On this episode of Creatively Speaking: Recipe for Success, we sit down with Sally Ekus, literary agent and president of the Ekus Group. Sally’s experience in the publishing industry provides listeners with invaluable insights into this often mystifying process. Along with Sally, listeners will be able to explore the role of a literary agent in the intricate creativity, finance, and personal contexts that define the dynamic world of publishing. Let’s dive in!
As we begin our conversation, Sally provides listeners with an overview of the role of a literary agent. Sally emphasizes that it is her job to guide authors through the publishing process and to help them make critical decisions, such as choosing between self-publishing and traditional publishing, all while keeping an author’s specific goals in mind. In this podcast episode, Sally emphasizes that the agent’s pivotal role is as a pillar of support and a wellspring of expert advice to the author.
Another aspect to the role of a literary agent is to shed light on is the proposal process. Sally offers tailored guidance to authors to help them mold their ideas effectively. Furthermore, Sally underscores the importance of authors understanding the financial aspects of publishing, including expenses such as photography, recipe testing, and collaboration fees.
While recognizing the existence of trends in the industry, Sally encourages authors to stay authentic to their unique voice and objectives. She champions personal connection over the temptation to follow fleeting trends:
“[Successful authors have] this understated creative genius where they work so hard and they see the long game—and they are really creative.”
Throughout this episode’s conversation, Sally consistently emphasizes the immense value of having an agent by an author’s side, particularly when navigating the complexities of publishing contracts. Agents are the trusted experts who provide unwavering support throughout the entire publishing journey.
As the publishing and culinary industries evolve, Sally envisions a world of abundant opportunities for aspiring authors. The lines between self-publishing and traditional publishing are blurring, offering authors greater control over their creative vision and platform.
This is a time when the landscape of cookbook publishing is undergoing a profound transformation, presenting authors with unparalleled opportunities. With a knowledgeable agent in their corner, authors can confidently navigate the publishing world, taking into consideration crucial factors such as financial resources, creative control, and long-term goals. By staying true to their unique voices and forging meaningful connections with industry professionals, authors can thrive in this ever-evolving and dynamic industry.
What you’ll learn in this episode
- 0:00:00 | Sally’s perspective on the role of a literary agent
- 0:10:50 | How design plays a role in cookbook creation
- 0:16:01 | Sally’s thoughts on virtual cookbook creation during COVId-19
- 0:20:00 | Sally’s lessons on cookbook production & sales
- 0:27:15 | How to expand business revenue streams
- 0:35:48 | How to balance resources and pricing strategy
- 0:45:18 | Sally’s future book projects
Sally’s insights are an invaluable roadmap outlining the role of a literary agent. Her words and experience offer an invaluable peek into the often-complex world of publishing, and aspiring authors can find comfort in her demystifying words. If you’re ready to take the leap into self-publishing, cookbook publishing or just curious about the process, don’t miss this insightful episode.
Episode Resources:
Website: https://wellersmithdesign.com/
Sally’s Website: https://ekusgroup.com/
Referenced Podcast: https://www.everythingcookbooks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellersmithdesign/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannawellersmith/
If you are curious about self-publishing and want to learn more about how we can help, check out our Self-Publishing Services.
Weller Smith Design is a Full-Service Boutique Design Agency that provides publishing, self-publishing, branding, web design, and strategy services. We pride ourselves in being the Boutique Agency of choice for Thought Leaders like you.
