PODCAST · arts
Helping Writers Become Authors
by 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
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S18:E18: The 5 Ingredients You Need to Write Subtext in Fiction
If you've ever wondered how to write subtext without leaving readers confused—or explaining so much that the subtext disappears—these five principles can help. Subtext is everything a story communicates without saying it outright. It can deepen characters, relationships, dialogue, worldbuilding,...
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S18:E17: Character Misdirection: How to Write False Allies and False Enemies
Character misdirection does more than set up clever betrayals. By using False Allies and False Enemies, writers can deepen conflict, complicate character arcs, and create plot twists that feel both surprising and inevitable. In this video, I explore four variations of character misdirection: the...
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S18:E16: The Impact Character: Why Every Character Arc Needs One
What is an Impact Character, and how can this supporting character help you show a believable character arc instead of simply telling readers your protagonist has changed? Character arcs are largely internal, which creates an obvious challenge for writers: how do you dramatize a changing…
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S18:E15: 5 Ways to Identify Your Writing Weaknesses (and Become a Better Writer)
How do you identify your writing weaknesses? And, even more importantly, how can you tell if something really is a weakness? In this episode, I share five ways writers can recognize recurring craft problems, strengthen weak areas, and distinguish poor execution from intentional writing style.…
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S18:E14: The Lie the Character Believes: A Deeper Look at Consciousness and Character Arc
What if the Lie the Character Believes isn't really a lie? For years I've taught the Lie the Character Believes as the foundation of character arc. But over time, I've come to see that this concept may point toward something much deeper than just a mistaken belief. In this episode, I explore…
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S18:E13: The Psychology of Story Endings (+5 Tips to Write a Truly Satisfying Ending)
A great ending is about much more than resolving the plot. Why do satisfying story endings stay with us for years, while others leave us empty? In this video, I explore the psychology of story endings. When we think about writing endings, we often focus on tying up loose ends or delivering a...
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S18:E12: Why We Need Heroic Stories: The Courage We Borrow From Fiction
Why do we need heroic stories? More than entertainment, the best stories shape our imaginations, awaken courage, and remind us who we can become when life asks something difficult of us. In this episode, I share a recent experience that affirmed the way I think about heroic fiction. After...
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S18:E11: How to Write Mythic Fiction: 7 Practices to Reconnect With the Lost Art of Mythmaking
When we talk about mythic fiction, it's easy to assume mythic stories are created through familiar ingredients: archetypes, symbolism, old myths, epic structure. But I don't think that's where mythic storytelling begins. In this post/podcast, I explore seven practices and mindsets that help…
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S18:E10: How to Write Mythic Fiction: Stop Borrowing Old Myths and Start Creating New Ones
What makes a story feel truly mythic? Many writers assume mythic fiction comes from borrowing archetypes, retelling old myths, or layering symbolic imagery into a story. While there is immense value in studying mythology, fairy tales, folklore, and archetypal storytelling traditions, something...
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S18:E09: Thoughts on How the Marketplace Is Shaping the Stories We Tell
For most of human history, stories were not primarily viewed as commercial products to be sold. Story functioned first as myth, meaning-making, entertainment, cultural memory, and a way of understanding ourselves and the world around us. But in today's marketplace-driven culture, storytelling...
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The Emotional Toll on Writers in the Modern Landscape (And Why So Many Are Burning Out)
Many writers are struggling with burnout in today's creative landscape—but the cause isn't always personal habits. In this episode, I explore why writer burnout sometimes has less to do with storytelling itself and more to do with the conditions surrounding modern creative work. From constant...
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S18:E07: Internal Conflict vs. External Conflict: The Shift From Projection to Agency in Character Arc
Most stories frame conflict as something happening "out there"—a villain to defeat, an obstacle to overcome, or a problem to solve. But the most powerful character arcs aren't really about defeating the antagonist. They're about the protagonist reclaiming agency. In this episode, we explore the...
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S18:E6: 9 Tips for How to Write Dark Stories Responsibly (And Make Hope Feel Earned)
What does it really mean to write dark stories responsibly—and how can you make sure hope feels resonant? In this episode, we explore the craft principles behind balancing darkness and meaning in fiction. Some stories venture into shadow and leave us better for it. Others leave us depleted. The...
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S18:E05: Embodied Writing: How to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Story
Are you writing from your head—or from your body? In this episode, we're exploring embodied writing and why so many stories lose emotional depth when we over-intellectualize the creative process. Craft and structure matter, but when storytelling becomes purely analytical, something vital can...
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S18:E04: The Four-Act Structure and the Circular Shape of Story
When we talk about story structure, we usually jump straight to acts, beats, and turning points. But beneath all of that is a deeper question: what is the shape of story itself? In this episode, I explore why I've always taught structure in four quarters—long before I ever called it a Four-Act...
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S18:E3: Story as Cosmology: A Framework for Meaning
What does it mean to think of story as cosmology? In this episode, I explore story not as entertainment or belief, but as a deeper framework for meaning—one that helps humans understand change, transformation, and lived experience. When I talk about story as cosmology, I'm pointing to the idea…
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S18:E02: Why Writers Need a Sense of Wonder in Fiction More Than Ever
We're living in a storytelling moment deeply fascinated by darkness—and for good reason. Stories have always helped us metabolize fear, trauma, and moral failure. But darkness is not meant to be the destination. In this episode, I explore why writers need a sense of wonder in fiction, not as...
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S18:E01: How My Writing Career Evolved in 2025—and the Author Business I'm Building for 2026
In this episode, I'm looking back on how my writing career evolved in 2025—a milestone year marked by turning forty, rediscovering my teaching voice, and stepping into a deeper vision for my work. I explore the transitions from SEO to GEO, the shifting landscape of the writing life, and the tools...
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S17:E29: The Best Books I Read in 2025: My Top Fiction and Nonfiction Picks
It's that time again—my annual roundup of the best books I read this year! In this episode, I'm sharing the top 10 reads that made my 2025 unforgettablem, from romantasy and magical realism that were some of my best reads of the decade to thought-provoking nonfiction that challenged how I think...
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S17:E28: Reflections on Turning 40 (+40 Things You Might Not Know About Me)
Today, I'm turning forty and taking a quiet moment to reflect on the decade that brought me here. My thirties were a season of transformation, challenge, and deep awakening. They changed me utterly, teaching me about pain as a portal, creativity as a life force, and story as the map that guides…
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S17:E27: 5 Ways to Keep the Story Moving Between the Big Moments
Do you ever feel stuck in the "in-between" sections of your story that come after one major plot point but before the next? You're not alone. Many writers can identify the big beats of their story's structure, but find the real challenge is connecting those plot points in a way that feels organic...
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S17:E26: The Real Purpose of the Second Act (And Why You Can't Skip It)
What would stories be without their long, uncertain middles? In this episode, we explore the real purpose of the Second Act in story structure. The Secodn is the heart of every story, where transformation happens. You'll learn why this "middle" isn't just filler, but the symbolic journey that…
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S17:E25: "Who Am I?" The Midpoint as Self-Recognition in Story Structure
Discover how the Midpoint in story structure is more than a Moment of Truth. It's self-recognition in which characters remember who they are.
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S17:S24: Big vs. Small Character Arcs: Understanding the Degrees of Change in Storytelling
Not every story needs a protagonist who undergoes a massive, life-altering transformation. Some of the most memorable tales hinge on smaller, quieter shifts, or even on characters who remain steadfast throughout. In this episode, we'll explore the full spectrum of character arcs: Big arcs that...
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S17:E23: How a Character's Personality Shapes Arc, Voice, and Goals
What makes a character unforgettable? It's not just quirks or dialogue. It's personality. Your characters' personalities shape their arcs, influence their voices, drive their goals, and and connect plot and theme into a cohesive whole. In this episode, we'll explore why personality is the secret...
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S17:E22: Why All Stories Are Myth—and How They Transform Us
Why All Stories Are Myth (and How They Transform the Psyche) What if every story you've ever loved—whether it's Spirited Away, The Lord of the Rings, or Pride & Prejudice—wasn't just entertainment or even "realistic" fiction, but myth in disguise? In this week's episode of the Helping Writers...
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S17:E21: What's Happened to Modern Storytelling? (+ 6 Ways Storytelling Can Find Its Soul Again)
Feeling bored at the movies? Learn what's happened to modern storytelling and what it will take to restore the magic and emotional impact.
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S17:E20: Writing Better Character Conflicts With the 5 Conflict Management Styles
Here's how writers can apply the five conflict management styles to create richer, more realistic character conflicts in your fiction.
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S17:E19: The 5 Types of Scene Endings Every Writer Must Master
Discover the 5 types of scene endings—Yes, No, No But, and No And—and why one of them might be weakening your story's momentum.
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S17:E18: 7 Ways to Watch and Read More Intentionally
If writers don't consume stories with intention, who will? Here are 7 mindful habits to read more intentionally and get more from stories.
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S17:E17: What Makes a Story "Bad"? A Guide to Why Your Narrative Isn't Working
What makes a bad story? The answer may surprise you. Here's what really makes a story fail—and how to fix it.
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S17:E16: Why Intentional Storytelling Matters in an Era of AI and Algorithm-Driven Content
Intentional storytelling means making creative choices with purpose. Here's why that matters more than ever in an AI-driven content world.
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S17:E15: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 2 of 2)
Discover how to honor your character's history while crafting different character arcs for the same character in new stories.
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S17:E14: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 1 of 2)
Discover systems that can help you write different character arcs for the same character in your series. Keep stories interesting and unique!
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S17:E13: Crafting Archetypal Arcs With Enneagram Insights
Discover the connection between archetypal arcs and Enneagram insights for transformative storytelling and character growth.
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S17:E12: Using the Enneagram for Character Development: Avoiding Repetition for Lies Each Type Might Believe
Discover the unique lies each Enneagram subtype believes and how these shape their fears, desires, and character development in storytelling.
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S17:E11: The Most Dangerous Arc: Breaking Down the Corruption Character Arc
Unlock the intricacies of the Corruption Character Arc. Discover how fear, pride, and desire lead to a character's downfall.
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S17:E10: Writing a Fall Arc: How to Show a Character's Moral Decline
Writing a fall arc involves capturing characters' heartbreaking journeys. Discover techniques for depicting their moral decline.
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S17:09: Disillusionment Arc in Storytelling: A Powerful Tool for Character Growth
Understand the Disillusionment Arc in storytelling, a powerful journey portraying human growth through confronting stark realities.
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S17:E08: How Writers Can Use the Four Stages of Knowing in Character Arcs
Explore the four stages of knowing in character arcs to understand transformation and enhance your storytelling skills.
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S17:E07: How to Make Your Fantasy World Feel Real: 6 Pillars of Organic Worldbuilding
From magic to government, discover the 8 key pillars of worldbuilding that will make your fantasy world feel real.
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S17:E06: Your Character's Three Choices: Character Goal Examples for Writers
Discover essential character goal examples for writers and learn how to craft compelling, multi-layered motivations using the "three choices."
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S17:E05: 5 Proven Ways to Conquer Self-Doubt in Writing
Learn how to conquer self-doubt in writing and transform it into a driving force for growth and improvement.
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S17:E04: Exploring the Impact of AI on Fiction Writing: Opportunities and Challenges
Delve into the impact of AI on fiction writing. Explore the opportunities and concerns surrounding the incorporation of AI in creative work.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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S16:E40: The 5 Gift Rule for Writers at Christmas
Discover the 5 gift rule for writers this Christmas. Find sustainable and mindful gift ideas that will delight the writers in your life.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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!
HOSTED BY
K.M. Weiland
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Helping Writers Become Authors have?
Helping Writers Become Authors currently has 738 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Helping Writers Become Authors about?
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...
How often does Helping Writers Become Authors release new episodes?
Helping Writers Become Authors releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 738 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.
Where can I listen to Helping Writers Become Authors?
You can listen to Helping Writers Become Authors on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Helping Writers Become Authors?
Helping Writers Become Authors is created and hosted by K.M. Weiland.
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