Self-Publishing Without Losing Control: A Conversation with Polly Letofsky

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Episode Summary:
If you’ve ever wondered whether self-publishing is the right path—or how to do it without getting overwhelmed or taken advantage of—this conversation is for you.

In this episode, I talk with publishing consultant Polly Letofsky, founder of My Word Publishing, to walk through what self-publishing actually looks like behind the scenes. From maintaining your rights to building the right editorial team, Polly breaks down the process with honesty, clarity, and a few hard-earned lessons.

Using my own book-in-progress as a real-time example, we explore what happens when an author books a consult, what it really costs to publish well, and how to avoid the most common (and expensive) mistakes.

If you’ve got a story in you—especially one rooted in aviation—this episode is a roadmap for getting it into the world the right way.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Why Polly built a publishing model where authors keep 100% of their rights and royalties
The difference between bad decisions vs. getting ripped off in publishing
What actually happens during a self-publishing consult
The real cost breakdown of publishing a professional-quality book
Why editing is non-negotiable (and what kind you actually need)
How to think about book length, structure, and audience
The pros and cons of including photos in your book
Why authors should not rush the final stages of publishing
How Amazon KDP vs. Ingram impacts your distribution strategy
What royalties really look like—and how authors make money
The role of AI in writing and publishing (and where it falls short)

Key Takeaways

1. You don’t have to give up control to publish well.
Polly’s entire model is built around authors maintaining ownership—from ISBNs to royalties to final decisions.

2. Editing is where your book becomes your book.
Developmental, copy line, and proof editing all serve different purposes—and skipping them shows.

3. Your publishing “team” matters more than you think.
Editors, designers, and layout specialists aren’t interchangeable. The right fit changes everything.

4. Distribution strategy should match your goals.
If you’re speaking, selling at events, or reaching niche audiences, platforms like Ingram matter—beyond Amazon.

5. Don’t rush the finish line.
That final stretch is where good books either become great—or stay just good.

Resources Mentioned

Polly Letofsky – My Word Publishing mywordpublishing.com
Polly’s “Publishing 101” video https://youtube/HJRkczc9m08?si=7WlDI9S3jsuWbiu8
Aviatrix Writer’s Room resources:
- Interview with literary agent Amy Collins https://literaryaviatrix.com/amy-collins/
- Interview with hybrid publisher Brooke Warner https://literaryaviatrix.com/brooke-warner/
- Interview with editor Marilyn Noble https://literaryaviatrix.com/professional-editing/
- Interview with book promoter Jen Coburn https://literaryaviatrix.com/book-promotion/

Memorable Moments

“There are bad decisions… and then there’s getting ripped off. Those are two different things.”

“It’s self-publishing—with a project manager.”

“Please don’t be in a hurry.”

Connect with Polly

Website: mywordpublishing.com
Email: Polly@mywordpublishing.com