Here’s the deal: Author Nation is not 20BooksTo50K. That chapter is closed.

What’s emerged instead is a conference that’s less about “write more books” and more about “build a sustainable business that lasts.”

For years, 20Books was the indie author conference. But now, Author Nation has taken its place—and let me tell you, it’s not just a rebrand. It’s a reinvention.

I’ve attended four 20Books conferences, and while I always learned something, I often felt out of place. The rapid-release model many attendees championed wasn’t my jam. My focus—as both an author and a book coach—has always been on sustainable business practices. I’m not just building a career for myself; I’m helping my clients build theirs too. The strategies I invest in have to keep both me and my clients in the game for the long haul.

So, when I walked into the first-ever Author Nation, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d been looking forward to it since the announcement over a year ago, but I kept my expectations realistic. Conferences this size are tough to pull off.

Spoiler: Author Nation over-delivered.

Here’s what you need to know about why Author Nation is poised to be the indie author conference—and what stood out to me as an author, book coach, and business strategist.

1. This Is Where Business Gets Real

Let’s be honest: A lot of conferences are heavy on inspiration but light on actionable takeaways. Not this one. Author Nation brought it with practical, no-BS advice.

Whether it was direct sales, TikTok tactics, or marketing preparations, the sessions weren’t fluff. They were blueprints. Speakers didn’t just talk about what’s possible; they showed what’s working—right now—for indie authors.

This wasn’t a “rah-rah” event. It was a masterclass in building a career that lasts.

2. Joanna Penn’s Mic-Drop Moment

AI is the hot-button topic, and Joanna Penn’s session? Game-changing. As a Patreon supporter, I’d seen glimpses of her presentation before, but hearing her live took it to another level.

She said something that hit hard, paraphrase, “After the U.S. election, everything I said would take a year, I’m now saying will happen in six months. We’re in an accelerationist world.”

Here’s the thing: AI isn’t going to replace authors, but it’s going to amplify those who use it wisely. Joanna cut through the hype and panic: “Generating words is not a business model.”

The real power of AI lies in its ability to free us up for what matters most—connecting with our audience. Building relationships. Establishing trust. Providing experiences. That’s how you create a sustainable author business, and no algorithm can replicate it.

3. Networking with Purpose

This year, I was intentional about networking, focusing on two key areas: connecting with vendors and learning from authors who are further along the journey.

First, I sought out vendors like Bookvault and Lulu to explore print options for myself and my clients. Both offer excellent quality, but they cater to different needs. Bookvault’s premium features (sprayed edges, foil) are perfect for limited editions, while Lulu’s U.S.-based operation feels like a safer bet given current political uncertainties.

Even more valuable were my one-on-one sessions with several highly successful authors doing exactly what I aspire to do. These conversations were honest, insightful, and generous. If you’re not taking the time to ask questions and learn from those ahead of you, you’re leaving opportunities on the table.

I made new friends, reconnected with old ones, and had business conversations that will change how I move forward as a book coach and an author.

4. AI: Hope Over Hype

The vibe around AI at Author Nation was refreshingly positive and forward-thinking. Last year, the pro- and anti-AI camps clashed, creating some tension among attendees. This year, there was a noticeable shift. Authors are realizing that even if they don’t plan to use AI themselves, they need to be aware of it. AI is shaping what’s coming, whether we like it or not.

One speaker summed it up beautifully: “AI isn’t here to replace us; it’s here to amplify us.”

From brainstorming and editing to precision marketing, the focus was on practical, ethical applications. It’s clear that AI is a tool—and it’s up to us to use it wisely.

5. Vegas: The Good, the Bad, and the Loud

Las Vegas as a location? It’s a mixed bag.

On the one hand, Vegas is incredibly convenient for conferences, with affordable flights and a well-oiled machine for hosting large events. I especially appreciate being able to fly directly from Bellingham, Washington, bypassing the chaos of SeaTac.

On the other hand, Vegas definitely has challenges.

It’s an expensive city, especially when it comes to food. That said, there are tips and tricks to make your stay more budget-friendly (think CVS for snacks or quick grab-and-go options).

The biggest challenge? The constant noise and stimulation. It’s not easy to have meaningful conversations when you’re shouting over flashing slot machines, Party Songs from the 80s, and wall-to-wall crowds. Next year, I’m prioritizing finding quieter spots to connect without losing my voice.

While the conference is contracted to remain in Vegas until 2027, it’s worth planning ahead to manage the city’s intensity.

6. Final Takeaway: Author Nation Is Just Getting Started

Here’s the deal: Author Nation isn’t just another author conference. It’s the business conference for indie authors.

What I loved most about Author Nation was how it catered to authors at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to pivot or a first-timer seeking clarity, there’s something here for everyone.

The regional groups they’re rolling out post-conference? Genius. They tackle one of the biggest challenges with events like this: overwhelm. These groups will keep authors accountable and help them apply what they’ve learned. As a regional leader, I’m excited to see how this unfolds.

Author Nation isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about equipping authors with the tools and strategies they need to build sustainable, meaningful careers. For me, it was the re-affirmation that success in this industry comes from a mix of connection, innovation, and perseverance.

Look, I’m not going to lie. The expense? The jet lag? The late nights and nonstop lights of Vegas? It’s a lot. But here’s the thing: It’s worth it.

Because this is where you’ll meet the people who care about the same things you do—not just writing good books but building sustainable businesses.

By the end of the conference, I wasn’t even hesitating—I bought my ticket for next year on the spot. Why? Because this is where I need to be if I’m in this industry.

Author Nation has planted its flag, and it’s only going to grow. If you’re ready to take your author career seriously, I can’t recommend it enough.

Hello!
My name is Jocelyn.

Story warrior, book lover, day dreamer, gardener, and creative. I help serious writers roll up their sleeves, get their novel ready for publishing, and reach readers. When I’m not elbow-deep in the story trenches, I’m outside world-building in my garden and battling weeds with my three criminal mastermind cats.