Joe Biel is an experienced publishing professional currently serving as Vice President at PubWest since July 2023. As the Founder and CEO of Microcosm Publishing since February 1996, Joe manages the growth of operations involving a staff of over 30, overseeing acquisitions, product development, finances, and design, consistently achieving annual growth exceeding 100%. Joe has also contributed as a Publisher and Chief Executive Officer at Publishing Consultant from July 2000 to July 2014, aiding small firms and self-published authors in navigating the publishing industry. Additionally, Joe has worked as a Freelance Videographer from May 2010 to July 2013, directing and producing custom videos, and provided graphic design services specializing in book production between June 1998 and July 2013.
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Microcosm Publishing & Distribution
A small, charming, and innovative publishing house, Microcosm Publishing was founded in 1996 and over the years has developed a reputation for teaching self-empowerment, showing hidden histories, and fostering creativity. The then-distro and record-label was started by Joe Biel in his bedroom and is now based in Portland, OR. Microcosm continues to challenge conventional publishing wisdom, influencing other publishers large and small with books and bookettes about DIY skills, food, zines, and art. Microcosm constantly strives to be recognized for our spirit, creativity, and value. As a commitment to our ethics, our books are printed by union workers in the U.S. and we are moving towards all production using post-consumer papers, with vegan inks and bindings. Further, while only 25-35% of authors are women, we continue to publish about 50% books by women.