How to NOT Write the Wrong Book (and Actually Use It to Grow Your Business) | Ally Machate

What if your book isn’t failing because of your writing… but because of your strategy?In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with publishing strategist and former Simon & Schuster editor Ally Machate to break down what most authors get wrong before they ever hit publish.If you’ve ever wondered: Why some books actually grow a business… and others don’t  Whether you’re writing the right book  Why marketing feels so hard after publishing This conversation will change how you think about the entire process.Ally shares her 4-step framework: Guide → Develop → Publish → Grow and explains why skipping the early stages leads to wasted time, money, and frustration.What You’ll Learn Why writing a book without a clear goal almost guarantees it won’t sell  The difference between developmental editing vs. copy editing (and why it matters)  Why most authors misunderstand marketing, and how to fix it  How to turn your book into a long-term business asset  The truth about “fast publishing” and AI-written books Key Takeaway👉 A book is not just something you publish, it’s something you build with intention to create impact, visibility, and growth.Free Resource from AllyDon’t Write the Wrong Book (Free Training) https://offers.thewritersally.com/finish-the-damn-bookConnect with Ally Machate🌐 https://thewritersally.comFinish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write.Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey.Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books.Topics include: • Writing and revision tips • Publishing and self-publishing guidance • Book marketing and platform-building • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middleMany episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author.Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life.Ready to move your book forward? https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/