Publishing a book is no small feat—but choosing how to publish it? That might be the biggest plot twist of your career. In this no-fluff, myth-busting symposium, bestselling author and publishing strategist Rea Frey breaks down the fantasy, the fine print, and the facts behind both traditional and self-publishing—so you can stop spinning in indecision and start building your own path forward.

We’ll cover:

• What traditional publishing really looks like (beyond the fantasy of six-figure deals and NYT lists)
• The truth about self-publishing—and how indie authors are building six-figure empires
• Royalties, rights, and the realities of money
• The red flags of vanity presses and misleading hybrid models
• How to determine which path aligns with your goals, timeline, and creative vision

You’ll walk away with:

• A royalty breakdown (traditional vs. self-publishing)
• A "Which Path Is Right For You?" quiz
• A contract red flag checklist
• Real author confessions, timelines, and what no one else tells you about life after “The End”

Whether you're querying agents, formatting your ARC, or just trying to figure out what the heck BISAC codes are, this symposium will give you the clarity (and courage) to move forward—on your terms.

Perfect for:
Aspiring authors, writers ready to publish, and creatives weighing their options in a rapidly shifting industry.