David Gaughran

David Gaughran

David Gaughran is a globally recognized self-publishing expert, author, and industry advocate known for his data-driven approach to book marketing and his fierce “scam-busting” stance. Since entering the indie publishing world in 2011, Gaughran has become a vital resource for authors looking to navigate the technical complexities of the Amazon algorithms and digital storefronts. He is best known for his foundational books, such as Let’s Get Digital and Strangers to Superfans, which break down the mechanics of “visibility” into actionable steps—covering everything from email list building and metadata optimization to the nuances of Facebook and Amazon advertising.

Beyond his instructional guides, Gaughran operates an influential blog and a popular weekly newsletter, Starting from Zero, which provides free, high-level marketing education to over 50,000 subscribers. He is particularly respected for his transparency and his “David vs. Goliath” efforts in exposing predatory publishing schemes and “vanity” presses that target vulnerable writers. By bridging the gap between creative writing and the hard science of digital sales, Gaughran has empowered thousands of authors to move past “hope-based marketing” and build sustainable, professional, and profitable independent careers.