes to the market. Our job is to connect authors with readers, and that means we’re continually probing what lights readers up and finding ways to help authors deliver that excitement. It’s really the best job in the world, and the only limitations you’ll face are your own!

Speakers
avatar for Dominique Raccah

Dominique Raccah

Founder & CEO, Sourcebooks
Dominique Raccah is the entrepreneurial Publisher and CEO of Sourcebooks, the company she founded from her home in 1987. The publisher has since created scores of New York Times bestsellers, hundreds of national bestsellers, and #1 selling titles in perennial categories. Sourcebooks... Read More →



Friday April 5, 2019 12:50pm - 1:50pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
  Keynote, All Levels

2:00pm CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:00pm CDT

Be Seen in the Jungle: Book Positioning Insights that Matter
We live in an overcrowded marketplace of products and ideas. Our options and choices are plentiful. Consumers are more savvy than ever before and demand meaningful and well designed experiences. With these heightened expectations, how do you ensure your books get noticed? How do you communicate that your books are worth the time and investment? Design is a vital tool that either promises value or suggests irrelevance. Making the right first impression matters.

This session is for small to medium sized publishers seeking to better understand the book design process ...what influences design strategy, the role of book design, the process of designing a cover, how to find and hire a book designer, how to evaluate design, and lastly when to consider production enhancements.

Speakers
avatar for Torrey Sharp

Torrey Sharp

Principal, Faceout Studio
Torrey Sharp is the owner and principal of Faceout Studio, a market leading firm specializing in book design, www.faceoutstudio.com. The studio designs hundreds of books each year working w/ the world's top media companies, mid size publishers, university presses and individual authors. Over the years, Faceout Studio’s work has been recognized by Communication Arts, the AIGA, the AAUP, ECPA, IBPA, Print magazine... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:00pm CDT

Headshot Photo Booth (First Come; First Served, sponsored by IngramSpark)
Need a professional headshot? We've got you covered! At IBPA Publishing University you can get a new professional headshot FREE-OF-CHARGE thanks to our photo booth sponsor IngramSpark.

Photos will be taken first come, first served during designated hours and emailed to you after the conference.


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salon Lobby) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:00pm CDT

So, You Want to Launch a Podcast?
Podcasts are a great way of connecting authors and readers and of providing information in an accessible, entertaining format. This panel will give you a basic overview of podcasting for the indie publisher. Why might you want to launch a podcast, and how can you make a podcast work for you, your company, and your authors? We’ll discuss and recommend equipment like mics and editing tools. We’ll look at streaming platforms and launch strategies, and how to market to and expand your audience. We’ll ballpark costs of time and labor. We’ll give tips on monetization and finding guests and interview techniques. This will be a free-ranging discussion on one of the hottest areas in publishing today, with a generous period of Q&A. 

Speakers
avatar for Michele Cobb

Michele Cobb

Partner, Forte Business Consulting
Michele Cobb is a recognized expert in the audio industry and a Partner at Forté Business Consulting. Formerly Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the British Broadcasting Corporation audiobooks division, she has served on the Audio Publishers Association (APA) board since 2001... Read More →
avatar for Tavia Gilbert

Tavia Gilbert

Producer, Writer, Acclaimed Narrator
2018 Audiobook Narrator of the Year and 2017 Best Female Narrator Audie Award winner Tavia Gilbert is a producer, writer, and narrator of multiple podcasts and over 600 audiobooks. A nine-time Audie nominee, multiple nominee and winner of Voice Arts Awards, Tavia is the recipient... Read More →
avatar for Peter Goodman

Peter Goodman

President & Publisher, Stone Bridge Press, Inc.
Stone Bridge Press' president and publisher Peter Goodman is a graduate of Cornell University and lived in Tokyo, Japan for ten years, where he worked as an editor for English-language publishers Charles E. Tuttle and Kodansha International. He has served as in-house editor, ghost... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Warner

Brooke Warner

Publisher, She Writes Press
Brooke Warner is publisher of She Writes Press and SparkPress, president of Warner Coaching Inc., and author of Write On, Sisters!, Green-light Your Book, What's Your Book?, and three books on memoir. Brooke is a TEDx speaker, weekly podcaster (Write-minded with co-host Grant Faulkner... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:00pm CDT

The Ten Habits of a Successful Publisher
In this 60-minute introductory program, 40-year-publishing-veteran Kathleen Welton will share proven principles that deliver top results for those involved in the book publishing industry. A combination of inspirational stories and case studies will illustrate the ten habits a successful publisher must utilize on an ongoing basis to build and expand his/her publishing program, including:

  1. Asking the Right Questions
  2. Building a Team
  3. Connecting with Customers
  4. Developing Editorial Roadmaps
  5. Finding Your Story
  6. Giving Back
  7. Minding Your Own Business
  8. Monitoring Trends
  9. Nurturing Authors
  10. Remaining Curious

Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Welton

Kathleen Welton

Publisher, aka Books
Kathleen is currently Publisher of aka Books. She has served as Director of Book Publishing for the American Bar Association, Director for H&R Block, VP & Publisher for IDG Books, VP & Publisher for Dearborn Trade, Senior Editor for Dow Jones-Irwin, Editor for Praeger Publishers... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:00pm CDT

You're #1: Strategically Grow Your Audience with eBooks and Hit the Bestseller Lists
In the world of publishing, getting a bestseller is the golden ticket. So how do you make that happen? Join Elizabeth Turnbull of Light Messages Publishing and Kelly Peterson of INscribe Digital as they walk you through some of the very best ways to set new titles up for bestseller lists using ebooks.

Speakers
avatar for Kelly Peterson

Kelly Peterson

Director of Digital Strategy, Independent Publishers Group
Kelly Peterson is Director of Digital Strategy at Independent Publishers Group (IPG), and brings 20+ years of marketing and merchandising experience to her current role, helping major trade publishers, university presses, independent publishers, agents and authors maximize their eBook... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Turnbull

Elizabeth Turnbull

Senior Editor, Light Messages Publishing
Elizabeth Turnbull is the Senior Editor of Light Messages Publishing and is responsible for the creative direction of the press where she has worked with more than 65 titles, many of which have won prestigious awards and hit bestseller lists. She is also the award-winning author of... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.

Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

Garnering Media Attention in 2019: Media Tell-All and Shark Tank
Do you want to increase your chances of being noticed by the media? Come hear directly from media professionals about how to garner the attention of the media and score that coveted review, interview or placement. Media outlets are bombarded with requests daily, so how do rise above the noise to get you get the attention of journalists and speak to their needs? This interactive session will also have a verbal media pitching opportunity.

Speakers
avatar for Dale Bowman

Dale Bowman

Outdoors Columnist, Chicago Sun-Times
Dale Bowman is the nationally-honored outdoors columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, a role he has filled for more than two decades. He focuses on the traditional pursuits in the outdoors of fishing and hunting with occasional forays into wildlife and bird watching, paddling and hiking... Read More →
avatar for Jaclyn Chute

Jaclyn Chute

Registered Dietitian, Teach Nutrition
Jaclyn is a Registered Dietitian at Dairy Farmers of Canada. She is passionate about helping others cultivate a healthy relationship with food and themselves. She enjoys finding creative ways to share the message that eating can be nourishing and satisfying. Observing her two young... Read More →
avatar for Marika Flatt

Marika Flatt

Owner & Travel Editor, PR by the Book & Texas Lifestyle Magazine
Marika Flatt, Travel Editor, launched her magazine writing career in 2002, combining her love of travel, journalism, media and public relations. Marika has been travel writing non-stop since then and feels that part of her success in delivering an enticing travel feature is because... Read More →
avatar for Whitney Reynolds

Whitney Reynolds

The Whitney Reynolds Show
Emmy nominated Whitney Reynolds' news background and passion for people have been combined to create a show that is changing the world of talk TV. She produces a program that is dedicated to tough topics, inspiring viewers and provoking positive change. The Whitney Reynolds Show educates... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

Headshot Photo Booth (First Come; First Served, sponsored by IngramSpark)
Need a professional headshot? We've got you covered! At IBPA Publishing University you can get a new professional headshot FREE-OF-CHARGE thanks to our photo booth sponsor IngramSpark.

Photos will be taken first come, first served during designated hours and emailed to you after the conference.


Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salon Lobby) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

Marketing & Selling to Schools
Schools can be a lucrative market for a variety of genres, including children’s books, juvenile fiction, young adult, and even many adult books that are appropriate for older students. Jane R. Wood, a former teacher and author of an award-winning juvenile fiction series, has successfully sold her books to schools across the country for more than 14 years. In this session she will share many of the strategies she has used to sell to this niche market, including how to: contact schools, develop a relationship with educators, create educational resources, and develop dynamic presentations that engage students. Wood will show how both teachers and students can benefit from a meaningful connection with a published author.

Speakers
avatar for Jane R. Wood

Jane R. Wood

Schools: A Niche Market for Authors, Author
Jane R. Wood, the author of five award-winning juvenile fiction books, is a former teacher, newspaper reporter, and television producer, who weaves history and information about the environment into stories filled with mystery, adventure, and humor for young readers ages 8-14. She... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

The Many Facets of Educational Publishing
Education is one of the book industry’s leading market segments. K-12, life-long learning products, and community and corporate training materials are glimpses into the lucrative and fulfilling world of educational publishing. Richard Lena of Brattle Publishing, Ian Lamont of i30 Media, and Karen Pavlincin-Fragnito of Elva Resa Publishing have had significant experience publishing for different segments of this market and approach learning from their own unique perspectives. In this session, they will share their strategies for entering various facets of the market, instructional design and development practices for products and services and marketing and distribution outlets. They will also spend time answering your questions about this significant portion of the publishing industry. The session is intended for intermediate participants who are seeking to learn about educational publishing and considering expanding into an education segment.

Speakers
avatar for Ian Lamont

Ian Lamont

Founder, i30 Media Corporation
Ian Lamont is the founder of i30 Media Corporation and the creator of the Lean Media framework. His company publishes IN 30 MINUTES Guides, EASYGENIE genealogy forms, and a line of technology cheat sheets. His media career has spanned more than 25 years across three continents, including a stint in the British music industry and... Read More →
avatar for Richard Lena

Richard Lena

President & Publisher, Brattle Publishing Group
Richard-Anthony Lena is the president and publisher at the Brattle Publishing Group, an independent publisher and full-service development house. He is a curriculum developer and an instructional designer specializing in print-based and digital learning experiences for diverse audiences... Read More →
avatar for Karen Pavlicin

Karen Pavlicin

Publisher, Elva Resa Publishing
Karen Pavlicin is the publisher at Elva Resa Publishing, a traditional publisher specializing in resources for and about military families. She also owns and operates Military Family Books, an independent bookstore and wholesale distributor specializing in bulk sales to the military... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:15pm CDT

The Upside of Bad Reviews: How to Bounce Back from Negative Reviews and Use Them to Your Marketing and PR Advantage
Bad book reviews happen. Even the most acclaimed books receive negative reviews; sometimes from the New York Times, sometimes from an anonymous reviewer on Amazon. Evaluating a book can be as deeply personal as writing a book and reader preference and author intent don't always align. When it comes to negative reviews, there are ways to work through them, learn and grow as a publisher, and even use them to your advantage. This breakout session will cover how to handle negative reviews, how negative reviews can actually increase book sales, and ways that you can use negative reviews to your marketing and PR advantage.

Speakers
avatar for Leslie Browning

Leslie Browning

Founder & Publisher, Homebound Publications
L.M. (Leslie) Browning is a TEDx Talker and award-winning author of twelve books. In her writing, Leslie explores the confluence of the natural landscape and the interior landscape. In 2010, she debuted with a three-title contemplative poetry series. These three books went on to garner... Read More →
avatar for Corrin Foster

Corrin Foster

Director of Marketing, Greenleaf Book Group LLC
With over fifteen years of experience in branding and digital marketing, Corrin has extensive knowledge of content management, product marketing, and online advertising. At Greenleaf, she develops and executes strategic marketing programs; oversees social media; and consults with... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Schingler

Michelle Schingler

Managing Editor, Foreword Reviews
Michelle Anne Schingler is the Managing Editor at Foreword Reviews magazine. Her responsibilities include previewing thousands of books each quarter for the magazine's audience of librarians and booksellers---more a joy than a task! She came to Foreword Reviews after her master's... Read More →
avatar for Kathryn

Kathryn "Kiffer" Brown

CEO & Co-Founder, Chanticleer Reviews, LLC
Kathryn Brown is CEO and co-founder of Chanticleer Reviews and Chanticleer Int'l Book Awards (The CIBAs) that Discover Today's Best Books. She is also the co-producer of On Word Talks with Storytellers video blog and podcast that feature storytellers, storymakers & gamers, film producers... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 3:15pm - 4:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

4:30pm CDT

Building a Loyal Fanbase, Gaining Visibility, and Establishing Authority Through Author Websites
  • APRIL 2, 2019; 7:00 PM CENTRAL: Due to a family emergency, Jeniffer Thompson had to cancel her participation in IBPA Publishing University 2019.  We are looking for a replacement speaker/topic to present during this time: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM on Friday. In the meantime, please look to other breakouts and "Ask the Experts" sessions.
  • APRIL 3, 2019; 10:30 AM CENTRAL: Update! Amy Collins of New Shelves Books has graciously agreed to step in and teach this workshop on building author websites. The session description remains the same.
An author website is the cornerstone of a complete digital marketing campaign. A targeted, well-branded author website is critical for building a loyal fanbase, gaining online visibility, and establishing authority. In this class, you’ll walk away with a strategy to build that powerful website and an easy to implement five-step formula for developing a landing page message that resonates with your ideal readers, builds your mailing list, and converts traffic into sales. Plus, you’ll get tips on how to drive traffic to your website, enhance your site with proven social media strategies, and establish a powerful personal brand for authors. It’s time to connect the dots of your website’s marketing power, build momentum, and sell books!

Speakers
avatar for Amy Collins

Amy Collins

President, New Shelves Books
Amy Collins is the President of New Shelves Books, one of the largest book sales and marketing content providers in the US. She is a USA TODAY and WALL STREET JOURNAL bestselling author and as a former Book Buyer for a chain of bookstores in New York and Sales Director for a large... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

4:30pm CDT

Copyright Clarity: A Non-Biased View of the Law
This session is for anyone interested in a blanced, non-biased view on copyright and licensing. Find out how to manage your own copyright and licensing issues and ensure copyright compliance. Other topics include ownership, transfers, duration, renewal, and termination of transfers. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who has been providing experience legal services for the publishing industry since 1988.

Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Kirsch

Jonathan Kirsch

Attorney, Law Offices of Jonathan Kirsch
Jonathan Kirsch is a publishing and intellectual property attorney based in Los Angeles, an expert witness in publishing industry disputes, and a lecturer and consultant on publishing matters. He has long served as general counsel to IBPA, which presented him with its Benjamin Franklin... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

4:30pm CDT

IBPA's Hybrid Publisher Criteria: One Year Later
In February 2018, the IBPA Advocacy Committee published a list of nine criteria defining what it means to be a professional hybrid publisher. IBPA's Hybrid Publisher Criteria requires that hybrid publishers behave just like traditional publishers in all respects, except when it comes to business model. Hybrid publishers use an author-subsidized business model, as opposed to financing all costs themselves, and in exchange return a higher-than-industry-standard share of sales proceeds to the author. In other words, a hybrid publisher makes income from a combination of publishing services and book sales.

What's happened in the just-over-a-year since IBPA's Hybrid Publisher Critieria was published? How has the indie publishing community and traditional publishing community reacted? And what's next in standard for setting initiatives within this fast-growing segment of the publishing industry? Join IBPA CEO Angela Bole and IBPA Board Chair Brooke Warner (Publisher, She Writes Press) for this open conversation aimed at answering these questions, and more.

Speakers
avatar for Angela Bole

Angela Bole

CEO, Independent Book Publishers Association
For the past six years, Angela Bole has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the largest book publishing association in the U.S. serving independent publishers and self-published authors. IBPA’s mission is to lead and serve the... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Warner

Brooke Warner

Publisher, She Writes Press
Brooke Warner is publisher of She Writes Press and SparkPress, president of Warner Coaching Inc., and author of Write On, Sisters!, Green-light Your Book, What's Your Book?, and three books on memoir. Brooke is a TEDx speaker, weekly podcaster (Write-minded with co-host Grant Faulkner... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

4:30pm CDT

The Ins-and-Outs of Book Distribution
Book distribution models range from DIY to full-service. How do you get a distributor? How do you know which distributor is best for you or when it’s time to make a change? This expert panel will offer lively discussion and plenty of time for q and a. It looks at all the possibilities for distribution and examines their risks and benefits. Managing expectations is key to a successful relationship with your distributor, and to do that you need to know what services a distributor does and doesn’t provide, what are the costs and chargebacks, and how to keep the lines of communication open.  

Speakers
avatar for Robin Cutler

Robin Cutler

Director, IngramSpark
Robin Cutler, Director of IngramSparkRobin Cutler leads the development of IngramSpark as an Ingram Content Group service for indie authors and publishers. During her career, she has published over 1000 books as Assistant Director at USC Press, and CEO and founder of her own trade... Read More →
avatar for Peter Goodman

Peter Goodman

President & Publisher, Stone Bridge Press, Inc.
Stone Bridge Press' president and publisher Peter Goodman is a graduate of Cornell University and lived in Tokyo, Japan for ten years, where he worked as an editor for English-language publishers Charles E. Tuttle and Kodansha International. He has served as in-house editor, ghost... Read More →
avatar for Miriam Warren

Miriam Warren

Associate, The Fisher Company
Miriam Warren is an Associate at The Fisher Company, a mergers and acquisitions firm specializing in the publishing industry, and is also the Publications Manager at No Nonsense Fly Fishing Guidebooks & California Bill’s Automotive Handbooks in Tucson, Arizona.Miriam has more than... Read More →
avatar for Richard T. Williams

Richard T. Williams

Vice President, Business Development, Independent Publishers Group (IPG)
*Participating in Ask the Experts*"Ask the Experts" Appointment Scheduler: https://bit.ly/AskExperts23Richard T. Williams is the Vice President, Business Development, at IPG, where he oversees new and existing business for the IPG distribution program, as well as for clients seeking extended publishing services and licensing opportunities. He is a former sales manager at IPG, the former... Read More →


Friday April 5, 2019 4:30pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

6:00pm CDT

IBPA Benjamin Franklin Book Awards™ Ceremony (ADDITIONAL $35 FEE APPLIES)
  • All IBPA Publishing University attendees can register to attend for only $35 per ticket. Tickets are first come, first served. Additional tickets (for guests and others not attending IBPA Publishing University) can be purchased for $50 each.
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

COCKTAIL RECEPTION: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
DINNER & CEREMONY: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Join IBPA as we honor the winners of the 31st annual IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards™!

The IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards™, which include over fifty categories recognizing excellence in book editorial and design, are regarded as one of the highest national honors for indie publishers. Held in conjunction with IBPA Publishing University, the 2019 award ceremony is a gala dinner where all Gold winners receive an engraved trophy marking their achievement. All IBPA Publishing University attendees can register to attend for only $35 per ticket. Tickets are first come, first served. Additional tickets (for guests and others not attending IBPA Publishing University) can be purchased for $50 each.

Email Terry Nathan at terry@ibpa-online.org for more information.


Friday April 5, 2019 6:00pm - 9:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
 
Saturday, April 6
 

7:30am CDT

Continental Breakfast & Table Top Discussions
Breakfast can be picked up starting at 7:30 AM. Come early to get your pick of the goodies. During breakfast, IBPA moderators will lead "Table Top Discussions" around particular areas of interest including social media, distribution, publishing non-fiction, etc. Pick your topic when you arrive, then dive right into the conversation!

Saturday April 6, 2019 7:30am - 8:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

9:00am CDT

Panel Keynote -- Defining the Current and Future Meaning of "Publisher"
This keynote panel is produced and presented by the IBPA Board of Directors.

While indie bookstores selling print copies are thriving once more, emerging technologies and platforms like smart speakers and content subscriptions are making writing available to consumers in new ways. As publishers consider their business models for now and the future, it begs the question: what does it mean to be a publisher?

Speakers
avatar for Leslie Browning

Leslie Browning

Founder & Publisher, Homebound Publications
L.M. (Leslie) Browning is a TEDx Talker and award-winning author of twelve books. In her writing, Leslie explores the confluence of the natural landscape and the interior landscape. In 2010, she debuted with a three-title contemplative poetry series. These three books went on to garner... Read More →
avatar for Seth Dellon

Seth Dellon

Director of Sttrategic Development, Publishers Weekly
Seth Dellon is director of strategic development at Publishers Weekly where he oversees the digital media department, including social media, digital audience and business development, and new digital initiatives. His career is publishing is long enough to make him feel old and has... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Peterson

Kelly Peterson

Director of Digital Strategy, Independent Publishers Group
Kelly Peterson is Director of Digital Strategy at Independent Publishers Group (IPG), and brings 20+ years of marketing and merchandising experience to her current role, helping major trade publishers, university presses, independent publishers, agents and authors maximize their eBook... Read More →
avatar for Kathy Strahs

Kathy Strahs

Founder, Burnt Cheese Press
PaniniHappy.com, CookingOntheSide.com, and SunnyDaysGoodFood.com. A former marketer with an MBA from Stanford, Kathy founded Burnt Cheese Press, a food-focused independent publishing company, in 2015. Its first release, The 8x8 Cookbook, received the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Gold Award for Best First Book-Nonfiction. Its... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
  Keynote, All Levels

10:30am CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.

Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

10:30am CDT

Building a Successful Hybrid Publishing Business
All publishers must sell books to readers, but hybrid publishers must also sell their business to authors - the right authors for that publisher's list. It all starts with understanding who your ideal authors are, what challenges they are facing, and the value proposition that you offer. In this Deep Dive business strategy session, we will examine the various ways in which you as a hybrid publisher can position yourself in the market to find the authors that suit your own publishing priorities and growth strategy. Discover how to build a high-quality referral network; learn how to design and price your publishing packages appropriately for your target clientele; and come away with a deeper understanding of how your company identity and business goals should inform the decisions you make in building a successful hybrid publishing business. 

Speakers
avatar for Maggie Langrick

Maggie Langrick

CEO & Publisher, LifeTree Media Ltd
Maggie Langrick founded LifeTree Media Ltd in 2013 and bootstrapped the business to annual revenues upwards of $1M. LifeTree publishes prescriptive nonfiction books that help, heal and inspire, in categories such as business, personal development, parenting and wellness. Its books... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

10:30am CDT

Headshot Photo Booth (First Come; First Served, sponsored by IngramSpark)
Need a professional headshot? We've got you covered! At IBPA Publishing University you can get a new professional headshot FREE-OF-CHARGE thanks to our photo booth sponsor IngramSpark.

Photos will be taken first come, first served during designated hours and emailed to you after the conference.


Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salon Lobby) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

10:30am CDT

Publishing Children's Picture Books: From Concept to Sales
Pulling from their experiences as an author-illustrator indie publishing team, Susan Bernardo and Courtenay Fletcher will talk about the process of publishing a children's picture book from concept development to marketing and sales. Their engaging visual presentation will include the nuts and bolts of formatting picture books, including illustrations, book design, layouts, and editing. They're offer a basic timeline to publication, and demystify the acronyms behind basics such as ISBN, BISAC codes, ARCs and more. They'll share strategies for getting advance reviews through sites like NetGalley and Goodreads, as well as how to approach review journals such as Foreword and PW BookLife. Susan and Courtenay have appeared at libraries, bookstores, children's hospitals, schools, and festivals over a hundred times and will share their favorite ideas for public relations and promotional materials. Whatever your children's picture book question, Susan and Courtenay have you covered!

Speakers
avatar for Susan Bernardo

Susan Bernardo

Author/Co-Founder, Inner Flower Child Books
Award-winning poet and children's book author Susan Schaefer Bernardo is a firm believer in the healing powers of creativity. She and her illustrating partner Courtenay Fletcher formed their indie publishing company Inner Flower Child Books in 2012 with the release of their first... Read More →
avatar for Courtenay Fletcher

Courtenay Fletcher

Illustrator/Co-Founder, Inner Flower Child Books
Courtenay Fletcher is an award-winning children’s book illustrator and designer, committed to creating beautiful books that inspire children of all ages. In 2012, she co-founded Inner Flower Child Books with author Susan Schaefer Bernardo, and together they successfully illustrated... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

10:30am CDT

Research-Driven Business: How Small Publishers Can Use Academic Research to Gain a Competitive Edge
Although marketing and editorial departments increasingly require hard data to justify decisions, it can be difficult for small publishers in particular to have access to data that can inform such decisions. Industry data can be very costly, and therefore often inaccessible to small publishers. But academic research about book publishing is free and can be used to help inform business decisions. Come learn more, from a panel of researchers and publishers who have used research to gain a competitive edge, about how to utilize this research for your own business!

Speakers
avatar for Rachel Bell

Rachel Bell

Co-Founder and VP of Marketing & PR, Overcup Press
Rachel Bell is Co-Founder and VP of Marketing & PR at Overcup Press, an award-winning independent publishing company in Portland, Oregon. Rachel and her partner started Overcup Press because they have a passion for beautifully designed books that focus on art, travel, epicurean, travel... Read More →
avatar for Roy Carlisle

Roy Carlisle

Director of Publishing, PageMill Press
Roy is Director of Publishing at PageMill Press, a new publishing house sponsored by the Institute for Transpersonal Psychology Foundation. Roy is a veteran of scholarly and commercial book publishing with 44 years in the industry.
avatar for Rachel Noorda

Rachel Noorda

Director of Book Publishing, Portland State University
Rachel Noorda is Director of Book Publishing at Portland State University. Her research interests include twenty-first century book culture, diaspora communities, Scottish publishing, small business marketing, international marketing, and entrepreneurship. She has been published... Read More →
avatar for Brian O'Leary

Brian O'Leary

Executive Director, Book Industry Study Group
Brian O’Leary is executive director of the Book Industry Study Group, a U.S.-based trade association that disseminates information, creates and implements standards and conducts research to benefit the book publishing supply chain.Before being named to this role in 2016, O'Leary... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

10:30am CDT

Selling to Libraries: The Untapped Market
Librarians love books and often buy books for entire districts with rare returns. When a librarian likes a book in your series, or on your topic, they're eager to learn of the next, and the next. In this 60-minute session, you'll learn how to sell to libraries. You'll also learn how to use librarians as resources for new covers, new titles/subtitles, etc. Join this session if you'd like to discover how and when to pitch librarians, all about national marketing programs and library shows, and how to provide what librarians need to bring them to YES.

Speakers
avatar for Sharon Castlen

Sharon Castlen

Founder, Integrated Book Marketing
*Participating in Ask the Experts*"Ask the Experts" Appointment Scheduler: https://bit.ly/AskExperts23Sharon Castlen, founder of Integrated Book Marketing works with small presses and independent publishers across the country in three areas: Pre-press coaching; distribution; full marketing strategy & implementation. Since 1984, she has also shared her expertise and mentored clients, authors... Read More →
avatar for Susan Martin

Susan Martin

Chair, Collection Development and Management, MTSU James E. Walker Library
Susan Martin serves as the Collection Development and Management (CDM) department chair in the James E. Walker Library, Middle Tennessee State University. She provides leadership for CDM which includes the following units or activities: Acquisitions, Cataloging, Continuing Resources... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith

Director of Collections & Discovery, Eastern Kentucky University
Kelly Smith is the Director of Collections and Discovery at Eastern Kentucky University Libraries. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1994, and a Masters of Science in Library and Information Science degree from Simmons... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 10:30am - 11:45am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

12:00pm CDT

IBPA Annual Meeting & Luncheon, sponsored by Arc Manor and Dell
During this boxed-lunch program, IBPA members will hear from the association’s leadership about current governance issues. During the 2019 meeting, we will also review and approve new candidates to the Board of Directors for terms starting July 1, 2019.

Speakers
avatar for Angela Bole

Angela Bole

CEO, Independent Book Publishers Association
For the past six years, Angela Bole has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the largest book publishing association in the U.S. serving independent publishers and self-published authors. IBPA’s mission is to lead and serve the... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Warner

Brooke Warner

Publisher, She Writes Press
Brooke Warner is publisher of She Writes Press and SparkPress, president of Warner Coaching Inc., and author of Write On, Sisters!, Green-light Your Book, What's Your Book?, and three books on memoir. Brooke is a TEDx speaker, weekly podcaster (Write-minded with co-host Grant Faulkner... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.

Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

Headshot Photo Booth (First Come; First Served, sponsored by IngramSpark)
Need a professional headshot? We've got you covered! At IBPA Publishing University you can get a new professional headshot FREE-OF-CHARGE thanks to our photo booth sponsor IngramSpark.

Photos will be taken first come, first served during designated hours and emailed to you after the conference.


Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salon Lobby) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

How to Break Into Professional Speaking to Sell More Books
Whether you’ve written a book to build your business, reach new clients, fulfill a dream, or share your expertise, relying on traditional sales methods isn’t enough. Professional speaking is an efficient, practical and simple way to connect with the public and increase your visibility.  It doesn’t cost anything to try, and can be a lucrative source of additional income.

In this dynamic and informative workshop, New York Times bestselling author, speaker and consultant Jodee Blanco will show participants how to break into professional speaking and take their presence to a whole new level.  Highlights include how to:

  • Identify and Develop a Platform
  • Write a Powerful Speaker’s Package
  • Generate Leads
  • Pitch, Negotiate and Confirm Engagements   
  • Nail Every Presentation and Leave the Audience Wanting More
  • Use Catalytic Strategies to Build Upon Each Success

For any author who’s ever wanted to get into professional speaking, this is a workshop not to be missed.

Speakers
avatar for Jodee Blanco

Jodee Blanco

Founder & CEO, The Jodee Blanco Group
The founder and CEO of The Jodee Blanco Group, a consulting and curriculum development company, Jodee is an expert on how to successfully leverage the matrix of public speaking, publishing and public relations to take one’s life or career to a whole new level. Often referred to as a “force of nature” by those who’ve work... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

Launch That Book! How to Sell More Books with Pre-Sale Campaigns, Beta Readers, and Amazon Ads
Many author publishers publish their books without realizing how important it is to have a marketing plan ready before the book is released into the wild. Avoid this mistake with your next book by planning a launch campaign that gets big results. In this content-rich presentation, you will learn how to:
  • Enlist a group of beta readers to generate feedback, buzz and reviews.
  • Assemble your launch team and set them up for success.
  • Make your print and ebook editions available for pre-sale weeks before your book is officially released.
  • Follow essential steps to launch your book with as much fanfare as possible.
  • Invest in Amazon ads to get more exposure, and then earn back your investment over and over again.
  • Keep the momentum going after the launch is over.
  • When you invest some time preparing for a successful book launch, you can give your book a great head start.
This enlightening presentation is loaded with real-world examples and proven DIY strategies to help you sell more books!

Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Chandler

Stephanie Chandler

CEO, Nonfiction Authors Association
Please note, at the last moment, Stephanie is unable to attend this conference.Stephanie Chandler is the author of several books including The Nonfiction Book Marketing and Launch Plan and The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan. She is CEO of the Nonfiction Authors Association... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

Navigating the Middle Ground: Full-Service Distribution Alternatives for Small Press Publishers
Small press publishers face unique challenges in effectively distributing their books into the market. Full service distribution options may require too much upfront investment, while not always targeting the right audience for your books.

A wholesale distribution model may activate your content for sale in retail and library channels, but does little to attract readers and encourage them to make a purchase.

This session will teach publishers how to access the best sales channels for their content, how to drive an appropriate audience to your books’ product pages, and how to convert readers to sale by leveraging the right tools and services. We will cover everything from developing the best package for your content to pricing your books for global markets, to optimizing your book detail pages and managing the buy buttons on retail sites. Attendees will leave the session with a checklist of steps to successfully launching a book into the market and list of resources to help.

Speakers
avatar for Andrea Fleck-Nisbet

Andrea Fleck-Nisbet

Ingram Content Group, Director, Content Acquisition
In her role at Ingram Content Group, Andrea and her team work with publishers large and small to help them reach readers and book buyers worldwide. She is especially passionate about educating publishers on how to manage their business in efficient and cost-effective ways so they... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

1:15pm CDT

Selling Outside the Box: Why Special Sales Should Always Be In Your Plans
Publishers typically focus on how to get their books into bookstores, but some of the biggest selling titles have made their money outside of box - or big box - storefronts. From crowdfunding to niche vendors, there are great ways to connect with new revenue streams, have less competition for your products, and stand out instead of being part of a crowd.

Working special sales channels can make a huge difference in a title's success while helping to drive sales in more traditional outlets, as well. Plus, special sales are often non-returnable, reducing your risk. But how do you identify your niche special sales markets? This panel of experts will show you how they found money thinking outside the box.

Speakers
avatar for Karen Pavlicin

Karen Pavlicin

Publisher, Elva Resa Publishing
Karen Pavlicin is the publisher at Elva Resa Publishing, a traditional publisher specializing in resources for and about military families. She also owns and operates Military Family Books, an independent bookstore and wholesale distributor specializing in bulk sales to the military... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Peterson

Kelly Peterson

Director of Digital Strategy, Independent Publishers Group
Kelly Peterson is Director of Digital Strategy at Independent Publishers Group (IPG), and brings 20+ years of marketing and merchandising experience to her current role, helping major trade publishers, university presses, independent publishers, agents and authors maximize their eBook... Read More →
avatar for Richard T. Williams

Richard T. Williams

Vice President, Business Development, Independent Publishers Group (IPG)
*Participating in Ask the Experts*"Ask the Experts" Appointment Scheduler: https://bit.ly/AskExperts23Richard T. Williams is the Vice President, Business Development, at IPG, where he oversees new and existing business for the IPG distribution program, as well as for clients seeking extended publishing services and licensing opportunities. He is a former sales manager at IPG, the former... Read More →
avatar for Gail Woodard

Gail Woodard

President, Dudley Court Press
Gail Woodard is the CEO of Dudley Court Press, a hybrid book publisher. She and her team are committed to helping thoughtful people write, publish and sell meaningful books that inform, entertain and change lives. Gail takes particular pleasure in helping aspiring authors become published... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.

Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Entwined: How Editorial and Design Work Together to Create a Best-Selling Book
An ongoing question in book development is “What’s more important, form or content?” Does the potential reader pick up a book because they are interested in the subject or because a really great cover attracts the eye? The answer is that success comes from the equal balance between the two – a book design (cover and interior) that represents the content in a way that attracts the potential reader and enhances the experience of reading the book. How do successful editors and publishers work with great designers to achieve that balance? In this revealing and educational presentation, an experienced publisher and a top-knotch art director demonstrate the brainstorming and give-and-take that leads to a best-selling book package. They will witness the right-brain/left-brain spar between editorial and design, and learn the questions, discussions, arguments and, yes, compromises, that lead to a great book, inside and out. With before-and-after and in-process examples, two experts walk you through the development process.  

Speakers
avatar for Karla Olson

Karla Olson

Publisher, Patagonia Books
*Participating in Ask the Experts*"Ask the Experts" Appointment Scheduler: https://bit.ly/AskExperts23Karla Olson is the Book Publisher at Patagonia, which publishes books as a mission outreach within the sports clothing company, Patagonia, Inc. She is also the president of Publishers and Writers of San Diego and Publishers and Writers of Orange County, and founder of Read Local... Read More →
avatar for Christina Speed

Christina Speed

Art Director & Lead Designer, Patagonia Books
Christina Speed is currently the Art Director and Lead Designer for Patagonia Books, owner of design firm { csgd }, and Communications Director for the California Water Impact Network. Previously the Creative Director of Toad&Co and Marketing Director of Patagonia, she got her start... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Headshot Photo Booth (First Come; First Served, sponsored by IngramSpark)
Need a professional headshot? We've got you covered! At IBPA Publishing University you can get a new professional headshot FREE-OF-CHARGE thanks to our photo booth sponsor IngramSpark.

Photos will be taken first come, first served during designated hours and emailed to you after the conference.


Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salon Lobby) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Redefining ROI
Within the ever-evolving world of publishing, financial remuneration and how you can capture value from what you publish is constantly expanding. This course will begin by explaining creative and diverse methods for generating ROI and capturing value beyond traditional sales. It will then offer a blueprint for how to pursue these various opportunities. We will finish the class with an interactive discussion on how to decide what opportunities to pursue based the projects of those who attend this class.

Speakers
avatar for Jared Kurtiz

Jared Kurtiz

President and CEO, STRATEGIES Public Relations
*Participating in Ask the Experts*"Ask the Experts" Appointment Scheduler: https://bit.ly/AskExperts23Jared Kuritz is the President and CEO of STRATEGIES Public Relations, a firm that works with domestic and international clients on business modeling, book and product development, publishing and distribution, and public relations and marketing. Jared is also the Managing Director of M... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Say Something Nice: How to Get the Amazon Reviews You Want (Without Ticking Off Amazon or the Reviewers)
So much is changing every month on Amazon, but one thing remains constant: Amazon reviews sell books. Books with hundreds of reviews get viewed, promoted, highlighted, and purchased far more than books with only a few dozen reviews?  But HOW can you get those reviews?  What are the rules? Why do so many other authors have reviews and you are struggling to get even a few?
 
This session will teach you how keywords and reviews work on Amazon and how to use the tools available. This session will explain how to create an Amazon page that attracts more shoppers, market on Amazon and push shoppers to your book on that site, get your book found there, and turn a “look” into a “buy.”
 
This session will cover:

  • Amazon’s current rules for authors and publishers and how not to violate their guidelines
  • How to find and approach Amazon, Goodreads, LibraryThing, and other Online reviewers
  • How to get more reviews and USE those reviews in only 15-20 minutes a day
 
Join us as we create a plan that you can execute when you get home to drive reviews and get the sales you deserve.

Speakers
avatar for Amy Collins

Amy Collins

President, New Shelves Books
Amy Collins is the President of New Shelves Books, one of the largest book sales and marketing content providers in the US. She is a USA TODAY and WALL STREET JOURNAL bestselling author and as a former Book Buyer for a chain of bookstores in New York and Sales Director for a large... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

2:30pm CDT

Using Keywords and Metadata to Take Your Digital Marketing to the Next Level
The metadata you send out to retailers is how consumers decide whether or not to actually make a purchase. It is imperative that publishers provide powerful, targeted, and complete metadata, and take advantage of all of the options available to them in that area. This session will cover how to best utilize the power of metadata and keyword optimization to capitalize on your opportunity to connect with readers and buyers and increase the visibility of your books. 

Speakers
avatar for Joshua Tallent

Joshua Tallent

Director of Sales and Education, Firebrand Technologies
Joshua Tallent is an acclaimed teacher and guide on the role of data in publishing, and a vocal advocate for high quality book metadata. He serves as the Director of Sales and Education at Firebrand Technologies (www.firebrandtech.com), where his focus is on helping publishers of all sizes learn about, and find solutions to, their workflow and metadata problems. Joshua can often be found researching odd metadata issues, creating training videos and documentation about Firebrand services, and speaking at conferences... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:45pm CDT

Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
Ask the Experts: An IBPA Original - Often Copied, Never Duplicated!
"Ask the Experts" is an opportunity to schedule a private 15-minute consultation with a publishing professional who has valuable experience in the area where you need advice. You could pay hundreds of dollars for a consultant’s individual attention, but during IBPA Publishing University's "Ask the Experts" sessions, access to the best in the business is FREE!

In order to participate in "Ask the Experts," YOU MUST RESERVE CONSULTATION TIMES IN ADVANCE USING THE LINKS BELOW

Click here for FRIDAY consultation times.
Click here for SATURDAY consultation times.

Saturday April 6, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:45pm CDT

Crowdfunding the Capital You Need
Crowdfunding can be a game changer for indie creators, giving you the capital you need to get your book printed without going into debt. It's also an opportunity to find your book's marketing groove and make vital connections months before your book is officially released. In a world where only 25% of Kickstarter publishing projects make it out of the gate, Susan Bernardo and Courtenay Fletcher can show you how they've exceeded their crowdfunding goals multiple times, raising over $35,000 for three children's picture books.

Topics in this session will include:

  • Understanding Kickstarter tools
  • Fine-tuning your budget
  • Developing your "tribe" and mailing list
  • Coming up with great rewards
  • Understanding the elements of an effective campaign video

You'll learn why you should begin your crowdfunding campaign prep at least three months in advance, and how to tap into your "inner used car salesman" in those last days of the campaign.  

Speakers
avatar for Susan Bernardo

Susan Bernardo

Author/Co-Founder, Inner Flower Child Books
Award-winning poet and children's book author Susan Schaefer Bernardo is a firm believer in the healing powers of creativity. She and her illustrating partner Courtenay Fletcher formed their indie publishing company Inner Flower Child Books in 2012 with the release of their first... Read More →
avatar for Courtenay Fletcher

Courtenay Fletcher

Illustrator/Co-Founder, Inner Flower Child Books
Courtenay Fletcher is an award-winning children’s book illustrator and designer, committed to creating beautiful books that inspire children of all ages. In 2012, she co-founded Inner Flower Child Books with author Susan Schaefer Bernardo, and together they successfully illustrated... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Lincolnshire) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:45pm CDT

How to Optimize Backlist Book Sales on Amazon...Forever
The Amazon book listing page (a.k.a. the Amazon sales page) has sold millions of print and digital copies. If you can make sure that your books' sales pages are optimized for sales and conversions, then all your future marketing dollars will be better spent. USA Today bestselling author and CEO of Best Page Forward Bryan Cohen has helped thousands of authors sell more books through his advice on Titles, Covers, Reviews, and Book Descriptions. Let him show you how making a few key tweaks can help you turn more book browsers into paying customers.   

Speakers
avatar for Bryan Cohen

Bryan Cohen

CEO, Best Page Forward
A two-time USA Today bestselling author, Bryan Cohen loves keeping up with the publishing world through The Sell More Books Show. As the CEO of Best Page Forward, Bryan and his team have written over 2,000 book descriptions. Bryan's books have sold over 100,000 copies.


Saturday April 6, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Purdue/Wisconsin) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:45pm CDT

How to Promote Your Publishing Business With the Help Of Your Authors
Just as authors need to promote their brand and book, so do publishers. Why? It will help you sell more books, acquire better quality titles, and position you as a thought leader within the publishing industry. Plus it's a lot of fun!
 
This session will discuss:

  • How publishers can get their authors to market themselves and books better
  • How publishers can work with authors to promote the publishing company
  • How to spend your time wisely: social media, traditional media, speaking, advertising, branding
  • How to tackle the nuts and bolts but to also make the big ask of others – how to break through
 
Based on having served the book publishing community -- indies, traditional, university, and self-published -- for three decades, Brian Feinblum has a lot to say about book marketing trends, best practices in book publicity, and what publishers can and should be doing to promote their books, their brand, and their company. Join him during this special session to learn more!

Speakers
avatar for Brian Feinblum

Brian Feinblum

Chief Marketing Officer, SVP, Media Connect
Brian Feinblum has been promoting leading experts, best-selling authors, motivational speakers, major businesses, leading non-profits, and influential trade associations since 1989. He currently serves as the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President for MEDIA CONNECT, and... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Northwestern) 540 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

3:45pm CDT

How to Write Book Marketing Copy that Cuts Through the Noise
Distilling a book’s message for marketing copy is no small task. In this session, we will share ideas for how to pack the most punch into your copy, balance brevity and style and appeal to your target audience. The session will offer tips and practical insights for writing copy for book blurbs, social media and blogging, and teach you how less really is more in the drive-by world of online reading.

Speakers
avatar for Shari Stauch

Shari Stauch

Founder & CEO, Where Writers Win
Shari Stauch, Founder and CEO of Where Writers Win, has been involved in publishing, marketing, and PR for 35 years, as an author, publisher, and author marketing consultant. She created Where Writers Win to help an ever-growing community of emerging authors and independent publishers... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Great America 1-2) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

5:00pm CDT

Publishing University Closing Session (& Raffle Prize Giveaway!)
Often cited as one of the best parts of IBPA Publishing University - Don't miss out!

During this facilitator-led discussion, we will debrief the IBPA Publishing University experience before adjourning and heading our separate ways. What did you learn? How will you apply it? How can we continue helping each other achieve and succeed even when not face-to-face at conference? You'll also have the chance to win one of several raffle prizes supplied by the wonderful IBPA Publishing University sponsors (must be present to win).

Speakers
avatar for Angela Bole

Angela Bole

CEO, Independent Book Publishers Association
For the past six years, Angela Bole has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), the largest book publishing association in the U.S. serving independent publishers and self-published authors. IBPA’s mission is to lead and serve the... Read More →


Saturday April 6, 2019 5:00pm - 5:30pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Grand Salons 2-3) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
 
Sunday, April 7
 

9:00am CDT

Sunday Excursion: American Writers Museum Tour! (ADDITIONAL $10 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a special offsite tour. An additional $10 fee is required to attend. 
  • Online registration closed at 6:00 PM Central on April 2, 2019. Please visit the conference registration table on the 7th floor of the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning at 10:00 AM Central on Friday, April 5, 2019 to register, add to, or change your schedule.

Join us for a private tour of the American Writers Museum on Sunday April 7, 2018 from 9am-10:30am!

Named Best Illinois Attraction by USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards, The American Writers Museum aims to “engage the public in celebrating American writers and exploring their influence on our history, our identity, our culture, and our daily lives.” Join your fellow IBPA Publishing University 2019 attendees for a private tour and time to explore the museum's interactive exhibits and programming that honors the past, promotes the present, and inspires the future of writing in the United States.

The $10 registration covers the entry fee and private tour. Cost to attend outside of IBPA Publishing University is $12. You must register to attend.

Learn more about the American Writers Museum at americanwritersmuseum.org and email questions to Lee Wind at lee@ibpa-online.org.

Speakers
avatar for Lee Wind

Lee Wind

Director of Marketing and Programming, Independent Book Publishers Association
Lee Wind (he/him) is the director of education and programs at the Independent Book Publishers Association. He designs and hosts IBPA educational programs to be both informational and actionable, and is constantly iterating IBPA's book marketing programs to help our members' books... Read More →



Sunday April 7, 2019 9:00am - 10:30am CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Hotel Lobby)

11:30am CDT

IngramSpark 1/2-Day Boot Camp (ADDITIONAL $35 FEE APPLIES)
  • This is a sponsored lunch followed by 4 hours of IngramSpark-produced programming. 
  • All IBPA Publishing University attendees can register to attend for only $35 per ticket. Tickets are first come, first served. Additional tickets (for guests and others not attending IBPA Publishing University) can be purchased for $50 each. You can select the CLICK HERE TO REGISTER button above to register individually, or register as part of your full IBPA Publishing University registration here  

On Sunday, April 7, 2019, join the IngramSpark team for deep-dive training on how best to use the IngramSpark platform in your publishing business. The IngramSpark 1/2-Day Boot Camp is for brand new indie authors as well as seasoned publishers interested in broadening their use of print on demand.

The following topics will be covered:

  • An overview of overall Ingram distribution.
  • An overview of IngramSpark specifically (how it works/what is costs).
  • The value of POD and creating multiple formats of your content.
  • How to use metadata as your online sales force.
  • How to sell to bookstores and libraries using a POD platform.
  • Best practices of successful indie authors and publishers using IngramSpark.

Although the IngramSpark 1/2-Day Book Camp is co-located with IBPA Publishing Univeristy 2019 in Chicago, Illinois, it is wholly sponsored, produced, and programmed by IngramSpark. Please send questions to Robin Cutler at robin.cutler@ingramcontent.com.



Speakers
avatar for Robin Cutler

Robin Cutler

Director, IngramSpark
Robin Cutler, Director of IngramSparkRobin Cutler leads the development of IngramSpark as an Ingram Content Group service for indie authors and publishers. During her career, she has published over 1000 books as Assistant Director at USC Press, and CEO and founder of her own trade... Read More →


Sunday April 7, 2019 11:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (Room: Avenue Ballroom/Halsted) 540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
 

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