I agree, even though I use a independent press. I’ve learned a lot from the experience though, and I do enjoy the people who I work with. I’m finding in the end, it comes down to choice and preference. What you are willing to do all the work on, what you might need help with. Sometimes a publisher can help and be a boon, sometimes they only get in the way.
In the end, you’re going to work just as hard either way.
By the way, shoutout to BigWorldNetwork for being an absolute pleasure to work with!