In this episode of the Kind of a Big Book Deal Podcast, host Meghan Stevenson walks entrepreneurs through the key stages and roles in traditional publishing. She breaks down the six main steps to getting a book deal, from writing a book proposal and securing an agent to landing a deal, writing the manuscript, preparing for publication, and, finally, promoting the book once it's out. Meghan emphasizes the importance of having the right team—including a collaborator, a literary agent, and an editor—to ensure success.
She also explains the many people involved in publishing a book, from designers and marketing teams to editors and production staff. If you're serious about writing a how-to book or prescriptive nonfiction, this episode gives you a clear roadmap of what to expect. Plus, Meghan shares insider tips on getting an agent and why DIY publishing might not be the best route for most entrepreneurs.
Whether you're just starting or already in the process, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you navigate the publishing world with confidence.
Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(3:20) Why book proposals are crucial and why most author-written ones need work
(5:13) How to get a literary agent and why cold pitches often don’t work
(7:31) How book deals happen and the role of an agent
(8:03) Writing the manuscript—what happens behind the scenes
(9:05) Preparing for publication—marketing, positioning, and internal pitching
(9:40) The final stage: Promoting your book (and why you need to do it for years!)
(10:56) Understanding the different publishing roles and why they matter
(15:08) Why hiring a collaborator can give you an edge in the industry
(16:26) Outro
Follow Meghan:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megstevenson
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megstevenson
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghanstevenson/
- TikTok: @meghan.stevenson.books
- Website: https://www.meghanstevenson.com/
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 other 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.
