Story Works Round Table | Conversations About Craft

SWRT 345 | Journaling for Writers with Marcy Sproull

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn explore the transformative power of journaling with Marcy Sproull. Join us as Marcy shares her journey into journaling, its therapeutic benefits, and how it can enhance creativity for writers. Discover practical journaling techniques, including the art of dialogue with your thoughts and characters, and learn how to use journaling as a tool for self-discovery and problem-solving. Don't miss this insightful conversation that promises to inspire your own writing journey!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, grow your writing skills, and get that book written? Do you want community, feedback, and the mentoring of an expert story craft coach? Check out group coaching for novelists and memoirists. A new session is beginning soon. Get details & schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Alida works with fiction and nonfiction writers on all kinds of writing projects. Email or schedule a discovery call. www.wordessential.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 344 | Ask Alida: Scenes, Sequels, and Series

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:23:26 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we present a double episode featuring lively discussions from our monthly Ask Alida Q&A session. Join us as we explore the intricacies of crafting scenes and delve into the art of writing sequels and series. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, these conversations are packed with valuable insights to elevate your storytelling skills. Don't miss out on this engaging exploration of the writing craft!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 343 | The Importance of Voice in Fiction with Trish MacEnulty

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Trish MacEnulty, an accomplished author known for her award-winning historical novels and mysteries. Together, we explore the essential role of voice in fiction, discussing how a strong narrative voice can captivate readers and set a story apart in a crowded literary landscape. Trish shares her insights on defining voice, the importance of individuality, and the tools writers can use to craft memorable narratives. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 342 | The Art of Performing Audiobooks with Wendy Wessel

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Wendy Wessel, a talented voiceover artist based in Minneapolis, joined Alida Winternheimer at the Round Table. With a rich background in education and a passion for storytelling, Wendy shares her journey into the world of audiobooks. We explore the essential qualities of a great vocal performance, the emotional depth needed for effective narration, and the technical skills required to bring characters to life. Discover how Wendy immerses herself in each story and the challenges she faces in the production process. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the art and craft of voice acting!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 341 | Ask Alida: Crafting Emotional Resonance

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we explore the profound significance of storytelling in human experience, discover why writing matters in a world increasingly influenced by technology, and how empathy plays a crucial role in storytelling. We delve into crafting emotions, avoiding melodrama, and the delicate balance between character interiority and external expression. We also touch on backstory, and knowing when to tell the story you want to write! Join us for an insightful discussion on the art of writing and the eternal value of stories in shaping our understanding of the world.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 340 | Writing Regional Fiction, bringing culture to life with Arlon Jay Staggs

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold engage in a lively discussion with debut novelist Arlon Jay Staggs, who brings an insightful conversation about Southern Fiction. With humor and affection, Arlon shares insights about the quirks of the Deep South, the significance of dialogue in Southern storytelling, and the cultural contradictions that shape the genre. Tune in as we explore Arlon's journey as a writer, the inspirations behind his debut novel, and the delightful complexities of Southern characters.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 339 | Writing Your Rules: Speculative Fiction Plots and Characters with Mark J. Wilson

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold are thrilled to welcome author Mark J. Wilson, whose journey from biochemistry to writing novels is as fascinating as his debut book, Full of Beans. Join us as we explore how Mark blends genres, from science fiction to mystery, and hear about his unique time-traveling detective, Phil Beans. Discover the creative process behind character development, the challenges of writing, and the unexpected joys of storytelling. Tune in for insights that will inspire writers and readers alike!

"If hindsight is 20/20, being able to go back in time is like X-ray vision." - Mark J. Wilson

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 338 | Ask Alida: The Craft of Subplots

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida answers questions all about subplots. This is a recording of our monthly Ask Alida live Q&A over on Substack! Make sure you join us next time to get your questions answered and enjoy a fun chat about writing craft! In this episode, we talk about subplots, what they are, why they are important, and how to best utilize them in your writing!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 337 | Writing Romantic Comedies with Lexi Haddock

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold welcome Lexi Haddock to dive into the enchanting world of romance writing. Lexi shares her journey from reading thrillers to crafting heartwarming romantic comedies. Discover the inspiration behind her stories, the challenges of genre expectations, and the joy of creating characters that resonate with readers. Join us for a delightful conversation filled with insights on writing, friendship, and the magic of Paris!

"Rom coms are the antidote to when life gets heavy." - Lexi Haddock

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 336 | Going Indie with Catherine Lyon

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Alida Winternheimer sits down with Catherine Lyon to explore the world of independent publishing, or "going indie." They share their experiences navigating the challenges that come with being self-published while also celebrating the incredible joy of seeing their books in readers' hands. Both Alida and Catherine are award-winning authors who initially pursued the traditional publishing path. Tune in for an insightful conversation about their decision to go indie and whether they would choose differently if given the opportunity.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 335 | Author's Chat: Anthology Collaboration

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we delve into the art of anthology writing with authors Sarah Branson, Annie M. Ballard, and Christy Matheson. Join Alida and Kathryn as we discuss the experience of writing and producing the anthology Where Kindness Lives: A Women's Fiction Anthology. We discuss the challenges and joys of collaborative storytelling and the unique dynamics of writing short fiction. Tune in for insights that will inspire both aspiring and seasoned writers!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 334 | Author's Chat: Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Kathryn takes the host position and Alida joins our Author Panel as we talk all things mystery, thriller, and suspense. Join us for an amazing conversation with authors Kathryn Dodson, L.L. Kirchner, and our own Alida Winternheimer. We talk about why each author chose to write in these genres, why they write female protagonists, the use of plot and pacing to drive suspense, and the intricacies of writing a villain. Packed with craft, and exploring the intricacies of writing these books, this is a must-listen for any writer!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 333 | Exploring Women's History through Story with Jane Rubin

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode, Alida sits down with the inspiring Jane Rubin, who shares her remarkable journey from a healthcare executive to an accomplished author. Diagnosed with cancer, Jane turned to writing, ultimately leading her to pen a series of historical fiction novels that explore themes of immigration, women's rights, and the impact of war. Join us as we delve into her creative process, the importance of research in storytelling, and the powerful narratives that emerge from her experiences. You won't want to miss this enlightening conversation!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 332 | Culture, Trauma, and Memory in Somia Sadiq's Gajarah

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode, Alida and Kathryn are honored to host Somia Sadiq, an award-winning entrepreneur and global peace negotiator, who shares her journey into the world of storytelling through her debut novel, Gajarah. Somia discusses the importance of exploring the complexities of identity, trauma, and belonging through literature, emphasizing the power of storytelling to foster understanding and connection. Join us as we delve into the intricate relationship between the storyteller and the listener, and how Somia's unique experiences shape her narrative style.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 331 | Taking Up Space with Susan Swan

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this week's Story Works Round Table, Alida welcomes Susan Swan, an acclaimed novelist and professor emerita at York University, to join us and discuss her new memoir, Big Girls Don't Cry. As Susan reads an excerpt from her book, she invites us into her world of growing up as a tall girl in a society that often discourages women from taking up space. We delve into themes of body image, the societal expectations placed on women, and the journey of finding one's voice and identity. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the importance of asserting oneself in a world that often tries to diminish women's presence.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 330 | Writing Ancient Historical Mysteries with NL Holmes

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn sit down with N.L. Holmes, an archaeologist turned novelist, who crafts mysteries set in ancient Egypt. Join us as we explore her unique journey, the challenges of writing about a distant culture, and the art of blending historical accuracy with engaging storytelling. Whether you're a fan of her novels or an aspiring writer, this episode is packed with insights into the world of historical fiction and the mystery genre.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 329 | Staging Your Action Scenes with CC Robinson

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn have a lively discussion with award-winning author CC Robinson about the art of staging action scenes in writing. Drawing from her theater background, CC shares insights on blocking fight scenes and how to orient readers within the physical space of a story effectively. With real-time sketches and engaging dialogue, we explore the interplay of character goals, motivations, and the dynamics of action sequences. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable tips to elevate your storytelling craft.

"It's not just about the action; it’s about the interplay between characters and their goals." - CC Robinson

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 328 | Creating Writing Rituals & Celebrations with Elizabeth Barbour

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this enlightening episode, Alida and Kathryn welcome Elizabeth Barber, a life and business coach, shamanic practitioner, and joyful ritualist, who shares her journey of transforming chaos into clarity through sacred celebrations. Elizabeth discusses her award-winning book, 'Sacred Celebrations,' and how rituals can be woven into our writing practices and everyday lives. Discover the significance of creating personal rituals and how they can help us navigate life's milestones, both joyful and challenging. Join us as we explore the power of storytelling, the importance of witnessing, and the art of celebrating our achievements.

"You don’t have to do it one particular way. There’s no right or wrong way really to honor or celebrate either a joyful thing or a sad thing." - Elizabeth Barbour

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 327 | Embracing The Heroine's Journey with Danielle Anderson

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Alida welcomes Danielle Anderson, a seasoned nonfiction book coach and editor, as we delve into the concept of the heroine's journey. Drawing from Maureen Murdoch's influential work, Danielle shares her personal experiences and insights on the internal journey women often face, contrasting it with the traditional hero's journey. Discover how understanding this narrative can empower women to embrace their unique stories and identities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depths of their own journey!

"The heroine's journey is an internal journey, and it mirrors the experience in my life." - Danielle Anderson

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 326 | Writing Through Chronic Illness with Beth Biss

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Alida and Kathryn explore the intersection of writing and chronic illness with author Beth Biss. Beth shares her personal journey of navigating her health challenges while pursuing her passion for writing. We discuss the themes of identity, acceptance, and empowerment in her work, and how her experiences shape her characters and stories. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of storytelling.

"I want to take some of that hope and infuse it into my novels." - Beth Biss

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 325 | Is Art Enough? with Stephanie Elizondo Griest

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk with Stephanie Elizondo Griest, author of Art Above Everything. In this perspective changing conversation, we talk all about centering your life on art. We talk about the sometimes painful journey of being an art monk, and what it means to dedicate yourself to art creation. Join us as we talk about the journey Stephanie has taken to realizing that Art is Enough. And what Enough even means in this capitalistic culture we live in.

The Question: is Art Enough?

The answer: Yes.

Join us as we talk about why!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 324 | The Healing Power of Nature and Memoir with Jon Lurie

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Alida engages in a profound conversation with Jon Lurie as we explore the healing power of nature and the intricate journey of memoir writing. Jon shares insights from his two memoirs, including his epic canoe trip along the Red River with a young man named Jose, highlighting themes of personal growth, cultural identity, and the transformative experience of connecting with the natural world. Then he speaks to the healing power of nature in his own health journey. Join us for an inspiring discussion filled with adventure, reflection, and the importance of storytelling.

"Nature is a conduit to personal growth." - Jon Lurie

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 323 | What Makes Writing Objectively Good?

Thu, 22 May 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we gather a diverse panel of writers to tackle the complex question: what makes writing objectively good? Join Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, Mark Liebenow, Daniel Kleifgen, Liz Bird, Miriam Levi, and Monic Ductan as they explore the subjective nature of writing, the challenges of judgment, and the essential components that contribute to strong storytelling. With insights from experienced fiction and nonfiction writers, this discussion is rich with practical advice and personal anecdotes. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that dives into the heart of the writing craft!

"At the end of the day, it's whether a story has grabbed me, touched my heart." - Miriam Levi

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 322 | A Writer's Responsibility to Ghosts of the Past: Historical Fiction with J.E. Weiner

Thu, 08 May 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold sit down with J.E. Weiner, the author of the captivating novel The Wretched and Undone. This Southern Gothic tale, set in the Texas Hill Country, intertwines history and supernatural elements as it explores the immigrant experience during the American Civil War. Join us for a deep dive into the book's rich characters, the haunting themes of faith and family, and the fascinating historical research that brought this story to life. Whether you're a lover of historical fiction or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation is not to be missed!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

SWRT 321 | Worldbuilding Historical Fantasy with Bjorn Leesson

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, we welcome Bjorn Leesson, an author whose passion for history and the supernatural has culminated in his captivating series, Outside the Thalsparr. Join us as we explore the unique blend of Viking history and time travel, uncovering the fascinating role of women in Viking culture and the intricate world-building that brings Bjorn's characters to life. Discover how Bjorn weaves historical facts with fantasy elements, creating a narrative that spans 1200 years. This episode is a must-listen for fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike!

"You have to have the passion for it. If you're going to write historical fiction fantasy, but you're not a fan of history, don't do it." - Bjorn Leesson

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 320 | Spicy Scenes with Paulette Stout

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table as we welcome back the talented author Paulette Stout to talk about the art of writing spicy scenes. Join us as we explore how to craft intimate moments that enhance character development, tension, and narrative arcs, regardless of genre. Paulette shares her insights on the importance of emotional depth in intimate scenes and offers practical tips for writers looking to incorporate spice into their storytelling.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 319 | Writing to Your Theme with Paulette Stout

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table as we welcome back the talented author Paulette Stout to discuss her latest novel, What We Give Away. This captivating story tackles the often-taboo subject of body image and societal expectations surrounding weight. Paulette shares her insights on writing about sensitive topics while allowing readers to engage with the characters' journeys authentically. Join us as we explore the intersection of food, love, and self-acceptance, and discover how Paulette's personal experiences shaped her writing. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 318 | Authors Talk YA Fiction

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table for a fascinating discussion with YA authors K.T. Angelhart, Tricia Copeland, and C.C. Robinson as they explore the nuances of young adult fiction and the importance of character development. We talk about the universal appeal of Young Adult Fiction, the importance of relationships with teenage protagonists, and how to build the thematic resonance of young adult fiction.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 317 | Authors Talk Writing Memoir

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:40:00 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table for an insightful conversation about Memoir with special guests Candace MacPhie author of Finding Color, Randi-Lee Bowslaugh author of Good-bye too Soon, Dr. Roger Leslie author of Light Come Out of the Closet, and Michael Hingson author of Live Like A Guide Dog.

From taking a piece of your own life and crafting it into a story, to the challenges of examining your life in such a vulnerable way, discover how to craft a compelling story from your own experiences.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 316 | Writing Series with Alethea Lyons

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 17:49:12 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table as we sit down with Alethea Lyons, author of the supernatural dark fantasy Seer of York series, published by Brigids Gate Press. She writes various forms of SFF, with a particular love for science-fantasy, dark fantasy, dystopias, and folklore. We talk about the particular challenges facing writers of series and sequels.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 315 | Getting to Know Your Characters with Sarah Branson

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 21:40:01 GMT

Sarah Branson joins us at the Story Works Round Table to talk about getting to know your characters. We dig into the different roles characters play, depending on their relationship to the protagonist and how well we need to know them in order to write them well. Sarah's novel, North Country, is available now.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 314 | Science Fiction & Our Possible Futures

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:52:31 GMT

Join us at the Story Works Round Table for far-ranging, philosophical, and fun conversation about science fiction with special guests Brad C Anderson, author of Duatero,

Mark Morton, author of The Headmasters, Lance Robinson, one of the winners of the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future contest, and Kristina Rienzi, author of Among Us. From dystopias to conspiracy to environmental collapse, discover how these stories mirror our reality and spark imagination.

Get Alida's Action Scene series of craft posts in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 313 | Intuitive Creativity with Chindia Ilonka

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT

This week's Story Works Round Table features Chindia Ilonka, the visionary leader and author of Quantum Rebel. Discover how to align with your soul, harness your intuitive creativity, and achieve transformative results in your writing. Chindia shares her journey of self-discovery and offers practical insights on cultivating a deeper connection with your inner voice. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to evolve, inspire, and thrive. Listen now and unleash your potential!

"Writing is an invitation to go deeper and expand into a more true essence of who you are." - Chindia Ilonka

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 312 | Folklore of North America with Mike Bass

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to journey through the captivating world of folklore? This week on the Story Works Round Table podcast, Alida has the pleasure of sitting down with Mike Bass, a distinguished folklorist and printmaker, whose artistry is as intriguing as the stories he tells. Growing up in a house teeming with spirits, Mike's fascination with the supernatural and the macabre has shaped his work, resulting in a unique blend of art and storytelling that captures the imagination.

Throughout the conversation, Mike and Alida explore the evolution of folklore, discussing the differences between traditional and modern tales. They delve into the role of folklore in reflecting societal values and fears, examining how stories evolve as they traverse cultural and temporal boundaries. Mike's insights into the intersection of folklore and art reveal the enduring power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, folklore aficionado, or simply curious about the mysterious and the macabre, this episode promises to be a captivating exploration of the stories that shape us. Don't forget to visit storyworkspodcast.com to view Mike's prints and connect with his work. Happy listening!

"As we know in folklore, the ability to put a name and a face on something sort of takes away the power of it." - Mike Bass

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 311 | Flying Pirates (& Speculative Fiction) with Sarah Branson

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:45:47 GMT

Discover how Sarah Branson blends her experiences as a midwife and science teacher into her speculative fiction series featuring a flying pirate protagonist. Join us for a deep dive into world-building and character development on this week's Story Works Round table.

"When you have a protagonist that lives in your head, who is armed and is a pirate, you do whatever she says." - Sarah Branson

Join Alida on December 9th for a virtual author event, A Stone's Throw. Register at https://wordessential.com/events/a-stones-throw/

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 310 | From Lightning Strike to Novel with Ben Hawken, part 2

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 12:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn continue our conversation with Ben Hawken, author of the new novel "Chandelier." In part two of our conversation, we discuss looking for the next story, processing ideas, writing dialogue and getting characters into conversation as fully formed people, and more! Ben shares his remarkable journey from a career in marketing and speech writing to writing his debut book. Learn how he balanced life, work, and writing to achieve his creative dreams.

Book Club & Author Event: Join Alida in conversation about her novel, A Stone's Throw on December 9. Register at: https://wordessential.com/events/a-stones-throw/

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 309 | Immigrant Stories & Historical Events - Fiction with Grishma Shah

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Join us for an insightful episode of Story Works Round Table as we welcome Grishma Shah. Grishma shares the journey of crafting her novel, Anagram Destiny. Inspired by her upbringing as the daughter of Indian immigrants and her expertise in culture and globalization, it's a reverse immigration story that explores the Indian American dream, cultural shifts, and the power of storytelling. Discover how personal experiences and historical events like 9/11 shape her narrative, and why fiction can resonate deeper than nonfiction. Don't miss this compelling conversation about identity, home, and the universal themes of love and loss.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 308 | Authors Talk Ghost Stories

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:18:11 GMT

Just in time for Halloween, the Story Works Round Table brings you a special episode featuring five incredible authors of ghost stories: Gabi Coatsworth, Paulette Kennedy, Jan Heidrich-Rice, Sandra Young, and Alida Winternheimer. Dive into the art of crafting paranormal tales, explore the inspiration behind these haunting narratives, and learn about the unique rules that govern their ghostly worlds. Plus, discover their upcoming events and workshops perfect for getting your literary boo on this spooky season. Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation—listen now!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 307 | From Lightning Strike to Novel with Ben Hawken

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 23:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn sit down with Ben Hawken, author of the new novel "Chandelier." Ben shares his remarkable journey from a career in marketing and speech writing to writing his debut book. Learn how he balanced life, work, and writing to achieve his creative dreams. Ben offers insights into story structure, the art of dialogue, and practical tips for aspiring writers. Whether you're looking to start your own writing journey or curious about the creative process, this episode is packed with inspiration and advice. Tune in now to hear Ben's story and get motivated to pursue your own creative passions!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

The Revision Mindset

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:12:12 GMT

In this week's Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn delve into the often daunting world of revision. Join them as they explore the mindset shifts necessary to tackle revisions without feeling overwhelmed. They discuss the importance of understanding that revision doesn't mean starting from scratch but rather making thoughtful adjustments to enhance your story. They share personal struggles and breakthroughs with revision, offering valuable insights and practical tips for writers facing similar challenges. Tune in to learn how to approach your manuscript with confidence and a clear plan, transforming the revision process into a manageable and even enjoyable part of your writing journey.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

Navigating the Feedback Landscape: A Writer's Guide

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 20:34:50 GMT

Feedback is an essential part of the writing journey, but it can also be one of the most challenging aspects to navigate.

In this week's episode of Story Works Round Table, Kathryn and Alida delve into the intricacies of receiving and giving feedback, offering valuable insights and practical advice for writers at all stages of their careers. One of the key takeaways from the episode is the importance of discerning useful feedback from less helpful critiques. Not all feedback is created equal, and it's crucial to find critique partners who understand your goals and can provide constructive criticism that aligns with your vision.

Get Alida's novel, A Stone's Throw, here.

Join Alida's fall series of writing workshops on backstory, writing tension, even fear, that gets your reader feeling it, and weaving together character, plot, and theme. Go to www.wordessential.com/events.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

Writing Senses with Paulette Stout

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:22:53 GMT

his week at the Story Works Round Table podcast, Alida and Kathryn explore the power of sensory details in writing with award-winning author Paulette Stout. Join us as we discuss how to bring scenes to life through sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Paulette shares insights into her writing process, her latest work, and how she uses sensory details to build vivid, immersive worlds.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Paulette Stout: https://www.paulettestout.com/

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 303 | Lainey Cameron interviews Alida about A Stone's Throw, novel

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:00:00 GMT

This week, the Story Works Round Table is turned: Alida is interviewed by guest host, Lainey Cameron, award-winning author, podcaster, and book marketing expert.

They discuss writing without genre in mind, starting with a vision only described as magical realism. Alida's novel, A Stone's Throw, explores themes of relationships, and motherhood, while highlighting the complexities of artistic identity and validation and the transformative power of community.

Lainey asks Alida about her inspiration, process, and the roles of creativity and community in her life and work.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 302 | Transitions: bridging the white space in your stories

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:09:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk transitions. What are the good, bad, and better ways to keep your readers reading past narrative breaks? We want to create bridges over that white space, whether it’s a scene, chapter, or part break, no matter who, when, or where shifts on the other side.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

SWRT 301 | 6 Things I Know That Will Help You Write Your Story

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 19:34:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida shares 6 powerful tips that will help you get your personal story down on the page. Whether you're writing for yourself, family, or the wide world of readers, these 6 things will help you clear the hurdles that make it hard to start telling your story.

Alida's latest essay was just published in Passengers Journal.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 300 | Finding Penrose - Paula Sheridan's life to book to film journey

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Paula Sheridan back to the Round Table to discuss her new project, Finding Penrose.

Paula's novel has already captured the hearts of celebrities, plus the media, with 100's of articles already published. And with two renowned film producers adapting Penrose's story for the big screen, they're now in talks with a Hollywood director and actors.

This heart-warming and captivating tale is based on the real-life story of Penrose Matsile, a young boy in 1922 Colonial Africa who was stolen from his village and forced into a life of slavery. Despite the unimaginable odds, Penrose spent his entire life courageously fighting to reclaim his identity and freedom.

We're excited to share Penrose's story with you, and my fellow author, Paula Sheridan, would be honored to have you join her on this incredible book-to-film journey through her exclusive launch campaign. Paula shares with us why she chose to fund this project herself--with community backing--instead of putting it in the hands of producers and risk the integrity of Penrose's story.

Check out Paula's Kickstarter campaign to support Penrose's journey!

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 299 | Authors Talk Women's Fiction

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, five authors sit down to talk women's fiction. Alida Winternheimer is joined by D. Liebhart, Heidi McIntyre, Amanda Speights, and Jen Telger to discuss their genre and their stories. There is a lot more to women's fiction than strong female characters or women authors. The diversity of the genre makes it distinct from other genres, keeping the writer's hands unbound by conventions or reader expectations. Though writing stories that range from historical to magical realism to contemporary and medical, they have a lot in common...especially a deep commitment to realism and their characters' emotional journeys.

Find all of the authors' bios and books links in the show notes at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Visit WordEssential.com/fictioncoaching to get the details and sign up today!

Get book, workshop, & coaching news first + thoughts on writing & the writing life at A Room Full of Books & Pencils.

SWRT 298 | Writing Whimsey

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn discuss writing with whimsey. Whimsical writing can add humor and charm to writing, but it's not only for children's stories. Lighthearted, quirky, and funny moments add levity to otherwise serious or dark tales. After this week's episode, you might just find yourself writing whimsically.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 297 | Dialogue

Thu, 09 May 2024 18:50:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk dialogue. We've noticed what may be some poor advice and some frightening trends in dialogue floating around out there. Time to bust some myths and pop some speech balloons!

We draw on the past two Writers Book Club short stories for examples of dialogue, interiority, and narrative point of view. There is a lot of craft to unpack in this week's episode, a bit of silliness, and a writing prompt, too!

"Dialogue is an art form all in and of itself. So be aware of what you're putting on the page."

"Dialogue should reveal something to the reader."

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New Summer Session begins May 29. Get details & schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 296 | Writers Book Club: Chekhov

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:13:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discuss Chekhov's story, "The Woman with the Little Dog." You can get the link to read it in the show notes.

"Everything that he found important, interesting, necessary, in which he was sincere and did not deceive himself, which constituted the core of his life, occurred in secret from others." -Chekhov

Unpack the layers of Anton Chekhov's poignant short story, "The Lady with the Little Dog," in this thought-provoking episode of Story Works Round Table. Alida and Kathryn dissect the narrative's exploration of love, regret, and societal imprisonment. As they navigate through the characters internal struggles and the story's critique of marital conventions, listeners are invited to consider depth of character emotion, subtext, and presenting social commentary through story.

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New Summer Session begins at the end of May. Get details & schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's reflections on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 295 | Writers Book Club: Gina Berriault

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discuss Gina Berriault's short story, "The Woman in the Rose Colored Dress." At only 2 1/2 pages, it packs in remarkable sentences, the experience of time passing, incredible subtext in minimal dialogue, and a realistic coming of age story when a girl makes a discovery about her father that shifts her understanding of the world. Get the link in our show notes to read the story yourself.

Join my new group coaching session for writers. Get your free discovery call today: www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 294 | What Is Genre, Anyway?

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 23:05:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Carlee, and Robert go deep with the question of what makes a genre a genre? Discover the nuances of crafting stories and targeting the right readership. We dissect the concept of genre as both a craft and marketing tool. It's far more useful to us writers than just a marketing category. Writing to market is often confused with marketing. And what about those of us who strive to be "pure artists," putting categories at the end of the process? Whether you aim to meet or subvert reader expectations, there's more to your genre than meets the eye.

"Genre determines what the story is trying to do."

"If you get lost in a story and you're not quite sure where you're taking it, it's often because you're not clear on genre."

This is an episode from our library, formerly published as #184.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 293 | Revision with D. Liebhart

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:58:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by D. Liebhart.

Revision is more than just fixing typos and filling plot holes; it's about delving deep into the heart of the story and ensuring every word, every character, and every twist aligns with the author's vision. D. discusses the challenges she faced revising her award-winning novel, House on Fire, from seeking perfection to knowing when to let go. We talk about the importance of actionable feedback, the dynamics of writing groups, and the critical decision to step away when the process no longer serves the story.

Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, this episode is packed with wisdom. D.'s experiences remind us that the journey of revision is unique to every writer. It's a process that requires patience, honesty, and sometimes the courage to start anew.

"Revision is how you make something worth reading."

"You're the final arbiter of what goes in that book and what's meaningful to say."

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New sessions begin in 2024. Schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

#WritingTips #AuthorLife #Revision

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SWRT 292 | Marketing & Community withe Alexa Bigwarfe

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:00:00 GMT

"It's never too early to start thinking about marketing and building your community. It's never too early. It can be too late."

Ever thought it's too early to market your book? Think again! Alexa Bigwarfe shares her wisdom on today's Story Works Round Table, in a conversation that's as inspiring as it is informative.

Marketing, as Alexa says, is not just about selling books. It's about building relationships with readers, sharing your journey, and creating a platform where your voice can be heard. It's about laying the groundwork for your book to not just exist, but to thrive in a market that's flooded with content.

With Alexa's guidance, you'll feel empowered to tackle marketing head-on. She makes the task less daunting and more like an exciting new chapter in your author career.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 290 | Life to Fiction with D. Liebhart

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:48:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discover the compelling intersection of personal experience and fiction on this week's writing podcast. D. Leibhart joins us to share her journey writing her award-winning novel, House on Fire, and the art of turning life into literature. Join us for a conversation about craft and the complexities of writing stories based on personal experiences.

Join me at the Women in Publishing Summit! Get your ticket to the biggest 4-day, online conference for women authors.

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New sessions begin in 2024. Schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 290 | Heroes with Screenwriter Tim Auld

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:07:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn welcome screenwriter Tim Auld back to the round table to discuss heroes.

What makes a hero resonate with an audience? Tim Auld introduces us to the concept of ordinary heroism, a principle that suggests heroes should be inherently inadequate to the challenges they face. It's this inadequacy, this underdog status, that endears them to us and makes their journey emotionally gripping. He illustrates this point with a powerful image: an orangutan striking a crane with a stick, a futile yet emotionally charged act of defiance. It's a metaphor for the kind of heroism that Tim believes should be at the heart of storytelling.

Throughout the conversation, Tim emphasizes the importance of allowing heroes to fail and suffer. It's through their trials and tribulations that we, the audience, find a piece of ourselves, empathizing with their struggle and rooting for their success. He also touches on the current trends in storytelling, where characters are often portrayed as too perfect, too idealized, which can disconnect them from the audience.

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New sessions begin in 2024. Schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 289 | Scripting Didacticism with Screenwriter Tim Auld

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:59:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Kathryn welcome screenwriter Tim Auld to the Story Works Round Table to discuss the trend in film and literature toward didactic writing, when the (often moral) message of a piece overpowers the story trying to be told. Why is this still happening when audiences are weary of it? What about writing a message-focused story—is there a right way to do it?

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New sessions begin in 2024. Schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

Swrt 288 | Stakes & Agency

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 10:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss the relationship between stakes and agency. How do these aspects of plot and character work together to create forward drive in your story?

This episode is from our library. It was previously published as episode 73.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. New sessions begin in 2024. Schedule your free discovery call today at www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Do you have a project in need of a ghost writer? I'd love to hear from you! www.wordessential.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 287 | Crafting Character Arcs

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk about creating character arcs. Most characters won't utterly transform from villain to hero, like our friend Scrooge, but shift needs to happen. Our character and plot arcs are married. The internal character arc is played out in the external plot arc. Identifying your character's shift is a great way to engineer your arc.

Happy New Year! We'll see you in 2024!

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. A new session begins in May. www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 286 | Writers Book Club: A Christmas Carol

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 17:56:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn tackle a holiday classic, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Most of us have seen the story dramatized annually, whether on television or in the theatre. But how many of us have actually read it? It was my first time and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. No surprise, however, Dickens packs this tale with more than good cheer. There is a lot to examine as writers, lessons that we can carry into our craft year round.

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. A new session begins in May. www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Do you have a project in need of a ghost writer? I'd love to hear from you! www.wordessential.com.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 285 | Self Discovery Through Writing

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 22:31:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn solve the world's problems with one simple, three-part edict.

We're kidding, but we're kind of not. Writing and reading are all about building empathetic connections with people who are nothing like ourselves. As such, writers are gifted with a truly great responsibility.

Share this episode and a book with the people you love.

If you're in the States, Happy Thanksgiving! Wherever you are, I am grateful for every single person who takes the time to listen to one another.

Subscribe to A Room Full of Books & Pencils and receive 21 Reasons to Pause, a series of writing prompts and tips.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Do you have a project in need of a ghost writer? I'd love to hear from you! www.wordessential.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 284 | Writers Book Club: Naming My Father

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 10:23:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Dr. Martha Highers to the Writers Book Club to discuss "Naming My Father," a personal essay that won the Under the Sun summer writing contest. Martha is an editor at Under the Sun. not only do we talk as reader-writers, we get an insightful behind the scenes glimpse of the selection and editorial process for this wonderful essay about growing up the child of an autistic parent before anyone understood autism.

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Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Do you have a project in need of a ghost writer? I'd love to hear from you! www.wordessential.com.

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SWRT 283 | Characterization

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:14:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discuss characterization, with examples from a short story by Junot Díaz. They analyze how Díaz introduces characters through the narrator's perspective, using just a few sharp details to create vivid impressions of complex people are are inspired to re-examine their own character descriptions.

Hear the latest from A Room Full of Books & Pencils, “Does Reading Make Us Better People?”

Show notes and more: https://storyworkspodcast.com

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching. www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

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SWRT 282 | Writers Book Club: Fiesta, 1980 by Junot Diaz

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 08:26:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, listener and fellow writer Dave sits down with Alida and Kathryn to discuss the short story by Junot Diaz, "Fiesta, 1980." We're amazed by how much tension Diaz packs into this story about a family gathering, as well as his incredible voice, imagery, and metaphors.

Are you ready to work with a developmental editor or writing coach? Do you have a project in need of a ghost writer? I'd love to hear from you! www.wordessential.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils. booksandpencils.substack.com

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SWRT 281 | Bookends

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 07:48:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discuss bookending a story with a prologue and epilogue. Bookends can't just be tacked on; they need to be essential to the reader's understanding of whole story.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Read A Room Full of Books & Pencils, ruminations on the essential, stories, & storycraft at booksandpencils.substack.com.

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SWRT 280 | Writers Book Club: Ethan Frome

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:22:00 GMT

This week we're back from summer break with a new season and a new format. In addiction to the regular conversations about craft, we'll be reading a short prose text each month and discussing it as writers. Would you like to join the book club? Next month we're talking about Junot Diaz' short story "Fiesta 1980."

This week, we delve into Edith Wharton's brilliant novella, Ethan Frome. What makes this work enduring? What can we learn by reading it and possibly emulate in our own writing? Prepare to be amazed.

I suggest you read the story before listening if you aren't already familiar with it. We spoil everything, because that's the only way to benefit from a conversation about the writing behind this truly great American story.

Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton

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SWRT | Summer 2023

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 18:16:00 GMT

Story Works Round Table is back next month with some exciting new shows!

Want to sit at the round table? Reach out and let us know!

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SWRT 279 | The Storyteller's Workbook

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 09:47:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Adrienne Young and Isabel Ibañez to the Story Works Round Table to chat about their new book, The Storyteller's Workbook. This is a novelist's dream tool and you're going to want to get your hands on a copy - just ask Kathryn! We get into everything, from the beautiful design and feel of the paper (it really does matter) to the myriad tools to sections on revision and publication that Adrienne and Isabel packed inside one book cover...all for you.

If you love storytelling, pull up a chair at the Round Table!

You've invested countless hours on your manuscript, and now it's time to invest your writing and yourself. Join a small, select group of your peers in novelist's group coaching. Receive mentoring from an expert writing coach while finishing your novel at an accellerated pace. Schedule your discovery call with Alida today. www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

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SWRT 278 | Outlining Your Novel

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 09:26:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Kathryn discuss the process of outlining. There is more to talk about than we might first think. Why is outlining useful? How should we go about it to make sure it's a time saver and not a time waster? Does it help to outline more than once in the writing process?

Outlining (or storyboarding) is a great way to assess the story you're writing before and during the lengthy process of novel drafting. The more experienced a writer you are, the more valuable the tool seems to be!

Are you ready to get more out of your writing, to grow your writing skills, and get that novel done faster? Do you want community, feedback, and mentoring? Check out group coaching for novelists. A new session begins in May. www.wordessential.com/fictioncoaching

If you enjoyed this craft tip, please give it a thumbs up, share, and say hello. I love hearing from you!

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SWRT 277 | Contests with Paula Sheridan of Page Turner Awards

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida has Paula Sheridan of the Page Turner Awards joining me at the Round Table to discuss contests. We talk the reasons for entering contests, what judges look for, and getting your manuscript in shape before placing it in judge’s hands.

I’m especially excited about today’s show, because Paula founded the Page Turner Awards. She and her husband, Ken, are doing something unique—at least I’ve never of heard of it being done before.

They are bridging the traditional and indie worlds, holding an annual contest for writers of all stripes and any genre in one place. Not only that, a trophy is nice and a gold seal on your cover does boost sales, but how about winning a mentorship with a developmental editor? How about winning your book being adapted to audio or a screenplay?

Visit www.storyworkspodcast.com to grab Paula's gifts to Story Works Round Table listeners and get links to all the great craft episodes you'll want to get your work in shape for the judges!

Fiction Group Coaching new session begins in May. Schedule a discovery call with Alida today. www.wordessential.com/editing/coach.

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SWWT | Character Traits

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 19:03:00 GMT

This week's Story Works Writing Tip is all about traits: Make your character traits significant to your story...and here's why and how.

A new session of Fiction Group Coaching begins in May. Got a novel in a drawer? Stuck in the middle of a project? Want to improve your craft while fixing a project in a small group of select peers with a mentor? Set up a discovery call today: www.wordessential.com/editing/coach

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SWRT 276 | Things We Say

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 19:08:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Kathryn turns the table on Alida. We talk "things we say," all those bits and bobbles of craft speak that get tossed around but not always defined. What does it mean to be tightly plotted? Does every character need a lie or core wound, and are those the same thing?

I have a new session of fiction group coaching beginning soon. This is a special opportunity for writers with a solid grasp of novel writing who are ready to greatly improve their writing skills in a small group of peers with me as your mentor. Each session is three months with biweekly calls. Group size is limited so every member gets time each call to address their story craft questions and discuss their work in progress. Writers in last year’s coaching group have been amazed by the progress they make by having the chance to solve problems as they go, instead of waiting for full draft feedback. The amount of support, encouragement, and accountability is immense. If you’ve got a work in progress, a manuscript getting musty in a drawer, or a complete draft with some problem spots you’d like to dive into, all while becoming a better writer through mentorship and peer support, go to:

www.WordEssential.com/editing/coach

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SWRT 275 | Craft and Conscience with Kavita Das

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:04:00 GMT

This week, Alida & Kathryn welcome Kavita Das to the Story Works Round Table. Kavita has a new book out, Craft & Conscience, all about writing that is concerned with social issues. And really, what writing isn't in one way or another getting at the aspects of being human and being human together that could use some work? This conversation is equally beneficial for fiction and nonfiction writers.

This is part 2 of our conversation with Kavita.

Visit her at www.kavitadas.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWWT | Openings

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 20:36:00 GMT

This week's Story Works Writing Tip is all about openings. You need to pack a lot into your opening, just don't throw in the kitchen sink!

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SWRT 274 | Craft and Conscience, special guest Kavita Das

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 21:08:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Kathryn welcome Kavita Das to the Story Works Round Table. Kavita has a new book out, called Craft & Conscience, all about writing that is concerned with social issues. And really, what writing isn't in one way or another getting at the aspects of being human and being human together that could use some work? This conversation is equally beneficial for fiction and nonfiction writers.

Craft and Conscience delves into topics including parsing our motivations for writing about social issues, understanding the relationship between the writer, reader, and subject, balancing narrative and context, differences between writing about social issues from an outside or inside perspective, writing opinion editorial pieces, understanding the importance of cultural sensitivity and avoiding cultural appropriation, and considering the implications (positive and negative) of writing about social issues to others and to ourselves. I'm happy to have a wide-ranging conversation or to delve more deeply into one or more of these topics.

Beacon Press author Kavita Das, whose book Craft and Conscience: How to Write About Social Issues was released this fall. Das describes Craft and Conscience as "the guidance she wished she’d had as an emerging writer," and the book offers key lessons, reflections, frameworks, and considerations for writing effectively about hot-button issues. Das herself has taught nonfiction writing at the New School and Catapult and has written about social issues for ten years. Previously, she worked in the social change sector for fifteen years, addressing issues ranging from community and housing inequities to public health disparities and racial injustice. Das is also the author of the biography Poignant Song: The Life and Music of Lakshmi Shankar.

Find Kavita Das at www.kavitadas.com

Show notes and more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

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SWWT | Simple Sentence-Level Revision for MAJOR Improvement

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 19:30:00 GMT

Get Alida's musings on life, writing, and the writing life in A Room Full of Books & Pencils and stay up to date on book launches, special offers, and more at booksandpencils.substack.com

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 273 | Writing Good Sex Scenes

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 08:44:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn mention unmentionables. We have a clean conversation about the craft of writing our characters' intimate moments. How much should go on the page? What guidelines can help us decide when to show more or less of the skin in the game? What are the qualities of a good sex scene and how do we know we got it right?

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWWT | Supporting Characters' Relationships

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 19:08:00 GMT

This week's Story Works Writing Tip is all about supporting characters' relationships. Use them to give a boost to your protagonist's arc!

If you enjoyed this craft tip, please give it a thumbs up, share, and say hello. I love hearing from you!

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

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SWRT 272 | Chapter End-hooks

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 16:51:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn talk about ending chapters so that readers can't wait to "jump the gap" and get on with the next one. What kind of end-hooks work and how? Do we instinctively know where to place our chapter breaks? Is there a formula to follow? Or maybe the story guides us? When not to use an epigraph before your chapters, and more!

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT Holiday Message & Gift

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 10:00:00 GMT

We have a special gift for you this holiday season!

We’ll be spending extra time with our families this holiday season, but will be back with all new podcast episodes in January 2023. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a single one.

Listen to this short message for your special gift.

Happy Holidays and happy writing from Story Works Round Table!

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SWRT 271 | Character Motivation

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:22:00 GMT

This episode previously aired as 061.

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert character motivation. It’s crucial to every element of your story and you’ll do yourself a favor by having a handle on it in the prewriting stages. We talk about the protagonist, the reader, and you, the writer. Also, how motivation relates to flaws and conflicts, and how a series differs from a standalone.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 270 | Backstory

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 10:31:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table: conversations about craft, Kathryn and Alida discuss writing backstory. It’s been coming up for both of us lately, including in Alida's fiction coaching group. What is the one critical element to getting it right? How do you successfully transition your narrative into and out of backstory? Want a great example of a great author deftly handling backstory? We got one!

Show notes and links at www.storyworkspodcast.com Writing Workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWWT | Twists

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 10:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Writing Tip, Alida talks twists. Plot twists aren't all about the plot, they're really about...

Show notes and more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 269 | Villains & Act II

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Kathryn discuss what to do with your villain in act II. As we know, they aren't usually black-hat-evil-doers, but we still need an escalation of stakes for our protagonist. How do we keep act II moving along at a good pace, whether our villain is a bad person or a force or situation in our character's lifethat causes challenges? We look at multiple scenarios for our heroes and what to do to keep them and the villain rising toward the climax.

This episode will be linked in the show notes to all related episodes in the library.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWWT | Agency

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:31:00 GMT

In this week's Story Works Writing Tip, Alida defines agency and describes active and passive protagonists. Agency is about character as much as plot.

If you enjoyed this craft tip, please give it a thumbs up, share, and say hello. I love hearing from you!

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 268 | Writing Scary Stories

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 09:06:00 GMT

If Halloween inspired you get your Boo! on, this episode of the Story Works Round Table is for you. Alida and Kathryn talk the craft of scaring the pants off your readers. But this isn’t just a skill for horror writers. We all need to write scenes from time to time full of dramatic suspense, an eerie mood, or dark twists. Loaded with examples and how-to, you’re sure to be ready to write scary!

Let us know what you learned from this episode, what you liked, what you have questions on. Suggest a topic for future episodes. And if you think you’d be a good co-host, let us know!

Get the Scary Monsters & Super Creeps writing workshop at www.StoryWorksFiction.com

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SWWT | Speaking vs Dialogue

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:09:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Writing Tip, Alida talks about writing natural sounding dialogue without falling into the trap of writing like we speak.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 267 | Agency

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss character agency. In this, Robert's final episode as a co-host, he brought us the question of what to do with a character who is kept "on the back foot"? How do you write a protagonist with agency when the hero is in a position that seemingly rules out taking charge? This episode will be linked in the show notes to all related episodes in the library.

Would you like to be considered as the next co-host on the Story Works Round Table? Drop me a line!

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWWT | 3 Things to Know about Backstory

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 08:34:00 GMT

This week on Story Works Writing Tips, Alida talks backstory. There are 3 primary ways to introduce backstory into your now-story. Use them all for variety and according to the demands of the specific scenes within your story.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 266 | Writing Humor

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:10:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Rober answer a listener's question about writing humor into our stories. Is comedy just a special gift some writers have and the rest of us don't? Or are there things we can craft to make our story moments funny?

Join us as we explore the topic and let us know your favorite funny authors as well as how you handle comedic moments in your writing. Share in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!

Do you have a question or topic you'd like us to explore? Let us know. We'd be happy to!

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWWT | Trouble Matters

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 16:41:00 GMT

In this week's Story Works Writing Tip, Alida discusses trouble and it's role in your story's arc. Story Works Writing Tips are bite-sized lessons ready to improve your story craft today. Listen. Digest. Write!

The Story Works Round Table and Story Works Writing Tips alternate weeks to make sure you're never without conversations about craft.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

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SWRT 265 | Read Widely to Improve Craft

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss all the ways reading widely benefits you as a writer. There is so much more to be gained from reading as a writer than reading as a reader. Kathryn attests that her story craft has improved by reading beyond her favorite genre. How has reading improved your storytelling? What are the pitfalls to avoid when shopping for books? How can you find the books with the scenes that will deliver the help you need as a writer?

Would you like to join the Story Works Round Table? We're looking for a new co-host! Listen to this week's show to learn more.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWWT | Plot & the Short Story

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 09:08:00 GMT

This week I am excited to bring you something all new. As you know, the Story Works Round Table is bi-weekly, but I’d hate for you to miss a healthy dose of story craft in those in-between weeks, so I’ve got short, sweet writing tips for you alternating with the Round Table podcast. This week, I talk about plot and the short story. Enjoy!

www.storyworkspodcast.com

Want to work with a writing coach? www.wordessential.com

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SWRT 264 | Writing Physicality

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn get physical (and you won’t believe the scenes that get Robert in trouble!). When you need your characters to do something involving specific bodily movements, how can you create choreography that delivers the precise image you want in the reader’s mind, then move beyond choreography to create a felt experience in your reader’s body?

Do you have a WIP that would benefit from group coaching? Check out Alida’s fall session and join us today! https://wordessential.com/fictiongroupcoaching/

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 263 | Act II

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert dig into Act II. If this sounds familiar:

Robert: A big problem is that when you dream up your story, you have this amazing sense of, I just thought this amazing thing is going to happen to this character and then how it's all going to end. Okay, but there's 50% of your novel, which I just haven't thought about yet. I think for many of us, it's being able to slow down, tease apart the problem, and introduce all of the complications that are required to then deliver that delicious climax that is really satisfying to the reader.

Kathryn: Yeah, we have this big empty gap, like, just tell me what to put in here, please.

...sit back and join the Round Table as we talk about "what to put in here, please!"

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Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 262 | Non-protagonist POVs

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss using a non-protagonist as your point of view character. What pitfalls does a writer face in doing this? Will readers engage with a witness POV? And if the POV character does not have stakes in the action, what then? This topic came to us from a listener's question and made for a juicy craft conversation!

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 261 | Arcless Protagonist

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Robert & Kathryn discuss the merits and pitfalls of writing a hero without a character arc. It has been done to great success, so why do so few people suggest it’s even possible to write an arcless protagonist?

This episode previously aired as episode 007.

Show notes and links at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 260 | Short Stories

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:02:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn talk about short stories. Why, as novelists, do we love writing the short story? What can we learn by writing short stories that we maybe can't by writing novels? What makes a short story great? Memorability. A shift in the reader. Sound tough to achieve? Don't let that stop you! Your writing skills will grow in leaps and bounds when you take on the short story.

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 259 | Retreat & Research

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Kathryn discuss the benefits of writing retreats, especially when your story requires location-specific research. Whether you're writing urban fantasy, historical, or just a story set in a real place, this episode is a happy exploration of how taking time for yourself as a writer and immersing in your research can do wonders for both your story and you!

Story Works Round Table is going biweekly this summer. Our next episode is coming out in two weeks. Use our off weeks to explore the catalog of over 250 episodes all about story craft, writing process, and the creative life!

Story Works Reading Series is open for submissions. Do you have a short story or essay you'd like to read on a literary journal for your ears? Submit today!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 258 | Love & Writing

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss Love & Writing. How many ways can you write love and all its complications into your stories? We aren't talking about romance here, just love in its many complex forms.

Story Works Round Table will be coming out biweekly. Don't worry, we aren't going away, just changing the schedule. Use our off weeks to explore the catalog of over 250 conversations about craft at www.storyworkspodcast.com!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 257 | Trouble

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:58:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss trouble and your plot, character, arcs, craft and more.

Sneak Peak:

Alida: It's always from the fry pan to the fire. Keep asking yourself, how is this going to get worse for my character?

Kathryn: The decisions they make can't make them happier. These decisions have to make them suffer more, constantly more suffering. But it's not always the physical suffering, just things going on around them are overwhelmed or frustration or anger. Things not turning out the way that they want them to turn out. It's just that constant compounding of things.

Alida: Right. I think I hear a theme here. Frustration, overwhelm. Weren't we just talking about that? well, but let's break that down a little bit more, because we do want our characters to have moments of light and joy in the story. We don't want the story to be a total drag for the readers, and we don't want it to be hopeless for our characters. So let's say that your hero gets to kiss the Princess. Then what? Well, the Princess gets kidnapped. So you give us that hope, you throw us the dog bone or whatever. But then you've got to come and escalate the trouble. And by doing that, by combining the hope with the trouble, you actually raise the stakes for the character and the reader because by giving the character what he wants, then we've got that sense of reward and satisfaction. And it's harder to have it and lose it than to never have it at all and to just keep slogging along.

This episode previously aired as #019.

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SWRT 256 | Act I

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss Act I in this all new episode about opening your novel. What is the author's responsibility to the reader? How does your opening need to connect to your ending and what happens when it doesn't? We link it in the show notes to all the related episodes in our catalog, so make sure to check out our Library Links at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 255 | Using Repetition in Your Story

Thu, 26 May 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the usefulness and drawbacks of using repetition in your story. What kind of repeition is typically employed in story? When does it become predictable or dull? How can we use repetition effectively to add to the reader's experience without compromising novelty?

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 254 | Motifs

Thu, 19 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss motifs, those recurring elements in a story that seem to live in the background yet enhance the power and meaning of narrative.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 253 | Openings

Thu, 12 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss openings, when and how to begin your novel. This episode will be linked in the show notes to all related episodes in the library.

What does your opening page communicate to a reader? When should you open with a prologue and when in media res? How do you introduce your world without bogging the reader down in info dumps or backstory? Is everything in your opening essential?

Story Works Reading Series is open for submissions. Do you have a short story or essay you'd like to read on a literary journal for your ears? Submit today at www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit.

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SWRT 252 | Faces

Thu, 05 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk about describing your characters’ faces so they make an impression on your readers. Faces are so much more than a list of physical traits, brown hair, deep eyes, cleft chin. Lists are forgettable. When you describe your characters, strive to convey an impression of the *person* through the face.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 251 | Ambiguity in Story

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 07:02:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk about that slippery subject, ambiguity. What is it? How does it function in story? How & why it can disappoint or disgruntle readers (like Kathryn!). How it’s different from a hook. More!

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New session for novelists May - July. Apply today. www.WordEssential.com/FictionGroupCoaching

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SWRT 250 | Description

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, & Kathryn talk description. Have you considered the purpose and power of description in your narrative before? Given that most of story is narrative, how you tell it matters. At the heart of narrative is description.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

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SWRT 249 | The Writers Sketchbook

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Looking for inspiration or want to know you're not alone in this crazy creative process called storytelling? Curious about how other writers spend writing time outside of drafting?

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about the ways we make writing our practice and practice our writing. Before launching a project, when problem solving, or developing a new skill, we hone our craft. Just like painters with their sketchbooks, we have our notebooks.

Submit to the Story Works Reading Series today. We want to read your short story or essay!

Show notes, links, & submit at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Creative writing workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 248 | Prewriting

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 18:48:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk about prewriting. There is so much to gain from this stage of the writing process, we go into what techniques we use, when, why, and how they help our drafting and revision processes. Head to the show notes to grab our slider of related episodes in our library. Show notes & more: www.StoryWorksPodcast.com Writing workshops: www.StoryWorksFiction.com

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SWRT 247 | The Writer's Mindset

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn dig into the writer's mindset. When we're facing challenges of motivation, inspiration, or just plain old scheduling, what can we do to get out of the rut and get back to what matters, what matters to us, that is? Sometimes the hardest thing to accept and act on is that it really is up to us (and no one else) if and when we write. Whether the world is humming along or falling apart at the macro or micro level, it still comes down to what we want and are willing to do for what we want.

Do you want to write?

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 246 | Theme

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss theme. This episode will be linked in the show notes to all other episodes related to theme, so if you're interested in the topic, you'll be able to quickly access the theme catalog in our library.

Kathryn and Alida think about theme a lot and it drives their work.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 245 | Emotions: their effect on story & reader

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 07:02:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn talk about emotions. A critical element of any story, it's not always obvious why or when we need them. Even trickier is how to put a feeling into words that translate beyond meaning, that actually make the reader feel what the character is feeling or something more. Crafting words on the page with the goal of emotional depth, intensity, or power is a worthwhile goal for any writer.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 244 | Weaving Time into Your Narrative

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn go deeper into the subject of writing time, specifically how to handle chronology in narrative. We have three very short examples that illustrate different methods of structuring your narrative to move the story and reader through time. Francisco holds us in the present, with her as she writes, while drawing us back into her remembrances. Sukruangrung uses a scene break to create a clear delineation between in-scene writing and exposition. McCloy keeps us in the story with her younger self, using very limited narrative interjections to add a little bit of hindsight to her piece. All of the writings are excellent and each method works equally well. I screen share the texts, so if you like to read along, watch on the website.

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRS 005 | Careless Whistle by Selene Castrovilla

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 09:00:00 GMT

On today's Story Works Reading Series, Selene Castrovilla reads the short story "Careless Whistle." If the title brings to mind a certain '80s pop tune, it (like everything in great fiction) is intentional. After the reading, Selene and I talk about her start in writing, the use of music in her narrative, theme, and how everything we put on the page is open to the reader's interpretation.

Selene is an award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Don't miss this episode and afterwards reach out to Selene!

This episode is pulled from our library of past episodes.

Story Works Reading Series is open for submissions. www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

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SWRT 242 | What Goes into a Scene

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss what goes into a scene. Is there a recipe to follow? Kind of, but joke as we may, scenes are built upon certain repeatable story elements. How does pacing change with the shape of your scenes? What mistakes are commonly made at the scene level?

Show notes, links, & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 241 | Character

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week on Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk character. What to do when your supporting characters resist the roles you've given them? Do you really need them all? What about developing new skills over the course of an arc?

Could your characters benefit from a writing lesson? Story Works has creative writing workshops available today on character traits, a master class in character development, story structure, plot, and more. Live workshops for Spring 2022 are coming soon! Details at www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWRT 240 | Time

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk time. It's about more than the passage of time in your story. Break out of the rut of chronological storytelling and use time to your advantage by structuring your narrative in nonlinear ways. Being creative in your use of time will enhance your suspense and reveals, no matter the genre you're writing in.

There is still time to enroll in the 10-week creative writing workshop, Memory Emotion Body. This special session brought to you by Story Works & the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop is all about accessing your innate writer's toolkit. This workshop is limited to a handful of students. Sign up today. at www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWRT 239 | A Cat in the Rain, Hemingway

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss a Hemingway short-short story, "A Cat in the Rain." Listen to the story, followed by our discussion of the craft choices apparent in Hemingway's text. At about 600 words, it's surprising how much there is to unpack and learn! Join Alida's MPWW session of the Memory Emotion Body creative writing workshop before seats fill up!

www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWRT 238 | Finishing Long Projects

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Kathryn and Robert put Alida on the spot. We talk about finishing a project you've already invested in a lot over a long time. Alida is in the home stretch of draft one of her current work-in-progress. We talk about the endurance game, staying inspired for the long haul, what happens when your setting and characters keep changing on you, research trips, and Duluth. Enjoy!

Links to coaching & workshops at www.storyworkspodcast.com - today’s episode.

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SWRT 237 | Idea to Draft

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk about the alchemical (or so it seems) process of going from lightning bolt to draft. What do you do when inspiration strikes? How do you know it's an idea worth pursuing? What about those fully formed sentences of pure gold that come when you're in the shower? We talk about it all.

Get all the details about Alida's essay, the MPWW session of the Memory Emotion Body workshop, and fiction group coaching, first quarter in the show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 236 | Co-authoring

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert welcome Shari Medini and Karissa Tunis back to the Round Table to discuss co-authoring. They have a successful parenting blog and now a book for busy, work-from-home parents. Whether you're thinking about teaming up to tackle a novel or a nonfiction treatise, you can learn a lot from this duo's experience as co-authors.

Shari and Karissa are the parenting advice bloggers at Adore Them Parenting and have a new book out to help make sure you get your parenting, work, and YOU time into every week. As successful writers themselves, we wanted to get their pro tips for collaborating on creative projects.

Group coaching for novelists: www.wordessential.com/editing/coach

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SWRT 235 | Writing, Parenting, & Working from Home

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert welcome Shari Medini and Karissa Tunis to the Round Table for our annual New Year's episode. This year we take a different tack and look at how we can maintain our writing goals in the new year when we have extra challenges, like working from our busy homes.

Shari and Karissa are the parenting advice bloggers at Adore Them Parenting and have a new book out to help make sure you get your parenting, work, and YOU time into every week. As successful writers themselves, we wanted to talk about the challenges creatives have when also faced with parenting and working at home.

This conversation isn't only for parents. Enjoy!

Show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRS 008 | Chris Hasara

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This month on the Story Works Reading Series, I am pleased to present Chris Hasara reading his short story, “Housekeeping.” After the story, we chat about writing in the cab of a truck, the Midwestern voice, single-character stories, his writing influences, including Edgar Allen Poe, and much more.

Do you have a short story or essay ready to read? I’d love to see it! www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

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SWRT 234 | How to End Your Story

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about ending your story. What is the purpose of your ending? How do you create space for the reader to really feel the emotional impact of your story? And when should you plan how you are going to tie up those plot points and emotional questions you opened at the beginning of your story? How can we add fresh twists to our inevitable endings? And how do we avoid or embrace the “Hollywood Ending”? In the end it’s all about creating the ending that satisfies your story!

This episode previously aired as 069.

Group coaching for fiction & nonfiction open for 2022. Apply at www.wordessential.com/editing/coach

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SWRT 233 | When Your Writing Sucks

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered if your writing sucks? We're all plagued by doubt sometimes. And other times the work just doesn't flow. This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn ask themselves what to do if your writing sucks?

We start off with a questions one of us may have been pondering before the call and weave our way through possible causes and solutions to this most troubling and amorphous craft question: does my writing sometimes suck?

If you ever ask yourself this question, you might be a candidate for coaching. Group coaching begins in 2022 for fiction and nonfiction writers. Listen and follow for more details. What is coaching? Learn more at www.WordEssential.com/editing/coach.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 232 | Voice

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Robert, & Kathryn use our voices to talk about voice. Not the spoken kind, but the written. What is an author's voice? Does it just happen or is it crafted? How does narrative voice used with character voice? What about a character whose voice does not fit with the narrative? Can that still work? And more this week on the Story Works Round Table.

Alida is offering group coaching to novel writers starting in February 2022. Follow for details and to secure your spot at the table!

Show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 231 | Backstory, Why Do We Need It?

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert,& Kathryn discuss backstory. Robert has been noticing novels that aren’t doing it well. How do writers go wrong when introducing backstory? When should you introduce backstory? How much can a reader take, anyway?

Want more on this topic, I have a workshop on Writing Backstory into Your Now-Story. Check it out at www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWRS 007 | Recreation by Robert James Russell

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:00:00 GMT

On today's Story Works Reading Series, Robert James Russell reads "Recreation." He brilliantly takes on the challenging form of the epistolary, then takes it one...or two...further by also presenting us with unnamed characters. Besides delving into the craft of this personal narrative form and getting a little bit meta, we talk about the solace of nature and things we can't decode.

If you enjoy listening to the literary journal for your ears, please tell your friends about us.

Show notes, links, more at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

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SWRT 230 | A Study of "The Log Jam"

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn examine an excerpt of a short story by author Barry Lopez. “The Log Jam,” in his collection Desert Notes River Notes, is a powerful piece of writing. We dig into sentence structure, voice, setting, emotional impact, characterization, and more. You can read the excerpt in the show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Get creative writing workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com

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SWRT 229 | Narrative Storytellers

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Alida and Kathryn dig into narrative storytellers on this week’s Story Works Round Table. Have you ever written a story with a storyteller as narrator? That’s a narrator that is not invisible, like the typical authorial narrator, and is not a character, like a first person narrator. But this narrator is full of personality and can be as opinionated as you like. A storyteller’s voice evokes a sense of being present, of hearing the story is essential to creating a storyteller experience for the reader.

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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SWRT 228 | NaNoWriMo

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk NaNoWriMo and pushing for big word counts. November is underway, but it’s not too late to join NaNoWriMo, so if you’ve been on the fence, check out Kathryn’s experience with and advice on National Novel Writing Month. But if you’re like Alida, you might fall into the “not for me” camp. We’ve got both sides covered in this week’s conversation about craft.

Shownotes & more www.storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 227 | In Media Res

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Robert discuss what it means to open your story in media res. When is it a good idea to start in the middle of action? How does that affect the opening of your work, character introductions, and more?

Get show notes, links, writing tips, and more at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

Find Alida's writing workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 226 | Introducing Characters

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 15:34:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida & Robert talk about introducing characters to your readers on the page. After you've invested in your characters' development, make sure you don't skimp on the process of making introductions. There is a craft to making a solid first impression on your reader. One that doesn't overwhelm with a dump of traits but spirals the details of a person, physical and intangible, in a meaningful way into the character's first scene.

Want more ways to explore story craft? Join Alida's writing workshops. Making Your Readers Fear & Fear For Your Characters is Oct. 24th. Sign up at www.storyworksfiction.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 225 | Fear

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Alida and Robert sit down at the Story Works Round Table to talk fear this week. How do we get our readers to feel fear from just the written word? What craft tools can we employ? It’s one thing with a wide-angle narrative lens, but what about a close third POV? We dig into all of this and more!

Love this topic? Join my workshop, Making Readers Fear & Fear For Your Characters on October 24th. Details at www.storyworksfiction.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 224 | Antagonistic Forces

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about villains you can't vanquish: How do you handle a villain that can't wear a hat, black or otherwise? When your story calls for a force instead of a figure, what does that mean for your plot? For your character? What do you need to be aware of when writing a bad event or circumstance, instead of a bad guy? Are there genre-specific antagonistic forces?

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com. Get workshops at www.StoryWorksFiction.com

Previously released as SWRT 085.

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SWRS 006 | Eastern White Pine at the Corner of the Farm

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This month the Story Works Reading Series returns after summer break with a new piece of creative nonfiction by essayist, journalist, and writing professor, Jonathon Heide. I am honored to bring Jonathon’s essay, Eastern White Pine at the Corner of the Farm, to you followed by a conversation with the author about the intersection of nonfiction and storytelling, bringing your personal self into your writing, loggers and arborists and generations of family. Grab a cup of something warm and enjoy this episode of the Story Works Reading Series.

Get Alida's creative writing workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com

Submit your work to the Reading Series at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 223 | Dystopian Fiction in Dystopian Times

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk about writing dystopian fiction when the world we’re living in seems dystopian. What does a dystopian story have to offer readers who already feel left out or beat down? Maybe…a lot.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 222 | Storycraft Over Time

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk about the changes we've noticed in storycraft when reading books of past eras. How has storytelling changed with the times and what elements of craft should we hang onto?

What books of old have you read and how do you think storytelling is changing? Let us know on our comments page!

www.storyworkspodcast.com

Get Alida's writing workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 221 | Writing BIG Scenes

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk about those big, really BIG, scenes. When your story demands an epic battle or riot or disaster, how can you create the right blend of massive action & personal emotion? What are the pitfalls of multiple points of view in epic scenes? And lots more today at the Round Table. Pull up a chair & join us!

Show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 220 | The Writer as Student of Human Nature

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn ask, how can we develop our characters if we aren’t naturally curious about people? We three writers find ourselves putting our friends, family, neighbors, even strangers under our version of the microscope. What do we--and our stories--gain as observers of human nature? Where does our authenticity come from as writers? Is there a method to our madness?

We’re always diving into the lives and minds of our characters in an effort to bring them to life for our readers, which makes us amateur, or armchair, psychologists. But how do we keep from getting it wrong? The key is not a technicality of research or analysis, or in our attitude toward others. We’ve found that compassion and empathy make for the best character development.

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SWRT 219 | Nitty Gritty: Grammar & More

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn ponder whether or not people with a creative license need to worry about the conventions of grammar & punctuation. I don't think the answer will surprise you, but the whys, wherefores, & particular concerns we have with those craft elements may prove enlightening.

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Submit to the Story Works Reading Series now: www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

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SWRT 218 | Better Description through Revision

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, we cover one of Kathryn’s current pain points: when description doesn’t happen while drafting and how to get it done in revision. The role of description is much richer in your story than you may think. (Previously released as episode 125.)

Robert resists adding description while he fast drafts, knowing he’ll have to face it in later drafts. Kathryn struggles to get down in words what she knows has to be there. This leads to lots of placeholders in her draft, notes to fill in the details later…but all those To Do notes can get depressing!

Kathryn’s flow state writing has gone missing due to life’s time constraints. Alida gives her a tip to turn stolen minutes into productive writing time—one we can all benefit from! We expand the conversation about using your “throat clearing” time for descriptive writing, something I’m adding to my writing practice today. Reconnecting with your story’s voice will help you nail your descriptions. You’re going to love the argument for the richness of detail while working with Robert’s notion of the “artfully vague.”

At the end, Robert wonders if all this is any help to Kathryn. (I’m pretty sure it is!)

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 217 | What We're Reading Now & Why, part 2

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week Alida, Robert, & Kathryn continue discussing what we’re reading now and why we chose it. Why would a successful, beautifully-written book lose readers? What niche mystery has Robert excited to read more?

Show notes, links & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Submit to the fall season of the Story Works Reading Series now! www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

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SWRT 216 | What We're Reading & Why We Chose It

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we return the subject of what we’re reading now. We get into not only the titles we’re into, but what makes them work and maybe not work as well as they could. We have a variety of reasons for what we choose to read beyond “pleasure” and the books are not all in our genres. You might be surprised by which popular and award-winning novel we dissect. How did you feel about All…?

We're having an Ask Us Anything episode in the near future. Just head over to iTunes and leave us a review. Pose your craft question in your review and we'll address it on the episode!

Show notes & more: www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 215 | Epilogues

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, we talk about “those bits tacked on at the end of a story to explain everything…” Wait, who said that? We discuss the epilogue and dig into our favorite epilogue to love and hate at the end of the Harry Potter series. What did you think of it? Have you written epilogues to your novels? Let us know in the comments.

Want to be part of the conversation? Good!

We're having an Ask Us Anything episode in the near future. Just head over to iTunes and leave us a review. Pose your craft question in your review and we'll address it on the episode!

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Got a story? Submit to Story Works Reading Series at www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 214 | Prologues

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert dissect the prologue. Can you be for or against prologues? When do writers do them wrong? And how do you do them right? As with so many of our Round Tables, we start out with something that seems so simple, yet find ways to sink our teeth into a juicy discussion!

Want to be part of the conversation? Good.

We're having an Ask Us Anything episode in the near future. Just head over to iTunes and leave us a review. Pose your craft question in your review and we'll address it on the episode!

Show notes & more: www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 213 | Pacing Your Novel

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer, Robert Scanlon, & Kathryn Arnold talk pacing. Isn’t it about word count and how quickly readers turn the pages? You know, that old chestnut, the Beach Read? It’s about the need to know what’s coming next, the reader’s desire to keep being drawn into and through the story. But it’s also about the ebb and flow of action, not an overall speed, but a rhythm that allows for ups and downs, quick and slow movements. Make the pace of your story organic to your character’s experience. Do not think of pace in terms of speed, but in terms of the reader’s experience of your story.

Enjoy this unpacking of this seemingly simple topic, pacing, and join the conversation at our Story Works Writers Facebook group.

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Got a story? Submit to Story Works Reading Series at www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 212 | Reconnecting with an Old Work-in-Progress

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk about reconnecting with a work-in-progress that has been shelved for a looooong time. Robert has returned to a manuscript after 4 years. Anyone who has been more than “resting” a manuscript will benefit from today’s discussion.

Join your hosts, Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, and Robert Scanlon, at the Round Table every week by visiting http://storyworkspodcast.com. Show notes, links, comments, and more!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 211 | Dialogue, Natural & Unnatural

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Round Table, we talk about talking. What goes into writing natural sounding dialogue that is still artful in its delivery? What are the pitfalls of giving your characters speaking parts? How many ways can you make them sound wooden, artificial, or even annoying? Should you really use said? And does Robert have a dialogue pet peeve?

Join your hosts, Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, and Robert Scanlon at http://storyworkspodcast.com. Show notes, links, comments, & more!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 210 | Emotional Wounds

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

In this weeks Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Becca Puglisi to talk about emotional wounds, and writing deeper and more compelling fiction.

This episode previously aired as episode 028. Make sure you go back into the library and check out our other episodes with Becca Puglisi.

Join your hosts, Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, and Robert Scanlon, at the Round Table every week by visiting http://storyworkspodcast.com. Show notes, links, comments, and more!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 209 | Encouragement & Growing Writers

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 12:54:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk about budding writers, young writers, and old hands like ourselves. It seems we all need encouragement and support to get on with the act & the art of writing! What helps you get through your story projects? Let us know in the comments.

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 208 | POV & Dramatic Tension

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk point of view & dramatic tension. How does your handling of POV affect your story's plot arc? Could your POV character make or break the pace of your action? The better you control the interplay of POV & tension, the tighter & more effective your storytelling.

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 207 | Using Reader Feedback Effectively

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida & Kathryn welcome poet & publishing guide Scott James back to the Round Table. When is the right time to present your manuscript to outside readers? We talk strategies for ensuring you get quality feedback from those select few who count. As well as ways to incorporate that feedback into your revision process.

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 206 | Plot & Character Arcs

Thu, 20 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the relationship between your plot and character arcs. We have a modern classic story (thanks to Kathryn’s little ones) to dissect, making this conversation grounded in examples. If you haven’t seen it, you may want to grab some popcorn and watch Finding Nemo! Though it’s definitely not required, because we got you covered with all the details you need to join this conversation at the Round Table.

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 205 | Genre & Publishing Categories

Thu, 13 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Scott James back to the Round Table to discuss how we can use genre considerations while we're drafting to avoid future pitfalls. Scott is a publishing guide with an interesting take on our topic. He also knows how to make sure your novel makes it into the right readers' hands. He's got a great tip for making Amazon categories work for you!

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 204 | Better Prose with Poetry

Thu, 06 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Scott James to the Round Table to discuss the lessons prose writers can learn from the art of poetry. Are novelists and poets such different creatures, after all? What can prose writers learn from the way poets approach imagery and metaphor? We delve into the ever-important endnote in both poetry and prose. Scott reads a favorite poem by Mary Oliver, which we discuss. He also shares two of his typewriter poems from his book, Whatever Magic You Need.

If you care about word-craft, pull up a chair at the Round Table!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRS 004 | A Family Miracle by Kristina Naydonova

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This episode of the Story Works Reading Series is an unusual one, showcasing 13-year-old, Sunday Times bestselling author Kristina Naydonova. Kristina has an impressive resume for one so young and is clearly a talent to watch. Besides enjoying this interview, I think you’ll gain some takeaways from what Kristina has to say about process, time management, inspiration, and craft.

Show notes & bonus audio at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 203 | Short Stories

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss the short story. What are the particular considerations of short form fiction? What do you write when there's no room for an arc? Is a turning point as powerful as a climax? Explore the beauty of conceptual, quiet, singular fiction. Getting specific detail, imagery, symbolism, & metaphor to work for you...so much more!

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Got a story? Submit to Story Works Reading Series at www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

SWRT 202 | Villain Development

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss developing your villains. Besides making a real person out of that black hat, the shape of the villain helps shape the protagonist and even your setting. So much more comes out of what you put into that character than you may think!

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 201 | Single Character Scenes

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss single character scenes & stories. There are challenges to having a single character on the stage of the page, some obvious some not-so-obvious. So why would you want a single-character scene? When your story calls for one, how can you ensure the movement continues to draw a reader forward? What are the roles of setting, subtext, & metaphor? Need a writing prompt? We got one!

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 200 | Ensemble Cast Fiction

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert delve into ensemble cast fiction. Does a team of protagonists require a team of POV characters? Do you truly need a single hero at the top of your character pyramid? What are the pros and cons of writing an ensemble? And…has Robert written himself into a corner by having an ensemble cast with a single POV protagonist?

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRS 003 | Stuck by Laura James

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

On today's Story Works Reading Series, Laura James reads "Stuck." When an ex-pat drifts aggressively through Paris, in search of love and belonging, we wonder if she is running away or toward something? With wry humor, the city comes to life as Leah navigates public transit, a classic Parisian building, and her own inner world.

After the reading, Laura and I sit down to chat about "Stuck" - Laura in Southern Spain and I in Minnesota - its inspiration in real life, writing during total lockdown, and much more!

See Laura and her photo of Paris at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 199 | Action Scenes!

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Robert talk all things action. What are action scenes and what you need to do to make your reader sit up and pay attention! We cover everything from choreographing your fight to multiple team action scenes, from slowing down the action to avoiding repetition, from enacting the action yourself to making the reader sweat with anticipation.

Formerly aired as episode 31.

Shownotes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Writing workshops at www.storyworksfiction.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 198 | Ghosting Your Protagonist

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert dissect an author’s very interesting point of view & narrative choices. We take a close look at In an Instant by Suzanne Redfearn, in which the protagonist is killed early in the story. What happens to the POV? The status of protagonist? The plot? And how is agency affected when your POV character is incorporeal? Although we’re discussing a specific work, there is much to take away about the challenges and rewards of crafting a distinct, even experimental, narrative.

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too. And submit your work today!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRS 002 | Black Bart by S.A. Wolter

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Reading Series, S.A. Wolter reads the short story “Black Bart.” This cowboy’s tale is a tribute to the last of a generation and true piece of Americana. You won’t want to miss this moving story or the conversation that follows.

Alida Winternheimer chats with Susan Wolter about the story’s inspiration, her childhood on a ranch, writing through the challenges of a single-character narrative, using flashback without reducing forward momentum, a truly surprising, yet inevitable, ending, and much more.

http://storyworkspodcast.com/swrs-002-black-bart-by-s-a-wolter

Submit your short story or personal essay at http://storyworkspodcast.com/submit

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SWRT 196 | The Essential Nature of Story

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the ways in which story is all around us. What is it that makes story so pervasive? How can we use this essential nature of story in our writing? What is the difference between telling someone facts and creating a story? Will giving our supporting characters a story of their own strengthen our protagonist’s story?

Show notes & more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Join the Write Great Openings! workshop now. www.storyworksfiction.com/p/write-great-openings

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 195 | The Velcro Between Your Pro- & Antagonist

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the critical relationship of protagonist & antagonist. If you don't keep them sticking to each other throughout your plot, the story falls apart. This is as true in character-driven stories as it is black hat villain stories as it is in save the world stories.

Show notes & more.

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SWRT 194 | Tropes

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert & Kathryn discuss the oft used and oft misunderstood trope. What is a trope really? How do we use them? Why and how are so many people confused about tropes?

Show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

*This episode is from the archive, previously aired as 039.

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SWRT 197 | Technology in Fiction

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn talk tech. Is technology just a concern for sci fi writers? Or does it pervade every genre in our tech-enhanced world? How does keeping an eye on the tech your characters use enhance your story? And when can it become a detriment? What about the choice to ignore or erase technology from your world? Can technology limit a story's longevity?

Show notes & more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Check out our sister podcast, Story Works Reading Series, too!

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRS 001 | Saving Annabelle

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week, we air our first episode of the Story Works Reading Series, sister podcast to the Round Table. Hear an author read an original short story or essay, then sit down with Alida to chat about the piece's inspiration, challenges, and craft. A podcast for readers, writers, and readers curious about writers!

Alida Winternheimer gets the table turned this time, putting her behind the mic. She reads from Saving Annabelle, a historical Midwestern gothic tale that confronts the dark undercurrents of everyday life.

Writer Carlee Tressel takes the interviewer's seat and really picks Alida's brain, unpacking these tense opening scenes.

Bonus audio segments at the shows page: http://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 193 | Is Your Hero Up for the Right Challenges?

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Is your protagonist up to all the challenges your plot is throwing at her? Or is everything a little too easy?

How do you create a character who’s tough enough to survive, but not so darn competent at everything that she becomes unbelievable and unsympathetic? This week on the Story Works Round Table writing podcast, we delve into creating sufficient challenges commensurate with your character’s abilities…and more!

Show notes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 192 | Structuring Long Long-form Works

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn answer a fan's question on the Story Works Round Table Podcast. How do we organize topics & themes in long long-form writing projects? What's different about working with fiction or nonfiction manuscripts well over 100k words versus shorter word counts? Is it the tools that change or just the frame of mind?

Join Memory Emotion Body, a new, live, generative writing workshop, now. https://storyworksfiction.com/p/memory-emotion-body

Show notes at http://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 191 | Routines & Why We Love Them

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Robert welcome Kathryn back to discuss routines. Why are we so interested in what other people do, when and how? Is there some new wisdom we can take away from yet another conversation about routines? Some nugget to help us get 2021 off right? We think so!

Show notes, links, more at http://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 190 | Author Statement - Your North Star!

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert welcome author and writing coach Beth Barany back to the Story Works Round Table for this author statement workshop. Grab your paper and pen, and write along with us as she takes us step-by-step through the creation of your author's statement of purpose. No kidding, this might be the most important sentence you write in 2021!

Show notes & Links at http://storyworkspodcast.com/swrt-190-author-statement-your-north-star

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SWRT 189 | Revision, Series Drafting, & More! part 2

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Part 2: Alida and Robert welcome author and writing coach Beth Barany to the Story Works Round Table to talk about her method of drafting a series, revising multiple books, using loyal readers while she's still drafting, and more. This is one of those episodes where we set out to talk about one thing and talked about a dozen. I think you'll find we go in surprising directions with loads of takeaways!

Submit to Story Works Reading Series by 12/31 to be considered for publication in the first quarter of 2021. http://storyworkspodcast.com/submit

New live workshops at www.StoryWorksFictiont.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 188 | Revision, Series Drafting & More!

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert welcome author and writing coach Beth Barany to the Round Table to talk about her method of drafting a series, revising multiple books, using loyal readers while she's still drafting, and more. This is one of those episodes where we set out to talk about one thing and talked about a dozen. I think you'll find we go in surprising directions with loads of takeaways!

Enroll in Alida's Memory Emotion Body live workshop now! https://storyworksfiction.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 187 | Creating Emotional Pull

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Robert, Carlee, and Alida get touchy feely as we explore the challenges and benefits of making your reader really feel your character. how do you move from sympathy to empathy to true personal connection?

Submit to Story Works Reading Series by 12/31 to be considered for publication in the first quarter of 2021.

http://storyworkspodcast.com/submit

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 186 | Catcher in the Rye, Timeless Classic or Over?

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Is Catcher in the Rye worthy of its status as a timeless classic? Dust off your copy - I know you had to read it in high school -and join the conversation at the Story Works Round Table. We look at what made the book special when it came out, whether it should be considered YA or adult. And we dig deep to address the question of timeless literature. Can the times get too far ahead of a story for it to remain a classic? Does Salinger's Holden Caulfield continue to deserve our attention today?

Got a story or essay you want to see published in 2021? Submit it now to the Story Works Reading Series at www.storyworkspodcast.com/submit

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 185 | Writing Prompts

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

With the Covid-19 version of Thanksgiving weekend upon us, what better way to spend our alone time than with a writing prompt to boost our creativity & moods! This week at the Story Works Round Table, we discuss the value of writing prompts and bring you a bunch to choose from. Write with us or pick your own. Happy Writing!

If you follow Alida on Instagram or Facebook, you’ll find a bonus writing prompt in her Thanksgiving post.

Show notes & more: http://storyworkspodcast.com

Submit to the Story Works Reading Series now! http://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 184 | What Is Genre, Anyway?

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Carlee, and Robert go deep with the question of what is genre, anyway? It's far more useful to us writers than a marketing category. Writing to market is often confused with marketing. And what about those of us who strive to be "pure artists," putting categories at the end of the process? Whether you aim to meet or subvert reader expectations, there's more to your genre than meets the eye.

Show notes & more: http://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 183 | Writing with All Your Senses

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

At this week's Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Carlee discuss using all of your senses in writing. We focus so much on the movie in the mind, that we can lean too heavily on the visual in our scene building. But a well-chosen sensory detail can make a scene memorable, even surprising. Focusing on a sensory detail, especially the least obvious of details will shape your reader's experience in powerful ways. Tuning in to your own senses while you write can invite insights from your subconscious mind to come forward.

Submit to the Story Works Reading Series now! http://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 182 | Opening Scenes Shape Reader Experience

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Carlee explore opening scenes and what you should include right away to establish who and what the story is about. Missing the mark with your opening scene could mislead the reader and set your story up for disappointment.

Submit your story or essay to the new Story Works Reading Series podcast now!

www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 181 | When to Kill a Story

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Robert are joined by Carlee Tressel to discuss the death…or possible resuscitation…of book projects. When is it time to let go? Is resting it enough? Do you need outside feedback to make the decision? Why is it so hard to let go sometimes? And so hard to finish at other times? And in the end, you just have to….

Announcing the Story Works Reading Series, a literary journal for your ears!

Shownotes at www.storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 180 | Traits that Define a Character

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss traits that can make or break a character, those defining traits that become identified with a character. How do you create a defining trait? (And make sure it’s “cool”?) Does it have to be a negative trait? Is physical or psychological better? And much more.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 179 | Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn welcome Jennifer Bowen, Artistic Director of the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop, to discuss the impact writing has on the lives of incarcerated writers. In this in-depth conversation, Jennifer tells us about the kinds of students and remarkable writing found on the inside. Some of the most innovative, powerful writing voices are coming from this invisible population. Art changes lives.

You’re invited to the annual MPWW student reading, Beyond Bars: Voices of Incarceration. This year’s event is being held on Zoom, Saturday, October 24, 2020, 7:30 p.m. Central. Use the links below to register.

www.MNPrisonWriting.org

www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

This episode previously aired as #129, 130

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SWRT 178 | Writing with the End in Mind

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss the benefits of knowing how your story ends before you begin. Page 1 sets us up for the climax to come. How knowing our ending inspires our creative process while drafting. And more!

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 177 | The Role of Agency in Reader Satisfaction

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the ways in which character agency is relevant to the whole of your story. How well you handle agency could determine how much readers like your book.

Show notes & more at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 176 | Continuity

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about continuity. How important is it to maintain continuity throughout your stories?

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 175 | Balance Restored

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about ending your story with balance restored. Does it always have to be happily ever after?

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 174 | Balance Tipping Points

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk about too much of a good thing. When do you tip the balance from just enough, to too much or too little?

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 173 | Character Agency in Memoir

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, and Robert continue their conversation with Molly McCloy, diving deep into character agency in non-fiction.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 172 | Characters in Memoir

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, and Robert, are joined by Molly McCloy to talk about her recent memoir and the art of turning your family into your characters.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 171 | Misunderstood Storycraft Rules

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the rules of writing we all know but often don't fully understand, how they trip us up and actually become limiting factors in our writing. If you've ever been told "show, don't tell," "adverbs are bad," or any number of other writing rules, you have to listen to this conversation at the Round Table. The good, the bad, and the ugly writing that happens when we take the rules too far!

This episode is from the library, previously published as episode 048.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 170 | The Art of Oral Storytelling part 2

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, and Robert continue their conversation with Molly McCloy. They talk about how oral storytelling can affect all kinds of writing craft, and get into the details of the craft.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 169 | Oral Storytelling with Molly McCloy part 1

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, and Robert welcome 4-time Moth Grand Slam Winner Molly McCloy to the show, discussing the performance, art, and craft of oral storytelling.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 168 | Corona Check In

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn check in with each other. How are we handling the ever-changing world situation as writers?

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 167 | In Media Res

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert talk about starting your story in media res, discussing everything from starting fast to starting with your inciting incident already in the past.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 166 | Time

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss the ways to manipulate time in your writing. We cover everything from expansion, to just knowing how long it takes to get from one place to another.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 165 | Writing Memoir with Mag Dimond part 2

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida continues her conversation with author Mag Dimond about her memoir Bowing to Elephant, discussing life, death, spirituality, and the hero’s journey.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 164 | Writing Memoir with Mag Dimond part 1

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida talks with author Mag Dimond about her memoir Bowing to Elephants. They dig into what it takes to write a memoir, exploring emotional vulnerability, sensual detail, and more.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 163 | Titles

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn have a lot of fun discussing titles, and how important it is to choose the right one.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 162 | Dual POV in Romance

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn talk with Claire Gem all about dual POV and it’s importance in the romance genre.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 161 | Grants for Writers

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida welcomes special guest Susan Wolter to talk all about grants, and how they can impact you as a writer.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 160 | Paranormal Romance

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert are joined by author Claire Gem to talk about the Paranormal Romance genre.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 159 | Flawed Heroes

Thu, 28 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss flawed heroes, and how you create a believable hero who still has room to grow.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 158 | Read Like a Writer

Thu, 21 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss reading like a writer. We talk about reading for pleasure, and when to put your writer hat on and really dive into what you are reading.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 157 | Subtext

Thu, 14 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the craft of writing subtext. We dive into the short story Cathedral by Raymond Carver, looking at the intricacies of what is unsaid.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 156 | Keeping a Series Exciting

Thu, 07 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the craft of creating a long series, and how to innovate on your plot to keep readers engaged.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 155 | POV-Narrative Lightning Round

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert do a lightning round, answering questions from the story works writer’s Facebook group about POV and Narrative.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 154 | Maintaining our Passion

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss maintaining the passion for our projects through the long, and sometimes tedious work, that it takes to put something like a novel together.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 153 | Q&A With Alida

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table we bring you something a little bit different. Hop in and join Alida at a Q&A session, and then make sure to grab your seat at the next one!

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 152 | Inventing Characters

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss character invention. We tackle where our characters come from, and how to fine-tune them to meet your stories needs.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 151 | Unicorns & Fairies

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert talk about the adorable characters that your readers fall in love with in your stories.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

Visit WordEssential.com and book a discovery call today!

SWRT 150 | Art in the Time of Corona

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert talk about art in the time of the Coronavirus. We take a look at how a writer can respond to these type of events in history, and how soon is too soon to write about our experiences.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 149 | Dark Endings part 2

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert continue our discussion on dark endings. We talk about satisfying readers, and when dark endings just don’t work!

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 148 | Dark Endings part 1

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss dark endings, and how you can play with your reader’s expectations to keep those dark endings satisfying.

Show notes at https://storyworkspodcast.com

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SWRT 147 | Narrative

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 09:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss narrative, delving into voice, exposition, point of view, and choosing your narrator wisely.

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SWRT 146 | Dressing Your Character

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 09:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, we discuss fashion in fiction. Dressing your characters is more than a matter of preventing nudity. What they wear communicates a great deal to other characters and your readers.

The Plot Master Class is about to begin. Sign up now: https://storyworksfiction.com/p/plot-master-class/

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SWRT 145 | Plot Problems...Solved!

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, we continue our conversation about plot, addressing the specifics of Act I and Act III, the connections between them, and the way the climax tends to echo or parallel your story's opening.

Master plot with Alida's live plot workshop. Class starts soon! https://storyworksfiction.com/p/plot-master-class

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SWRT 144 | Plot Problems...Solved!

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Robert, Kathryn, and I get into…you got it, plot! We take a look at the problems commonly faced in plot construction and execution, discussing the causes and solutions.

Learn about my new Plot Master Class at https://storyworksfiction.com/courses/plot-master-class

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SWRT 143 | Starting Again

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Leeland Artra comes back to the Round Table to discuss his journey from having a sci-fi novel in the top 100 to setting his writing life aside for several years to coming back to his passion for storytelling.

Show notes at https://StoryWorksPodcast.com

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SWRT 142 | Steampunk

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Kathryn welcome author Leeland Artra to the Round Table to explore the vast expanses of steampunk societies, replete with steam engines, gears, corsets, walking sticks, & of course dirigible airships. What is the steampunk genre? Elements & archetypes of steampunk; steampunk’s literary roots; adventure, fashion, & romance; & Leeland’s 85-novella steampunk series!

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Show notes & links at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 141 | Workshopping Act I

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Kathryn brings Act I of her novel-in-progress to the Round Table for a workshopping session with Alida. Common problems with the first act include: how long should Act I be, how much to introduce and how to world build in a short space, making Act I exciting, showing character agency, and more!

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Show notes & links at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT 140 | Writing Book Ads Copy

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Robert, & Kathryn welcome Bryan Cohen of Best Page Forward back to the Round Table to talk about writing book ads. We also get into the question of genre. How do you decide which genre to write your copy to when your book is cross- or sub-genre?

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SWRT 139 | The Craft of Writing Book Copy

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, we welcome our friend, Bryan Cohen, to the Round Table to discuss writing book copy. Those tight little paragraphs that adorn the back of your book, your sales page, your query letters, your marketing. If you’ve been dreading distilling your masterpiece into a few pithy sentences in order to attract readers, then you must listen to this episode.

Join Bryan’s free Amazon Ad Challenge right now at www.bestpageforward.net/challenge.

Show notes & links at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

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SWRT 138 | Writing - Life Balance

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn take a new approach to the new year. Instead of assessing the year past & making plans for the year ahead, they discuss ways to balance writing with life. What does it mean to be a creative person in a busy world? How do you prioritize not only your writing, but yourself when there are so many other demands on your time and energy? Does valuing your own creativity help you show up in the world a better person? And so much more!

Show notes & links at StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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SWRT Happy Holidays!

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 16:54:00 GMT

We wish you a joyous holiday season and will be back next week with a regular episode. Alida, Robert, & Kathryn

SWRT 137 | Writing - Life Balance

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn take a new approach to the end of the year. Instead of assessing the year past & making plans for the year ahead, they discuss ways to balance writing with life. What does it mean to be a creative person in a busy world? How do you prioritize not only your writing, but yourself when there are so many other demands on your time and energy? Does valuing your own creativity help you show up in the world a better person? And so much more!

Show notes & links at StoryWorksPodcast.com.

Sponsored by StoryWorksFiction.com. Save 21% on writing courses now! (Details in the show.)

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SWRT 136 | Refilling the Creative Well, part 2

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Author Alina Sayre joins us at the Story Works Round Table to continue our conversation about refilling the creative well. Sooner or later we all hit that crossroads, whether you're transitioning your life or transitioning between projects, it's time to recharge. Alina has been through this process - and delivered a TEDx talk about it. We learn from Alina's experience, unpack the process, and delve into authenticity, passion, and taking risks...not just in writing, but in life!

Part 2

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SWRT 135 |Refilling the Creative Well

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Author Alina Sayre joins us at the Story Works Round Table to talk about refilling the creative well. Sooner or later we all hit that crossroads, whether you're transitioning your life or transitioning between projects, it's time to recharge. Alina has been through this process - and delivered a TEDx talk about it. We learn from Alina's experience, unpack the process, and delve into authenticity, passion, and taking risks...not just in writing, but in life!

Show notes and links at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

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SWRT 134 | The Art of Death, part 2

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert continue the conversation about Edwidge Danticat’s book, The Art of Death.

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SWRT 133 | The Art of Death

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss writing death and dying. We all read Edwidge Danticat's book The Art of Death, in Graywolf Press's Art of Series. The slim volume is our jumping off point for delving into the role of death in relation to character arcs, plot, the writer's journey, and the effect these scenes can have on readers.

This episode is sponsored by author Leeland Artra, who wants to give you his novel Thread Slivers. http://lartra.com/get-slivers

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SWRT 132 | Strong Female Protagonists, part 2

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 09:00:00 GMT

We welcome Judy K Walker, author of the Sydney Brennan Mysteries, to the Story Works Round Table this week to discuss strong female protagonists. What is a strong female protagonist? What traits define her? Can she be feminine and strong? Does the genre shape the protagonist? How do readers react to Sydney Brennan, a woman in a man’s world?

Part 2 of 2.

Listen to episode 128 to hear Judy talk about the PI genre.

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SWRT 131 | Strong Female Protagonists

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Part 1 of 2.

Listen to episode 128 to hear Judy talk about the PI genre.

www.JudyKWalker.com

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SWRT 130 | The Power of Writing to Change Lives, part 2

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn welcome Jennifer Bowen-Hicks, Artistic Director of the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop, to the Round Table to discuss the impact writing has on the lives of incarcerated writers. In this in-depth conversation, Jennifer tells us about the kinds of students and writing found on the inside. Some of the most innovative, powerful writing voices are coming from this invisible population. Art changes lives.

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SWRT 129 | The Power of Writing to Change Lives

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 08:00:00 GMT

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SWRT 128 | The PI Genre

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Robert, and Kathryn bring guest Judy Walker, author of the Sydney Brennan Mysteries, to the Round Table for a special genre episode. Judy shares with us the key elements of the PI novel and what distinguishes it from other mysteries. The role of setting is huge, but not as a big as the novel's point of view. Do you know which POV is best for the PI?

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SWRT 127 | Inspiration & Activism, part 2

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, author Talia Carner returns to the Story Works Round Table to discuss her sources of inspiration, how the tiniest fact can spark an entire world, how writing and social activism have come together in her life, how stories can be conversation starters for change, and so much more! Part 2 of 2.

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SWRT 126 | Inspiration & Activism

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 08:00:00 GMT

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Story Works Round Table 125 | Fleshing Out Description in Revision

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Reconnecting with your story’s voice will help you nail your descriptions. You’re going to love the argument for the richness of detail while working with Robert’s notion of the “artfully vague.”

At the end, Robert wonders if all this is any help to Kathryn. (I’m pretty sure it is!)

On the mailing list? This week the newsletter gets a makeover and News from the Cave: musings about the writing life returns!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 124 | Talia Carner, part 2

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Hear more from author and activist Talia Carner at the Round Table this week. We continue our conversation about her latest novel, The Third Daughter, just released by Harper Collins. I ask Talia about the historical novel's relevance in today's world, writing a strong email protagonist in a story that is often disempowering, and more!

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Story Works Round Table 123 | Talia Carner, part 1

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, I welcome author and activist Talia Carner to the Round Table. We discuss her latest novel, The Third Daughter, just released by Harper Collins, in depth. Hear about Talia’s author journey, her inspiration, research, and character development.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 122 | Building Religion into Your World

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss world religion and whether or not a story needs one. Religion is a large part of culture at the macro (world) level and micro (personal) level. Even if your character rejects religion, it's probably part of his world, something he's steeped in like it or not. Is religion-building genre specific? Can you ever ignore the big R in your storytelling? If you're developing a fictional religion, how detailed do you need to get?

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Story Works Round Table 121 | The Power of the Endnote

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the almighty endnote. What is it and why is it so important? Getting a handle on the final moment of your novel early on will help you shape your character’s journey through the plot, theme, and character arc. Kathryn gets inspired!

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Story Works Round Table 120 | Translations

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Ever wonder what goes into translating a novel? How translators work with a text? What role, if any, the author of the original plays in the translation? Are you considering having your work translated into another language? Alida and Kathryn welcome special guests Anja Bauermeister and Christina Low to the Round Table to discuss translating works from English to German.

This week, we check out an episode from the library, formerly published as video-only episode 20.

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Story Works Round Table 119 | Writing Tics...and what to do about them

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss those tics we can't seem to avoid when we sit down at the writing desk. They're not all bad. Some actually help us get ourselves into a scene or feeling along with our characters. Key to knowing whether your writing tics are helpful or painful is identifying them and understanding the revision tactics that will turn a tic into a quality.

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Story Works Round Table 118 | Beyond Motivation, part 2

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn continue to workshop each others strengths and weaknesses as productive writers. Last week, Alida took the hot seat. Now it's Kathryn's and Robert's turns. Kathryn builds a system to boost her productivity after mining her own life for inspiration--meal planning can make you a better writer. Robert seeks external, objective motivators and gets stuff done, but does that help him reach his writing goals? You might be surprised by the answer.

This episode is sponsored by Book Formatting by Drew Avera. www.DrewAvera.com/book-formatting.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 117 | Beyond Motivation, part 1

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert mastermind each other's progress during our mid-year check-in. We go way beyond basic talk of motivation, dropping the carrot and the stick in the middle of the road. We get meta! We all came away with exciting new insights, unique to each of us, that will help us reframe our process and our progress. These takeaways could help you go deeper into your writing life whys and wherefores!

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Story Works Round Table 116 | Writing Great Sentences, part 3

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn continue to explore what makes a sentence great. We discuss lyrical prose, surprising readers with a sentence-level twist, the use of evocative verbs and adjectives, show don't tell, "wow" sentences that make you stop and re-read, and a dip into multiple POVs and how the voice of your sentences must vary according to the POV. We also touch on how genre shapes sentences, or the voice of a work, and so much more!

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Story Works Round Table 115 | Writing Great Sentences

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert continue their conversation about writing great sentences in novels of any genres. How many types of sentences are there? Do sentences need to be grammatically correct to be great? Do they need to be lyrical to be great? No. The sentences we craft serve a variety of purposes in our prose.

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Story Works Round Table 114 | Writing Great Sentences

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss what makes a great sentence. There’s probably more to it than you’d think. We start off with a surprise—at least we surprised ourselves: it was a harder to find great sentences than we expected it to be. What’s the difference between a great sentence and a great novel?

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Story Works Round Table 113 | How to Give a Really Good Critique

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Round Table, Alida and Kathryn discuss critiques from the red pen side of things. And what skills should a good critique partner have? No writer wants the "it's good" critique. Or the "trashed my work" critique. What actually goes into becoming a quality critiquer of others' work? We talk about both the etiquette and skills required to give fair and constructive feedback to your writing group friends.

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Story Works Round Table 112 | The Devil Is in the Details: Revision

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week at the Round Table, Kathryn and Alida discuss discoveries they're making about planning and revising a novel midstream. Kathryn is between drafts on a science fiction work, and Alida is in the middle of a first draft of a historical fiction novel, so why are they both dealing with world building and research now? What can you learn about prewriting, writing, and revision from their process of discovery?

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Story Works Round Table 111 | Using One Character to Influence Another's Arc

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Kathryn brings an interesting topic to the Round Table: how can we examine our supporting characters arcs, desires, or goals in relation to our other characters? How does one character influence another? Warning: this episode might change the way you do prewriting for the rest of your life.

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Story Works Round Table 110 | When Good Characters Do Bad

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert talk about good characters doing bad things. When your protagonist makes more than a mistake, when she actually does something...well, bad. Bad enough to turn a reader against her.

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Story Works Round Table 109 | Plausibility

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss plausibility. How can we keep our stories plausible in the reader's eyes when we're crafting a world full of the improbable? From cozy mysteries where half the village dies and the dog holds the key to solving the case to hard science fiction where the story world's facts are beyond the scope of our known world, it's our job as writers as make it all believable.

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Story Works Round Table 108 | Put 'Em Up!

Thu, 30 May 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn spar at the Round Table. What makes a fight scene memorable to readers? How do you manage both choreography & time in fight scenes? How much detail is just enough? What about wounding your characters? Making the epic specific? And more!

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Story Works Round Table 107 | Traveling Chapters

Thu, 23 May 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss what it takes to get a character from point A to point B in your story without boring your reader. Sometimes a traveling chapter is about covering actual distance through your setting, but more often it's about mental traveling, getting your character and your reader to understand some piece of information important to your plot. Done poorly, a traveling chapter could look like little more than an info dump, with the character sitting, reading, talking...so how do we get that information before the reader without writing a dull scene?

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Story Works Round Table 106 | Talking Fantasy, part 2

Thu, 16 May 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Nico continue their in depth conversation about fantasy. We discuss intrusion and liminal fantasy, world building, inspiration, theme, and more.

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Story Works Round Table 105 | Talking Fantasy

Thu, 09 May 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week we do something never done before at the Round Table. My very special friend, Nicodemus Wolfgang Taranovsky, joins me in my living room for an actual sit-down chat all about...writing fantasy!

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Story Works Round Table 104 | Using Narrative to Guide Your Reader

Thu, 02 May 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn have Mike Stop Continues back at the Round Table to discuss the ways we use narrative to guide a reader into and through your story. We cover common issues with sequencing, action, & delivering surprise. We explore how to guide the reader with narrative prowess, and give you tips for finding problems in your manuscript as you revise.

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Story Works Round Table 103 | Revising with Theme

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert welcome special guest Mike Stop Continues back to the Round Table to continue our discussion about theme. This week, we’re looking at how theme functions in our revision process. We talk about the role of theme in description, action, and dialogue; making each story element carry its weight; the role of specific detail; and making your story meaningful.

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Story Works Round Table 102 | Prewriting Theme

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 15:38:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn welcome Mike Stop Continues back to the show to discuss prewriting theme. We cover:

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Story Works Round Table 101 | Advancing Story through Reveals

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss reveals. What they are. How many you should have. How they work in the plot arc. When they fail (when they upset readers like Kathryn!). How to write them.

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Story Works Round Table 100 | Bringing the Past to the Present in Flashbacks

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week Alida, Kathryn, & Robert celebrate our 100th episode and revisit the past. What is the role of flashbacks in the forward movement of a story? How can you use them effectively? What's the danger of using a flashback? What do you need to consider when choosing how to effectively reveal your character's past to the reader?

If you're enjoying the show, please rate, review, and share with friends!

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Story Works Round Table 099 | Prioritizing Projects

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn discuss the problem of multiple projects. Our listener Deanna wanted to know how should we prioritize what to work on when we have multiple projects and no specific deadline? The question raised the issues of carrying multiple projects, productivity and making progress, how to set up priorities, and the role of passion in your writing life. Then we addressed Kathryn's question: when do you walk away? Is walking away always a bad thing? Should you be a "completer?" We touch on taking lessons learned with you and the evolution of ideas.

We finish up with a first quarter check in. Let our struggles and success inspire you.

Head over to the Facebook group, Story Works Writers, to share our first quarter check in with us!

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Story Works Round Table 098 | Capturing Your Character's Shadow Side

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert discuss capturing your character's shadow side. We all have aspects of ourselves that a little bit dark. When your character's dark side surfaces, how do you keep it real without disengaging your reader? What is the role of the shadow in story? How do we discover our character's shadow side and play it out in story, when the character's not aware of it him or herself?

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Story Works Round Table 097 | Writing with Humor

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss the role of humor in story writing, the various kinds, how to get it on the page, and why it’s hard to create humor in the written work. If you’re enjoying the show, please give us a 5-star rating wherever you get the podcast.

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Story Works Round Table 096 | Should You Tell Your Story in Parts?

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the shape of stories told in parts. What kind of story should be told in parts? What do the breaks between parts signify to readers? What choices do authors need to make when using parts? How do storylines and parts work together? Are subplots treated differently in a story with parts?

We use Octavia Butler’s Dawn as an illustration.

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Story Works Round Table 095 | Subplots

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 09:00:00 GMT

What exactly is a subplot? When do you need them? Who should they revolve around? And can they really alleviate the soggy middle syndrome? And please don’t forget your characters have lives too! Don’t make them live entirely in the main plot line.

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Story Works Round Table 094 | Multiple Point of View

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and returning guest Carlee discuss the pros and cons of using multiple points of view in your works. What does it take to craft a solid multiple POV story? How do you know whether or not to include that POV? Recommended reading for those interested in multiple POV.

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Story Works Round Table 093 | 5 Steps to Drafting with Motivation & Momentum

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Kathryn welcome Carlee Tressel Alson back to the Round Table to discuss process. Carlee gives us her 5 steps to getting through a first draft without the pain of being stuck—a process she developed after getting stuck in the middle of a major book project.

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Story Works Round Table 092 | Taking Emotional Risks part 2

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Kathryn continue our conversation with Carlee Tressel Alson about taking emotional risks in writing. It's about more than how you feel while writing. There is a relationship formed between the author and the reader when a text is shared. What does it mean to tell the truth in writing fiction, as well as creative nonfiction? What do we do when others can't separate the author from the work? How can we be responsible to both the truth and the people we're putting on the page - even if the character is only a fictional version of someone we know? When writing becomes emotionally difficult, what can we do to take care of ourselves and get the story on the page?

Part 2 of 2.

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Story Works Round Table 091 | Going Deeper with Emotional Risks

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week Alida and Kathryn welcome Carlee Tressel Alson to the Round Table. After our episode on emotional risk-taking with guest Dain Edward, we thought we could go deeper with that topic, so we invited Carlee to join us for a deep dive into what it means to take emotional risks in both fiction and creative nonfiction writing. It's about way more than what you feel while you write. Carlee is a published author of both fiction and creative nonfiction.

Part 1 of 2.

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Story Works Round Table 090 | Writing Otherness

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert start with a listener question about writing a culture that is not our own, and take off on a journey of writing what you don’t know, or the “other.” Why is it a political hot potato? And how can you be careful in your writing? We talk about the problem of stereotypes, and our own view from the “white middle class.” In the end it all comes down to being careful, researching well, and writing from a place of deep empathy for your whole character!

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Story Works Round Table 089 | Setting

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert answer a listener question. Steve is wondering about the dos and don'ts of writing places based on real places and using real place names.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 088 | The Psychology of Storytelling

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert welcome Dain Edward back to the round table. We're discussing the psychology of storytelling. How is storytelling used in the real world? Is storytelling fundamental to being human? How do we experiment with being human without getting hurt? By imagining possibilities, experimenting with life in fiction, and making the unreal into story. Also, discover the spine of your story with Dain's great writing tool.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 087 | 2019 New Year New Goals!

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the year to come. If you haven't already, listen to last week's show, 2018 Year in Review. We get into not only where we'd like to be heading, but will keep us motivated with lots of tips, tricks, and recommendations. I've already got the book Robert mentioned!

There's also a challenge posed. Join us at the Story Works Writers Facebook group to keep yourself on track with your writing goals in 2019.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 086 | 2018 Year in Review

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Robert, Kathryn, and Alida discuss progress made and lessons learned from the year gone by. It's a writerly taking stock of struggles and successes with reflection on what it means to be a writer and where we plan to go from here.

Next week's show is a companion episode about goals and motivation for writers. Complete with an invitation to keep each other accountable. Join us!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 085 | Antagonistic Forces

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 084 | Taking Emotional Risks in Your Fiction

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Dain Edward joins us at the round table to discuss the importance of taking risks in your writing. How is fiction different from creative nonfiction? Why should we take risks and put all of our messy selves into our stories? And what can we learn from incarcerated writers?

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 083 | The intersection of script-writing and novel-writing

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn bring Dain Edward to the round table to discuss the intersection of script-writing and novel-writing. What can we learn from script writing? How are screenplays different from novels? How should we consider the audience when we write?

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 082 | Book Covers part 2

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This episode is pulled from the archives.

We continue our conversation with graphic designer Daria Brennan. This week, we do side by side comparisons of book covers, getting into some obvious and not-so-obvious issues with design. How important is your font? What do the details of a cover say about a book? How can a cover convey genre? If you haven't listened to last week's episode, make sure you check it out.

All the covers we discuss are available to view in the show notes at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 081 | Designing Covers with Daria Brennan

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week we pull a fantastic episode from the archives. Graphic Designer Daria Brennan comes to the Round Table to help us understand how to approach and work with a designer, what makes a book cover outstanding, market considerations, and so much more.

Previously published as episode 4.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 080 | The Story Premise

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and Kathryn define the story premise and how it works to get you writing. It’s simple. It often seems cliche. But it’s an essential first stage of the writing process.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 079 | Approaches to Revision

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert answer a listener's question. Elise wants to know how to tackle revision other than by following the old advice to "rest" the manuscript, putting it in a drawer for months. We talk about lots of tools we use to get into those second, third, and later drafts without a minute of drawer time!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 078 | Fatal Flaw

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss your character's fatal flaw. This is critical to your character development, character arc, plot, and theme. So what is it and how do you get one?!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 077 | Story Structure, part 2

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert continue their discussion of story structure, this time focusing on Act II and Act III. What is act II?Why does it sound so easy but prove so difficult to write? How can you avoid common pitfalls, like the soggy middle?

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Story Works Round Table 076 | Character Agency

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we cover one of Robert’s favorite topics, agency! We discuss the role of agency in terms of both character and plot. How does motivation affect agency? What happens when a character lacks agency? How can you fix issues with agency?

Show notes and more at www.storyworkspodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 075 | Story Structure

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Do you understand the elements of structure structure? This week, Robert and Kathryn ask Alida to define story structure, then we did into the various components of long form fiction. We discuss the three act structure, using examples from archetypal works. And we pay special attention to act I and how to launch your novel.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 074 | Nicey Nice

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Kathryn and Alida discuss what happens to stories when authors are too nice to their characters. Being too darn nice is a common problem of how we write and treat our characters that affects plot. Nicey nice reduces tension, alleviates friction, and leads to...yawns. What to do about it? Listen and find out!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 073 | Stakes & Agency

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn explore the relationship between stakes & agency. How do these vital aspects of plot and character function together to drive your story?

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 072 | Killing Your Characters

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we discuss killing your characters, how, why, and to what end? When is it essential and when is it gratuitous? How can it shift the story and the protagonist? How might we want it to affect the reader? And how can we pull off that desired effect? When is the best time to kill a character?

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 071 | Pacing

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida is off in the Black Hills, so we pull an episode from the video-only archives, bringing Matt Herron back to the Round Table. We discuss pacing, what it really is and how it functions in your story. How do you decide the best pace for your story? And how do you achieve that pace? What kind of effect can pacing have for your readers? And why is pacing so different between books and movies? Check out the books we talked about – those we loved and those we didn’t.

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 070 | Writing Emotions

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we follow up the Evoking Emotions episode with a discussion of how to get your character’s emotions on the page. How many ways can we convey emotions in writing? What are the options for showing feeling in words? How do we get beyond the obvious facial expressions? And why is this so important to fiction?

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 069 | How to End a Story

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss what makes a strong ending, challenges with hitting the right end note for your story, when an ending becomes spoon feeding the reader, & how to resolve your story threads.

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 068 | Evoking Emotion

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s can’t miss episode, we delve deep into making your readers feel along with your characters. As writers, it’s our job to pull our readers strings…but how?

Show notes at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 067 | Character Descriptions

Thu, 16 Aug 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert answer a listener's question about how to get good descriptions of your characters on the page. It's not as simple as writing there stood Joe. He was 6' tall with brown hair. In fact, please don't write that. Besides dos and don'ts, we each select a description to read and discuss what makes it work. And there's a writing exercise you can do at your favorite cafe!

Show notes at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 066 | Theme

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week we get crafty again, talking about theme. What is it? How does it work with plot? Should you develop theme before, during, or after plot? And more...then we end with a writing prompt.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 065 | Writing Groups

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 14:30:00 GMT

This week, we pull one from the archives. This episode was formerly known as video-only episode 2. Alida, Kathryn, and Matt discuss the benefits and pitfalls of writing groups? What kind of criticism is good criticism? And how can I be a better critic? How do I know if a writing group is a good fit for me? Should I join or run away?

Show notes and more at www.storyworkspodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 064 | Story Collections, Novels-in-Stories, Serialization

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we bring Matt Herron back to the Round Table to discuss what we writers can do with our short stories. We define the collections, the novel-in-story, and serialization, discussing pros and cons of each. This week we stray into marketing territory, because when it comes to deciding what to do with your stories, how you brand them matters.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 063 | Short Stories: how they differ from the novel

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss short stories and how they’re different from the novel. We cover topics like the shortness of short stories, ambiguous endings, the importance of theme, stories versus lead magnets, writing short to build craft skills, and more!

www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 062 | Energizing Dialogue

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert answer a listener's question and address how to better write scenes heavy with dialogue. We talk about keeping things interesting using tools other than dialogue, the apprentice-master model of scenes that instruct both character and reader, what we can learn from the movie montage, incorporating action into dialogue, and the risk of losing readers during passages of dialogue.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 061 | Character Motivation

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we welcome Kathryn back to her seat at the Round Table, and thanks again to Matt Herron and Emma Darwin for keeping the seat warm!

We're talking character motivation. It's crucial to every element of your story and you'll do yourself a favor by having a handle on it in the prewriting stages. We talk about the protagonist, the reader, and you, the writer. Also, how motivation relates to flaws and conflicts, and how a series differs from a standalone.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 060 | Everything You Need to Know About Show, Don't Tell, part 2

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Alida and Emma Darwin continue the conversation on “show, don’t tell” this week. We get right into psychic distance and more. Way more.

Show notes and a special offer this week at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 059 | Everything You Want to Know About Show, Don't Tell

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Emma Darwin discuss the old adage "Show, don't tell." We deep into what that saying really means, discussing the point of view lens, distance, and common mistakes writers make as a result of misunderstanding show, don't tell.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 058 | Narrative Drive

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida & Robert are joined by award-winning author and writing teacher Emma Darwin. We discuss narrative drive, the forward movement essential to any story. We go deep into narrative craft, exploring the difference between a story set adrift and one with a current that pulls the reader forward. This is a don't miss episode!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table 057 | Historical Fiction Genre Series

Thu, 07 Jun 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Robert and I welcome Emma Darwin to the round table for an extensive discussion about writing historical fiction, but as with every genre special, this isn't just for writers of historical works. Emma has an amazing knowledge of storycraft and we go deep this week. Kathryn's going to busy with the show notes!

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Save 20% on the Structure of Story for a limited time at www.StoryWorksFiction.com. Coupon: ROUNDTABLE

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Story Works Round Table | 056 First Encounter Fiction

Thu, 31 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Matt discuss tales of first encounters, from the pilgrim to the UFO. These are ethnocentric stories addressing a primal human fear, asking friend or foe, and sometimes leading to understanding and cultural immersion instead of war.

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Save 20% on the Structure of Story course at www.StoryWorksFiction.com. Coupon: ROUNDTABLE

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Story Works Round Table 055 | Hard & Soft World Systems

Thu, 24 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, and guest host Matt Herron discuss hard and soft systems of magic, science, and other forms of world-building logic necessary to fiction.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 054 | Keeping a Community of Writers

Thu, 17 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

It’s our birthday! SWRT is one!

This week, Robert and Alida welcome MG Herron to the round table to discuss the benefits of keeping a community of writers. We discuss the ways we’ve found community, how we’ve benefited from them, the differences between online and live communities, and how we’ve changed as writers thanks to the writers we know and love.

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Story Works Round Table 053 | What Writers Really Do part 2

Thu, 10 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert continue their conversation about the writing process, creativity, first drafts, where ideas come from, and how revision really works. The inspiration for our conversation is George Saunders' essay "What Writers Really Do When They Write."

Get the essay at https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/mar/04/what-writers-really-do-when-they-write

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Story Works Round Table 052 | What Writers Really Do...

Thu, 03 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert discuss a craft essay by George Saunders, titled "What Writers Really Do When They Write." It's all about the writing process, and we get a lot of value out of this essay. We highly recommend it to anyone writing a story.

Get the essay at The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/mar/04/what-writers-really-do-when-they-write

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Story Works Round Table 051 | Reality-Based Fiction

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss using real people and events in your fiction. What are the pitfalls of writing fact into fiction? What extra responsibilities do you have to history, your story, and your reader when you write reality-based fiction?

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 050 | Openings

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we pull an episode from the video archives. Alida, Kathryn, and Matt discuss what makes a great opening. Do you need to begin in media res? What is in media res, anyway? How about opening with a scenario? How much depth of character is needed in an opening? How do you get it on the page and hook a reader?

Previously published as video-only episode 6.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 049 | Balancing Action & Non-Action

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 08:00:00 GMT

In this week’s Story Works Round Table, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the need for both action and non-action in story arcs, how to balance action with non-action, and what goes wrong when the balance is off.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 048 | Misunderstood Storycraft Rules

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the rules of writing we all know but often don't fully understand, how they trip us up and actually become limiting factors in our writing. If you've every been told "show, don't tell," "adverbs are bad," or any number of other writing rules, you have to listen to this conversation at the Round Table. The good, the bad, and the ugly writing that happens when we take the rules too far!

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Story Works Round Table 047 | Unlikeable Characters

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss unlikeable characters. What’s the difference between a flawed character and an unlikeable one? Can you go too far writing an unlikeable character? Why write one at all?

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Story Works Round Table 046 | Writing Through Anxiety

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert welcome special guest, Micah Joel, back to the Round Table to talk about the writing life. No matter who we are, we've probably dealt with anxiety and depression at some point in our writing careers. Whether we're talking clinical or "normal" stress and overwhelm, nothing kills creativity like emotional imbalance. Micah discusses ways to cope and overcome. He has an ebook and email course available at his site to help you get writing again fast!

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Story Works Round Table 45 | Lit RPG

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 08:00:00 GMT

We welcome special guest Micah Joel to the Round Table this week to talk Lit RPG and gamified fiction. If you aren't familiar with this rising genre, join us as we quiz Micah about the writer's role getting the reader into the game!

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Story Works Round Table 44 | World Building in Dystopian & Post Apocalyptic Fiction

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Robert welcome J Thorn back to the round table to discuss world building in the genres of dystopian & post apocalyptic fiction.

Don't miss the companion episode, number 42, on dystopian & post apocalyptic fiction with J Thorn.

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Story Works Round Table 043 | Balancing Character & World Building

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the process of writing early drafts in regard to character and world building. Sometimes one can seem to block the other. But do they really go hand in hand? How much process is personal preference? Is Robert really just afraid of writer’s block?

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Story Works Round Table 042 | Post Apocalyptic & Dystopian Fiction

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida and Robert welcome best-selling author J Thorn to the Round Table to discuss post apocalyptic and dystopian fiction as part of our genre series.

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Story Works Round Table 041 | Climaxes

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week Alida, Kathryn, & Robert talk climaxes, both at the chapter level and the book level. It’s a lively conversation with examples and a reminder not to make your rules too hard and fast lest they limit your storycraft.

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Story Works Round Table 040 | Character Relationships

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, we discuss how to keep the "stuff" between your supporting cast of characters real, avoiding the problem of "nice-nice," and using tension to create forward momentum in your story.

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Story Works Round Table 039 | Tropes

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert & Kathryn discuss the oft used and oft misunderstood trope. What is a trope really? How do we use them? Why and how are so many people confused about tropes?

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Story Works Round Table 038 | Bechdel-Wallace Test

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn & Robert talk about the Bechdel-Wallace test and gender equality in literature. Do we need to stop and think about our female characters, the roles they play in our stories, how much dialogue they’re given, and what they talk about?

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Story Works Round Table 037 | Revision

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss revision, including some of our favorite tools and techniques for making the process easier.

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Story Works Round Table 036 | First Drafts

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss first drafts. Love them or hate them, there's no other way to start your book. We talk the pain and pleasure of getting your story on the page.

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Story Works Round Table 035 | Goal Setting

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 09:00:00 GMT

In honor of New Year’s, or maybe just in time for New Year’s, we discuss goal setting and all the tips and tricks we use to help ourselves identify our priorities and stick to them. Are outcomes better than goals?

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Story Works Round Table 034 | Motivation

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

This week, in honor of the holidays and the new year coming fast, we talk motivation. What motivates us to write and what are our favorite tools and tricks to keep ourselves motivated, especially when life gets crazy?

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 033 | Backstory

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 19:26:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Robert, & Kathryn discuss backstory. What is it? How much is a good thing? How can you avoid overdoing or undergoing it? And more!

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Story Works Round Table 032 | Resting the Writer's Brain

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the benefits of travel, retreat, and otherwise resting the writer's brain. How to write on the go, find inspiration, and come back refreshed and ready to write more.

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Story Works Round Table 031 | Writing Skills, part 2

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Kathryn continue their conversation with special guest Steve Peha about writing skills we all need, regardless of genre.

Show notes & more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Get Alida’s course, Scary Monsters & Super Creeps, at www.StoryWorksFiction.com

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Story Works Round Table 030 | Writing Skills, part 1

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Kathryn welcome Steve Peha to the Round Table. We learn about Steve’s journey from technical writer to writing teacher to fiction writer and discuss the skills we all need to be good writers, regardless of genre.

Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 029 | Emotional Wounds & Character Arcs

Thu, 23 Nov 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Robert's still on vacation, so Alida & Kathryn welcome special guest, Becca Puglisi back to the show to talk about character arcs and role emotional wounds play in our characters' evolution over the course of a story. This episode is another one cram-packed with amazing takeaways!

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Story Works Round Table 028 | Emotional Wound Thesaurus

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Alida & Kathryn welcome Becca Puglisi, co-author of the Emotional Wound Thesaurus, to the Round Table. Getting your characters' emotional wounds right can be the key to getting their backstory, motivation, and even moral code right. This is an insightful episode with lots of take-aways.

Show notes at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table 027 | First Person Point of View

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the first person point of view (1st person POV). We get into strengths and weaknesses, a common misconception, and the popularity of first person in YA and NA fiction.

Before you listen to this episode, have a listen to episode 002 Introduction to Point of View.

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Story Works Round Table 026 | Writing Villains

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 08:00:00 GMT

In a companion episode to #023, 3D Villains, we discuss writing villains, with and without POVs. What makes them challenging to write? How to revise them for motivation and believability, and more!

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Story Works Round Table 025 | Re-readable Books

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert talk re-readable books, what makes them worth visiting again and what can we learn from them as writers.

Visit the Story Works Writers Facebook Group and share your re-readable list with us!

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Story Works Round Table 024 | Twists

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week we talk about twists. Kathryn brings lots of questions to the round table and Robert makes a case for avoiding gimmicks.

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Story Works Round Table 023 | 3D Villains

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss what makes a villain a good one, getting into character development, the pitfalls of typecasting your villain, and lots of examples across genres.

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Story Works Round Table 022 | Inspiration

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss inspiration, sources of it, high concept ideas, and whether you need to be inspired to write a story, or if the story you're writing can serve as your inspiration.

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Story Works Round Table 021 | Distinct Characters

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss going beyond character development and making your characters distinct from each other, whether they’re POV characters or not.

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Story Works Round Table 020 | Setting

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss setting. How is setting different from world building? What do you put on the page and what should you leave out? How much detail is too much detail? And how do you keep your setting active in your story? Robert gives great practical ways to evaluate your style of writing setting, and how to make it better!

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Story Works Round Table 019 | Trouble

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, & Robert discuss the importance of trouble to any story. The conversation gets nitty gritty with plot, character arc, chapter structure, and examples from both books & film.

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Story Works Round Table 018 | Naming

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week Kathryn poses the interesting question, when does a character or place earn a name in our stories? If you name a character, does he have to reappear in the story numerous times? What about places? We discuss and clear away confusion—ours anyway!

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Story Works Round Table 017 | Genre Series: Literary Fiction

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week we have Mike Stop Continues back to discuss literary fiction. What makes a work literary? How is it different from genre fiction? Is there really a value judgment to be made when comparing the two? We discuss some of our favorite literary novels from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein to Michael Chabon's The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay. And after all that, Robert adds a literary novel or two to his reading list!

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Story Works Round Table 016 | Cliffhangers

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss cliffhangers. What are they? How do they differ from end hooks? Should you use them? Can you do them well? What risks do you face when you present your readers with a cliffhanger?

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Show notes and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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SWRT 015 | Fantasy Adventure

Thu, 17 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida and Kathryn welcome award-winning fantasy author Alina Sayre back to the show as part of our genre series. We have a fun conversation about genre expectations, tropes, cross genre fantasies, suspense of disbelief, multiple POV stories, and more!

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Story Works Round Table 014 | Foreshadowing Redux

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we welcome author Mike Stop Continues to the round table to delve deeper into the art of foreshadowing. We define foreshadowing, discuss its variations, and provide many examples from literature, ranging from Romeo and Juliet to Fight Club.

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Story Works Round Table 013 | Plotting Science Fiction

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert welcome Chris Fox back to continue our discussion of science fiction. This week, we focus on plotting those science fiction stories. What makes a book science fiction? What about mixed genre science fiction? What trends do we see in science fiction?

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Story Works Round Table 012 | Foreshadowing

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week’s show gets a bit heated as we struggle to define (or agree on a definition) of foreshadowing and all its nuance. What makes good foreshadowing? How does it function in a story? Can you write it in draft one, or is it revision only?

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Story Works Round Table 011 | Openings: Reading & Reacting

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 18:05:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, & Robert bring in novels and check out the way they open. We discuss what works for each of the very different stories and, at the end, Kathryn gives us the 3 key elements in any strong opener. Enjoy!

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Story Works Round Table 010 |Genre Series: Mystery Plots

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida and Kathryn welcome cozy mystery author, Sara Rosett, back to the show to discuss plotting mysteries. No matter the genre you write, plotting is integral to your story craft, as are twists, hooks, and suspense. Enjoy this conversation with Sara Rosett!

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Story Works Round Table 009 | Genre Series: Middle Grade Fantasy

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida and Kathryn welcome award-winning author Alina Sayre to discuss middle grade fantasy as part of our genre series. We cover lots of great topics from writing amazing prose to finding the voice of your protagonist to the fantasy canon we grew up on. A truly insightful conversation with lots of depth.

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Story Works Round Table 008 | Making the Unfamiliar Familiar

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the process of introducing readers to new worlds and new experiences by making the strange comfortable enough to get reader's buy in. Every step of the story's way, writers need readers to nod yes in agreement. If a reader pulls back, because something seems implausible or just too out there, the reader is probably lost. We approach the topic from our usual experience with literature and film as well as our writing lives. With historical, fantasy, and science fiction in the house, we cover a lot of ways the unfamiliar has to be and can be made familiar. And if you don't what a cale is, listen and learn!

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Story Works Round Table 007 | Arcless Protagonists

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:00 GMT

The rule is that your hero must have a character arc. So when is it all right to break the rule? Alida, Robert and Kathryn discuss the merits and pitfalls of writing a hero without a character arc. It has been done to great success, so why do so few people suggest it’s even possible to write an arcless protagonist? And when is killing your hero "justifiable homicide in self defense?"

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Story Works Round Table 006 | Genre Series Science Fiction

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Special guest, Chris Fox, joins the round table this week to discuss science fiction. We have a great conversation about sci fi's roots in pulp fiction and some of the early sci fi TV shows that popularized many of the tropes we see in fiction today. Chris and our resident sci fi author, Robert, share their experiences with alien characters, genre-bending plots, reader expectations, and you might be surprised to learn Chris created an entire alien species based on his...sorry, you'll have to listen!

There's a link to Chris's book, Planet Strider, in the show notes. Get it for free! Thanks, Chris!

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Story Works Round Table 005 | Soggy Middle Problem

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the soggy middle problem and what to do about it. Many writers struggle with the middle of their plots as the action slows down and the protagonist has to get from A to B, or the reader has to be fed information critical to later plot points. This slog through the mid-point should never make it to readers' hands.

How to recognize the problem and what to do about it. At the end, Robert coins a new term: middle shaming.

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Story Works Round Table 004 | Genre Series: Mystery, Characters

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 08:00:00 GMT

Cozy mystery author, Sara Rosett stops by the round table this week to talk about characters and the mystery genre. In a companion episode coming soon, we talk about plots. What kind of characters are essential to mysteries? How do you keep your amateur sleuth engaging in crime after crime? How do reader expectations affect your character development? And more.

Sara writes the Ellie Avery series, the On The Run series, and the Murder on Location series. Publishers Weekly called Sara's books “satisfying,” “well-executed,” and “sparkling.”

Sara teaches what she knows through the How to Outline a Cozy Mystery course. She loves to get new stamps in her passport and considers dark chocolate a daily requirement. Find out more at SaraRosett.com and sign up to get a free ebook from Sara.

Show notes, video, and more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

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Story Works Round Table ep. 002 | Point of View

Thu, 25 May 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we talk about point of view. You might be surprised to learn it's far more complex and meaningful than just your POV character. We discuss the narrator and narrative, how to choose the best POV character, how controlling your point of view leads to better writing, and more.

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Story Works Round Table ep. 003 | Genre Series: Dark Fiction

Thu, 25 May 2017 08:00:00 GMT

We welcome special guest, Lisa von Biela, to the Story Works Round Table this week to launch a series on genre fiction. Lisa has numerous dark, horror, speculative, and thriller fiction published, primarily with Dark Fuse. We talk about inspiration, plotting, and the twists of turns of dark, suspenseful storytelling.

Get show notes and the video at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com.

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Story Works Round Table ep. 001| Dialogue

Thu, 25 May 2017 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we discuss how dialogue functions in your fiction. We go deep into how dialogue is different from the ways we speak in real life and how you can use dialogue to advance your story.

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Story Works Round Table Ep. 000 | Introduction

Fri, 19 May 2017 15:20:00 GMT

Wondering what the Story Works Round Table is all about? Want to meet the hosts? In this brief episode, you can do just that. Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, and Robert Scanlon introduce the show's mission and each other. Our goal is to bring a variety of experience, training, and insights from both the traditional and indie worlds to writing craft topics each week. We go deep and provide serious how-to write advice without taking ourselves too seriously. Find show notes, links, and videos at the blog.

Find more at www.StoryWorksPodcast.com

Email at info@StoryWorksPodcast.com

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