
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

408 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 2min
Ward Farnsworth: How To Say Things That Last Forever | How I Write
Ward Farnsworth, a law professor and former dean at the University of Texas, expertly demystifies eloquence in communication. He explores the power of simple language, showcasing how Saxon words resonate more deeply. Farnsworth analyzes iconic speeches, revealing how rhetorical techniques like repetition and epistrophe enhance emotional impact. With insights from figures like Lincoln and Churchill, he provides actionable advice for mastering rhetoric in writing and speech, urging listeners to embrace clarity and artistry.

1,320 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 9min
Alex Hormozi: Copywriting Masterclass | How I Write
Alex Hormozi, a bestselling author known for his impactful writing and impressive social media presence, shares his secrets to writing success. He breaks down his unique writing system that combines extensive planning with creative storytelling. Hormozi discusses the importance of frameworks in simplifying complex concepts and explores the art of captivating audiences through compelling narratives in both books and videos. He also highlights the necessity of revisions and strategic marketing techniques to enhance business outreach. A must-listen for aspiring writers!

792 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 30min
171 Years of Writing Advice in 90 Minutes | How I Write
Dive into a treasure trove of writing wisdom, where expert insights illuminate the diverse styles that make stories shine. Uncover the nuances of emotional depth and the transformative journey from rough drafts to polished gems. Explore the art of effective storytelling while balancing impactful openings and conclusions. Get inspired by the revival of email communication, turning it into a cherished tool. Discover the iterative process of refinement and the power of engaging narratives that resonate deeply, combining creativity with simple, clear communication.

252 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 1h 36min
Tucker Max: The King of Memoir Writing | How I Write
Tucker Max, a memoir guru and author of the bestselling "I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell," shares his insights on writing compelling memoirs. He emphasizes the importance of telling the unvarnished truth, showcasing humor as a vital tool for storytelling. From transforming personal struggles into relatable narratives to the healing power of writing, Tucker highlights how authentic experiences resonate deeply with readers. He also discusses crafting engaging book titles and the role of honest reflection in creating impactful stories.

245 snips
Oct 9, 2024 • 1h 25min
Richard Powers: Pulitzer Prize-Winning Stanford Professor | How I Write
Richard Powers, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "The Overstory," shares his insights into crafting unforgettable characters. He discusses the emotional relationships between authors and their creations, likening them to personal journeys. Powers explores the intricacies of dialogue, rhythm, and narrative tension, while emphasizing the role of empathy in storytelling. He also reflects on the evolution of his writing process over 40 years, from focusing on word count to creating deeper connections with readers through nature and personal experiences.

865 snips
Sep 25, 2024 • 49min
Sam Altman: OpenAI Founder Reveals His Writing System | How I Write
Join Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, as he shares his passion for writing and its impact on clarity and creativity. He reveals how AI tools like ChatGPT are reshaping traditional writing and communication methods, and discusses the evolving role of writers in a tech-driven world. Altman reflects on his personal writing journey, lessons learned from Paul Graham, and the delicate nature of nurturing fragile ideas. Discover how structured thinking and effective note-taking can elevate your writing, even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.

622 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 1h 22min
Robert Greene: The Blueprint for a Killer Story | How I Write
Robert Greene, bestselling author of "The 48 Laws of Power," shares his transformation from a struggling screenwriter to a storytelling maestro. He emphasizes storytelling as a tool of seduction, urging writers to connect emotionally with their audience. Greene dives into the pursuit of timeless narratives, the importance of harnessing anger in creativity, and the relationship between discipline and inspiration. He reflects on mastering the art of speech writing and the meticulous research behind crafting impactful stories that resonate across generations.

171 snips
Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 20min
Nick Bilton: The Art of Storytelling in Films, Journalism, and Murder Mysteries | How I Write
Nick Bilton, a journalist with a knack for storytelling, shares insights on captivating narratives. He dives into the essentials of storytelling, emphasizing emotion, tension, and character development. Discover how to create compelling moments that resonate with audiences, whether in screenwriting or journalism. Bilton discusses the balance between ambition and empathy, and the role of sensory details in narrative design. Plus, he reflects on lessons learned from his journalism journey, highlighting the importance of responsibility and diverse perspectives.

272 snips
Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 16min
How Peter Attia Wrote His First Book
In this intriguing discussion, Peter Attia, a medical surgeon and bestselling author of "Outlive," shares insights from his journey in writing. He introduces frameworks for transforming complex medical knowledge into engaging narratives. Peter discusses emotional challenges authors face, the importance of feedback, and how to craft timeless messages. He explores the balance between personal stories and scientific accuracy while detailing the rigorous fact-checking needed for credibility. If you're looking to turn expertise into compelling writing, this conversation is a goldmine!

417 snips
Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 33min
How Ben Thompson Built a Writing Empire
Ben Thompson, founder of the influential blog Stratechery, dives into the business of writing and how he turned his passion into a lucrative venture. He discusses the importance of crafting compelling narratives and the art of making first drafts flow smoothly under pressure. Thompson shares insights on enhancing engagement with subscribers and navigating the digital content landscape. He also reflects on the challenges of reaching a niche audience and the impact of storytelling in both writing and speech, providing listeners with a roadmap to monetize their own writing.