Helping Writers Become Authors

Hosted ByK.M. Weiland

Helping Writers Become Authors provides writers help in summoning inspiration, crafting solid characters, outlining and structuring novels, and polishing prose. Learn how to write a book and edit it into a story agents will buy and readers will love. (Music intro by Kevin MacLeod.)


All Episodes

Ep. 592: Understanding the Underworld of a Story’s Third Act

The Underworld of a Story’s Third Act is symbolically important for creating powerful and realistic change with your characters and plot.

Ep. 590: Understanding the Normal World of a Story’s First Act

Authors need to understand the four “worlds” represented within a story’s structure, the first of which is the Normal World of the First Act.

Ep. 589: Deepening Your Story’s Theme With the Thematic Square

If you want to deepen the complexity of your story’s theme, one tool you can employ is Robert McKee’s thematic square.

Ep. 588: 6 Ways to Find Your Best Ideas Before You Start Writing

Use these six ways to find your best ideas for writing your book, as you cultivate, channel, and honor your deeper inspiration.

Ep. 587: The Role of the Antagonist in Story Structure, Pt. 2 of 2

Examines the role of the antagonist in the second half of a story’s structure–the Second Pinch Point through the Resolution.

Ep. 586: The Role of the Antagonist in Story Structure, Pt. 1 of 2

The major plot beats in a story are interwoven with the protagonist’s journey. But what is the role of the antagonist in story structure?

Ep. 585: Do You Have to Write Every Day? 10 Pros and Cons

Should writers make it a habit to write every day? Here are five pros of writing every day, as well as five potential cons.

Ep. 584: The 6 Challenges of Writing a Second Novel

Writing a second novel can often be surprisingly harder than the first one. Check out six challenges sophomore writers often face.

Ep. 583: 14 Tips for Dealing With the Passage of Time in a Story

Ask these important questions to make sure the passage of time in a story is strengthening rather than weakening its narrative power.

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