What if your dream of landing a book deal is being held back by mistakes you do not even realize you are making?

In this episode, Meghan Stevenson pulls back the curtain on what really matters in traditional publishing for entrepreneurs and experts. She explains why great ideas alone are not enough, and why proof of concept, a strong audience, and a clear strategy are essential for success. Meghan introduces her “Three P’s” framework: Potential, Platform, and Proposal, and shows how each one plays a critical role in getting publishers to say yes.

You will learn why testing your ideas before writing matters, how building an audience gives you real leverage, and why rushing a book proposal can cost you your only chance. Meghan also shares why relying on shortcuts or AI can weaken your pitch and how preparation makes all the difference.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about writing a nonfiction book that sells, builds authority, and opens real doors in publishing.

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(2:24) Understanding how traditional publishing really works
(4:25) How book deals happen with agents and editors
(6:56) The Three P’s: Potential, Platform, Proposal
(11:41) Why testing your ideas comes first
(13:46) The truth about building a strong platform
(15:34) What publishers look for in sales numbers
(18:27) Common proposal mistakes to avoid
(21:34) Preparing for your “one shot” at a deal
(24:38) Final recap and how to take your next step
35:54) Outro

Follow Meghan:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megstevenson
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megstevenson
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghanstevenson/
• TikTok: @meghan.stevenson.books
• Website: https://www.meghanstevenson.com/

Have a great idea for a book but don't know where to start? MeghanStevenson.com/quiz


Traditional 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.