Kind Of A Big Book Deal

Meghan Stevenson
  • 5.0 (6)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

"Kind of a Big Book Deal" is the go-to podcast for entrepreneurs eager to dive into the world of traditional publishing. Hosted by Meghan Stevenson, a seasoned editor with deep roots in the publishing industry, this podcast is perfect for anyone dreaming of topping the bestseller lists. Meghan shares her wealth of experience, including securing over $5 million in book deals for her clients from giants like Penguin and Harper Collins. Each episode is packed with insider tips on snagging a book deal, building a compelling author platform, and the realities of the publishing journey. Meghan's approachable style and candid discussions make learning about the often-intimidating publishing process enjoyable and relatable. She brings on successful authors to share their stories, offers straightforward advice, and answers listener questions, all while keeping things light and engaging. "Kind of a Big Book Deal" isn't just informative—it's like sitting down with a good friend who knows the ins and outs of the publishing world. The podcast airs new episodes every other Friday, providing fresh insights and ongoing support for both budding and seasoned entrepreneurs. Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to expand your reach in the literary world, Meghan's guidance and the vibrant community she fosters can help you navigate your way to publishing success with confidence and a few laughs along the way.

  1. 3H AGO

    Episode 34 - An Inside Look at Traditional Publishing From Authors and Book Coaches Lauren Marie Fleming and Richelle Fredson

    What if the book you’re trying to write is actually the wrong one? In this episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal, Meghan Stevenson sits down with publishing experts Lauren Marie Fleming and Richelle Fredson for an honest, no-fluff conversation about what it really takes to write a meaningful book and navigate traditional publishing without losing yourself along the way. Together, they challenge the obsession with trends, hacks, and overnight success. Instead, they make a compelling case for writing the book you needed years ago, not the one you think the market wants tomorrow. The conversation unpacks why lived experience matters more than credentials, why comparison quietly derails writers, and why most great books are built through patience, resilience, and community. They also pull back the curtain on common misconceptions about traditional publishing, including money myths, platform pressure, and predatory shortcuts that leave authors burned out or regretful. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, expert, or creative with a book idea, this episode offers grounded guidance on choosing the right path, trusting your voice, and committing to the long game with clarity and confidence. If you’ve been stuck overthinking, waiting for permission, or chasing the “right” way to do this, this conversation will help you refocus on what actually moves the needle. This week’s guests are Lauren Marie Fleming and Richelle Fredson. Lauren Marie Fleming (xe/her) is a multimedia storyteller and the founder of School for Writers®. Her work explores power, desire, resilience, and the stories we tell about our bodies and our lives. Xe is the author of the queer rom-com Because Fat Girl and multiple nonfiction books, including Bawdy Love: 10 Steps to Profoundly Loving Your Body and The Writer’s Career Guide. Through School for Writers®, Lauren helps storytellers reconnect with their creativity, build resilience, and make writing feel less intimidating—and a lot more doable. Learn more at LaurenMarieFleming.com or SchoolForWriters.com. Find her free Creative Resilience Toolkit at https://schoolforwriters.com/creative-resilience-toolkit/. Her 33 Asks program can be found at https://33asks.com and her Write Your Friggin’ Book Already ® program is at https://writeyourfrigginbookalready.com.  Find Lauren on social www.instagram.com/laurenmariefleming  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.

    1h 14m

  2. FEB 9

    Episode 33 - The Biggest Mistake Entrepreneurs Make When Trying To Get a Book Deal

    What if your dream of landing a book deal is being held back by mistakes you don't even realize you're 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 reviews 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.

    26 min

  3. FEB 2

    Episode 32 - How I Would Get a Book Deal in 2026 If I Had to Start Over

    In this episode, publishing expert and host Meghan Stevenson breaks down exactly how she would land a traditional book deal in 2026 if she had no followers, no connections, and only an idea she believed in. Instead of chasing shortcuts or hype, Meghan lays out a clear, grounded path built on business growth, real audience demand, and patience. She explains why publishers care less about big dreams and more about proof, platform, and profitability, and why growing a business first makes you a stronger author later. You will hear why creating consistent content is not optional, how testing your ideas in public saves you from writing the wrong book, and why most people rush the process and regret it. Meghan also reframes books as long-term assets, not quick cash grabs, showing how successful entrepreneurs use books to deepen trust, expand reach, and support larger offers. Finally, she explains when and why investing in leverage can save years of time and energy. This episode is a practical reality check for entrepreneurs and experts who want a real book deal, not just the idea of one. Episode Highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:50) Why Business Growth Builds Platform (4:35) Content As Proof And Testing (7:36) Why Ideas Must Work At Scale (9:48) Books As Long-Term Assets (12:52) Why Patience Beats Speed (14:25) The Proposal And Publishing Timeline (17:01) The Five Percent Growth Rule (20:09) Investing In Leverage Wisely (25:25) The Four-Step Book Deal Framework (27:40) 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.

    28 min

  4. JAN 26

    Episode 31 - Skills and Secrets for Your Book Journey with Sexpert and Author Caitlin V

    What if the real measure of success is not the numbers, the lists, or the applause, but the moment your work truly helps one person? In this episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal, host Meghan Stevenson sits down with sex and relationship coach Caitlin V to explore what it really takes to turn years of lived experience, research, and repetition into a powerful book. Caitlin shares her journey from academia to coaching to YouTube fame, and why writing a book was never about money, influence, or status. It was about access. Together, they unpack why books still matter in a world of short-form content, how traditional publishing creates credibility and longevity, and why timeless ideas always outlast trends. Caitlin also opens up about rejection, imposter syndrome, and the quiet faith required to keep going when doors keep closing. A major theme throughout the conversation is the power of reps. Real expertise is built slowly, through mistakes, testing ideas in the real world, and showing up again and again. For entrepreneurs, creators, and experts dreaming of a book, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a grounded reminder: Meaningful work compounds over time, and impact starts with serving one person well. Caitlin V. is a renowned sex and relationship coach specializing in helping men overcome erectile dysfunction, performance anxiety, and premature ejaculation. A former sexual health researcher and policy analyst, she skyrocketed to internet fame after a viral video on female pleasure. Today, she works with clients worldwide to resolve mismatched libidos, enhance sexual confidence, and create more satisfying intimate experiences. Blending personal experience with evidence-based science, Caitlin is on a mission to foster a sex-positive world where pleasure is prioritized. With millions of views on YouTube and nearly a million subscribers, she has become a leading voice in the field. Her expertise is now reaching an even wider audience with her upcoming TV show, Good Sex, premiering on Discovery+ and Max. Learn more at caitlinvneal.com or youtube.com/caitlinv. Find Caitlin V on social  youtube.com/caitlinv  instagram.com/caitlinvneal  Order Caitlin V’s new book, Harder Better Longer Stronger at https://caitlinvneal.com/hbls. Episode Highlights: (1:21) Caitlin’s path from researcher to global coach (3:47) How YouTube success turned into a book idea (7:27) Why books allow deeper, more lasting ideas (10:02) Accessibility, education, & mission over money (15:54) Paying with time or paying with leverage (29:24) Rejection, resilience, and finding one true “yes” (42:59) Timeless content vs chasing trends (50:15) Why reps, mistakes, and patience build real authority (56:20) 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.

    57 min

  5. JAN 19

    Episode 30 — Why Traditional Books Sell More (Than Self-Published or Hybrid)

    Most books never break 300 copies. That single fact alone stops a lot of aspiring authors in their tracks. In this episode of the Kind of a Big Book Deal Podcast, Meghan Stevenson breaks down why traditionally published books consistently sell more copies and what that means if you are thinking about writing a book. Meghan explains that traditional publishing forces authors to build an audience and prove demand before a deal is ever offered. While that hurdle can feel intimidating, it actually sets authors up for stronger sales because they already know how to reach readers. She also highlights the role of professional production, from editing to cover design, and how quality directly impacts reader trust and word of mouth. Another major advantage is distribution. Traditionally published books are placed in physical bookstores, not just online marketplaces, which significantly increases visibility and long-term sales. Megan also shares an often-overlooked factor: traditional publishing puts an entire team behind a book, all invested in its success. This episode helps entrepreneurs and thought leaders decide whether traditional publishing aligns with their goals, resources, and readiness, and offers clarity on why the traditional path still matters in today’s crowded market. Episode Highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:26) Indie vs traditional publishing explained (2:00) The reality of book sales statistics (3:29) Sales data for traditional publishers (4:01) Audience and proof of concept matter (4:33) Professional production and quality (5:35) Distribution and bookstore access (6:15) Teams behind traditional publishing (6:55) When traditional publishing is not right (7:20) 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.

    8 min

  6. JAN 12

    Episode 29 - Learn (Nearly) Everything You Need to Know About Traditional Publishing with Author Jamie Sears

    What if landing a book deal wasn’t about luck at all, but about learning how the publishing world really works? In this episode of Kind of a Big Book Deal, Meghan sits down with bestselling author and former teacher–turned–entrepreneur Jamie Sears to break open the truth behind traditional publishing, platform building, and writing a book that actually gets picked up. Jamie shares how she went from creating classroom resources with nothing but scrapbook skills to building a massive online audience and securing a major deal with Penguin Random House. Her story is a reminder that success isn’t instant, it’s built through consistency, listening to your audience, and choosing your “hard.” Listeners will learn why a strong author platform matters, how proposal-writing becomes the true test of book readiness, and why rejection from agents isn't a final verdict but part of the journey. Jamie also offers an honest look at mindset, deadlines, collaboration, and the surprising ease that comes once you finally take the first step. This conversation is a must-listen for every entrepreneur who dreams of seeing their book on shelves someday. This week’s guest is Jamie Sears. She is the Founder and CEO of the Not So Wimpy Teacher company, as well as the author of How to Love Teaching Again. A former third grade teacher, she now runs a multi-million dollar company creating curriculum, hosting a lesson planning platform called Lesson Genie, and delivering professional development for elementary educators in grades 2-5. She has educated over 15,000 teachers in her digital courses and her articles have been viewed more than ten million times by teachers around the world. Find Jamie online https://www.facebook.com/NotSoWimpyTeacher https://www.instagram.com/notsowimpyteacher/ https://notsowimpyteacher.com/  Episode Highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:20) Jamie Sears’ work and her mission (2:46) Becoming an accidental entrepreneur (4:55) Building a platform one step at a time (8:00) Mindset and choosing your “hard” (9:16) What a book proposal really requires (15:10) Handling rejection from agents (20:25) The mindset shift of writing a full book (23:22) Breaking down the writing process (29:01) The joy and pride of finishing a book (32:20) How publishing really works behind the scenes (44:03) Jamie’s advice for first-time authors (50:15) 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.

    51 min

  7. JAN 5

    Episode 28 - Get a Book Deal This Year

    What if the book deal you dream about isn’t actually far away, it just needs the right plan, the right timing, and the right support? In this episode, Meghan Stevenson opens the doors to traditional publishing even wider by sharing the exact framework she uses to help experts and entrepreneurs land major book deals. She breaks down her trusted Three P Framework: Potential, Platform, and Proposal; and explains why each step matters more than most aspiring authors realize. From understanding whether your idea can sell, to proving you have a real, working audience, to crafting a compelling proposal, Meghan shows you the path publishers actually want to see. She also pulls back the curtain on her business, revealing how her team has helped clients earn over $950,000 in advances in 2025 alone and more than $7 million across her career. Plus, she announces a new, limited offer: a qualified one-on-one session to help you close the gap between where you are and the book deal you want. Whether you're early in your author journey or ready for a proposal, this episode gives clear steps, honest insights, and direction you can trust. Episode Highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:32) Insider look into her business and client results (2:14) The Three P Framework explained (2:33) Understanding “Potential” for your book idea (3:56) Why most authors fall short on “Platform” (5:12) Lessons from past programs and what changed (6:39) New 1:1 qualified consultation offer (7:48) What it takes to reach proposal readiness (8:20) Podcast updates and download milestones (9:06) How to support the show and ask questions (10:01) Final message and quiz link (10:10) 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.

    10 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    Episode 27 - How to Hire a Book Coach

    What if the guidance you’re trusting for your book dream is actually slowing you down? In this episode, Meghan pulls back the curtain on the publishing world, and the people profiting from it, to help you avoid the traps so many first-time authors fall into. After 20+ years in traditional publishing, she’s seen how crowded the “get published” space has become, and how much of it is built on shaky advice, recycled teachings, and experts with no real experience. Megan breaks down the two filters every author must use before hiring anyone: (1) What is the actual deliverable? Many workshops sell inspiration, not outcomes. (2) What are their real results? Because a great proposal means nothing if the expert can’t help you build the platform needed to sell books. She shares stories from her own business evolution, hard-won insights from working with major publishers, and the real numbers behind her team’s success, like an 88% proposal-to-book-deal rate and dozens of six-figure deals. This episode is your roadmap for choosing the right support, protecting your time and money, and putting your book in the hands of people who know exactly how to bring it to life. Episode Highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:33) Why so many publishing programs fall short (1:23) The truth about scammers, grifters, and bad advice (2:44) The #1 filter: Always check the deliverable (3:35) Why writing the book too early leads to disappointment (4:05) The #2 filter: Who are you learning from? (5:30) Why Meghan avoids workshops + her integrity stance (7:10) Meghan breaks down her three clear deliverables (8:20) Real receipts: Meghan’s shocking success stats (9:00) Helping authors avoid wasted time, money, and stress (9:25) 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.

    10 min
See All (35)

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

"Kind of a Big Book Deal" is the go-to podcast for entrepreneurs eager to dive into the world of traditional publishing. Hosted by Meghan Stevenson, a seasoned editor with deep roots in the publishing industry, this podcast is perfect for anyone dreaming of topping the bestseller lists. Meghan shares her wealth of experience, including securing over $5 million in book deals for her clients from giants like Penguin and Harper Collins. Each episode is packed with insider tips on snagging a book deal, building a compelling author platform, and the realities of the publishing journey. Meghan's approachable style and candid discussions make learning about the often-intimidating publishing process enjoyable and relatable. She brings on successful authors to share their stories, offers straightforward advice, and answers listener questions, all while keeping things light and engaging. "Kind of a Big Book Deal" isn't just informative—it's like sitting down with a good friend who knows the ins and outs of the publishing world. The podcast airs new episodes every other Friday, providing fresh insights and ongoing support for both budding and seasoned entrepreneurs. Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to expand your reach in the literary world, Meghan's guidance and the vibrant community she fosters can help you navigate your way to publishing success with confidence and a few laughs along the way.

Information

  • Creator
    Meghan Stevenson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kind Of A Big Book Deal
  • Show Website
    Kind Of A Big Book Deal