The Truth About Writing, Publishing, and Influence with Allison Trowbridge

In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Allison Trowbridge, founder and CEO of Copper Books, for a deeply honest and expansive conversation about influence, authorship, and what it truly takes to bring a book into the world.  Allie shares the difference between power and influence—and how leading from a place of magnetism, authenticity, and soft power creates lasting impact in a way that grinding never can.  We explore her journey from working in the anti-trafficking space to reimagining the publishing industry, and why books remain one of the most powerful tools for shifting culture, sparking movements, and building authority. We also get into the tactical side of becoming an author: the difference between writers and authors, how to know if traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing is right for you, why your title and cover matter more than you think, and the marketing strategies that actually move books in 2026.  If you've been carrying a book idea on your heart—whether for one year or ten—this conversation is your invitation to listen to that stirring, trust the timing, and step into the kind of influence only authorship can create. Liked this episode? Make sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review with your takeaways, this helps us create the exact content you want!  KEY POINTS:  00:00 Meet Allie Trowbridge 01:32 Influence vs Power 02:41 Burnout and Authentic Authority 04:47 Writer vs Author 08:20 What Copper Books Does 08:43 Books as Leverage 10:05 Growth Collective Offer 11:49 Why Copper Books Now 12:57 Books Spark Social Movements 14:50 The Book Idea Download 19:13 Reimagining Publishing 23:02 Copper Hybrid Publishing Model 27:56 Demystifying Publishing Myths 28:27 Titles Covers and Big Idea 29:50 Define Reader Transformation 30:15 Big Idea That Spreads 33:07 Audience And Success Vision 34:58 Choose Publishing Path 36:38 Hybrid Flexibility Examples 39:32 Marketing Reality Check 41:40 Joyful Launch Strategy 42:51 Networks And Reciprocity 49:56 Book Fair Invitation QUOTABLES: “ If you can't say it, you actually don't know it. You should be able to explain something no matter how complex it is. If you can't explain it to a child or a young person, you actually don't understand it yourself.” - Allie Trowbridge “ Why it's so important on getting clear on who your ideal reader is, is you wanna make sure that you're getting in front of the places where your ideal reader is. For example, if I'm gonna write a book and have to market the book, I'm gonna go on podcasts because I know that is where my reader is. If I was writing a book for my mom, I would not be going on podcasts. She doesn't listen to podcasts. She watches The Today Show.” - Julie Solomon GUEST RESOURCES: [COPPER BOOK FAIR — NASHVILLE] Join Allie in Nashville on Friday, May 8, 2026 for Copper's Book Fair—a one-day, one-stop shop for anyone who has ever dreamed of writing a book. Connect with leading publishing executives, top literary agents, and a vibrant community of aspiring authors. Get your ticket now! Use code JULIE50 for $50 off. [COPPER BOOKS] Learn more about Copper Books, the boutique hybrid publishing house helping thought leaders extend their influence and authority through the power of a book. Visit copperbooks.com and follow on Instagram @copper.books. [FOLLOW ALLISON] Connect with Allie on Instagram @alliebridge for daily encouragement and behind-the-scenes insights from her author journey. RESOURCES: [UNSCRIPTED: THE MASTERMIND] This 12-month, application-only mastermind is designed for high-caliber entrepreneurs ready to refine their positioning, amplify visibility, and scale strategically. If selected, you’ll receive 2 1:1 calls with me, monthly mastermind sessions, two retreats, and a guest feature on Woman of Influence. Apply now and, if it’s aligned, we will personally reach out with next steps.  💡The Growth Collective: Monthly Coaching With Me—for just $1 Your content deserves to convert, not just be seen. Inside The Growth Collective, you get: Monthly live coaching from me to sharpen your message and content strategy Access to my Content Catalyst custom-built AI tool that help you write content that actually sells. A behind-the-scenes look at how I create content that leads to real revenue And you can try it today—for just $1. [APPLY FOR THE REVENUE ACCELERATOR] Book a strategy call to explore whether The Revenue Accelerator is the right next step for your business and leadership. Apply and schedule your call today. [ORDER] my book or Audible, Get What You Want: How to Go From Unseen to Unstoppable so you can leverage the power of your own influence. Follow Julie on Instagram! MUST HAVES THIS MONTH: [MAKE YOUR BUSINESS MORE EFFICIENT]Tired of jumping between tools? This platform integrates everything from product management to marketing, helping you streamline your workflow. Check it out here.