8 Things That Are a Total Waste of Money When You Want a Traditional Book Deal

Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest mistake aspiring authors make isn’t writing a bad book… but spending money in the wrong places?In this episode of the Kind of a Big Book Deal Podcast, host Meghan Stevenson shares eight things entrepreneurs, creators, and experts should stop spending money on if they want to land a traditional book deal. Drawing on years of experience working with major publishers like Penguin Random House and HarperCollins, Meghan explains why many popular strategies in the publishing world simply don’t work for nonfiction authors.From pricey PR agencies and writing retreats to book coaches focused only on beautiful writing, Meghan argues that most aspiring authors are investing in the wrong priorities. Instead of polishing prose or chasing visibility without a plan, she says the real key to landing a book deal is building an audience and developing a strong author platform.This episode is a practical reality check for anyone dreaming of traditional publishing. Meghan breaks down where authors often waste time and money, and what actually moves the needle when publishers evaluate book proposals. If you want a smarter, more strategic path to becoming a published author, this conversation will save you both time and thousands of dollars.Episode Highlights:(0:00) Intro(1:11) Eight things aspiring authors shouldn’t spend money on(1:40) Why books about book proposals often waste your time(2:22) The problem with hiring PR agencies too early(3:29) Why writing retreats can slow your progress(4:16) Book coaches and editors focused only on writing craft(6:02) Why author platform matters most for book deals(6:12) Membership programs promising publishing success(10:21) Author-led courses, events, and summits explained(12:21) Why writers’ conferences rarely help nonfiction authors(15:09) Recap of the eight biggest money-wasting mistakes(17:15) OutroTraditional 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. Have a great idea for a book but don't know where to start? MeghanStevenson.com/quiz