How I Write

Neil Strauss: Writing With Brutal Honesty | How I Write Podcast

Mar 27, 2024

Neil Strauss, renowned author of ten New York Times Bestsellers, dives into the art of vulnerability and honest storytelling. He shares insights on engaging readers with captivating introductions and the delicate balance of self-disclosure. Strauss reveals how to sustain creative momentum, transform unfinished drafts, and develop compelling narratives. He also discusses the unique challenges of writing profiles and mastering authenticity while incorporating elements like seduction and emotional depth into storytelling. This conversation is a must for any aspiring writer!

01:22:19

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Episode guests

Neil Strauss

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Quick takeaways

Effective writing involves sharing authentic personal stories with brutal honesty to captivate readers.

True vulnerability in writing requires revealing hidden thoughts and emotions to create authentic connections with readers.

Crafting engaging narratives with captivating openings and gradual revelation of information keeps readers intrigued.

Deep dives

Discovering Uncommon Honesty in Writing

Writing with uncommon honesty involves sharing authentic and personal details that can captivate readers. Kevin Hart's advice to 'take the bullet side of the gun' signifies facing criticism and editing stories with brutal honesty. The key is to engage readers by crafting intriguing introductions and engaging narratives, as highlighted by Neil Strauss's expertise in hooking readers with captivating openings.

The second draft is for the reader

01:32

Create Systems to Protect You from your lower self

02:17

Creating Compelling Openings in Writing

04:20

Keep your head in the game

03:01

Intro

3min

The Art of Vulnerability in Writing

12min

The Metaphor of Creation: From Unfinished Works to Masterpieces

3min

Creative Epiphanies and Storytelling Craft

7min

Seduction and Espionage: The Dark Arts of Love

2min

Mastering Storytelling Techniques

6min

Crafting Compelling Beginnings

24min

Mastering the Art of Profile Writing

8min

The Art of Authentic Writing

18min

Neil writes about all the icky, taboo things you’re not supposed to say out loud. As the author of ten New York Times Bestselling books, he’s built his career on getting celebrities like Rick Rubin, Kevin Hart, and Jenna Jameson to open up in a way that most writers are too afraid to do.

But don’t get it twisted — “being vulnerable” doesn’t mean “word-vomit your deepest, darkest secrets to the world.” It means sharing who you truly are in a way that’s interesting to other people.

In this episode, Neil reveals how to be vulnerable in your work, the right way. He breaks down story structures that hook your reader. He reveals how to cultivate your life to support your writing. And he shows you how to say things in public that most people would be too scared to share with their closest friends.

If you’re scared of sharing your work in public, this episode is for you. Come learn how to synthesize your vulnerability in a way that resonates with other people.

SPEAKER LINKS:

Website: https://www.neilstrauss.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/neilstrauss

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neil_strauss

Books: https://www.amazon.com/Neil-Strauss/e/B001H6NT1I

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PODCAST LINKS:

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Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-write/id1700171470