Writing Excuses

John Brown joins Brandon, Dan, and Howard for a discussion of second novels, sequels, and the trick to doing it again.Our Sponsors:* Check out MasterClass: https://masterclass.com/excuses* Check out Quince: https://quince.com/wx* Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/wx* If you’re struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/wxSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Host humorously discusses 'stealing' time and being a 'cat burglar', while sharing summer deals at Bakers. Secrets of Lincoln's gold and becoming independently wealthy are intriguing topics covered.

The hosts dive into the emotional toll of putting characters through hardships, balancing development with reader engagement. They discuss the struggles of receiving feedback while staying true to one’s vision. A lighthearted exploration of creature design reveals hilarious anecdotes, alongside insights into crafting truly terrifying monsters. The conversation shifts to using mundane elements to create fear, highlighting the suspense of hidden threats. Finally, they unveil personal outlining methods, leading to a quirky creative prompt about a zoo club.

John Brown, the author of 'Servant of a Dark God,' shares his insights following a seminar on unlocking creativity. He demystifies the creative process, emphasizing that everyone can tap into their imagination. John discusses techniques for overcoming creative blocks and transforming ideas into compelling narratives. How do you know when you’re done? He tackles that too! With a focus on storytelling elements, he encourages writers to embrace feedback and navigate their creative journeys with confidence.

This entertaining discussion combines humor with civic duty, cleverly linking the act of voting to the launch of a fascinating novel. The hosts explore imaginative scenarios, suggesting whimsical ideas like online voting services through Amazon. With a playful tone, they inspire listeners to engage in both writing and civic participation, all while celebrating the importance of storytelling. It's a delightful reminder to embrace creativity and responsibility.

Dive into the fascinating world of character arcs! The hosts discuss how characters evolve, sharing tips on crafting dynamic arcs that balance humor and emotion. Learn about the significance of character development through struggles and triumphs, and the techniques to ensure engaging storytelling. A fun writing prompt invites you to explore an emotionally-responsive roller-coaster, reflecting your characters' journeys. Plus, a shoutout to civic engagement rounds out a rich conversation for writers.

Struggling to write? The hosts tackle those common excuses head-on, debunking myths about inspiration. They discuss how discomfort can actually fuel creativity and share brainstorming tips. Time management is explored, particularly for busy parents juggling family and writing. Find out how to prevent burnout while still being productive, including the power of naps and managing distractions. The lighthearted segment offers whimsical writing prompts linked to everyday absurdities, promising both laughs and inspiration!

Explore the intricacies of melodrama and its impact on storytelling. Discover how to craft complex characters with layered emotions to avoid predictability. Delve into the art of balancing conflict and climax for engaging narratives. The discussion highlights the importance of emotional depth while steering clear of clichéd dialogue. Expect insights from films and literary examples that illustrate the fine line between relatable emotion and over-the-top drama. Plus, get a creative writing prompt to transform a cliched hero into something fresh!

Brandon, Dan, and Howard explore Flash Fiction in record time, offering creative writing tips while promoting summer savings at Bakers. Learn how to craft powerful stories in a short amount of space!

Fast-paced Q&A with Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, and Howard TaylerOur Sponsors:* Check out MasterClass: https://masterclass.com/excuses* Check out Quince: https://quince.com/wx* Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/wx* If you’re struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/wxSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/writing-excuses2130/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy