974 | How to Know What to Cut and What to Keep From Your Book

In this solo episode, Marsha pulls back the curtain on one of the most underestimated parts of writing a book: the editing process.As she wraps up her book-writing series, she dives into what really happens after the first draft is done. Editing is not just about fixing grammar. It is about refining your message, clarifying your intention, and building a bridge between your raw story and the finished book your reader will hold in their hands.She breaks down the difference between developmental editing and line editing, explains why cutting content can feel deeply personal, and challenges writers to shift their focus from “my whole story” to “what serves the reader.” Marsha shares her own experience of spending months editing her book, the emotional resistance that shows up, and how identity, perfectionism, and fear all resurface during this phase.She also offers practical advice on who to trust with your manuscript, how to gather feedback without losing confidence, and why the editing stage is sacred, necessary, and completely normal to feel frustrated in.If you’re writing a book, thinking about writing one, or sitting on a draft that feels overwhelming, this episode is a grounded and honest look at the process that transforms a raw document into a powerful, publish-ready story.Chapters:[00:06] - Starting Your Journey of Change[01:39] - The Editing Process[05:06] - The Process of Developmental Editing[12:05] - The Editing Process: Challenges and Insights[14:19] - The Importance of the Editing ProcessMarsha Vanwynsberghe — NLP Storytelling Trainer, OUTSPOKEN NLP Coaching Certification, Author, Speaker, and PodcasterWrite Your Damn Book Program: https://www.marshavanw.com/writenowUnbothered Mind Private Podcast https://www.marshavanw.com/unbotheredmindpodcastUnbothered Entrepreneur Masterclass (for the Podcast Listeners): https://www.marshavanw.com/unbothered-entrepreneur-masterclass-podcastDownload “You Are Supported” Hypnosis and Subliminal Bundle HERE Join the next cohort of OUTSPOKEN NLP Coaching Certification (kick-off in January 2026, in person or virtual) HEREThe Stories We Tell Ourselves Digital Program August Promo Save $333 HERE. Tap the “Follow” button never to miss a show, and if you love the show, please feel free to tag me on social media, share it with a friend, or leave me a rating and review. This really helps the show grow!Website: www.marshavanw.comConnect on IG, click HERESubscribe on YouTube, click HEREMentioned in this episode:QUIZOUTSPOKEN AD QUIZ https://nlp.marshavanw.com/ OUTSPOKEN August Cohort: https://www.marshavanw.com/nlp