Audiobook Connection - Behind the Scenes with the Creative Teams

AC-I- 275 Interview with Psychologist Bonnie Comfort (memoir)

In this latest episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist sits down with author and psychologist Bonnie Comfort to explore her deeply personal memoir, Staying Married is the Hardest Part. They discuss the complexities of long-term relationships, power dynamics, intimacy, and the unique challenges women face in balancing self-worth and love. Bonnie shares insights from both her personal journey and professional expertise, shedding light on boundaries, empowerment, and emotional truth. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes details about the audiobook production and what surprised her most during the process.

AC-T-274 An Executive Conversation about AI Concerns

In this episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist sits down with fellow Pro Audio Voices executive team members Jerrilee Geist and Emily Busbee for an open discussion on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the company’s strategy and operations. From innovation opportunities to ethical considerations, each leader shares their perspective on how AI is shaping the future of audiobooks.
 
Tune in for a candid and insightful look at what’s next for Pro Audio Voices and the industry at large.

AC-I-273 The Copyright Detective - Music and Lyrics Issues

Host Becky Parker Geist sits down with Dr. C. Daniel Miller, a copyright specialist and publishing consultant, to tackle the complex world of copyright law, AI-generated content, and audiobook production.
In this episode, we dive into:
Copyright basics—what authors and producers need to know about using music, lyrics, and other copyrighted material in audiobooks.
The challenges of securing permissions—why tracking down rights holders can be a lengthy (and expensive) process.
AI’s impact on creativity and copyright—can AI-generated content be copyrighted? How does fair use apply?
Ethical considerations—should authors disclose AI-assisted or AI-generated content? What are the risks of unintentional infringement?
The future of AI and publishing—how platforms like Amazon are handling AI content, and why transparency matters.
Dan also shares insights from the U.S. Copyright Office’s latest rulings, ongoing lawsuits against AI platforms, and practical advice for authors navigating this evolving landscape. Whether you’re an author, narrator, or producer, this episode is packed with essential knowledge to help you protect your work and avoid legal pitfalls.

AC-I-272 Behind the Scenes of Muddy the Water: A Sibling Duo's Crime Thriller Journey

In this captivating episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist sits down with sibling authors Jessica Beebe and Matt Barrows to explore the behind-the-scenes story of their gripping crime thriller, Muddy the Water. What began as a decades-old idea from Matt—sparked by a spooky drive to a small South Carolina newspaper—evolved into a suspense-filled novel brought to life by both siblings during the pandemic.
Listeners will hear how a real-life job in journalism inspired a fictional identity theft, how a shrimp-boat-captain-coroner shaped crucial plot details, and how Jess and Matt navigated everything from sibling squabbles to bird species accuracy. With alternating perspectives of a cunning fugitive, determined detective, and ambitious young reporter, Muddy the Water is not only a tightly plotted thriller but a deep dive into the theme of identity—and whether anyone ever truly reveals their real self.
Plus, discover the creative process behind the audiobook, narrated from three unique points of view, and their dream of adapting the story into a television series. It's a lively, funny, and inspiring look at family collaboration, creative persistence, and the unexpected paths stories take to find their voice.
🎙️ Listen here to Muddy the Water on AMPlify Audiobooks. 

AC-T-271 Stop Selling Books?

In this episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist takes you on a journey beyond the traditional audiobook studio. She shares powerful lessons from seasoned publishing expert Brian Judd, including fresh strategies for audiobook marketing and bulk sales. Learn why you should stop focusing on selling books and start thinking about delivering meaningful experiences to your audience. Discover how targeting niche markets—from pet stores to travel gear shops—can create new opportunities for your audiobook sales. Plus, find out how Amplify Audiobooks is teaming up with Judd’s bulk sales system to help authors reach wider audiences through nontraditional distribution channels.
Whether you're an author, narrator, or audiobook producer, this episode is packed with practical marketing tips and inspiration to amplify your reach.

AC-I-270 Dale L. Roberts - Author Success Story

How can you quit your day job and become a full time writer? Meet Dale L. Roberts who did just that with near disaster results at first until he found the key to his future success—the success he now enjoys as a full time author. Audiobooks have been a part of his formula, but you’ll need to tune in to hear what made the difference and how you can follow in his footsteps and learn from his mistakes and victories.

AC-I-269 For F__ks Sake Ask Your Dad

Join Becky and Katiedid Langrock, author of the humorous picture book for parents, "For F**k's Sake, Ask Your Dad." Audiobook voiced by the incredible comedian and actress, Laura Silverman. The book was promoted online by Sarah Silverman and received a "Get it!" Kirkus Review, calling it "A heartfelt, funny, and unforgettable book of parenting humor."

AC-I-268 Interview with Martha Retallick

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Martha Retallick—author, photographer, water harvesting advocate, and host of the newly launched Water Harvesting 101 podcast. Martha shares her journey from Pennsylvania to the arid landscapes of Tucson, Arizona, and how that move sparked her passion for sustainable gardening, urban ecology, and conserving every drop of water.
We explore the inspiration behind her books City Nature and Water Harvesting 101, how her backyard became a photography classroom, and how those experiences transformed into an engaging audiobook. Martha also opens up about working with professional narrator Lynn Norris, adapting visual content for audio, and why she chose Amplify Audiobooks for distribution.
 
#WaterHarvesting #SustainableLiving#RainwaterHarvesting #GrayWaterSystem #DroughtSolutions #EcoFriendlyTips #UrbanGardening #ClimateSmart #AudiobookProduction #IndieAuthors #SelfPublishing #AudiobookTips #NarrationMatters #BookMarketing #AudiobookMarketing
 
 
 

AC-T-267 Is AI a Viable Option for Audiobook Narration

In this episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist dives into the heated debate surrounding AI narration in audiobooks. With the rise of artificial intelligence in voice generation, many authors are tempted by the lower costs—but at what expense?
Becky shares her passionate perspective on why human narration remains the gold standard for creating an engaging, emotionally resonant listening experience. Drawing from industry data, personal anecdotes, and ethical considerations, she explores:
The risks of using AI narration, including lost audience trust and poor word-of-mouth
Key statistics on how narrator quality impacts listener retention
The human connection that makes audiobooks magical—and why AI can’t replicate it
Alternative solutions for authors working with tight budgets
How Amplify Audiobooks (Pro Audio Voices’ direct-sale platform) helps authors earn higher royalties and regain control
Whether you’re an author weighing production options or an audiobook lover curious about the future of narration, this episode offers valuable insights into making choices that honor both artistry and audience.
 
#AudiobookProduction #AINarration #HumanNarration #AuthorTips #AudiobookMarketing

AC-T- 266 Fun Option for Your Audiobook and Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the innovative concept of using fictional characters as podcast hosts! Inspired by Spill the Tea with the Top-Notch Dogs, a spinoff of the full-cast audiobook Top-Notch Adventures with Our Clueless Human, Becky explores how this imaginative format can add personality and engagement to your own podcast projects.
Join us as we present an episode of Spill the Tea with the Top-Notch Dogs, where the charming Shih Tzu hosts chat with veterinarian Dr. Dawn Philos about her book, Tales of a Pet Vet. Covering topics from pet companionship to hydration tips, this fun and insightful discussion highlights how storytelling and character-driven narratives can enhance podcasting.
Thinking about launching your own podcast? Pro Audio Voices is here to help! From crafting your intro and outro to launching and monetizing your show, we provide customized support every step of the way. Visit proaudiovoices.com to schedule a discovery call and bring your podcast vision to life.
Subscribe to Audiobook Connection and stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights into the world of audiobooks!
 
#audiobookconnection #audiobookproduction #ProAudioVoices #fictionalpodcasthosts #podcastingtips #audiobookindustry #creativepodcasting #TopNotchAdventures #SpillTheTea #petpodcast #DrDawnPhilos #TalesOfAPetVet #podcastmonetization #startapodcast #audiobooknarration #podcasthosting #voiceacting #behindthescenes #podcaststrategy