1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:04,480 Alright, get ready to dive deep into the world of Amazon KDP. 2 00:00:04,480 --> 00:00:05,480 You asked for it. 3 00:00:05,480 --> 00:00:08,200 We've got a fascinating case study for you today. 4 00:00:08,200 --> 00:00:13,320 A popular YouTuber named Thomas, who's making Serious Bank on KDP. 5 00:00:13,320 --> 00:00:15,800 And we're talking about some eye-popping numbers here. 6 00:00:15,800 --> 00:00:17,480 We'll break down his income report. 7 00:00:17,480 --> 00:00:18,920 Eat, untack his strategies. 8 00:00:18,920 --> 00:00:23,240 And give you actionable takeaways to level up your own KDP game. 9 00:00:23,240 --> 00:00:28,000 First though, who is this Tomas guy and why should we listen to him? 10 00:00:28,000 --> 00:00:29,840 Well, he's not some overnight sensation. 11 00:00:29,840 --> 00:00:30,840 Yeah. 12 00:00:30,840 --> 00:00:34,080 Tomas has been self-publishing for over nine years. 13 00:00:34,080 --> 00:00:35,960 Wow, so he's seen it all. 14 00:00:35,960 --> 00:00:36,960 Exactly. 15 00:00:36,960 --> 00:00:40,080 He's weathered the storms, adapted to the algorithm changes. 16 00:00:40,080 --> 00:00:41,360 Learn what works, what doesn't. 17 00:00:41,360 --> 00:00:45,920 He's also the creator of BookBeam, a software that helps authors navigate the KDP landscape. 18 00:00:45,920 --> 00:00:48,080 Okay, so he's got the experience and the tool. 19 00:00:48,080 --> 00:00:49,080 Definitely. 20 00:00:49,080 --> 00:00:50,080 But here's the kicker. 21 00:00:50,080 --> 00:00:51,080 Hit me. 22 00:00:51,080 --> 00:00:56,720 This guy made $315,000 and just one month on Amazon KDP. 23 00:00:56,720 --> 00:00:57,720 Hold on. 24 00:00:57,720 --> 00:00:59,240 You're saying he made over 300 grand. 25 00:00:59,240 --> 00:01:00,360 In a single month. 26 00:01:00,360 --> 00:01:01,640 From selling books on Amazon. 27 00:01:01,640 --> 00:01:02,640 Yep. 28 00:01:02,640 --> 00:01:03,640 Okay, I'm officially intrigued. 29 00:01:03,640 --> 00:01:04,640 But let's be real. 30 00:01:04,640 --> 00:01:05,640 Please. 31 00:01:05,640 --> 00:01:08,440 Not everyone can just replicate that kind of success overnight. 32 00:01:08,440 --> 00:01:09,440 Absolutely not. 33 00:01:09,440 --> 00:01:10,920 And Tomas is very upfront about that. 34 00:01:10,920 --> 00:01:13,120 So it's not some get rich quick scheme. 35 00:01:13,120 --> 00:01:14,120 Definitely not. 36 00:01:14,120 --> 00:01:15,120 Okay, good. 37 00:01:15,120 --> 00:01:19,200 I'm all about sustainable success, not flashing the panfads. 38 00:01:19,200 --> 00:01:20,880 So let's break down his approach. 39 00:01:20,880 --> 00:01:22,320 What's his secret sauce? 40 00:01:22,320 --> 00:01:24,600 Well, he doesn't call it secret sauce. 41 00:01:24,600 --> 00:01:25,600 No math. 42 00:01:25,600 --> 00:01:29,480 He calls it the three pillars of KDP success. 43 00:01:29,480 --> 00:01:31,720 Ooh, I like it. 44 00:01:31,720 --> 00:01:33,000 Pillar number one. 45 00:01:33,000 --> 00:01:34,160 Finding a killer niche. 46 00:01:34,160 --> 00:01:35,600 Okay, niche selection. 47 00:01:35,600 --> 00:01:37,120 That's crucial. 48 00:01:37,120 --> 00:01:39,280 But how does he define a killer niche? 49 00:01:39,280 --> 00:01:40,760 Think high demand. 50 00:01:40,760 --> 00:01:42,360 Lots of people searching for it. 51 00:01:42,360 --> 00:01:47,560 And the potential to climb high in Amazon's bestseller rank or BSR. 52 00:01:47,560 --> 00:01:51,200 So not some obscure category that only three people care about. 53 00:01:51,200 --> 00:01:52,200 Right. 54 00:01:52,200 --> 00:01:53,200 He's not afraid of competition. 55 00:01:53,200 --> 00:01:54,200 Yeah. 56 00:01:54,200 --> 00:01:56,920 He's not afraid of targets, popular, even competitive niches. 57 00:01:56,920 --> 00:01:59,720 So how does he stand out in a crowded market? 58 00:01:59,720 --> 00:02:03,280 By producing an exceptional product, which brings us to pillar number two. 59 00:02:03,280 --> 00:02:06,880 I was going to say, what good is a hot niche if your book is a dud? 60 00:02:06,880 --> 00:02:07,880 Exactly. 61 00:02:07,880 --> 00:02:09,680 We're talking about crafting an amazing book. 62 00:02:09,680 --> 00:02:11,560 Okay, break it down for me. 63 00:02:11,560 --> 00:02:14,960 What makes a book amazing in the KDP world? 64 00:02:14,960 --> 00:02:18,080 An eye-catching cover that screams, pick me up. 65 00:02:18,080 --> 00:02:20,640 High quality formatting and editing. 66 00:02:20,640 --> 00:02:21,640 And most importantly. 67 00:02:21,640 --> 00:02:23,120 You're on the edge of my seat. 68 00:02:23,120 --> 00:02:27,160 But that's so good, it leaves readers raving and hitting that five star button. 69 00:02:27,160 --> 00:02:28,160 Makes sense. 70 00:02:28,160 --> 00:02:31,000 So you're competing against potentially thousands of other books. 71 00:02:31,000 --> 00:02:35,520 Every element needs to be top notch to grab attention and convert those clicks into sales. 72 00:02:35,520 --> 00:02:38,240 Okay, so we've got the niche, the book. 73 00:02:38,240 --> 00:02:42,680 What's the final pillar that holds this whole KDP empire together? 74 00:02:42,680 --> 00:02:43,680 Marketing. 75 00:02:43,680 --> 00:02:44,680 I knew it. 76 00:02:44,680 --> 00:02:47,320 Everyone talks about marketing, but it feels like a black hole sometimes. 77 00:02:47,320 --> 00:02:49,160 And that's where Tomas gets really specific. 78 00:02:49,160 --> 00:02:50,440 Yeah, QB the goods. 79 00:02:50,440 --> 00:02:53,400 His primary weapon of choice is Amazon ads. 80 00:02:53,400 --> 00:02:54,840 Right, Amazon ads. 81 00:02:54,840 --> 00:03:00,520 Everyone's doing them, but how do you actually make them work for you and not just drain 82 00:03:00,520 --> 00:03:01,520 your bank account? 83 00:03:01,520 --> 00:03:03,680 He emphasizes understanding the mechanics. 84 00:03:03,680 --> 00:03:04,680 Mechanics. 85 00:03:04,680 --> 00:03:08,760 How clicks and conversions translate into sales within Amazon's ecosystem. 86 00:03:08,760 --> 00:03:12,760 Okay, so it's about being strategic, not just throwing money at ads and hoping for the 87 00:03:12,760 --> 00:03:13,760 best. 88 00:03:13,760 --> 00:03:15,600 He's all about data-driven decisions. 89 00:03:15,600 --> 00:03:17,040 I like the sound of that. 90 00:03:17,040 --> 00:03:23,440 So let's be honest, a lot of KDP advice out there pushes this quantity over quality myth. 91 00:03:23,440 --> 00:03:27,640 The idea that if you churn out enough books, something's bound to stick. 92 00:03:27,640 --> 00:03:28,640 Exactly. 93 00:03:28,640 --> 00:03:29,640 What does Tomas have to say about that? 94 00:03:29,640 --> 00:03:30,640 He calls BS. 95 00:03:30,640 --> 00:03:31,640 Uh-huh. 96 00:03:31,640 --> 00:03:32,640 I love his style. 97 00:03:32,640 --> 00:03:37,160 He says, spreading yourself too thin results in mediocre products and weak sales. 98 00:03:37,160 --> 00:03:39,120 So quality trumps quantity. 99 00:03:39,120 --> 00:03:40,120 Always. 100 00:03:40,120 --> 00:03:42,480 And he has the data to prove it. 101 00:03:42,480 --> 00:03:48,760 In his income report, he revealed that just three of his books generated a whopping 75% 102 00:03:48,760 --> 00:03:50,440 of his total income. 103 00:03:50,440 --> 00:03:51,600 That's insane. 104 00:03:51,600 --> 00:03:55,760 So the 80-20 principle in action, a small percentage of your efforts often yield the 105 00:03:55,760 --> 00:03:57,680 most significant results. 106 00:03:57,680 --> 00:03:58,680 Precisely. 107 00:03:58,680 --> 00:04:02,720 So the takeaway here is focus our energy on creating fewer but truly exceptional books 108 00:04:02,720 --> 00:04:04,560 that have the potential to become best sellers. 109 00:04:04,560 --> 00:04:05,560 Exactly. 110 00:04:05,560 --> 00:04:09,480 And speaking of investment, Tomas is very upfront about the fact that building a successful 111 00:04:09,480 --> 00:04:12,360 KDP business takes more than just wishful thinking. 112 00:04:12,360 --> 00:04:13,640 Yeah, let's talk about that. 113 00:04:13,640 --> 00:04:18,760 He's a big advocate for investing in yourself, whether that's learning new skills, utilizing 114 00:04:18,760 --> 00:04:21,040 helpful software is like, well, you know. 115 00:04:21,040 --> 00:04:22,040 Book beam. 116 00:04:22,040 --> 00:04:25,600 Book beam, or even just consistently refining your craft. 117 00:04:25,600 --> 00:04:30,560 So no magic button, just good old fashioned hard work and smart strategy. 118 00:04:30,560 --> 00:04:34,240 It's about committing to the process and being willing to put in the effort. 119 00:04:34,240 --> 00:04:35,840 I like his style. 120 00:04:35,840 --> 00:04:40,200 Now you mentioned earlier that he primarily publishes what's considered medium content. 121 00:04:40,200 --> 00:04:41,760 What exactly does that mean? 122 00:04:41,760 --> 00:04:46,000 It refers to books that strike a balance between text and illustrations. 123 00:04:46,000 --> 00:04:50,440 So not purely text heavy like a novel, but not just blank pages like a simple notebook 124 00:04:50,440 --> 00:04:51,440 either. 125 00:04:51,440 --> 00:04:52,440 Exactly. 126 00:04:52,440 --> 00:04:53,440 A hybrid approach. 127 00:04:53,440 --> 00:04:54,640 Think activity books, journals with prompts. 128 00:04:54,640 --> 00:04:59,200 Okay, so it's about finding that sweet spot where your skills and interests align with 129 00:04:59,200 --> 00:05:01,200 what people are actually looking for. 130 00:05:01,200 --> 00:05:04,000 And he stresses that this isn't a rigid rule. 131 00:05:04,000 --> 00:05:05,000 Oh good. 132 00:05:05,000 --> 00:05:06,520 So no need to pigeonhole ourselves. 133 00:05:06,520 --> 00:05:07,520 Not at all. 134 00:05:07,520 --> 00:05:10,640 What matters most is understanding current market trends. 135 00:05:10,640 --> 00:05:14,760 Understanding where you can create a high quality product that meets a genuine demand. 136 00:05:14,760 --> 00:05:17,600 And of course always, always emphasizing quality. 137 00:05:17,600 --> 00:05:19,640 He keeps hitting on this quality thing. 138 00:05:19,640 --> 00:05:22,800 It's clearly the golden thread throughout all his strategies. 139 00:05:22,800 --> 00:05:23,800 It is. 140 00:05:23,800 --> 00:05:24,800 And you know what? 141 00:05:24,800 --> 00:05:25,800 What? 142 00:05:25,800 --> 00:05:29,120 That commitment to quality really shines through, especially when you look at his approach 143 00:05:29,120 --> 00:05:30,720 to the holiday season. 144 00:05:30,720 --> 00:05:31,720 Ah, yes. 145 00:05:31,720 --> 00:05:37,560 Q4, the time when everyone's scrambling for gifts and online sales go through the roof. 146 00:05:37,560 --> 00:05:40,520 And Thomas has figured out how to ride that wave like a pro. 147 00:05:40,520 --> 00:05:41,920 So spill the beans. 148 00:05:41,920 --> 00:05:45,160 What's his secret to maximizing those holiday profits? 149 00:05:45,160 --> 00:05:49,680 First of all, he says Q4 is absolutely critical for maxing out your KDP income. 150 00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:50,680 But here's the thing. 151 00:05:50,680 --> 00:05:51,680 Hit me. 152 00:05:51,680 --> 00:05:55,560 If you're only starting to think about Q4, well Q4, you've already missed the boat. 153 00:05:55,560 --> 00:05:56,560 Big time. 154 00:05:56,560 --> 00:06:00,600 Launching a book in December is basically too late to capitalize on that holiday rush. 155 00:06:00,600 --> 00:06:02,360 So what's the game plan then? 156 00:06:02,360 --> 00:06:05,200 When should we be prepping for this holiday bonanza? 157 00:06:05,200 --> 00:06:07,800 He advocates for a long game approach. 158 00:06:07,800 --> 00:06:08,800 Yeah. 159 00:06:08,800 --> 00:06:09,920 Producing your books in Q1. 160 00:06:09,920 --> 00:06:11,520 The first quarter of the year. 161 00:06:11,520 --> 00:06:13,000 Launching them in the spring or summer. 162 00:06:13,000 --> 00:06:16,040 And using that time to build up a solid base of reviews. 163 00:06:16,040 --> 00:06:19,960 By the time the holiday season rolls around, your books are primed and ready. 164 00:06:19,960 --> 00:06:20,960 Makes sense. 165 00:06:20,960 --> 00:06:25,720 You're essentially building momentum throughout the year and then riding that wave of demand 166 00:06:25,720 --> 00:06:27,160 when Q4 hits. 167 00:06:27,160 --> 00:06:28,160 Exactly. 168 00:06:28,160 --> 00:06:33,800 And this forward thinking approach applies to his Amazon ad strategy as well. 169 00:06:33,800 --> 00:06:34,960 So Q4 ads are different. 170 00:06:34,960 --> 00:06:36,360 A whole different ball game. 171 00:06:36,360 --> 00:06:37,360 How so? 172 00:06:37,360 --> 00:06:38,360 Everything intensifies. 173 00:06:38,360 --> 00:06:42,720 Higher traffic, more valuable clicks, and ultimately more conversions. 174 00:06:42,720 --> 00:06:49,040 So what might have been a mediocre ad campaign in the off season could become a goldmine 175 00:06:49,040 --> 00:06:50,440 during the holidays? 176 00:06:50,440 --> 00:06:51,440 Precisely. 177 00:06:51,440 --> 00:06:54,440 But that also means you need to be more adaptable, more responsive. 178 00:06:54,440 --> 00:06:57,920 Constantly testing, analyzing data, making quick adjustments. 179 00:06:57,920 --> 00:07:02,280 So being able to pivot quickly is essential during that crucial Q4 period. 180 00:07:02,280 --> 00:07:03,280 Absolutely. 181 00:07:03,280 --> 00:07:04,880 And he has a really interesting point about budgeting. 182 00:07:04,880 --> 00:07:07,120 Okay, budgeting, that's always a tricky one. 183 00:07:07,120 --> 00:07:10,840 He says one of the biggest mistakes people make is blowing their entire ad budget too 184 00:07:10,840 --> 00:07:12,000 early in the season. 185 00:07:12,000 --> 00:07:16,200 So don't go all in on Black Friday and then have nothing left for the actual Christmas 186 00:07:16,200 --> 00:07:17,200 rush. 187 00:07:17,200 --> 00:07:18,200 Pace yourself. 188 00:07:18,200 --> 00:07:19,200 Exactly. 189 00:07:19,200 --> 00:07:24,000 Be mindful of cash flow, especially considering that Amazon payouts are often delayed. 190 00:07:24,000 --> 00:07:26,440 Strategically allocating that budget throughout the season. 191 00:07:26,440 --> 00:07:29,800 With a focus on that peak period between December 12th and 19th. 192 00:07:29,800 --> 00:07:32,640 Okay, save those ad dollars for the final push. 193 00:07:32,640 --> 00:07:34,880 Got it. 194 00:07:34,880 --> 00:07:38,640 Anything else we should be aware of when it comes to maximizing Q4? 195 00:07:38,640 --> 00:07:39,760 This one might surprise you. 196 00:07:39,760 --> 00:07:41,000 Okay, I'm ready. 197 00:07:41,000 --> 00:07:46,520 Tomas suggests that while the US marketplace is obviously huge, there's a whole world 198 00:07:46,520 --> 00:07:49,280 of opportunity waiting to be tapped in foreign markets. 199 00:07:49,280 --> 00:07:52,720 You mean like translating our books and selling them in other countries? 200 00:07:52,720 --> 00:07:53,720 Exactly. 201 00:07:53,720 --> 00:07:58,200 He points out that while the US market dominated his results this year, foreign marketplaces 202 00:07:58,200 --> 00:08:00,440 often have less competition. 203 00:08:00,440 --> 00:08:02,360 More affordable ad costs. 204 00:08:02,360 --> 00:08:07,560 So venturing beyond the US could potentially unlock a whole new level of income. 205 00:08:07,560 --> 00:08:09,400 It definitely has that potential. 206 00:08:09,400 --> 00:08:11,680 He suggests starting with the easy wins. 207 00:08:11,680 --> 00:08:12,840 Which are? 208 00:08:12,840 --> 00:08:15,000 English speaking markets like Canada and the UK. 209 00:08:15,000 --> 00:08:17,400 Okay, less of a language barrier there. 210 00:08:17,400 --> 00:08:22,160 Then if you're feeling adventurous, you can explore translations to open up bigger markets 211 00:08:22,160 --> 00:08:24,720 like Germany, France, Italy, Spain. 212 00:08:24,720 --> 00:08:27,280 Wow, that's a lot to think about. 213 00:08:27,280 --> 00:08:32,560 Bain the potential of each market against the investment required for translation and managing 214 00:08:32,560 --> 00:08:34,120 those multiple storefronts. 215 00:08:34,120 --> 00:08:35,680 This is a lot to digest. 216 00:08:35,680 --> 00:08:36,680 It is, but it's exciting. 217 00:08:36,680 --> 00:08:37,680 Right, it is. 218 00:08:37,680 --> 00:08:43,520 And it just goes to show there's a lot more to success on Amazon KDP than just writing 219 00:08:43,520 --> 00:08:45,200 a book and hoping for the best. 220 00:08:45,200 --> 00:08:46,200 It's a business. 221 00:08:46,200 --> 00:08:51,880 A business that requires a strategic approach, a commitment to quality, and a willingness 222 00:08:51,880 --> 00:08:53,880 to learn and adapt. 223 00:08:53,880 --> 00:08:57,200 Okay, my head is spinning with all this amazing info. 224 00:08:57,200 --> 00:09:02,480 We've talked about finding a hot niche, crafting a killer book, marketing like a pro, but how 225 00:09:02,480 --> 00:09:04,720 do we actually make this happen? 226 00:09:04,720 --> 00:09:06,480 What are the tools, the tactics? 227 00:09:06,480 --> 00:09:08,120 Well, you just touched on one of his key tools. 228 00:09:08,120 --> 00:09:09,120 What, BookBeam? 229 00:09:09,120 --> 00:09:10,280 Yeah, the software he created. 230 00:09:10,280 --> 00:09:12,160 Right, BookBeam, we mentioned it earlier. 231 00:09:12,160 --> 00:09:14,320 It's like a secret weapon for KDP publishers. 232 00:09:14,320 --> 00:09:16,160 But what is it actually DO? 233 00:09:16,160 --> 00:09:17,240 Think of it this way. 234 00:09:17,240 --> 00:09:20,240 It's like having a crystal ball that shows you the future of KDP. 235 00:09:20,240 --> 00:09:21,240 Okay, I'll listen. 236 00:09:21,240 --> 00:09:25,720 You can see emerging trends, spot profitable ninches, and even spy on your competitors. 237 00:09:25,720 --> 00:09:26,720 Okay, hold on. 238 00:09:26,720 --> 00:09:31,240 It lets you analyze market data, track keywords, and see what's actually selling. 239 00:09:31,240 --> 00:09:35,400 So instead of blindly guessing, you can make data-driven decisions. 240 00:09:35,400 --> 00:09:38,120 Exactly, you're not just throwing darts in the dark. 241 00:09:38,120 --> 00:09:43,520 So with BookBeam, you can be more strategic about niche selection, content creation, and 242 00:09:43,520 --> 00:09:44,720 even marketing. 243 00:09:44,720 --> 00:09:46,640 It's all about staying ahead of the curve. 244 00:09:46,640 --> 00:09:49,480 He did mention trends dying, didn't he? 245 00:09:49,480 --> 00:09:50,640 That was a little scary. 246 00:09:50,640 --> 00:09:55,080 It's the reality of any market, especially online publishing. 247 00:09:55,080 --> 00:09:59,280 But with the right tools, you can ride those waves instead of getting wiped out. 248 00:09:59,280 --> 00:10:00,280 You got it. 249 00:10:00,280 --> 00:10:02,160 You want to be the trendsetter, not the trend follower. 250 00:10:02,160 --> 00:10:07,040 No, you mentioned Tomas is big on giftability during Q4. 251 00:10:07,040 --> 00:10:08,440 What exactly does that mean? 252 00:10:08,440 --> 00:10:10,760 It's about tapping into that holiday spirit. 253 00:10:10,760 --> 00:10:14,160 Thinking about books that people would actually want to give as gifts. 254 00:10:14,160 --> 00:10:15,320 Exactly. 255 00:10:15,320 --> 00:10:16,400 Think about it. 256 00:10:16,400 --> 00:10:18,960 What kinds of books do people give as presents? 257 00:10:18,960 --> 00:10:20,720 Kids books, definitely. 258 00:10:20,720 --> 00:10:22,880 Maybe some fun jerk books, trivia. 259 00:10:22,880 --> 00:10:27,240 Books that have broad appeal evoke a sense of fun or shared experience. 260 00:10:27,240 --> 00:10:30,720 It's about understanding those holiday shoppers, what motivates them. 261 00:10:30,720 --> 00:10:33,880 And crafting a narrative that resonates with their desires. 262 00:10:33,880 --> 00:10:38,240 It seems like we need to wear our Marks and Hats even when we're writing the book itself. 263 00:10:38,240 --> 00:10:39,360 Exactly. 264 00:10:39,360 --> 00:10:43,960 Think about how you can highlight that giftability factor in your book description. 265 00:10:43,960 --> 00:10:48,000 Not just listing features, but painting a picture of how this book can enhance someone's 266 00:10:48,000 --> 00:10:49,360 holiday experience. 267 00:10:49,360 --> 00:10:50,720 It's subtle but important. 268 00:10:50,720 --> 00:10:52,440 We're not just selling a product. 269 00:10:52,440 --> 00:10:54,200 We're selling an experience. 270 00:10:54,200 --> 00:10:57,440 And during the holidays, experiences are gold. 271 00:10:57,440 --> 00:11:00,880 This all ties back to that data-driven approach, doesn't it? 272 00:11:00,880 --> 00:11:04,200 Understanding the market, the trends, even the psychology of the buyer. 273 00:11:04,200 --> 00:11:05,200 You're getting it. 274 00:11:05,200 --> 00:11:07,680 Success on KDP isn't about luck. 275 00:11:07,680 --> 00:11:09,320 It's about calculated decisions. 276 00:11:09,320 --> 00:11:11,800 And a deep understanding of what makes people tick. 277 00:11:11,800 --> 00:11:17,000 Now, I know we talked about foreign markets earlier, but I'm still a little hesitant. 278 00:11:17,000 --> 00:11:20,520 Translating my books, managing multiple marketplaces, it seems like a lot. 279 00:11:20,520 --> 00:11:21,520 It can be. 280 00:11:21,520 --> 00:11:26,040 Thomas makes it sound so enticing with that lower competition and cheaper ads. 281 00:11:26,040 --> 00:11:27,640 The potential is definitely there. 282 00:11:27,640 --> 00:11:29,400 But where do you even begin? 283 00:11:29,400 --> 00:11:31,120 He suggests starting small. 284 00:11:31,120 --> 00:11:34,400 Like with those English-speaking markets, Canada, the UK. 285 00:11:34,400 --> 00:11:35,400 Exactly. 286 00:11:35,400 --> 00:11:36,960 Keep your toes in the water. 287 00:11:36,960 --> 00:11:37,960 See how it feels. 288 00:11:37,960 --> 00:11:39,960 So maybe branch out from there. 289 00:11:39,960 --> 00:11:44,120 If you're ready for the next level, consider translating your books into other languages. 290 00:11:44,120 --> 00:11:45,920 Opening up those European markets. 291 00:11:45,920 --> 00:11:47,240 Think about it. 292 00:11:47,240 --> 00:11:53,200 Germany, France, Italy, Spain, all potential gold mines. 293 00:11:53,200 --> 00:11:56,240 It's like unlocking a whole new world of readers. 294 00:11:56,240 --> 00:11:57,240 Exactly. 295 00:11:57,240 --> 00:11:58,240 But yeah, there's always a... 296 00:11:58,240 --> 00:11:59,840 Don't just jump in blindly. 297 00:11:59,840 --> 00:12:01,400 Research those markets. 298 00:12:01,400 --> 00:12:02,720 Understand the cultural nuances. 299 00:12:02,720 --> 00:12:04,920 What works in the US might not work in another country. 300 00:12:04,920 --> 00:12:06,920 And don't forget about the practical side of things. 301 00:12:06,920 --> 00:12:09,880 Like actually getting the translations done. 302 00:12:09,880 --> 00:12:12,200 Finding reliable translators is key. 303 00:12:12,200 --> 00:12:14,120 And managing all those different storefronts. 304 00:12:14,120 --> 00:12:15,360 It can get overwhelming. 305 00:12:15,360 --> 00:12:18,280 Which is why Tommas talks about building a team, right? 306 00:12:18,280 --> 00:12:21,120 Even a small team can make a huge difference. 307 00:12:21,120 --> 00:12:23,720 So maybe outsourcing some of those tasks. 308 00:12:23,720 --> 00:12:27,200 Like translations, keyword research for those foreign markets. 309 00:12:27,200 --> 00:12:29,720 Maybe even managing those international ad campaigns. 310 00:12:29,720 --> 00:12:31,880 It's about freeing up your time and energy. 311 00:12:31,880 --> 00:12:34,040 So you can focus on your core strength. 312 00:12:34,040 --> 00:12:36,640 Writing, creating, strategizing. 313 00:12:36,640 --> 00:12:39,040 And having the bandwidth to think big picture. 314 00:12:39,040 --> 00:12:44,800 It sounds like scaling a KDP business to this level requires a whole new mindset. 315 00:12:44,800 --> 00:12:47,440 You have to let go of that solopreneur mentality. 316 00:12:47,440 --> 00:12:50,000 And embrace the power of collaboration. 317 00:12:50,000 --> 00:12:52,480 Trusting others to help you reach your goals. 318 00:12:52,480 --> 00:12:55,200 Which brings us back to something we talked about earlier. 319 00:12:55,200 --> 00:12:56,200 Investing in yourself. 320 00:12:56,200 --> 00:12:58,440 And that investment can take many forms. 321 00:12:58,440 --> 00:13:02,800 It could be learning new skills like effective delegation. 322 00:13:02,800 --> 00:13:06,680 Or maybe investing in tools that streamline your workflow. 323 00:13:06,680 --> 00:13:10,400 It's about constantly seeking ways to improve. 324 00:13:10,400 --> 00:13:12,360 And level up not just your own skill set. 325 00:13:12,360 --> 00:13:15,720 But also your ability to build and manage a high performing team. 326 00:13:15,720 --> 00:13:17,760 Is a whole different ball game. 327 00:13:17,760 --> 00:13:20,760 But the potential rewards are immense. 328 00:13:20,760 --> 00:13:22,000 This is all so inspiring. 329 00:13:22,000 --> 00:13:23,600 But let's get real for a second. 330 00:13:23,600 --> 00:13:24,600 What's up? 331 00:13:24,600 --> 00:13:27,320 What about those times when things don't go as planned? 332 00:13:27,320 --> 00:13:29,280 The inevitable setbacks and challenges. 333 00:13:29,280 --> 00:13:30,280 Exactly. 334 00:13:30,280 --> 00:13:32,920 How do we deal with those moments when we feel like giving up? 335 00:13:32,920 --> 00:13:34,440 That's where mindset comes in. 336 00:13:34,440 --> 00:13:39,360 You mentioned Tomas talks about viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. 337 00:13:39,360 --> 00:13:41,320 It's all about having a growth mindset. 338 00:13:41,320 --> 00:13:46,840 So instead of getting discouraged by setbacks, we should see them as learning experiences. 339 00:13:46,840 --> 00:13:51,640 Each challenge is a chance to learn, adapt, refine our approach. 340 00:13:51,640 --> 00:13:54,720 It's about embracing the process of continuous improvement. 341 00:13:54,720 --> 00:13:57,920 It's about embracing the process of continuous improvement. 342 00:13:57,920 --> 00:13:59,760 Remember, you're not alone in this. 343 00:13:59,760 --> 00:14:00,760 Yeah. 344 00:14:00,760 --> 00:14:03,600 The KDP community is full of supportive and inspiring people. 345 00:14:03,600 --> 00:14:08,080 Fellow authors, mentors, even just friends and family who understand the journey. 346 00:14:08,080 --> 00:14:12,200 They can offer encouragement, share their own experiences, and help you stay motivated. 347 00:14:12,200 --> 00:14:15,040 It's about surrounding yourself with people who believe in you. 348 00:14:15,040 --> 00:14:16,360 Even when you're doubting yourself. 349 00:14:16,360 --> 00:14:19,560 Because let's be honest, those moments of self-doubt are inevitable. 350 00:14:19,560 --> 00:14:20,760 They are. 351 00:14:20,760 --> 00:14:23,480 But the key is to not let them derail you. 352 00:14:23,480 --> 00:14:27,880 So it's about building a support system, reframing negative thoughts, and celebrating 353 00:14:27,880 --> 00:14:29,800 those small wins along the way. 354 00:14:29,800 --> 00:14:30,800 It all adds up. 355 00:14:30,800 --> 00:14:31,800 This has been amazing. 356 00:14:31,800 --> 00:14:33,120 We've covered so much ground. 357 00:14:33,120 --> 00:14:37,240 From the technical aspects of KDP to the mindset needed for success. 358 00:14:37,240 --> 00:14:39,360 And it's clear that Tomas' journey is an inspiration. 359 00:14:39,360 --> 00:14:42,320 But it's not just about replicating his exact steps. 360 00:14:42,320 --> 00:14:46,920 It's about taking those principles and applying them to our own unique situations. 361 00:14:46,920 --> 00:14:48,040 Finding our own path. 362 00:14:48,040 --> 00:14:49,040 Our own voice. 363 00:14:49,040 --> 00:14:50,840 And creating something truly special. 364 00:14:50,840 --> 00:14:53,200 I think that's what makes KDP so exciting. 365 00:14:53,200 --> 00:14:56,040 It's a platform that empowers anyone with an idea. 366 00:14:56,040 --> 00:14:57,880 To share their stories with the world. 367 00:14:57,880 --> 00:15:00,600 And potentially build a thriving business. 368 00:15:00,600 --> 00:15:03,000 But it's not just about the money. 369 00:15:03,000 --> 00:15:04,440 It's about the impact we can make. 370 00:15:04,440 --> 00:15:05,720 The lives we can touch. 371 00:15:05,720 --> 00:15:07,720 Through the power of words. 372 00:15:07,720 --> 00:15:09,440 And that's something worth striving for. 373 00:15:09,440 --> 00:15:12,680 Okay, I'm ready for the final round of KDP Wisdom. 374 00:15:12,680 --> 00:15:17,160 One thing that really stuck with me was how Tomas talked about his top three books generating 375 00:15:17,160 --> 00:15:18,920 the lion's share of his income. 376 00:15:18,920 --> 00:15:21,440 It's a classic example of the 80-20 principle, right? 377 00:15:21,440 --> 00:15:22,440 Totally. 378 00:15:22,440 --> 00:15:24,280 But what's interesting is he didn't just stop there. 379 00:15:24,280 --> 00:15:25,280 He dug deeper. 380 00:15:25,280 --> 00:15:29,200 Yeah, he wanted to understand, W-H-Y, those books were such heavy hitters. 381 00:15:29,200 --> 00:15:30,200 Exactly. 382 00:15:30,200 --> 00:15:35,000 Was it the niche, the cover design, were they particularly giftable? 383 00:15:35,000 --> 00:15:37,720 Creating those whys feels crucial. 384 00:15:37,720 --> 00:15:39,400 Like finding hidden treasure. 385 00:15:39,400 --> 00:15:42,640 And I'm guessing data analysis plays a big role here. 386 00:15:42,640 --> 00:15:43,640 Absolutely. 387 00:15:43,640 --> 00:15:44,840 Tomas tracks everything. 388 00:15:44,840 --> 00:15:47,680 Sales figures, ad performance, customer reviews. 389 00:15:47,680 --> 00:15:52,960 So you're saying data can reveal those hidden gems that help us replicate success. 390 00:15:52,960 --> 00:15:56,480 It's like having a roadmap instead of just wandering around aimlessly. 391 00:15:56,480 --> 00:15:57,600 Love that analogy. 392 00:15:57,600 --> 00:15:59,800 But data can be overwhelming sometimes. 393 00:15:59,800 --> 00:16:00,800 Where do you even start? 394 00:16:00,800 --> 00:16:02,840 Ask the right questions. 395 00:16:02,840 --> 00:16:04,520 What keywords are driving sales? 396 00:16:04,520 --> 00:16:07,640 What are the common themes in positive reviews? 397 00:16:07,640 --> 00:16:09,800 The answers are often hidden in plain sight. 398 00:16:09,800 --> 00:16:11,640 Okay, so data is key. 399 00:16:11,640 --> 00:16:13,560 But let's talk about something a little less tangible. 400 00:16:13,560 --> 00:16:14,560 Mindset. 401 00:16:14,560 --> 00:16:15,560 Ah, yeah. 402 00:16:15,560 --> 00:16:18,080 The mental game of KDP. 403 00:16:18,080 --> 00:16:21,960 Tomas mentioned viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. 404 00:16:21,960 --> 00:16:26,320 How do we actually do that when we're facing rejection or setbacks? 405 00:16:26,320 --> 00:16:28,480 It's about cultivating a growth mindset. 406 00:16:28,480 --> 00:16:31,520 Which means embracing those challenges as learning experiences. 407 00:16:31,520 --> 00:16:35,400 So instead of saying, I'm failing, we should say I'm learning. 408 00:16:35,400 --> 00:16:37,960 It's a subtle shift, but powerful. 409 00:16:37,960 --> 00:16:41,400 Each setback is a chance to adapt, refine, and come back stronger. 410 00:16:41,400 --> 00:16:42,400 I love that. 411 00:16:42,400 --> 00:16:46,240 But let's be honest, staying motivated when you're hitting those red blocks can be tough. 412 00:16:46,240 --> 00:16:47,240 Any tips? 413 00:16:47,240 --> 00:16:48,560 Build a strong support system. 414 00:16:48,560 --> 00:16:50,600 You mean like other authors, mentors. 415 00:16:50,600 --> 00:16:51,600 Exactly. 416 00:16:51,600 --> 00:16:53,880 Surround yourself with people who understand this journey. 417 00:16:53,880 --> 00:16:59,080 They can offer encouragement, advice, and remind you why you started in the first place. 418 00:16:59,080 --> 00:17:02,040 It's like having a team of cheerleaders in your corner. 419 00:17:02,040 --> 00:17:03,040 Exactly. 420 00:17:03,040 --> 00:17:04,040 Yeah. 421 00:17:04,040 --> 00:17:07,000 Because let's face it, those moments of self-doubt are inevitable. 422 00:17:07,000 --> 00:17:08,000 They are. 423 00:17:08,000 --> 00:17:12,000 So we need those cheerleaders to remind us of our awesomeness. 424 00:17:12,000 --> 00:17:13,000 Exactly. 425 00:17:13,000 --> 00:17:16,000 Celebrate those small wins no matter how tiny they seem. 426 00:17:16,000 --> 00:17:18,320 It's all about progress, not perfection, right? 427 00:17:18,320 --> 00:17:19,320 You got it. 428 00:17:19,320 --> 00:17:21,680 Wow, this has been an incredible deep dive. 429 00:17:21,680 --> 00:17:22,680 I agree. 430 00:17:22,680 --> 00:17:28,040 We've covered so much ground, niche selection, book production, marketing, mindset. 431 00:17:28,040 --> 00:17:33,720 Your mass journey is a testament to what's possible when you combine data-driven strategy 432 00:17:33,720 --> 00:17:36,520 with a passion for creating exceptional content. 433 00:17:36,520 --> 00:17:38,280 It's not just about following a formula. 434 00:17:38,280 --> 00:17:40,680 It's about finding your own unique path. 435 00:17:40,680 --> 00:17:41,680 Your own voice. 436 00:17:41,680 --> 00:17:43,080 And sharing it with the world. 437 00:17:43,080 --> 00:17:46,880 And who knows, maybe you'll be the next KDP Rockstar we feature on this show. 438 00:17:46,880 --> 00:17:48,240 That's a great thought. 439 00:17:48,240 --> 00:17:53,480 So tell all our listeners out there, remember, you have the power to create something amazing. 440 00:17:53,480 --> 00:17:54,480 Find your passion. 441 00:17:54,480 --> 00:17:55,960 Hone your craft. 442 00:17:55,960 --> 00:17:57,360 Embrace the adventure. 443 00:17:57,360 --> 00:18:00,440 And never underestimate the impact of a well-crafted book. 444 00:18:00,440 --> 00:18:28,520 Until next time, happy publishing.