In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with award-winning author, editor, and book coach Susan Crossman to uncover the truth about writing a compelling nonfiction book. They dive deep into the real purpose of professional editing, why DIY editing and AI tools fail authors, and how intuition, storytelling, and human emotion shape powerful books that resonate. Susan breaks down developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading, and sensitivity reading—revealing why a polished manuscript can make or break your credibility, reviews, and impact. A must-listen for coaches, consultants, and mission-driven writers ready to elevate their message and create a book they’re truly proud of.

Finish the Damn Book Podcast is for writers who know they have a book in them — and are ready to finally get it done.

Hosted by Susie Schaefer, this show cuts through perfectionism, overwhelm, and publishing myths to focus on what actually moves a book forward. Through honest conversations with authors, editors, ghostwriters, and industry insiders, Susie explores the craft, mindset, and real-world mechanics of writing books readers finish and share.

Each episode offers a blend of:

• Practical writing and revision strategies
• Clear-eyed insight into publishing, platform-building, and promotion
• Encouragement for writers stuck in the middle (or avoiding the hardest chapter)
• Permission to write imperfectly — and keep going

Whether you’re working on memoir, nonfiction, or a book that defies categories, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you stop circling the idea and start delivering the work.

Because the world doesn’t need another unfinished manuscript, it needs your finished book.