Beyond the Page: Publisher Spotlight with Jenn T. Grace of Publish Your Purpose
Empowering Authors Through Ethical Hybrid Publishing with Jen Grace of Publish Your Purpose
Podcast Episode: Beyond the Page with Jennifer Crosswhite and Stephanie Feger
Guest: Jen Grace, Founder & CEO of Publish Your Purpose
Introduction
The publishing world can be thrilling—but it can also be predatory. Many first-time authors are eager to share their stories but aren’t sure which publishing route to take. That’s why in this episode of Beyond the Page, hosts Jennifer Crosswhite and Stephanie Feger sit down with Jen Grace, founder of Publish Your Purpose, to discuss integrity-driven hybrid publishing and how authors can protect themselves in an industry that sometimes takes advantage of their dreams.
Over coffee (and a few laughs about mugs, typos, and inbox overloads), they dig into what makes a publishing partner trustworthy—and how Publish Your Purpose helps authors share stories that truly make an impact.
Why Ethical Publishing Matters
Jen Grace started Publish Your Purpose with a simple goal: to create a transparent, author-centered publishing experience. Too many new authors fall prey to deals that sound great—until they realize they’ve signed contracts that cost them thousands of dollars or force them to buy massive quantities of books.
As Jen explains, “The publishing industry can be predatory. It preys on people who don’t know what they’re doing—especially first-time authors.”
Her company was founded on integrity, transparency, and purpose—helping authors retain control while receiving professional editorial, design, and marketing support. The mission? Empower purpose-driven authors to publish with pride, not regret.
Print-on-Demand vs. Bulk Printing: What’s Right for You?
One of the biggest pitfalls for new authors is being pressured into large print runs. Jen Grace and Jennifer Crosswhite both agree: unless you’re selling books regularly at events, conferences, or in bulk to clients, print-on-demand (POD) is the most efficient and sustainable route.
POD allows authors to print what they need, when they need it—avoiding wasted money and space (and a garage full of unsold boxes). Plus, Publish Your Purpose, as a certified B Corporation, prioritizes environmental responsibility, ensuring sustainability is part of every publishing decision.
The Author–Editor Matchmaking Process
One of the most unique aspects of Publish Your Purpose is its editor matchmaking system.
Instead of assigning authors a random editor, Jen’s team gives authors a choice.
Each manuscript is reviewed by several editors who explain:
- what type of editing it needs,
- how long it will take, and
- why they want to work on that specific book.
The author then chooses their editor based on that feedback. This not only ensures the right professional fit—it builds trust and collaboration from the start.
As Jen puts it, “The editor–author relationship is sacred. You need someone who gets your voice and wants your message to shine.”
Story Meets Skill: A New Kind of Nonfiction
Publish Your Purpose specializes in nonfiction storytelling—books that blend powerful personal stories with actionable how-to content. Jen calls it “where story and skill collide.”
These are books that teach, inspire, and build bridges. They’re written by thought leaders, consultants, coaches, and speakers who use their stories to create transformation.
And because every book is purpose-driven, Publish Your Purpose provides both strategy and emotional support throughout the process—offering not just publishing guidance, but genuine partnership.
Highlights & Key Takeaways
- Integrity first: A good publisher never pressures authors into signing fast or buying inventory.
- Transparency matters: Authors should understand every part of their contract.
- Editing is collaboration: The right editor brings out your best voice, not their own.
- Sustainability counts: Ethical publishing means responsible printing and environmental care.
- Purpose fuels success: Your story and message can change lives—when published with intention.
Favorite Quote from the Episode
“You cannot be anything you want to be—but you can be a lot more of who you already are.”
– StrengthsFinder, quoted by Jennifer Crosswhite
This perfectly sums up what ethical publishing is about: helping authors amplify their existing strengths, not forcing them into a box that doesn’t fit.
FAQ
Q1: What is hybrid publishing?
Hybrid publishing blends elements of traditional and self-publishing. The author invests in production but retains more control and royalties, while the publisher manages editing, design, and distribution professionally.
Q2: How is Publish Your Purpose different from other hybrid publishers?
They operate as a B Corp, prioritizing ethics, transparency, and sustainability. Their author–editor matchmaking process ensures each book receives personal attention and alignment of values.
Q3: Should I use print-on-demand or order books in bulk?
For most authors, print-on-demand is ideal. It reduces cost, waste, and risk—unless you’re regularly selling large quantities in person.
Q4: What types of books does Publish Your Purpose accept?
Primarily nonfiction and memoirs that blend storytelling with actionable insight—perfect for speakers, consultants, and thought leaders.
Q5: How can I tell if a publisher is trustworthy?
Ask questions, read contracts carefully, and beware of anyone pushing quick deals or large print runs. Transparency is key.
