
Helping Writers Become Authors
Hosted by award-winning story coach K.M. Weiland, the Helping Writers Become Authors podcast will take you deep into story theory, writing techniques, and all the incredible wisdom of story. There is no such thing as "just a story." Come along to find out how to write YOUR best story, astound the world, and (just maybe) change your life!
Latest episodes

May 26, 2025 • 34min
S17:E13: Crafting Archetypal Arcs With Enneagram Insights
Discover the connection between archetypal arcs and Enneagram insights for transformative storytelling and character growth.

May 19, 2025 • 24min
S17:E12: Using the Enneagram for Character Development: Avoiding Repetition for Lies Each Type Might Believe
Explore how the Enneagram framework reveals the unique lies that each personality type believes, influencing their fears and desires. Discover how these insights can deepen character development and add richness to storytelling. With examples from popular culture, the discussion highlights the emotional complexities tied to different types, encouraging creative narrative arcs. Learn to craft multidimensional characters by understanding their motivations and transformations through this fascinating personality system.

Apr 28, 2025 • 22min
S17:E11: The Most Dangerous Arc: Breaking Down the Corruption Character Arc
Unlock the intricacies of the Corruption Character Arc. Discover how fear, pride, and desire lead to a character's downfall.

Apr 21, 2025 • 19min
S17:E10: Writing a Fall Arc: How to Show a Character's Moral Decline
Writing a fall arc involves capturing characters' heartbreaking journeys. Discover techniques for depicting their moral decline.

Apr 14, 2025 • 19min
S17:09: Disillusionment Arc in Storytelling: A Powerful Tool for Character Growth
Understand the Disillusionment Arc in storytelling, a powerful journey portraying human growth through confronting stark realities.

Mar 31, 2025 • 20min
S17:E08: How Writers Can Use the Four Stages of Knowing in Character Arcs
Explore the four stages of knowing in character arcs to understand transformation and enhance your storytelling skills.

8 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 23min
S17:E07: How to Make Your Fantasy World Feel Real: 6 Pillars of Organic Worldbuilding
Explore the key elements that bring fantasy worlds to life, from rich histories to coherent cultures. Discover how the Bob and Weave technique melds setting with storytelling for deeper character development. Learn to craft immersive narratives by integrating personal crises with compelling backdrops and cohesive magic systems. Delve into the significance of authentic languages and character motivations in shaping the universe. Finally, understand how intentionality and theme unify plot and character arcs for a seamless narrative experience.

Mar 3, 2025 • 19min
S17:E06: Your Character's Three Choices: Character Goal Examples for Writers
Delve into the world of character goals and discover how to create engaging narratives. Learn about the three types of goals: fundamental, primary, and secondary, and their influence on character evolution. Explore how choices shape character identities and motivations, ultimately affecting their arcs. Unpack the relationship between character goals and fundamental lies, revealing the depth of character development. This discussion emphasizes the crucial interplay between goals and choices for effective storytelling.

Feb 17, 2025 • 20min
S17:E05: 5 Proven Ways to Conquer Self-Doubt in Writing
Learn how to conquer self-doubt in writing and transform it into a driving force for growth and improvement.

Feb 10, 2025 • 23min
S17:E04: Exploring the Impact of AI on Fiction Writing: Opportunities and Challenges
Delve into the impact of AI on fiction writing. Explore the opportunities and concerns surrounding the incorporation of AI in creative work.