
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional: Janyre Tromp's Real-World Experience with Both (and Clear Favorite)
Ann Kroeker, Writing CoachShow Notes
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional: Janyre Tromp's Real-World Experience with Both (and Clear Favorite)Release Date: December 17, 2025 Award-winning author and editor Janyre Tromp joins us for an in-depth exploration of her deep publishing experience. She’s seen it from all angles, as an editor in traditional publishing houses, and as an author who has seen the pros and cons of both traditional and self-publishing. Janyre breaks down the definitions, differences, and decision-making process for authors as they consider the publishing path that’s right for them.
In this wide-ranging discussion, you'll learn: Clear definitions of vanity press, hybrid publishing, self-publishing, and traditional publishing Why Janyre decided to try self-publishing (indie publishing) after undeniable success as a traditionally published author How she leverages her marketing background for maximum sales When to choose traditional publishing vs. self-publishing vs. other options The financial realities and potential of each publishing path Which path has become her favorite (and why)
This interview is perfect for aspiring authors, seasoned writers considering a change, or anyone curious about how things are changing…and how we can make an informed decision.
⌚️Timestamped Notes 00:00 Multitasking Editor Embraces Indie 05:13 Publishing Access vs Readers 08:37 Indie Publishing Workflow Explained 12:45 Indie Publishing Services Evolve 13:37 Building Your Self-Publishing Team 19:21 Nonfiction Marketing Strategies 22:35 Self-Publishing: Learn or Delegate 23:29 Indie Authors as a Business 28:43 Effective Nonfiction Self-Publishing Tips 31:05 Publishing Requires Patience and Marketing 34:48 Indie Influence on Traditional Publishing 38:44 Hybrid Author vs Publisher 41:07 Navigating Publishing Rights & Royalties 45:39 Hiring Reputable Publishing Services 46:56 Vetting Publishers for Success 52:45 Benefits of Audiobooks for Readers 53:52 The Enduring Power of Books 57:51 Craft Your Book's Big Idea
Resources & Links:Free 3-Day Challenge: Craft Your Book’s Big Idea: annkroeker.com/3day Previous interview with Janyre about target audience: Start with Your Ideal Audience
More from Ann Kroeker, Writing Coach
Find a Chunk of Writing Time for Your Creative Deep DiveRelease Date: Sep 30, 2026(episode 296) With a chunk of time you could do a deep dive into your work in progress, immersing yourself in it so your structure takes shape and your chapters emerge. Instead of chipping away at the project in Pocket Sessions, Deep Dives drop us into creative focus and flow where you binge-write, far exceeding your word count goals.
Are you book-ready? Check the 4PsRelease Date: Sep 22, 2026(episode 295) If you’ve wondered how ready you are to write a book and pursue publishing, it’s time to determine your readiness with the 4P Diagnostic. Writers who struggle to make progress are almost always stuck in one (or more) of the 4Ps: Pitch, Prose, Platform, or Practice.
Don’t have blocks of time to write? Pockets work great!Release Date: July 25, 2026(episode 294) In my last post, I recommended you value yourself and your work enough to stop putting it off. The assignment: figure out where the time goes so you find time to write.
”I don’t have time to write”- Ah, where does the time go?Release Date: July 2, 2026(episode 293) It comes up in nearly every conversation with a writer, whether in a group or one-to-one: “I don’t have time to write.”
”Oh no! My book was written by someone else!”Release Date: May 17, 2026(episode 292) Discovering "comps" (comparable books) for your book proposal is discouraging. But this episode gives you the good news: your comps validate reader interest and show your topic is in demand.