Episodios

  • Literary Agent Ethics: The AALA Rules on Fees, Editing & Client Money

    Literary Agent Ethics: The AALA Rules on Fees, Editing & Client Money
    Nov 17 2025
    Learn how to identify a trustworthy agent and build your practice on a foundation of integrity. This podcast is your guide to the professional standards that protect authors and agents.

    What are the non-negotiable rules for a legitimate literary agent?

    Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander breaks down the Association of American Literary Agents' (AALA) Canon of Ethics live and unedited.

    This is essential listening for any author seeking representation or an aspiring agent building a credible career. We dissect the critical rules, including:

    · The strict prohibition on reading fees and upfront charges.

    · How ethical agents must handle client money with separate bank accounts.

    · The crucial firewall between paid editorial services and literary representation.

    · Understanding fiduciary duty and avoiding conflicts of interest.

    · How adhering to these rules increases your chances of AALA membership.

    This live deep dive into the AALA Canon of Ethics demystifies what it takes to be a legitimate literary agent. For authors, let this be your guide: any agent who charges you upfront fees for representation, blurs the lines with editorial services, or is not transparent about money is not operating ethically and should be avoided.

    For my fellow aspiring agents, this isn't a barrier—it's a roadmap. By building your practice on this foundation of integrity, client-first service, and financial transparency, you are not just preparing an application for the AALA; you are building a reputable and successful business that authors can trust.

    For the full transcript, the canon itself, and more resources, visit the blog at [OnePersonEnterprise.com].

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.

    Stay awake and vibrant with Strong Coffee Company. An exclusive deal you'll not get elswhere. This is another way to support my work using the code HAKEEM.

    I earn commissions when you buy anything from Strong Coffee Company using my link and code "HAKEEM" https://MyDeals.Page/1gp9

    If you want to dig in deeper to more of my productions, go to One Person Enterprise.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 35 m
  • The Legitimate Literary Agent: AALA Membership, Ethics, and No Upfront Fees

    The Legitimate Literary Agent: AALA Membership, Ethics, and No Upfront Fees
    Nov 15 2025
    What truly defines a legitimate literary agent or agency?

    In this episode, we do a deep dive into the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) to answer this critical question.

    While many reputable agents are AALA members, we uncover the surprising fact that membership is not mandatory for legitimacy. The key indicator is a clear, ethical fee structure.

    We break down the AALA's membership levels, application process, and their strict Canon of Ethics, which prohibits the red-flag practice of charging authors upfront reading fees or making representation contingent on paid editorial services.

    Whether you're an aspiring author seeking representation or an aspiring agent building your career, this episode provides the essential guide to navigating the industry with confidence, emphasizing that legitimate agents work on a commission-only basis, earning money only when they successfully sell your book.

    Extensive bonus info and insights at One Person Enterprise blog

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.

    Stay awake and vibrant with Strong Coffee Company. An exclusive deal you'll not get elswhere. This is another way to support my work using the code HAKEEM.

    I earn commissions when you buy anything from Strong Coffee Company using my link and code "HAKEEM" https://MyDeals.Page/1gp9

    If you want to dig in deeper to more of my productions, go to One Person Enterprise.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 3 m
  • Literary Agent Querying Best Practices

    Literary Agent Querying Best Practices
    Nov 15 2025
    Source: Bookends Literary Agency YouTube Channel - "What to Know Before Querying Bookends"

    Extensive written details provided on OnePersonEnterprise.com [blog]

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.

    Stay awake and vibrant with Strong Coffee Company. An exclusive deal you'll not get elswhere. This is another way to support my work using the code HAKEEM.

    I earn commissions when you buy anything from Strong Coffee Company using my link and code "HAKEEM" https://MyDeals.Page/1gp9

    If you want to dig in deeper to more of my productions, go to One Person Enterprise.
    Más Menos
    51 m
  • The Agent's Edge: Money, Movies & Manuscripts | Part 2

    The Agent's Edge: Money, Movies & Manuscripts | Part 2
    Nov 13 2025
    Ready to talk deals?

    In Part 2 of our masterclass, we dive into the financial engine of being a literary agent.

    Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander and the AI co-host break down how agents and authors really make money—from the standard 15% commission to life-changing film options and foreign translation rights.

    We explore the specific roles of senior agents, analyze agencies like BookEnds LLC for female-authored fantasy, and unveil innovative marketing strategies like "lo-fi audiobook podcasts" and tiered content releases.

    This is your insider's guide to the business of books.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.

    Stay awake and vibrant with Strong Coffee Company. An exclusive deal you'll not get elswhere. This is another way to support my work using the code HAKEEM.

    I earn commissions when you buy anything from Strong Coffee Company using my link and code "HAKEEM" https://MyDeals.Page/1gp9

    If you want to dig in deeper to more of my productions, go to One Person Enterprise.
    Más Menos
    44 m
  • The Agent's Edge: How to Become a Literary Agent | Part 1

    The Agent's Edge: How to Become a Literary Agent | Part 1
    Nov 13 2025
    Want to know how to become a successful literary agent? This masterclass is for you.

    In Part 1, Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander breaks down the blueprint by analyzing the biggest names in speculative fiction.

    Discover the agency that represents George R.R. Martin and Stephen King, learn what "upmarket" really means, and decode how top agents like Jennifer Jackson and Neil Blair build their powerhouse client lists.

    We go beyond theory, using real-world examples from authors like Jim Butcher (The Dresden Files), Nora Roberts, and J.K. Rowling to give you the actionable knowledge you need to start your career in the publishing industry.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.

    Stay awake and vibrant with Strong Coffee Company. An exclusive deal you'll not get elswhere. This is another way to support my work using the code HAKEEM.

    I earn commissions when you buy anything from Strong Coffee Company using my link and code "HAKEEM" https://MyDeals.Page/1gp9

    If you want to dig in deeper to more of my productions, go to One Person Enterprise.
    Más Menos
    35 m
  • The Art of Lo-Fi Audiobook Podcasts: Serializing Books with Analog Soul

    The Art of Lo-Fi Audiobook Podcasts: Serializing Books with Analog Soul
    Sep 17 2025
    Dr. Hakeem Alexander explores the creation of serialized lo-fi audiobook podcasts.

    Discover how intentional imperfections—background cafe noise, analog hiss, and microphone crackle—create a unique, intimate listening experience for his books and thesis.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.
    Más Menos
    25 m
  • BrainStorming OnePersonEnterprise.com with "Orbit" by Google Gemini on NoomVibe

    BrainStorming OnePersonEnterprise.com with "Orbit" by Google Gemini on NoomVibe
    Mar 31 2025
    Noom Vibe is a free, interactive app designed to help users build healthy habits and live better. It is an extension of the popular weight loss program, Noom.

    Ask Me Anything!
    https://noomvibe.app/uniquilib...

    How I Donate To 9 Different Causes By Walking And Talking NOT Using My Own Money
    https://hakeemalexander.com/20...

    _2025_03_31_01_56_50.mp4
    NoomVibe_

    Features:
    Step Tracker: Tracks daily steps and rewards users with "Vibes" for meeting goals.
    Habit Tracker: Tracks other healthy habits, such as water intake, sleep, and meditation.

    Community: Provides a supportive forum for users to connect, share experiences, and receive advice from coaches.

    Live Sessions: Features live audio sessions with wellness experts and motivational speakers.

    Podcast: Offers exclusive podcasts on health, wellness, and lifestyle topics.

    Rewards: Users can redeem their Vibes for gift cards, donations to charity, and other incentives.

    Benefits:
    Encourages healthy habits and lifestyle changes
    Provides a supportive and motivating community
    Offers expert guidance and insights
    Makes weight loss and wellness fun and rewarding

    Availability:
    Noom Vibe is available for download on the App Store and Google Play. It is free to use.

    Note:
    Noom Vibe is not a medical device and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

    Some users may find the app's focus on weight loss triggering or restrictive. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.
    Más Menos
    26 m
  • Binge Talking on NoomVibe with Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander

    Binge Talking on NoomVibe with Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander
    Mar 31 2025
    A One Person Enterprise riff about working towards increasing efficiency by leveraging technological tools through stacking and "Harmony Tasking" (D-A-R-Y-L).

    _2025_03_31_01_44_08.mp
    NoomVibe_

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/one-person-enterprise--5667145/support.
    Más Menos
    51 m