Tell The Damn Story, ep 423: The Art of Mixing Genres Without Losing Your Mind or Readers episode artwork

EPISODE · Jul 12, 2026 · 43 MIN

Tell The Damn Story, ep 423: The Art of Mixing Genres Without Losing Your Mind or Readers

from Tell The Damn Story · host Alex Simmons & Chris Ryan

What happens when mystery meets science fiction? When horror collides with comedy? Or when history becomes part of an unforgettable adventure?In this episode of Tell The Damn Story, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan explore one of the most exciting—and challenging—tools in a writer's toolbox: blending genres.Using examples ranging from Alien and Pitch Black to Archie Comics, Sherlock Holmes, and their own novels and plays, they discuss why mixed-genre stories can captivate audiences. And the boys cover the dangers of ignoring genre expectations and how understanding each genre can serve to make your storytelling even stronger.Whether you're writing novels, comics, film, television, or short stories, this episode will help you discover new ways to surprise readers while staying true to your story.Every genre has expectations. Understand them before you begin blending them.Read widely. Watch films outside your favorite category. Every genre teaches something useful.3 Keys to Writing Great Mixed-Genre Stories 1. Learn the Rules First . Every genre has expectations. Understand them before you begin blending them.2. Feed Your Creative Mind. Read widely. Watch films outside your favorite category. Every genre teaches something useful.3. Ask "What If?" Great genre combinations often begin with one powerful question.Have questions or comments for us? Post in the comments section below or ... Write: [email protected] follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Storywww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story If you find these episodes helpful, please take a moment to support our program by clicking on the link to ... ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Tell The Damn Story, ep 423: The Art of Mixing Genres Without Losing Your Mind or Readers

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