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Stop writing the book before you build the platform. In this fiery episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal, Meghan Stevenson breaks down one of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs, experts, and creators make when trying to land a traditional publishing deal: writing the entire manuscript too soon.

Meghan explains that prescriptive nonfiction, including self-help, business, leadership, money, parenting, health, and how-to books, is usually sold through a book proposal, not a finished manuscript. She shares the story of Paul, a business consultant who had strong expertise and a solid book idea but was focusing on the wrong thing. His issue was not the manuscript. It was his author platform.

This episode helps listeners understand why traditional publishing is a business, why audience matters, and why the ability to sell books can be just as important as the idea itself. For anyone dreaming of a traditional book deal, Megan’s advice is clear: pause the manuscript, build your platform, strengthen your audience, and create the foundation that makes publishers want to say yes.

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:31) You do not need to write the book
(2:52) Why writing first gets in the way
(3:05) Book proposals sell prescriptive nonfiction
(3:34) The common writer’s group mistake
(4:25) Why author platform matters most
(5:28) Completed manuscripts often go nowhere
(6:41) The real gap before a book deal
(8:24) Platform work builds bigger impact
(9:13) Focus on the three Ps
(10:33) Outro

Have a great idea for a book but don't know where to start? MeghanStevenson.com/quiz


Traditional publishing expert Meghan Stevenson blasts open the gates of the “Big 5”—Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Hachette, and Macmillan—to share what every entrepreneur and expert needs to know about landing a book deal.

In episodes released every Monday, Meghan shares wisdom and stories from 20+ years in publishing as well as interviews with authors, literary agents, and editors. She also answers questions from listeners like you.

Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur with an empire, or are just starting out—this podcast will help you understand what you need to do in order to turn your dream of being a bestselling author into real life.