Do you actually need a ghostwriter, or do you need a better system?

In this quickie solo episode of The Author’s Edge, Allison Lane tackles one of the most common questions she hears from smart, accomplished people who want to write a book: Do I need a ghostwriter? The honest answer is “maybe”, but most of the time, the real issue isn’t talent or discipline. It’s extraction.

Allison breaks down why the blinking cursor is the real obstacle, how clarity matters more than hiring help, and what to do before you invest in a ghostwriter, editor, or coach. She also shares a simple three-part writing system that helps you get what’s already in your head onto the page without forcing it.

You will get:

• Why “I need a ghostwriter” is usually an extraction problem, not a talent problem
• When hiring a ghostwriter makes sense, and when it doesn’t
• How to use a simple system to turn voice notes into usable written content

Timestamps

• 00:00–01:00 — The real question behind “Do I need a ghostwriter?”
• 01:00–02:15 — Why this isn’t a talent problem, it’s an extraction problem
• 02:15–03:15 — Ghostwriter vs editor vs book coach vs collaborator
• 03:15–04:10 — The clarity test before hiring help
• 04:10–05:10 — Why obstacles aren’t a plan
• 05:10–06:10 — The 3-part system: capture, organize, refine
• 06:10–07:15 — How dictation works and why it fails
• 07:15–08:10 — When hiring a ghostwriter actually makes sense
• 08:10–09:00 — One five-minute step to get your ideas out into the world

If you want the full breakdown, including how to make dictation work without sounding stiff, listen to the episode.

If this episode helped you, send it to someone who keeps saying, “I’m not a writer, but I really want to be.”

Rate, Review, & Follow The Author’s Edge

“So incredibly helpful!” >>> If that sounds like you, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review the show! Your support helps more authors build their brands, reach their audiences, and launch their books successfully.

Here’s how:

• Click here, scroll to the bottom, and tap to rate with five stars.
• Select “Write a Review” and tell me what you loved most about the episode!

And don’t forget to follow the podcast if you haven’t already. I’m sharing bonus episodes packed with insider tips, and I’d hate for you to miss out. Hit that follow button now.

LinkedIn @allisonlanelit
YouTube @allisonlanelit
Facebook @allisonlanelit
Instagram @allisonlanelit

🔔 Subscribe or Follow for more tips and insights on publishing and marketing
👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!