
How I Write
Before book sales and PR buzz, your favorite writers began with two things: the blank page and an idea.Each week on How I Write, we go behind-the-scenes with today’s top writers to uncover the meta-mechanics of writing and the lifestyle behind it. You’ll be the first to hear writers deconstruct their creative process: from banging their head on the keyboard to marking the last period of their final draft. Victory.Come discover how great writing is made. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be next.New episodes of the How I Write show go live every week on Apple, Spotify and YouTube.com/DavidPerellChannel.
Latest episodes

93 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 24min
Michael Jamin: The Hollywood Sitcom Writer | How I Write
Michael Jamin, a seasoned Hollywood sitcom writer with 28 years of experience, shares his insights on character-driven comedy. He emphasizes the importance of rich character development over mere punchlines, explaining how authentic traits can enhance humor. Jamin also discusses the evolution of multi-camera sitcoms and the collaborative process within writers' rooms. He highlights the significance of vulnerability in narratives, the complexities of human behavior, and the balance between AI assistance and personal storytelling in maintaining authenticity.

237 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 47min
Dean Koontz: 120 novels published. 500 million copies sold. | How I Write
In a fascinating chat, Dean Koontz, best-selling author of over 100 novels, shares his journey through writing and creativity. He reveals his shift from outlining to letting characters guide the story, emphasizing character depth for suspense. Dean discusses how personal challenges shape characters and enhance narratives, intertwining themes of love and doubt. He reflects on the influence of aesthetics on creativity and the metaphysical aspects that inspire his work, all while celebrating the beauty of language.

466 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 14min
Johann Hari: The Obsessive Research Method | How I Write
Johann Hari, a renowned author known for his in-depth research and global conversations, shares his unique approach to storytelling. He discusses the significance of emotional connections and vulnerability in writing, emphasizing empathy in interviewing diverse individuals. Hari offers insightful anecdotes from his experiences, including a harrowing tale about an apple in Vietnam. He critiques contemporary journalism while advocating for deeper, more nuanced narratives that explore the roots of personal and societal issues, particularly the impact of disconnection in communities.

577 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 8min
Will Storr: The Science of Storytelling | How I Write
Will Storr, an author and storytelling expert, dives deep into the science behind character development. He asserts that compelling stories build around rich characters rather than plot alone. Storr discusses the transformative power of change in narratives and the importance of pacing to captivate audiences. He reveals how human drives like connection and status shape our narratives, linking personal health to storytelling. By the end, listeners gain valuable tools to enhance their storytelling in daily conversations.

622 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 52min
Michael Dean: The 27 Patterns To Fix Bad Writing | How I Write
In a fascinating discussion, architect Michael Dean offers insights into the 27-point framework he developed to analyze great writing. He emphasizes the significance of clarity, structure, and voice in both essays and architectural design. Michael explores how tension and core questions create compelling narratives, and he highlights the transformative power of writing in personal expression. With the rise of AI, he urges writers to embrace their unique skills while leveraging technology, making the case that mastering writing will always hold importance.

308 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 1h 20min
Lulu Cheng Meservey: Meet Silicon Valley’s Top PR Master | How I Write
Lulu Cheng Meservey, a leading PR expert in Silicon Valley, provides insights from her work with major firms like Substack and Activision Blizzard. She talks about the shift from traditional media to direct communication, highlighting the importance of authenticity in messaging. Lulu stresses the need for founders to engage their audience personally and craft messages that resonate. She also discusses leveraging AI in writing and the power of emotional storytelling, while exploring strategies to engage with cultural trends and make impactful announcements.

1,671 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 30min
The Ultimate Guide to Writing with AI | How I Write
AI is reshaping the writing landscape, provoking both excitement and existential questions. Discover the emergence of new AI writing models and how they humorously enhance creativity. Personal narratives remain crucial in nonfiction, emphasizing authenticity amidst technology's rise. A fascinating journey from atheism to faith showcases the power of individual stories. Explore AI as a transformative partner in writing, elevating both memory and communication for future storytellers.

596 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 27min
Johnny Harris: Master Storytelling on YouTube | How I Write
Join Johnny Harris, a renowned YouTube storyteller famous for his engaging viral content, as he dives deep into the art of visual storytelling. He shares his creative process, from scriptwriting to editing, revealing how he captivates audiences with unexpected narratives. Discover his methods for researching complex topics and the importance of balancing personal passion with viewer engagement. Johnny highlights the role of technology in refining storytelling and emphasizes crafting human-centered stories that resonate deeply with viewers.

1,814 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 1h 9min
Tyler Cowen: The Most Practical Conversation on AI Writing | How I Write
Tyler Cowen, an economist and writer known for his practical insights, discusses the transformative role of AI in writing and research. He emphasizes how AI tools can enhance personal voice and creativity in writing, while cautioning against over-reliance on AI-generated content. Cowen predicts a decline in traditional book writing and a rise in video content. He also explores innovative uses of AI in academia and everyday life, and shares tips for effective AI prompting and personal storytelling through technology.

433 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 3h 11min
Dana Gioia: Why Poetry Matters | How I Write
Dana Gioia, a renowned poet and former Chairman of the NEA, shares his deep insights into the writing craft. He discusses the transformative power of poetry, emphasizing emotional depth and vulnerability. Gioia breaks down the writing process—through inspiration, revisions, and personal experiences. He highlights the importance of patience, community, and daily practice for aspiring writers. The conversation also touches on the impact of grief on writing, the significance of commonplace books, and how the digital age influences creativity.