Wolfgang is an author who writes for the purpose of sharing his knowledge and wisdom with anyone and everyone. He genuinely cares about helping people learn, and receive enjoyment, from his books.

In addition, he also has a great YouTube channel filled with tons of videos. He’s someone who is right in line with my values. Thus, this was a very enjoyable interview.

I hope you’ll consider connecting with him on the variety of social media platforms available. You can find lots of information on his website and check out his Amazon Author Profile where you can follow him and be updated on new releases. You’ll also be able to find him on Facebook and LinkedIn.

When did you first start writing?

I have been writing since I was a teenager for various ‘magic’ magazines, starting with the Magigram in the UK. Then after traveling the world on cruise liners and settling down on land in 1999, I began my inspirational speaking career and started focusing on self-help and inspirational books

What prompted you to become an author?

A few years ago I had a heart attack (at 47) and this prompted me to question life and it’s purpose. In fact, I wrote a book titled, ‘WTF is the Point”. I haven’t published it yet as I find I keep adding to it and my views changed.

In short, I questioned our mortality and looked back at friends, family, and colleagues that had died and asked the hard question, “What did they leave behind to make the world a better place?”

Bottom line – I want to leave a legacy and hence you will find I also put a lot of free stuff out there. Currently, I have over 860 videos (all free) on my YouTube channel, tons of free books and of course my published books. It is my goal to share something every week and leave a mega legacy!

Subscribe To Wolfgang’s YouTube Channel

What motivated you to become an indie author?

I am critical of the greed of mainstream publishing and the fact that unless you are a star name, no one cares about marketing you properly. As a professional speaker, I was inspired by the late Dan Poynter who was an iconic name in the indie author-industry.

Plus I like being able to change books as I need to and not have to request permission to use extracts from my own works from a publisher if I want to write an article for a magazine or publish something on a blog.

Take A Look At Dan Poynter’s Books!

What is the greatest joy of writing for you?

Sharing my life’s wisdom with others and helping to make the world a better place. I know it sounds corny, but hey, look at the hatred and issues out there created by a seriously messed up world.

It takes one word or one sentence in a book that can change someone’s life who in turn can rub their positivity onto someone else. I see it as being the catalyst to change and starting a positive snowball rolling down a hill and building momentum.

I have to add that my pet peeve is to see ‘unhappy’ people make nasty comments, or give bad reviews if they don’t agree with your advice, especially when one writes from the heart. The bonus of POD publishing is that one can correct mistakes as they occur.

I find that even with editors, mistakes crop up, and then the ‘purists’ out there have to make snotty comments – even when a book is free! My answer – “Grow up and get a life, and learn to focus your sarcasm on the positive – maybe then you will find happiness and learn to actually produce positive material rather than constantly criticize.”

Check Out More Books By Wolfgang Riebe

What do your fans mean to you?

I have never been one for fame and glory. Had numerous prime-time TV series and eventually retreated because of the ‘falseness’ of that industry. I like ‘real’ people and everything ‘out there’ is waaaaaay bigger than little old me.

My aim is to create change for the better, and the only way to do that is to be authentic. Seeking fame and glory is not authenticity. However, becoming known is a great result as then it gives you more credibility to create more positive change – as long as your message always comes from purity and love.

How do you approach cover design?

I like to keep a theme and look in terms of color. If someone sees a gold and black color combination, then they must immediately recognize this as my books. Hence all covers will have gold and black as the main color with white writing.

Initially I put my face on my first inspirational book and eventually realized no one wants to see my mug – they don’t even know who I am. I learned that unless you are a recognizable face around the world, no one cares. You have more chance of getting someone to pick up and open your book with a catchy title.

What are your five favorite books, and why?

The Celestine Prophecies – just an easy read and a life-changing book.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad – best book on explaining finance and how to become successful because it is written in story form.

The Outliers – explains logically why certain people made it in the world.

Milton Berle’s Joke file – I love humor and this book is a huge collection of some classic one-liners.

From Good to Great – an awesome business book where Jim Collins’ ‘First Who, then What’ premise is just soooo awesome and true!

Who are your five favorite authors?

James Redfield, Dan Millman, Robert Kiyosaki, Malcolm Gladwell, Richard Dawkins

What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?

Up-sell a book at a speaking event, rather than try back of room sales.
Write free e-books and build trust, then people will buy.
Don’t overcharge for a book. I rather sell 10,000 books at 99c than 100 books at $25
E-Books, in my opinion, are often an impulse buy. Anywhere from 99c to $3.99 is like buying a quick cup of coffee – sells easier!

Do you have any advice for other indie authors? If so, what is it?

Don’t focus on perfection! Some people will like you and others won’t! Guess what, no matter how famous you are this stays the same! Do not let negative responses or weirdos whose sole purpose it is to write bad reviews and give ‘thumbs down’ reviews hurt and upset you.

If you know from the heart that what you are doing is pure and with the right intention – carry on! remember what Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed, I just found 10,000 ways that don’t work.”

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What do you do when you aren’t working on books?

Thinking of ideas to write more books and produce more videos! Plus, I spend time with my family and enjoy walking in the forests here in Germany. Finding inspiration from family, friends, and nature plays a big role in my life. My work is my past-time – it’s my passion.

I want to thank Wolfgang for taking the time to participate in this interview. I also want to thank you guys for reading it and learning more about Wolfgang Riebe and who he is as a person.

Authors love it when we can connect with our fans. I hope you’ll connect with him on social media and also take a look at his YouTube Channel. As a fellow video creator, I know how tough it can be to grow a YouTube following.

Feel free to connect with Wolfgang on Facebook or LinkedIn. You may also want to check out his website and follow his Amazon Author Profile. In addition, consider watching some of his YouTube videos and subscribing to his channel to be alerted to future uploads.

For more great information take a look at the supplemental content on this website and check out these great blog posts. In addition, feel free to connect with me on social media.