In this episode of The Edit: Writing Your Book Without Losing Your Voice, Holly explores one of the biggest mistakes nonfiction writers make: trying to write for everyone.

What starts as a desire to reach more people often leads to writing that feels watered down, overly polished, and disconnected from the heart of the message. Holly shares a real conversation with a writer whose manuscript was technically strong—but lacked clarity about who it was truly for—and explains why identifying your ideal reader changes everything.

This episode dives into:

• Why writing for "everyone" weakens your voice
• How fear causes writers to over-explain and dilute their message
• Why specificity creates stronger emotional connection
• The difference between content and connection
• How business owners and entrepreneurs often lose their natural voice trying to sound "professional"
• What "content crossover" means and why authentic stories resonate universally
• Why your ideal reader should feel like a real person—not a demographic

Holly also discusses how authentic nonfiction writing allows readers to see themselves in your story, even when their circumstances are completely different. When stories are told honestly and emotionally, connection happens naturally.

If you've been struggling to sound like yourself on the page—or if your writing feels flat despite being technically correct—this episode will help you refocus on the people who truly need your story.

Because the goal isn't to make everyone like your writing.

It's to make the right people feel something.

Memorable Quote from This Episode:

"When you speak to everyone, you speak to no one." — Margaret Hill

And as Holly reminds listeners:

"Your story without your voice… is only words."

Connect with Holly:

For writing coaching, nonfiction editing, or to submit a podcast topic/question, visit: https://www.writelynotable.com

Or email Holly at [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share, rate, and review the podcast to help it continue reaching the writers, entrepreneurs, and storytellers who need it most.