
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

Feb 3, 2025 • 24min
S17:E03: The Writer’s Road to Creative Burnout Recovery
Recover from creative burnout with these holistic strategies. Create space in your life to rebuild creativity and overcome writer's block.

Jan 13, 2025 • 19min
S17:E02: The Rules of Fiction: What They Are and What They're Not
Demystify the rules of fiction and learn how they empower storytelling. Discover how underlying structure enhances creative autonomy.

Jan 6, 2025 • 24min
S17:E01: Reflecting on 6 Life-Changing Lessons in 2024
Gain insights from life-changing lessons and intentions for growth in the new year. Explore the powerful connection between writing and life.

Dec 16, 2024 • 8min
S16:E42: Top 10 Books I Read in 2024
Discover the top 10 books of 2024. Dive into captivating fantasy novels and explore fascinating non-fiction works.

Dec 9, 2024 • 31min
S16:E41: Top 8 Lessons I've Learned as a Writer in 16 Years
Discover the top lessons I've learned as a writer. Gain insights and inspiration from my personal experiences as a career writer.

Dec 2, 2024 • 9min
S16:E40: The 5 Gift Rule for Writers at Christmas
Explore the five gift rule for writers this holiday season, focusing on thoughtful and sustainable presents that inspire creativity. Discover essential gifts that cater to writers' needs, from writing boxes to must-read books. Also, get the scoop on an exciting flash fiction contest that challenges writers to unleash their creativity under pressure while offering enticing rewards. It's a perfect blend of festive gift-giving and engaging writing opportunities!

Nov 11, 2024 • 17min
S16:E39: Antagonist vs. Villain: What's the Difference?
Dive into the intriguing world of storytelling as the podcast unpacks the crucial differences between antagonists and villains. Discover how these distinct roles shape narratives, enrich character development, and enhance thematic depth. Through captivating examples, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their perceptions of these complex figures, gaining insights that can elevate their own writing.

Nov 4, 2024 • 19min
S16:E38: The 3 (Structurally) Most Important Characters
Dive into the world of storytelling with a focus on the three pivotal characters: protagonist, antagonist, and relationship character. Discover how these roles drive the narrative and shape the emotional landscape of a story. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding character motivations and their impact on the plot. Gain valuable insights to evaluate character effectiveness, making your writing more compelling. Perfect for aspiring writers aiming to enhance their storytelling craft!

Oct 21, 2024 • 26min
S16:E37: Learn About the Different Types of POV (+Head-Hopping)
Discover the different types of Points of View (POV) in storytelling. Learn how to master narrative perspective for more engaging writing.

Oct 14, 2024 • 12min
S16:E36: The Resolution (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 12 of 12)
Explore the essential role of the Resolution in storytelling, emphasizing how it can bring closure and hint at future character developments. Discover how tone influences emotional responses, with examples from literature and film showcasing the impact of a well-crafted ending. Delve into the evolution of characters and the importance of tying up loose ends. This insightful discussion also offers resources for writers, highlighting the significance of structuring stories and reflecting on powerful narrative conclusions.