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Welcome back to another episode of the Thinking Big Podcast. In this episode, host Sean Osborn sits down with AJ Harper, an editor and publishing strategist who has been the powerhouse behind numerous bestsellers. AJ's expertise has touched millions of books, and she's here to share her insights on crafting books that genuinely change lives.

We dive deep into the world of book writing and publishing with AJ to discover the secrets behind writing foundational books that not only grow brands but also make a significant impact on readers worldwide.

Watch Key Takeaways on Youtube:

Key Takeaways:

1. Crafting a Transformational Book: AJ stresses the importance of writing a book that not only changes the lives of the readers but also the author.

2. Choosing the Right Publishing Path: AJ recommends reading specific chapters and using resources like Jane Freedman's publishing path grid to make informed decisions about traditional vs. self-publishing.

3. Writing Discipline: AJ talks about the importance of discipline in writing and mentions writing sprints and other techniques to keep writers focused and productive.

4. The Role of Editors: A good editor is crucial in the book publishing process. AJ emphasizes that clarity, systems, and a good editor are the keys to successful publishing.

5. AI in Publishing: The podcast touches on the controversial topic of AI-written books and the ethical implications, including lawsuits and scams.

Episode Quotes:

1. "You can't write a foundational book with AI, you have to write that book with heart." - AJ Harper
2. "It's about connecting the hearts and minds." - AJ Harper
3. "We know we just need to get our words on the page, and then it's really going to come alive in edits." - AJ Harper

Resources Mentioned:

• WRITE A MUST READ: Craft a Book That Changes Lives--Including Your Own: https://www.amazon.com/Write-Must-Read-Craft-Changes-Lives_Including/dp/1989603696
• Book website with the free chapter on publishing: https://writeamustread.com/tools/
• Top Three Book Workshop: https://ajharper.com/top-three-book-workshop/
• Authors' Club: https://ajharper.com/top-three-authors/
• AJ's Website: https://ajharper.com/
  
• Jane Friendman's 2023-2024 Key Book Publishing Paths chart: https://janefriedman.com/key-book-publishing-path/
• ALL IN: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams by Mike Michalowicz: https://www.amazon.com/All-Great-Leaders-Build-Unstoppable/dp/0593544501
• STREET SMART SAFETY FOR WOMEN: Your Guide to Defensive Living by Joy Farrow and Laura Frombach: https://www.amazon.com/Street-Smart-Safety-Women-Defensive/dp/0757324932
• BIRD BY BIRD: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott: https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Some-Instructions-Writing-Life/dp/0385480016

About AJ Harper:

AJ Harper is an editor and publishing strategist who helps authors write foundational books that enable them to build readership, grow their brand and make a significant impact on the world. As ghostwriter and as developmental editor, she has worked with newbies to New York Times bestselling authors with millions of books sold. AJ is writing partner to business author, Mike Michalowicz. Together they’ve written nine books, including Profit First, The Pumpkin Plan, Fix This Next, and their latest, Get Different. Through her Top Three Book Workshops and editing retreats, AJ empowers authors with insider publishing knowledge and guides them through the book development, writing, and editing process. AJ is the author of Write a Must-Read: Craft a Book That Changes Lives—Including Your Own.