Bards and Balladeers Podcast

We are all young once, and then we grow old, but how do we understand and use aged characters before we reach that stage ourselves? Often cast as mentors, they bring experience, but we explore how to portray them with accuracy, avoid stereotypes, and give them depth beyond a single role.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We are drawn to mystery, but why? We explore how intrigue, hidden truths, and what lies behind the curtain pull audiences in, and why unanswered questions demand resolution. Then we break down how to tell those stories effectively without losing tension or payoff.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

What is it like to write within someone else’s established intellectual property? We explore the risks of straying too far from the source material, and how, when handled well, new voices can expand a world while still honoring what made it work.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

What distinguishes one voice from another, even when reduced to dialogue or lyrics? We explore how to separate your voice from your characters, using speech patterns and word choice to create distinct, memorable voices that stand out from the crowd.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

What truly gets a story moving, and what makes us stay? With limited information, something has to grab attention early and refuse to let go. We break down what makes an effective hook, how to use it well, and whether every story truly needs one.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

If it is not real life or recorded events, then what is it? We explore the value of “what if” and “what may be” storytelling, and how infinite possibilities can be shaped into grounded, believable stories that truly resonate.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

How do we build new worlds from the ground up? We explore how real life and existing stories shape our ideas, and why creating new rules can make a world more engaging, flexible, and fun to explore.--------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Magic is a powerful tool in storytelling, but why do we add it in the first place? We explore the importance of consistent rules, the doors magic opens for a story, and the challenges it can create for writers trying to keep their worlds believable.--------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Gambling in stories is more than a game of chance. It creates stakes, reveals motivation, and exposes how characters handle winning, losing, and risk. We explore how these moments define character.*We apologize for the portion of video that stutters and is out of sync. Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Board games are not just about mechanics. When designers weave narrative into the experience, every dice roll and card draw carries weight. We explore whether story or gameplay matters more, and how players can shape their own narrative to elevate the game beyond the rules.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Strong language grabs attention immediately, but what does it reveal about a character beyond shock value? We examine how profanity can signal intensity, authenticity, or insecurity, and when it sharpens a character versus when it weakens them. Let’s find out.*We apologize for the portion of video that stutters and is out of sync.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

What makes a character compelling when all we see is the facade they choose to show? We examine how anonymity and restraint can deepen intrigue, strengthen relatability, and allow audiences to engage more actively in building the character themselves.------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

The future is now, but what makes a story resonate in its own time, and what allows it to transcend generations? What feels funny, smart, or relevant today may not last, so we examine how those shifts shape storytelling and what endures beyond them.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We explore why confident, competent characters are so satisfying to write and watch. Excellence on the page and screen feels rewarding, so we break down what makes it work and how to do it right.Nevertold: Ascend - Audiobook Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lovelywoods/nevertold-ascend-book-1-audiobookBards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

The use of weapons in stories can turn the tide of any battle. We discuss the weapons we find compelling, how they’re used effectively, and how their role changes from genre to genre.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Let’s talk about alien characters and how they reflect the parts of ourselves we recognize, as well as those we don’t. How do they expand perspective and challenge our assumptions about humanity? In what ways do they enrich stories by revealing the unfamiliar through a familiar lens?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Anyone can write characters who aren’t like them, whether it's across sex, culture, or even species. When we lead with curiosity, respect, and genuine care we turn imagination into authentic storytelling.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Accessories to the main character, Secondary Characters help the plot but don’t determine its direction. Some may have their own agendas that unfold along the way, but overall, they serve to add flavor and depth. These are secondary characters who don’t drive the story forward and their development isn’t the main focus. Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We’re joined by David Bruns as he shares his journey into writing with his co-author J. R. Olson following his service as a military officer in the Navy. Come listen to his unique perspective on storytelling and his writing process.Bruns-Olson Books - www.bruns-olson.comBards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Gifts, sought-after quest items, rewards, and discovered artifacts. These are all essential elements found throughout many stories.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We welcome Jax Rose into our troupe and explore the world through his art and insight. As an art teacher, Jax shares his experiences as an artist and his hope to inspire creativity in others.Jax Rose Art - www.jaxroseart.comBards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Combat in stories and its role in narrative. How fighting reveals character, drives growth, and shapes both plot and worldbuilding. From fistfights to large-scale strategy, when is combat meaningful, and when is it overused? What perspectives does it unlock, and how does it influence the pacing and tone of storytelling?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Every ending opens the door to something new. Discover story points that may lead into other arcs or continuing adventures.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

How do the Bards and Balladeers organize their characters, plot, and worldbuilding from creation through to execution?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Different methods of getting from one place to another in story, and how they can become more than just a thing but a home, a stage, and sometimes a character on its own.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Who steers the ship in fiction? Strong leaders shape the stories we love, guiding both characters and readers. Let’s explore how leadership drives a narrative forward.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We sit down with Dennis Vogen to talk about his new vampire book, Maple Island, and all the things that brought him to where he is today.Dennis Vogen - https://dennisvogen.com@dennisvogen on social media--------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Happy Halloween! Let’s dive into the fun ways horror, suspense, foreshadowing, and terror enhance a story for our enjoyment, sometimes simply for the pure thrill of it!Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Requested by a viewer, we discuss how dialogue moves plot, builds world, reveals character, adds flavor to dialogue, and shapes or destroys relationships. We explore how we struggle with writing certain dynamics, such as humor, debate, or emotions like horror and grief. In the end, what makes dialogue good or bad?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We've teased it a bit as a potential "fourth leg of storytelling," but we haven't discussed it in depth. Shall we delve into how selection, emphasis, focus, perspective, person, and timeline (flashback or forward) can form an entire fourth pillar?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

What roles do islands play in storytelling? Come discuss how the geography and relative isolation of these places can affect plots and how they can be used to create certain moods, dynamics, and even cultural development.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

The role of lies in stories, whether through manipulation, protection, or humor. Even things like maps lie. Ever been to Greenland?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Worldbuilding, character, and plot. Each can be inspired by any type of game, as each offers rich mechanics, art, worlds, and options to spark your imagination.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We have a lovely chat with Chris K, and share his perspective on life, art, and what moves us. Come listen and see his beautiful art!Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Let's discuss the potential role of maps in fiction as they are used within stories by the characters. Maps in games, maps as props, maps as catalysts for action. Or maps for humor, suspense, mystery, clues, and quests. From star charts to buried treasure, we can discuss it all!Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

The trope of characters who were born hot or perfect yesterday. Can this be done well? What makes it good or tolerable, and what makes it just sickening?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We sit down with longtime friend Amanda Meuwissen to talk about how she likes to spice things up with her stories!AmandaMeuwissen.comBards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comDiscord - https://discord.gg/QVQWczk4FhC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Talking about how characters' inner thoughts and the use of that technique to build stories.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

How can limited perspectives be used to build or shape a story?Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We talk about what makes an ending fulfilling or not, and functions of those endings.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We talk about animals and their importance in stories.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

We sit down with Brooke R. Calder as she regales us with stories, her creation process, and the beauty of her music.https://brookercalder.com/https://manualcontrolrecords.bandcamp.com/--------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

A discussion about the happy accidents that lead to beautiful moments in stories.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

Internalizing meanings from stories and imbuing your stories with meanings.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

A discussion with Nathan Lueth, comic creator and fun guy! we discuss his processes and what it takes to be an artist.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine------Nathan Lueth nathanluethillustration.com canonofvangel.com bsky.app/profile/nathanlueth.bsky.socialsubstack.com/@nathanluethConcrete Arcanum Kickstarterwww.ConcreteArcanum.com

The role of the mundane and suspended disbelief. When and how to address the mundane in stories.Bards and Balladeers Podcast - bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - www.ozgurksahin.comM.R. Moraine (Rio) - linktr.ee/mistermoraine

A discussion about different roles that food can play in stories. 🦆------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - https://bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - https://linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - https://www.ozgurksahin.com/M.R. Moraine (Rio) - https://linktr.ee/mistermoraine

No story sounds as beautiful as when it is sung. ------ Bards and Balladeers Podcast - https://bardsandballadeerspodcast.com

The group delves into what fuels their drive, what keeps them going, or inspired them to start in the first place.------Bards and Balladeers Podcast - https://bardsandballadeerspodcast.comC.E. Linares (Cait) - https://linktr.ee/celinaresOzgur K Sahin (Oz) - https://www.ozgurksahin.com/M.R. Moraine (Rio) - https://linktr.ee/mistermoraine

With a plethora of tropes, there's a lot to talk about.https://bardsandballadeerspodcast.com