Helping Writers Become Authors
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Helping Writers Become Authors
Hosted by award-winning story coach K.M. Weiland, the Helping Writers Become Authors podcast will take you deep into story theory, writing techniques, and all the incredible wisdom of story. There is no such thing as "just a story." Come along to find out how to write YOUR best story, astound the wo...
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S17:S24: Big vs. Small Character Arcs: Understanding the Degrees of Change in Storytelling
Not every story needs a protagonist who undergoes a massive, life-altering transformation. Some of the most memorable tales hinge on smaller, quieter...

S17:E23: How a Character’s Personality Shapes Arc, Voice, and Goals
What makes a character unforgettable? It’s not just quirks or dialogue. It’s personality. Your characters' personalities shape their arcs, influence t...

S17:E22: Why All Stories Are Myth—and How They Transform Us
Why All Stories Are Myth (and How They Transform the Psyche)
What if every story you’ve ever loved—whether it’s Spirited Away, The Lord of the R...

S17:E21: What's Happened to Modern Storytelling? (+ 6 Ways Storytelling Can Find Its Soul Again)
Feeling bored at the movies? Learn what's happened to modern storytelling and what it will take to restore the magic and emotional impact.

S17:E20: Writing Better Character Conflicts With the 5 Conflict Management Styles
Here's how writers can apply the five conflict management styles to create richer, more realistic character conflicts in your fiction.
S17:E19: The 5 Types of Scene Endings Every Writer Must Master
Discover the 5 types of scene endings—Yes, No, No But, and No And—and why one of them might be weakening your story’s momentum.
S17:E18: 7 Ways to Watch and Read More Intentionally
If writers don't consume stories with intention, who will? Here are 7 mindful habits to read more intentionally and get more from stories.
S17:E17: What Makes a Story "Bad"? A Guide to Why Your Narrative Isn't Working
What makes a bad story? The answer may surprise you. Here's what really makes a story fail—and how to fix it.
S17:E16: Why Intentional Storytelling Matters in an Era of AI and Algorithm-Driven Content
Intentional storytelling means making creative choices with purpose. Here’s why that matters more than ever in an AI-driven content world.
S17:E15: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 2 of 2)
Discover how to honor your character's history while crafting different character arcs for the same character in new stories.
S17:E14: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 1 of 2)
Discover systems that can help you write different character arcs for the same character in your series. Keep stories interesting and unique!
S17:E13: Crafting Archetypal Arcs With Enneagram Insights
Discover the connection between archetypal arcs and Enneagram insights for transformative storytelling and character growth.
S17:E12: Using the Enneagram for Character Development: Avoiding Repetition for Lies Each Type Might Believe
Discover the unique lies each Enneagram subtype believes and how these shape their fears, desires, and character development in storytelling.
S17:E11: The Most Dangerous Arc: Breaking Down the Corruption Character Arc
Unlock the intricacies of the Corruption Character Arc. Discover how fear, pride, and desire lead to a character's downfall.
S17:E10: Writing a Fall Arc: How to Show a Character's Moral Decline
Writing a fall arc involves capturing characters' heartbreaking journeys. Discover techniques for depicting their moral decline.
S17:09: Disillusionment Arc in Storytelling: A Powerful Tool for Character Growth
Understand the Disillusionment Arc in storytelling, a powerful journey portraying human growth through confronting stark realities.
S17:E08: How Writers Can Use the Four Stages of Knowing in Character Arcs
Explore the four stages of knowing in character arcs to understand transformation and enhance your storytelling skills.
S17:E07: How to Make Your Fantasy World Feel Real: 6 Pillars of Organic Worldbuilding
From magic to government, discover the 8 key pillars of worldbuilding that will make your fantasy world feel real.
S17:E06: Your Character's Three Choices: Character Goal Examples for Writers
Discover essential character goal examples for writers and learn how to craft compelling, multi-layered motivations using the "three choices."
S17:E05: 5 Proven Ways to Conquer Self-Doubt in Writing
Learn how to conquer self-doubt in writing and transform it into a driving force for growth and improvement.
S17:E04: Exploring the Impact of AI on Fiction Writing: Opportunities and Challenges
Delve into the impact of AI on fiction writing. Explore the opportunities and concerns surrounding the incorporation of AI in creative work.
S17:E03: The Writer’s Road to Creative Burnout Recovery
Recover from creative burnout with these holistic strategies. Create space in your life to rebuild creativity and overcome writer's block.
S17:E02: The Rules of Fiction: What They Are and What They're Not
Demystify the rules of fiction and learn how they empower storytelling. Discover how underlying structure enhances creative autonomy.
S17:E01: Reflecting on 6 Life-Changing Lessons in 2024
Gain insights from life-changing lessons and intentions for growth in the new year. Explore the powerful connection between writing and life.
S16:E42: Top 10 Books I Read in 2024
Discover the top 10 books of 2024. Dive into captivating fantasy novels and explore fascinating non-fiction works.
S16:E41: Top 8 Lessons I've Learned as a Writer in 16 Years
Discover the top lessons I've learned as a writer. Gain insights and inspiration from my personal experiences as a career writer.
S16:E40: The 5 Gift Rule for Writers at Christmas
Discover the 5 gift rule for writers this Christmas. Find sustainable and mindful gift ideas that will delight the writers in your life.
S16:E39: Antagonist vs. Villain: What's the Difference?
Understanding the difference between antagonist vs. villain. Explore the complex dynamics that go beyond typical storytelling conventions.
S16:E38: The 3 (Structurally) Most Important Characters
Explore the most important characters driving the narrative in a compelling story. Discover their motivations and how they impact outcome.
S16:E37: Learn About the Different Types of POV (+Head-Hopping)
Discover the different types of Points of View (POV) in storytelling. Learn how to master narrative perspective for more engaging writing.
S16:E36: The Resolution (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 12 of 12)
Discover the importance of the Resolution in storytelling. Learn how to bring closure to your story and leave readers with a final emotion.
S16:E35: The Climax (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 11 of 12)
Crafting the perfect Climax for your novel is essential. Learn how to create tension, suspense, and unforgettable moments for your readers.
S16:E34: The Third Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 10 of 12)
Learn why the Third Plot Point is a vital turning point in your story structure. Understand how to set it up for a powerful ending.
S16:E33: The Third Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 9 of 12)
Explore how to write an exciting and satisfying Third Act. Learn how to build an epic finale as your plot reaches its thrilling conclusion.
S16:E32: How to Trust Yourself as a Writer (Not Relying on Advice Too Much)
Unleash your creativity and trust yourself as a writer. Discover how to overcome self-doubt and embrace your unique artistic voice.
S16:E31: The Second Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 8 of 12)
Unleash the second half of the Second Act in your story. Explore how characters' decisions and inner growth drive the narrative.
S16:E30: The Midpoint (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 7 of 12)
Uncover the power of the Midpoint in storytelling. Explore how this pivotal moment in the Second Act changes the paradigm of the story.
S16:E29: The First Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 6 of 12)
Discover how to tackle the first half of the Second Act in your story with confidence. Learn valuable tips on structure and character.
S16:E28: The Secret to Writing Strong Themes
Craft immersive stories by writing strong themes that resonate. Explore how to create narratives that connect with readers on a deeper level.
S16:E27: The First Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 5 of 12)
Uncover the power of the First Plot Point in storytelling. Learn how this seismic shift sets the stage for escalating tension and conflict.