Tony Laidig
Senior Instructor
Tony Laidig, known as The Public Domain Expert, has been pioneering AI art and writing strategies since 2018... long before they became mainstream. With over 18 years of experience in graphic design, he has created more than 600 book covers, including several featured on the New York Times Best-Seller list.
His extensive expertise in the public domain makes him a leading authority on its complexities, strategies, and the creative opportunities presented by AI technology.
As an educator, Tony has shared his knowledge through more than 2,000 course modules, covering everything from publishing and book design to photography, art creation, children's literature, video creation, and more.
When he's not teaching or creating, Tony embraces a life of adventure, traveling the open road in an RV with his wife, Kristen, and their two feline companions. Along the way, he continues to write, create art, and capture the beauty of his surroundings through photography.
Kristen Laidig
Lead Instructor
Kristen Joy Laidig is a dynamic serial entrepreneur who after receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Glassblowing (of all things... which she considers a fancy, expensive paper weight), Kristen transformed her lifelong passion for writing and art into a thriving career.
Since 2003, she has been dedicated to helping authors and entrepreneurs create impactful books that not only enhance their businesses but also establish them as successful authorpreneurs. Through her internationally recognized brand, The Book Ninja®, Kristen empowered countless writers before selling the brand in 2019 to another accomplished authorpreneur.
A multifaceted professional, Kristen is a Certified Play Expert and a Certified Master Retailer with ASTRA (American Specialty Toy Retailing Association).
In 2022, she further expanded her expertise by earning her Certified Crystal Practitioner and Advanced Crystal Master certifications from the Hibiscus Moon Crystal Academy. She is currently pursuing her Gemologist Certification (and rumor has it her hot air balloon pilot's license), demonstrating her ongoing commitment to learning and mastery.
In addition to her personal ventures, Kristen plays a key role in the behind-the-scenes management of Expert Media Academy. (She's basically the mastermind behind everything here.)
She also co-manages and creates art and products for Magickal Bear, a metaphysical business she runs with her husband, Tony.
While living on the road in their RV with their two furry feline "kids," she explores new places, sells at various events, and leads workshops... all while embracing a lifestyle of adventure, education, and entrepreneurship.