Today’s Changing Book World: What You Need to Know to Succeed

September 28, 2026 6:00 pm Pacific

$20.00

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The publishing world is evolving faster than ever. New publishing models, emerging technologies, changing industry standards, and shifting reader expectations are creating exciting opportunities—but also raising new questions for authors at every stage of their journey.

Join the Writers & Publishers Network for an engaging panel discussion featuring publishing professionals from across the industry as they share what's happening now, what's changing, and what authors need to know to make informed publishing decisions.

Whether you're preparing your first manuscript, exploring publishing options, or looking to stay current in an ever-changing marketplace, you'll leave with valuable insights and practical knowledge from professionals working on the front lines of today's publishing industry.

During this panel, you'll discover:

  • The current state of independent publishing
  • What it's really like to be an indie author today
  • How hybrid publishing works—and whether it's the right fit for your book
  • What's changing in traditional publishing
  • A lively discussion on AI, evolving agent practices, book bans, and other important industry developments
  • Practical perspectives from experienced publishing professionals representing multiple sides of the business

Why Attend?

Publishing isn't standing still—and neither should your publishing strategy.

Whether you're just beginning your publishing journey or looking to stay ahead of industry changes, this panel offers practical advice, diverse perspectives, and real-world insights to help you make informed decisions about your writing career.

Free for WPN Members | $20 for non-members

Become a WPN member to enjoy complimentary access to this panel, plus year-round educational programming, networking opportunities, and resources designed to help writers and publishers succeed.

Featuring

Robin Quinn

Book Editor, Book Coach & Host of WPN’s Westside Satellite

Robin Quinn has spent more than 30 years helping authors shape compelling books. Specializing in memoir and self-help, she has edited numerous award-winning titles while coaching writers through every stage of the publishing process. As host of WPN’s Westside Satellite, she regularly leads thoughtful conversations with authors representing a wide variety of genres and publishing experiences.

www.writingandediting.biz

Jay A. Hartman

CEO/Editor-in-Chief of Misti Media.

Jay is a 30+ year veteran of the publishing industry, with experience in both selling and producing ebooks and print media. He started as a Waldenbooks store manager in Brunswick, Georgia, and was previously the Content Editor for KnowBetter.com, a site reporting on ebooks and epublishing. Jay founded the publishing house Untreed Reads and served as its Editor-in-Chief for 13 years before leaving after its acquisition. In 2023, he created Misti Media, a company dedicated to book publishing and author education. Jay is known as a respected innovator in the ebook industry and regularly speaks and is interviewed on all things ebook.

www.mistimedia.com/

Debbie Bishop

Award-winning Indie Author; Host, By.Storytellers Podcast.

Her fantasy duology Pillywiggin Awakening earned a BookFest First Place Award for Epic Fantasy and a Literary Titan Gold Award. Debbie hosts the By.Storytellers podcast, featuring creators, innovators, and the real stories behind their work. Earlier, Debbie spent decades as a CEO, producer, and creative director in the entertainment industry. Today, Debbie continues to expand her universe through new media, author-focused programming, and conversations about the future of technology.

www.debbiebishop.com/

Teri Rider

Founder, Top Reads Publishing; CEO and Acquisitions Manager, Torchflame Books.

Teri is an early adopter of the hybrid publishing model and a respected industry leader known for her keen eye for detail and deep knowledge of the full publishing process. With more than three decades of experience in marketing, design, and creative leadership—including award-winning cover design—she brings a multifaceted perspective to developing and launching successful books. An active member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Teri serves on the Legislation and Standards Committee and co-authored the official criteria for hybrid publishing. She founded Top Reads Publishing in 2015 and expanded her vision by acquiring Torchflame Books in 2024.

www.topreadspublishing.com/

https://torchflamebooks.com/

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