No Golden Ticket: Why Modern Authors Must Build, Not Wait

There’s no golden ticket in publishing.

Once upon a time, publishing had its golden age.

The 1980s? Big advances. Big names. Big risks.

It was a different industry.

Before that, publishing houses were literally houses—places where you could walk in, pitch your work, and maybe even leave with a deal.

So, the reality in 2025 is that there is no golden ticket.

No secret handshake.

No overnight success formula.

Publishing is—and always has been—a business.

In the ‘80s, shareholders took over, and it became a bottom-line game.

Today, the myth of "getting discovered" still lingers, but here's my truth.

The authors winning today aren’t waiting for a golden ticket.

They’re building their audience, refining their craft, and treating their book as one part of a bigger strategy.

If you’re hoping for someone to hand you success, you’ll be waiting a long time. If you’re willing to do the work?

You’re already ahead of the game.

Love this new episode with my amazing friend Rose Friel who breaks down the industry in amazing insights!

#risingauthorsexperience