Business Journal Writeup

Her response was to conduct research into the ins and outs of publishing. And that soon led her to create her own business, Enheart Publishing. "I have this disposition that I won't be discouraged if I set my mind on things," Schulz says. "I'll find a way to make it happen."

Enheart, which she founded in fall 1996, specializes in inspirational, educational and motivational books. Schulz also focuses on first-time authors who might otherwise be shut out of the traditional publishing world.
She markets her services through national trade group PMA, the Independent Book Publishers Association.

Enheart employs a cadre of free-lancers to edit manuscripts, lay out the books and design their covers, and it also helps authors apply for copyrights and works with a network of printers to find the best price and quality. The cost of Enheart's services depends on how many copies are ordered and how much work goes into each project.

Schulz also arranges book-release events for the authors at venues that include library branches, the Mint Museum of Art and Spirit Square. "Those are some of the things I offer above and beyond what other publishers do," she says.

While the company has been in operation 10 years, Schulz didn't make it a full-time venture until 2002, when she left her job as a trainer at real estate developer Trammell Crow Co.

Enheart has published seven books to date but has five in the works this year. That boost in activity promises to increase the company's revenue by 50% from last year. Schulz declines to disclose financial details.

Schulz also generates modest revenue by conducting seminars for budding authors.
Enheart sells its books through its Web site at www.enheartpublishing.com, as well as on a consignment basis at local stores such as Park Road Books and The BookMark in Founders Hall. "She's ahead of the curve on this more than a lot of people," says David Friese, co-owner of The BookMark. "She's local, and I'm going to keep (Enheart publications) on the shelves."

Says author Glenda Horton Manning, who has had three books published by Enheart: "Pat is meticulous about her work. I could trust her to be my advocate on the financial piece and in terms of the quality of the work."