Resisting Book Industry Gatekeeping

Traditional publishing still holds a powerful place in many authors’ imaginations. Even writers who care deeply about equity, access, and justice often find themselves wanting the validation of a traditional book deal. But what happens when the industry we’re trying to enter is built around gatekeeping? In this episode, we’re talking about alternatives to traditional publishing, the history and rhetoric behind “vanity press” shaming, and why excellence does not have to mean waiting for permission from the Big Five. 🔗 If you’ve been working on your memoir for a while but you’re not making the progress you want, I have something practical for you. The Memoir Method Checklist walks you through every step from idea to finished book—not in a vague, inspirational way, but in a clear, get-this-done way. Download it free at pageandpodium.com/checklist. New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 1:42 Wanting a book deal vs resisting the traditional industry 4:37 What is gatekeeping 6:21 Historical context of book publishing gatekeeping vs resistance 8:30 Differentiating traditional publishers from nontraditional publishers 12:22 The origin of the term "vanity presses" 14:45 The structure of gatekeeping in history 18:55 The two ways gatekeeping works 20:58 Separating neutral aspects of traditional publishing from inequitable aspects 24:30 Three ways authors can resist 24:55 Reflect on your own thought patterns surrounding traditional publishers 27:27 Identify gatekeeping as a historical pattern that prevents access 31:20 Remember that traditional publishers are trying to predict reader reaction 36:20 If you want a traditional contract, go into it with context 👉 *Follow Us:* *LinkedIn:* [Page and Podium Press]( / page-and-podium-press ) *Facebook:* [Page and Podium Press]( / pageandpodiumpress ) *Instagram:* [@pageandpodiumpress]( / pageandpodiumpress ) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal