Beyond the Page: Planning to Write a Marketable Book (Part 1)
Podcast Show Notes: How to Plan to Write a Marketable Book
Hosts: Stephanie Feger & Jennifer Crosswhite
Episode Theme: Planning ahead to write — and sell — the book your audience needs.
Episode Summary
Are you dreaming of writing a book that actually sells? This inspiring episode dives deep into what it takes to write a marketable book—one that aligns your creative goals with your readers’ needs.
After a heartfelt chat about recovering from illness, Thanksgiving gratitude, and the joys of pie (and avoiding pumpkin pie!), Stephanie and Jen jump into actionable advice for authors ready to plan their next project.
They share:
- 💡 The difference between writing a book and writing a marketable book.
- 🎯 How to identify your target reader and understand what they actually need.
- 🧭 Why defining the purpose of your book (and how you’ll use it) matters before you ever write Chapter One.
- 🧩 Ways to plan your writing season and set realistic timelines.
- 🤝 How to build your creative support team — editors, coaches, designers — and get on their schedules early.
- 💬 Tips for batching content, using podcasts or social posts to refine your book’s ideas, and working smarter (not harder).
With humor, warmth, and plenty of practical wisdom, this conversation reminds authors that great books don’t happen by accident — they’re born from clear planning, thoughtful positioning, and authentic storytelling.
Key Takeaways
- Know your reader — Your book isn’t for everyone. Define who needs it and why.
- Define your purpose — Decide how your book fits into your business or brand before writing.
- Plan your writing season — You can do anything, just not all at once.
- Work smarter, not harder — Use podcasts, content, and feedback to shape your manuscript.
- Don’t go it alone — Writing is easier (and more fun) with a team that supports your vision.
Mini Quotes to Share
- “You can do all the things—just not all right now.”
- “A marketable book is one your reader needs, not just one they want.”
- “Even working for yourself doesn’t mean working by yourself.”
- “Books don’t write themselves—but with a plan, they practically do.”
FAQ
Q1: What makes a book “marketable”?
A book is marketable when it meets a clear reader need and is positioned for a specific audience, not “everyone.”
Q2: How can I plan time to write my book?
Treat it like a business project — block time on your calendar, set quarterly goals, and honor those appointments with yourself.
Q3: How do I know who my target reader is?
Consider who most benefits from your message. Who’s struggling with the problem your book solves?
Q4: Can I still make my book marketable if I’ve already started writing?
Yes! You can revisit your premise and positioning mid-process to ensure your content meets audience needs.
Q5: Do I need help to publish?
You don’t have to do it alone. Professional editors, coaches, and designers can elevate your book and save you time.
