Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve been a fitness trainer for 30+ years. I have two books published. With the first book, Monty, which is a children’s book, I took the traditional route of publishing and the book did very well.
My current book, Fitness Confidential, was self-published by me and my writing partner, Dean Lorey. The book has been out for almost a year and has enjoyed top ratings on Amazon with over 700 reviews, over 600 of which are five star reviews. Fitness Confidential is currently nominated for an Audible.com Award.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The book is Fitness Confidential. My inspiration came from the fact that there were no well-written fitness books. The twist that kept me writing each day was that co-author, Dean Lorey, and I, decided to weave my life story of over 30 years in the fitness industry into the book. The book industry had never seen anything like this and decided to pass on it. They have been trying to make a deal with me ever since. I guess hindsight is really 20/20.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I literally write with a Louisville Slugger 34 propped against my thigh. I know this sounds like I am trying to be cool but I really do. It’s there to remind me to keep my eye on the ball.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
John Kennedy Toole, Napolean Hill, J.D. Salinger, Tennesse Williams, Hemmingway.
The book that influenced Fitness Confidential was Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain.
What are you working on now?
I’m actually working on the sequel to Fitness Confidential. The plan is simple…I now have an audience that’s interested in the prescriptive version of this book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use my site, VinnieTortorich.com, along with Facebook and Twitter. I also have a Podcast on iTunes called America’s Angriest Trainer. To be honest, it’s the 900-lb. gorilla when it comes to selling Fitness Confidential.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up…
Get used to hearing “No” a lot…
Get used to hearing “No” more…
And remember when someone tells you things like “This has never been done before” or “You can’t sell it like this” know that you’re on the right track. The one thing I’ve learned about publishing companies is that they don’t know their ass from Tuesday and Amazon’s got them running scared.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Take the garbage out…
If you want to know what this means, read my book, Fitness Confidential. I actually take time explaining this.
What are you reading now?
The Wahl’s Protocal, by Dr. Terry Wahl
Trust Me, I’m Lying, by Ryan Holiday
What’s next for you as a writer?
As I said above, I’m working on the sequel to Fitness Confidential.
I also write one newsletter and several blogs per week along with writing at two podcasts per week.
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?
At least 2 of those book would be Jack Reacher novels by Lee Childs
1 Playboy from the 1980’s (when pieces and parts were still real)
Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
Wilderness Survival, 2nd Edition by Gregory J. Davenport
Author Websites and Profiles
Vinnie Tortorich Website
Vinnie Tortorich Amazon Profile
Vinnie Tortorich’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account