From Corporate Life to Book Coach: Getting Book Deals + Building Platforms with Allison Lane | Ep. 79

Author's Edge: Smart strategies for book marketing, publishing, and visibility that actually work

In this episode of Author’s Edge, host Allison Lane swaps seats and becomes the guest. Interviewed by Victoria Meyer, host of The Chemical Show, Allison shares how her 25+ years in global brand marketing with companies like Unilever, Burt’s Bees, and The Body Shop shaped her approach to helping authors land book deals, launch bestsellers, and build platforms that last. She breaks down everything from the role of a book proposal to the reality of author-led marketing.

You’ll discover why writing a full manuscript isn’t the first step to landing a book deal, what agents and publishers really want to see, and the proven steps Allison uses to help women experts publish successfully. She also reveals how authors can build platforms that attract opportunities - from bestseller launches to media features and paid speaking.

In this BONUS episode, Victoria and Allison discuss:

• [00:00–04:00] Early career lessons: How journalism and PR taught Allison the power of saying “yes with enthusiasm.”
• [04:00–07:50] Corporate insights: What working with global brands revealed about the bigger marketing puzzle.
• [10:30–13:00] Breaking free from limits: Why corporate systems often hold women experts back - and how to claim your authority.
• [15:00–16:30] Publishing truths: Why a strong book proposal matters more than a finished manuscript.
• [18:45–21:00] Publishing options: Traditional, self, hybrid, and university presses - and how to choose the right path.
• [21:00–24:00] Marketing reality: Why even big publishers expect authors to drive their own marketing.
• [25:00–26:20] Next steps: Clear guidance if you’ve ever thought about writing a book.

Resources Mentioned:

• Allison Lane’s website: https://www.lanelit.com/
• Book Deal Blueprint: https://www.lanelit.com/proposal
• Connect with Victoria Meyer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-king-meyer/
• Victoria’s podcast: https://www.thechemicalshow.com/

If you’ve wondered how to go from expert to published author, this episode gives you the roadmap - straight from someone who’s helped countless women experts secure book deals and amplify their visibility.

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