Leigh Stein is an author, cultural critic, and book coach whose books including critically acclaimed novel Self Care have earned praise from New York Magazine, The Cut, and Vox. She has written culture pieces and personal essays for the New York Times, the Washington Post, the New Yorker online, Airmail, Allure, ELLE, BuzzFeed, The Cut, Salon, and Slate.

In this episode, Leigh shares her extensive knowledge of the book publishing industry, offering insights into traditional publishing versus self-publishing, the impact of social media on the industry, as well as advice on finding literary agents, writing proposals, and landing book deals. She also discusses the economics of book publishing as well as effective marketing strategies for both self-published and traditionally published authors to sell more copies. Leigh's fun, playful approach to her own career also provides valuable lessons for writers looking to navigate the evolving landscape of book publishing.

What we cover:

(04:05) Leigh's writing career

(07:07) Being an actor vs. writer

(10:36) Satire & cultural commentary

(14:00) State of book publishing

(16:03) What Leigh wishes she knew before

(18:03) Is publishing more democratized?

(19:56) Traditional vs. self-publishing

(23:35) Hybrid publishing

(24:52) Nonfiction vs. fiction

(28:04) What publishers look at

(29:47) The economics of publishing

(34:38) Royalties, advances & followers

(36:17) Literary agents 101

(39:43) Landing a book deal

(42:07) Timelines & expectations

(43:48) Writing book proposals

(46:52) Pitching & finding editors

(49:33) Marketing & selling copies

(52:09) Bestseller lists

(54:23) Common myths & misconceptions

(57:28) Leigh's coaching services

Links & resources:

Leigh's website

Leigh's TikTok & Instagram

Leigh's Substack

Work with Leigh

Jane Friedman's website & blog

4. Leigh Stein — Book Publishing 101

Episode description