How to Have a New York Times Bestselling Book

Send us Fan MailWhat if the reason you haven’t hit a bestseller list has less to do with talent and more to do with timing, platform, and perspective?In this episode of the Kind of a Big Book Deal, host Meghan Stevenson pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to become a bestselling author. Using client examples like Vivian Tu, she explains that bestseller status isn’t random and it’s not always about raw sales either. The New York Times list is curated, while USA Today rankings are based on actual sales data. That difference matters.But the real takeaway goes deeper. Meghan shares two consistent traits she sees in bestselling authors: a willingness to build for years without guarantees, and a bigger vision that goes beyond just “having a book.” Platform, audience, credibility, and lived experience all come first. The book becomes an extension, not the starting point.If you’re an entrepreneur, expert, or creator dreaming of a book deal, this episode will help you reset expectations, focus on what’s in your control, and ask yourself the right questions before chasing the list.Episode Highlights:(0:00) Intro(1:14) Vivian Tu’s bestseller example(2:23) How the New York Times list works(3:47) USA Today vs New York Times differences(4:26) Why USA Today is more achievable(5:21) Two traits of bestselling authors(6:13) Building platform before the book(8:45) Bigger vision beyond publishing(10:09) Two questions to ask yourself(11:44) OutroHave a great idea for a book but don't know where to start? MeghanStevenson.com/quizTraditional 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.