In today's show, Smashwords CEO Mark Coker and I review the state of the indie nation and how things have changed since we both met in 2010. In the intro, I talk about completing the penn-courses.usefedora.com/courses/freedom">Creative Freedom Course and how excited I am about helping people discover how to make a living with their writing. You can check out the free video series here, starting with 11 ways to make money as an indie author. In publishing news, I mention the Wall Street Journal's article about [shock horror] higher prices meaning fewer ebook sales, andwsj-discovery-higher.html"> Joe Konrath Barry Eisler's response article which is worth a read. This podcast is sponsored by Kobo Writing Life, which helps authors self-publish and reach readers in global markets through the Kobo eco-system. You can also subscribe to the Kobo Writing Life podcast for interviews with successful indie authors. Mark Coker is the founder and CEO of Smashwords, an author, speaker and angel investor. You can listen above or on iTunes or Stitcher, watch the video or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and full transcript below. * Changes in the publishing industry since 2010, including changes at Amazon, and the shift among indie authors to greater professionalism and less stigma about self-publishing. * The origins of book distributor Smashwords and Mark's passion for authors sharing their work with the world. * Reflections on KDP 2.0 and the environment that creates for authors. * The opportunities available in the global book markets, especially with books on mobile devices. * The increased competition in the book world because of infinite virtual book shelf space. * The resulting importance for indie authors of best practices when publishing, including a great book, broad distribution, a professional cover image, and new best practices like pre-orders. * Wondering about the future of NOOKPress digital-reader.com/2015/07/08/the-beginning-of-the-end-bn-shutters-the-international-nook-store/">after international stores were shut in July and audio books, including Google Play. * Could Facebook get into the publishing game? * The advantages for authors of using a distribution platform like Smashwords, including distribution to libraries and a higher royalty rate. You can check out Smashwords.com and definitely download the free Secrets to Ebook Publishing Success and the Smashwords Book Marketing Guide. You can also find Mark at the