Drawing insights from his own journey to being published, internationally-acclaimed novelist Davis Bunn explains why writers need to move beyond their brand and explore new boundaries to survive (and thrive within) the seismic shifts occurring in today’s publishing industry. Learn how to grow beyond your strengths as you pursue excellence in the stories you tell.
Season 1 - Episode 18: Gayle Lynds
Gayle is one of the top spy novelists in the world. Publishers Weekly listed her book, Masquerade, in their top ten spy novels of all time. Listen in as Gayle takes us on a tour of writing in the world of espionage and shares keys to developing the narrative twists and turns that she’s known for.
Season 1 - Episode 17: Kim Weitkamp
At the root of all she does, Kim Weitkamp is first and foremost a storyteller—from performing internationally at festivals and theaters, to providing keynotes for some of Forbes most recognized companies. With wit and wisdom she offers valuable insights to storytellers of all stripes, especially to speakers and presenters.
Season 1 - Episode 16: John Dixon
Former Golden Gloves boxer, prison tutor, and middle school English teacher John Dixon delves into how his life experiences helped shape the stories in his novels. He also shares about how his book Phoenix Island became the inspiration for the hit CBS show, Intelligence. And how the right perspective can change everything.
Season 1 - Episode 15: Donald Maass
Highly respected literary agent and much sought after fiction instructor Donald Maass explains how to tap into readers' emotions in the stories we tell. Be prepared as Donald takes us on a tour of avenues of story that no one else is exploring: plot, layering, micro tension, and the death of description in fiction. Have your pen ready to take notes.
Season 1 - Episode 14: Hank Phillippi Ryan
Over the years, investigative reporter and award-winning novelist Hank has won 33 Emmys for her ground breaking journalism, and numerous awards for her seven mystery novels. Delving into story from the perspective of a world-class journalist and critically acclaimed novelist, she offers keys from both worlds to tell more gripping stories.
Season 1 - Episode 13: Jen Grisanti
After serving as a CBS/Paramount exec, where she covered shows including Medium, Numbers, NCIS, 4400, and Girlfriends, Jen launched out on her own. She now serves as a consultant on the subtleties of storytelling. Pick up tips on the importance of triggers, wounds, and how to create a longline and pitch your story.
Season 1 - Episode 12: James Rubart
Looking for ways to jump-start your story? Join us as a critically acclaimed, bestselling inspirational author and radio personality James Rubart takes us into his studio and unpacks how to keep asking "what if?" to uncover the story, layer by layer—without an outline.
Season 1 - Episode 11: MJ Rose
Never one to be pigeon-holed into one genre, international bestselling novelist MJ Rose artfully weaves mystery, history, literary fiction and suspense into her books. A pioneer from e-publishing in the 90s (no, that’s not a typo), she shares her journey as an author and insights into the realities of the writing life.
Season 1 - Episode 10: Dr. Joseph Sobol
While serving at the helm of the nation’s first Master’s Degree in Storytelling program, Joseph has remained a renown nationwide performer. Tune in as he distills secrets from decades of teaching the art of storytelling and how modern Story Slams are taking the nation by storm.