
Imaginary Worlds
Rewriting the Script on Audio Fiction
Jan 15, 2025
Lauren Shippen, the mastermind behind hit audio dramas like The Bright Sessions and Breaker Whiskey, dives into her creative journey from aspiring actress to influential producer. She discusses how her character Sam's therapeutic experiences reflect real-life struggles with mental health. Their conversation unveils innovative storytelling techniques, such as the unique use of CB radios in her post-apocalyptic series. Additionally, they explore the complex portrayal of masculinity in her work, revealing how personal narratives enrich her character development.
40:31
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Quick takeaways
- Lauren Shippen's journey as a creator highlights the therapeutic power of storytelling, allowing her to channel personal struggles into relatable narratives for listeners.
- The establishment of Atypical Artists showcases the potential of audio drama to foster community engagement and provide a platform for innovative, original storytelling.
Deep dives
The Rise of Atypical Artists
The audio drama series gained significant recognition, particularly The Bright Sessions, which features therapy sessions for individuals with supernatural abilities known as atypicals. The character Sam, who can time travel but only during panic attacks, exemplifies the show's unique exploration of anxiety and self-identity. The success of this series enabled Lauren Chippen, its creator, to establish Atypical Artists, an audio drama network that funds innovative projects like In Strange Woods, a musical framed within a true crime podcast. This network not only showcases the potential for original storytelling but also cultivates a community of dedicated listeners who engage with the content creatively through fan art and fan fiction.
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