In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Steve Gordon, founder and CEO of Million Dollar Author, to explore how business owners can use book writing as a powerful tool to attract high-value clients, build credibility, and scale their businesses.
With experience helping over 2,000 entrepreneurs, Steve shares why writing a book is more relevant than ever—and how a strategic approach can turn your story into serious revenue.
Steve Gordon believes that many experts are their industry’s best-kept secrets. Writing a book gives business owners the opportunity to clarify their message, position themselves as thought leaders, and deliver real solutions to their ideal clients' biggest pain points.
In the episode, Steve debunks the myth that books are only impactful if you’re already famous. On the contrary, he argues that what matters most is creating content that solves real problems—no celebrity status required.
Steve shares a common pitfall: many would-be authors pour endless hours into perfecting their manuscripts, only to neglect the book’s role in their broader marketing strategy. The key, he says, is understanding that the book is not the product—it’s a gateway to your services.
He walks through a streamlined process for writing a business-building book in just 90 days, focused on a clear, transformational message. Beyond writing, Steve emphasizes what comes next: launching the book effectively and using it as a tool to build strong relationships and close high-value clients.
One of the most powerful parts of the conversation is Steve’s breakdown of his “Inverted Viral Launch Strategy.” Instead of trying to go viral with a large, unfocused campaign, Steve recommends leveraging your existing network—past clients, leads, and trusted partners—to generate buzz and book more business right away.
He highlights how a well-written book can spark meaningful conversations with people already familiar with your expertise. The goal isn’t fame—it’s focus.
Steve Gordon is a two-time entrepreneur and bestselling author of five books, including Unstoppable Referrals and his latest, The Million Dollar Book. He’s the host of The Authority Builders Podcast, where he has interviewed over 200 world-class entrepreneurs. Through his company, Steve and his team help smart entrepreneurs go from being the best-kept secret in their industry to being “the one who wrote the book” in just 30 days.
Million Dollar Author is a book creation and marketing consultancy that helps entrepreneurs write, publish, and leverage books to grow their businesses. Through strategic coaching, hands-on support, and proven frameworks, the company empowers business owners to use books as powerful marketing tools to generate leads, increase authority, and build lasting client relationships.
Josh and Steve’s conversation is a goldmine for entrepreneurs considering a book as their next business growth strategy. Steve’s practical advice and deep experience in helping experts become authors offer a clear path from idea to impact. Writing a book doesn’t have to be overwhelming—with the right strategy, it can be one of the most powerful client attraction tools in your arsenal.
Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest
More from UpMyInfluence:
We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.
Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.
What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.
Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!