What if your book idea isn’t the problem, it’s your platform? In this episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal, publishing expert Meghan Stevenson breaks down why building your author platform matters more than obsessing over comps, subcategories, or bookstore placement. Using listener Mike C.’s question about his music and wellness book, Meghan reveals the truth behind prescriptive nonfiction (a.k.a. how-to or self-help books), why comparing yourself to bestselling authors can backfire, and how understanding your audience makes category and positioning decisions effortless.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes agents and publishers say yes, or how to stop wasting time on what doesn’t move the needle, this episode gives you the roadmap. Meghan’s no-fluff advice will help you focus on what really sells a book: proof of concept and a loyal audience.
Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:17) Listener question: What is prescriptive nonfiction?
(2:10) Defining prescriptive vs. narrative books
(3:35) Understanding genre, category, and positioning
(4:46) How to choose your comparative titles wisely
(6:15) Why huge author comps can hurt your pitch
(7:15) How tone and audience affect book positioning
(8:00) What publishers and agents really look for
(9:21) The #1 focus before writing your book
(11:19) Final advice: Build proof, not perfection
(12:01) 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.