

Helping Writers Become Authors
K.M. Weiland
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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

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.

Oct 7, 2024 • 12min
S16:E35: The Climax (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 11 of 12)
Dive into the crucial role of the climax in storytelling. Discover how this pivotal moment shapes the narrative's direction and engages readers emotionally. Explore the difference between faux climaxes and true climaxes through examples from beloved films and literature. Learn about key moments that reveal character growth and resolve conflicts, all while embracing creativity in your writing journey. Get ready to craft tension and unforgettable moments that will keep your audience on the edge of their seats!

11 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 16min
S16:E34: The Third Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 10 of 12)
Dive into the critical role of the third plot point as a turning point in storytelling. Discover how this moment tests characters by presenting them with false victories and profound losses. Learn how internal conflicts can lead to character transformation just before the climax. Engaging examples from literature and film reveal how this plot point uncovers deeper themes and motivates characters for their final challenges in the narrative.

Sep 23, 2024 • 17min
S16:E33: The Third Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 9 of 12)
Dive into the secrets of crafting a thrilling third act! Discover the critical role it plays in resolving character arcs and tension. Explore dynamic conflict resolutions through examples from 'Stranger Things' and 'Rocky.' Unpack transformational moments using insights from iconic stories like 'It’s a Wonderful Life' and 'Ender’s Game.' Finally, learn how to master story pacing and ensure a satisfying conclusion for your protagonist's journey. Get ready to elevate your storytelling game!

Sep 16, 2024 • 24min
S16:E32: How to Trust Yourself as a Writer (Not Relying on Advice Too Much)
Explore the journey of trusting yourself as a writer amidst self-doubt. Delve into essential skills like story structure and character development, while balancing personal creativity with external advice. Embrace a four-stage growth model to navigate perfectionism and enhance your unique voice. Discover the importance of cultivating self-trust and intuition, and reflect on the invaluable insights gained from both your experiences and the supportive writing community.

Sep 9, 2024 • 16min
S16:E31: The Second Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 8 of 12)
Dive into the intricacies of the second half of the Second Act in storytelling. Discover how characters evolve from reactive responses to proactive decisions, adding depth and tension. Explore the pivotal second pinch point that foreshadows challenges, steering characters towards crucial realizations. Analyze iconic transformations in characters from classics like Pride and Prejudice and Ender's Game. Uncover the dynamics that elevate conflicts and hint at unresolved issues leading into the finale.

9 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 14min
S16:E30: The Midpoint (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 7 of 12)
Dive into the transformative power of the Midpoint in storytelling! Discover how this crucial moment shifts protagonists from passivity to action, driving them towards their goals. You'll encounter examples from literature and film that illustrate character evolution. Reflect on pivotal moments in your own narratives and engage with a community dedicated to creative growth. Uncover the secrets to mastering this key element of story structure!

Aug 26, 2024 • 15min
S16:E29: The First Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 6 of 12)
Unpack the complexities of the second act and why it’s a pivotal challenge for writers. Explore how character reactions drive plots, featuring examples from classic literature. Discover the importance of character adaptation amid conflict, revealing struggles faced by memorable figures. Delve into character depth and foreshadowing, all while inviting the audience to engage and hinting at future insights.

6 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 27min
S16:E28: The Secret to Writing Strong Themes
Craft immersive stories by writing strong themes that resonate. Explore how to create narratives that connect with readers on a deeper level.

12 snips
Aug 12, 2024 • 17min
S16:E27: The First Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 5 of 12)
Dive into the dynamic world of storytelling with a focus on the First Plot Point. This crucial moment, occurring around the 25% mark, propels the protagonist into conflict and adventure. Discover how it aligns goals with obstacles, setting the stage for richer character development. Real-world examples from films and literature showcase its significance. Plus, hear insights on maintaining reader interest and a tease for exciting discussions on what comes next!