1389
8 min 14 sec

Marketing Guy Isn’t Afraid Of Ghostwriting

After a partner in a marketing firm fulfills a lifelong dream of writing his own novel, he begins ghostwriting for others, penning children’s books and even poetry.
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What It's About

A novelist drafts a new story for his life becoming a ghostwriter for others.

Words of Wisdom

Brian shares some helpful thoughts regarding side hustling: "There are no shortcuts. Put in the hard work first, lay the proper foundation, make sure you've got a good reputation and protect it scrupulously. Treat your side hustle like any startup business, meaning don't expect instant results. Patience is definitely a plus. "

Fun Fact

Las Vegas is a large city and famous all over the world. Yet, despite it’s size and notoriety to the locals it still operates much like a small town.

Notes from Chris

Episode 1389

Over twenty years ago, a Las Vegas local known as Brian Rouff began a new chapter in his life story. He became a partner in what would eventually become a mid-sized marketing agency serving clients both inside and outside of Sin City. Starting a new business was an exciting next step for him. Not least of all because it came directly after he achieved a lifelong dream.

You see, for his whole life until then, Brian wanted to be a writer—a novelist, to be precise. Like many aspiring writers, he found it difficult to turn the page on that career. But he kept working at it, and after much effort Brian would eventually self publish his first novel. It was called Dice Angel and revolved around a down on his luck character who meets a mysterious woman who promises to turn it all around.

Although Dice Angel never graced the bestsellers list, it still opened up a lot of doors. He appeared at local book fairs, libraries, festivals and conferences … basically anywhere he could get a leg in before the door slammed shut.

As he spoke more, more people read his book. His Amazon reviews climbed and, serendipitously, a big-time casino magnate contacted Brian with a proposition. He’d read Dice Angel, noticed Brian’s contact details in the back of the book, and reached out to discuss an opportunity.

The magnate was big on ideas, but short on time and writing talent. He loved Dice Angel and wanted Brian’s help in writing a book of his own. A deal was struck and Brian was paid mid-five figures to write the book. It was a lot of money—although, over the next year he would earn every penny.

From then on, every time he spoke at an event he’d subtly mention that he offered ghostwriting and coaching services. This led to a steady stream of interest in his expertise. Brian felt like there was really something to this ghostwriting thing, so he started taking it a little more seriously.

What's even more impressive, is that Brian has kept up this gig for twenty years, as a side hustle to his main marketing business. He did that not only because he loves writing, but because it’s also quite lucrative.

As he approaches retirement from his business, Brian hopes ghostwriting can become an even larger source of income. It can certainly keep him busy.

 
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Quote of the Day
"There are no shortcuts. Put in the hard work first, lay the proper foundation, make sure you've got a good reputation and protect it scrupulously."
—Brian Rouff #SideHustleSchool

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To infinity and beyond,

Chris Guillebeau