Inside Audible

Nina Liu Helps Audible Equip Creators with Cutting-Edge Technology

A headshot of Nina Liu. She had mid-length hair and is wearing a white cardigan over a pink shirt.

Independent creators have been responsible for some of the most beloved and game-changing content on Audible, and Senior Director of Software Development Nina Liu helps to make that possible. “Whether it's a debut author recording their first audiobook or an established creator reaching new audiences in different languages, my teams help build the technology that empowers them,” she says.

Liu works out of our Los Angeles hub and is inspired by the rich storytelling history that surrounds her. Liu and her teams develop and support the self-service tools used by creators on Audible’s Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX). Since joining us more than a year ago, Liu says, “Watching Audible continue to innovate how stories are created and shared globally has been incredibly energizing. I'm excited about where we're headed.” Find out more about Liu’s leadership style, her obsession with the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and why her “desert island” tech would be a Nintendo Switch.

How would you describe your approach to or philosophy of leadership?

I believe authentic, direct and empathetic communication is the foundation of leadership. A leader's role is to align many people toward successfully achieving a shared outcome. Half of that is done through clear communication, and the other half is done by giving people the autonomy and trust to do their jobs well.

What’s the most exciting thing about leading at Audible right now?

The pace of innovation. We're at an inflection point where technology can democratize audiobook creation. Tools like AI-assisted production and streamlined publishing are helping more creators reach global audiences. The work my teams do today could help launch the next breakout title or bring a beloved book to new audiences worldwide. That's what motivates me.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Super strength! Imagine the hero status I’d have at every dinner party. People would shout, “We can't get the pickles out of the jar. Call Nina, she'll save the day!" Plus, I'd never have to struggle with a stubborn pasta sauce lid again, and that would honestly be life changing.

What drew you to Audible?

I've always loved books and storytelling, and Audible is at the forefront of innovating in this space. What drew me in further was the opportunity to support creators and be part of making content that reaches millions of listeners worldwide. Audible uses technology to help creators bring their stories to life in a medium that's constantly growing and evolving. The chance to work at the intersection of storytelling, technology and creator empowerment was impossible to pass up.

If you were stuck on a desert island and could only bring one piece of tech what would it be, and why?

Easy! My Nintendo Switch with Mario Kart. If I'm going to be stranded, I might as well have fun. Plus, Mario Kart never gets old, and I'd have plenty of time to finally master those “Rainbow Road” shortcuts. Who knows? Maybe I'd become unbeatable by the time I was rescued.

Who would you invite to the dinner party of your dreams?

Matt Dinniman, the author of Dungeon Crawler Carl. I'm a huge fan of the series. I binge-listened to his latest release, A Parade of Horribles, in just a few days. It was an absolute rollercoaster, and impossible to pause. I'd love to pick his brain about his creative process and how he builds such an immersive, absurd, and surprisingly emotional universe.

Lightning Round
  • Coffee or tea? I enjoy both, but not caffeine. It’s decaf and herbal tea for me.
  • Morning person or night owl? Night owl.
  • Where are you working from currently? At our Los Angeles hub.
  • How long have you been with Audible? A year and a half, and looking forward to many more.
  • Who is your biggest inspiration, career-wise? Hayao Miyazaki, for his unbelievable artistry in storytelling.
  • Dine in or take out? Take out.
  • Favorite hobby? Currently, Mario Kart.
  • Favorite Audible listen, go. Dungeon Crawler Carl and the Expeditionary Force series.
Dungeon Crawler Carl cover art
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Dungeon Crawler CarlBy: Matt Dinniman / Narrated by: Jeff Hays

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