Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been a financial journalist for over a decade and cut my teeth at newswires, FT Group publications, and Bloomberg, among others. I’m German-Indian, grew up in Switzerland (can’t escape finance, I’m trying) and I’ve written two non-fiction books for aspiring journalists (so far).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
In the age of the publishing revolution, we can tell truths and dispel falsehoods but also tell lies and spread falsehoods. What do you choose to do? The book was inspired by the clickbait-infested waters of the web and the spread of fake news. The name of my second book is called Behind the Scoop: Why You Should Think and Act Like a Journalist. I wanted to help anyone who’s looking to cut through the sea of irrelevant news better understand what makes great journalism, how to get a scoop, and give power to people to recognize great journalism.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m still trying to work out the best habits… I’ve tried late-night writing, early morning writing, writing on phones, writing on in notebooks, on the laptop, on holiday and it just boils down to writing, not sure I have any fixed habits, I guess that might be considered unusual?
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Malcolm Gladwell’s David and Goliath. Homer’s The Odyssey. Ryan Holiday’s Trust Me, I’m Lying.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the third and final book in the journalism series which will be a highly tactical book for anyone looking to enter business journalism. It will be the business journalism blueprint and ultimate guide.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still learning a lot about this, I think generally it’s my weakest point, but I’m glad I found Chandler Bolt’s Self-Publishing School and Dave Chesson’s Kindlepreneur, which are two great sources to help an author grow and learn about book marketing.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
You’re not a “new” author. You’re just an author. Write and publish. Rinse and repeat. No fear.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Ego is about who’s right, truth is about what’s right.”—Mike Maples Jr.
What are you reading now?
Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
What’s next for you as a writer?
Once I’ve completed the non-fiction books in the journalism series I want to try my hand at a book for middle school kids. I have been developing story ideas, characters, and plots with my daughter and we’re going to bring it all to life. Meanwhile, I’m also working up another book on jump roping for men over 40 but that will just be an e-book and in terms of writing, less challenging.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.
The Odyssey by Homer.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley.
Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien (can I please take all books in the series and count them as one, please?)
Author Websites and Profiles
Johannes Koch Website
Johannes Koch Amazon Profile
Johannes Koch’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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