START WRITING
Start Writing is a craft-focused podcast dealing with the art of telling stories. We look at the structure of plots, characters, worlds, scenes, word choice, and every other detail that goes into writing great novels.
Wed, April 03, 2024
SW 137 INT Writing Her Story: A heartfelt conversation with Gail Carson Levine
START WRITING Podcast: “Writing Her Story: A heartfelt conversation with Gail Carson Levine” “DAMN FINE SPACE OPERA!” — James Wolfhampton Get your copy of STARCHILD today! http://starchild1.jwashburn.com * * * This episode is dedicated to my daughter. It’s an interview with Gail Carson Levine. I am sure you are familiar with her book Ella Enchanted, which was her debut novel, and it was awarded a Newbery Honor. In our interview, she is very vulnerable, and she speaks candidly about first getting published and how close she was to giving up! She also tells a touching story of how one of her books literally changed the life of one of her readers. I know many of you are listening to learn about the writing craft. Gail teaches us about what it’s like to be a writer, and she shocked me when she said how many pages she usually cuts from a manuscript. She tells a funny story about why historical research has become a passion. And we also discuss two topics of personal interest: Greek Mythology and Peter Pan. This was such a fun interview for many reasons, not the least of which is that Gail has such a fun personality. I think I’ve never heard a greater hipster brag: She saw Bob Dylan in concert before he was cool! We talk about her background growing up in New York, and about how her parents empowered her as a woman and how that then became thematic throughout her writing. It was a blast to talk with her, and I hope you enjoy the interview with Gail Carson Levine. * * * WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://www.youtube.com/@JWashburnauthor LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://www.jwashburn.com/swag/podcast * * * GAIL CARSON LEVINE LINKS Website: https://www.gailcarsonlevine.com/ On the movie set: https://www.gailcarsonlevine.com/ella_movie.html RECOMMENDED READS Castle by David Macaulay https://amzn.to/3Esvcll Writing on Both Sides of the Brain by Henriette Anne Klauser https://amzn.to/3EsM6QE The Mozart Season by Virginia Euwer Wolff https://amzn.to/45FjAqR Karen Cushman books: https://amzn.to/3Pafr7n The Midwife’s Apprentice by Karen Cushman https://amzn.to/3EzGm7y The Moorchild by Eloise McGraw https://amzn.to/4643NBK Peter Pan by J.M. Ba
Wed, September 27, 2023
SW 136 INT “WHAT IS LitRPG?” Interview with KEVIN SINCLAIR, author of the Creation’s Bane novels!
SW 136 INT “WHAT IS LitRPG?” Interview with KEVIN SINCLAIR, author of the Creation’s Bane novels! “DAMN FINE SPACE OPERA!” — James Wolfhampton Get your copy of STARCHILD today! http://starchild1.jwashburn.com * * * Today I’m excited to introduce Kevin Sinclair! He writes LitRPG, which I had heard about, but before I read his book, I’d never read the genre (unless you count Ready Player One). God of the Feast was a blast to read, and it’s a wonderful introduction to LitRPG. You also may learn a thing or two about the genre in this episode. Let me point out a couple of things to look for in our show today. First, at one point Kevin says, “I don’t believe in criticism.” I find it interesting that this is a theme I’ve heard from several authors on this podcast. It’s certainly something to think about. Second, it’s cool how I came across Kevin’s work, and I tell the full story in the episode, but the short version is that the same narrator performs his CREATION’S BANE series and my STARCHILD series. (And, by the way, I’ll soon publish an interview with our narrator, the spectacularly talented and phenomenally British Simon Wright.) Third, Kevin has a fascinating story of success that came from the covid lockdown. He comes from humble beginnings and now he is quite successful just a few short years later! It’s almost a fairytale. Fourth, and last, Kevin has a phenomenal accent! (I believe it’s called Sunderland.) He’s from Northern England, not far from Scotland, and you can certainly hear the similarities. Having said that, I personally listen to podcast episodes at a very fast speed, and if that’s you too, you might want to slow it down just a bit on this episode. Okay, I’ll ramble on no more. Here’s our episode with Kevin Sinclair on WHAT IS LIT RPG. * * * WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://www.youtube.com/@JWashburnauthor LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://www.jwashburn.com/swag/podcast * * * KEVIN’S books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ogQ3mD GET IN TOUCH WITH KEVIN SINCLAIR: https://kevinsinclair.co.uk https://twitter.com/KSinclairauthor https://www.facebook.com/kevinsinclairbookclub/ Peter Brett’s THE DEMON CYCLE: https://amzn.to/3PSyPXX * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Support us on PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast * * * BUY OUR BOOKS! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com * * * “Warning” by Beat Mekanik (Johnathon M. Horner), sourced from the Free Music Archive, is licensed under Creative Commons BY 4.0.
Wed, August 23, 2023
SW 135 INT Author of STAR WARS, HALO, STARCRAFT, HITMAN, and MASS EFFECT novels, William C. Dietz, explains HOW TO WRITE IN SOMEONE ELSE’S WORLD
START WRITING Podcast: “How to write in someone else’s world,” an interview with William C. Dietz, author of Star Wars, Halo, StarCraft, Hitman, and Mass Effect novels! “DAMN FINE SPACE OPERA!” — James Wolfhampton Get your copy of STARCHILD today! http://starchild1.jwashburn.com * * * I’m a fan of the StarCraft videogames, and I recently read a spin-off novel called HEAVEN’S DEVILS. I had somewhat low expectations, so I was pleasantly surprised and even impressed. William C Dietz delivered vivid characters, great descriptions, and a thoughtful, smart story. It was also fun to go on a new adventure with some of my favorite characters, including Jim Raynor and Tychus Findlay—as they’re getting their start as Space Marines. So I reached out to Mr Dietz, and we discussed a couple of interesting insights for aspiring authors. The first centers around writing in other “IPs.” IP stands for intellectual property, and in this context, that means a world and its characters. Bill Dietz has written in a lot of famous IPs that are not his original creations, including Star Wars, Halo, StarCraft, Hitman, and Mass Effect. He tells how he got started doing this and about the highs and lows that come with this sort of work-for-hire. The second main insight is this: He started in the traditional publishing world, and now he has a strong presence in indie publishing too. I asked him which of these two he preferred, and his answer surprised me. This was such a fun interview. I am so impressed with his humility. I was also intrigued by his final admonition to all of us listeners. Before we start, I wanted to make a personal comment. When I was a kid, I was so obsessed with the Jedi Knight video games that I even checked out the audio dramatizations of that story from the local library and listened to them with my older brother (who I wrote about in Stealing Indiana Jones). But it has been so long since then that I actually forgot! Well, it turns out that these novelizations were written by William C Dietz. So you’ll hear me say something in this episode that makes me sound like I was unfamiliar, but after recording this episode, I looked them up, I relistened, and all the memories came flooding back. It was a ton of fun to relive that part of my childhood. I also checked out the cool artwork of the book versions and those are impressive as well. Okay, I’ve said enough. Here’s our START WRITING interview with William C Dietz on How to write in someone else’s world. * * * WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://www.youtube.com/@JWashburnauthor LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://kite.link/start-writing * * * WILLIAM C. DIETZ LINKS: Email: william@williamcdietz.com Website: https://williamcdietz.com World War III: https://amzn.to/45e8JUQ Crickets: https://amzn.to/3KMnw0I William C. Dietz books: https://amzn.to/47BVPBv Douglas Reeman books: https://amzn.to/45fPmuu Franz Kafka books: https://amzn.to/3E86C
Wed, August 02, 2023
SW 134 INT Write your novel AFTER WORK, an interview with B.C. Walker, author of THE MEADOWLARK
Subscribe to THE INFORMANT to get a free copy of STEALING INDIANA JONES! http://theinformant.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Kindle: http://stealingindy.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Audible: http://stealingindyaudio.jwashburn.com * * * WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://www.youtube.com/@JWashburnauthor LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://kite.link/start-writing In this episode, B.C. Walker talks with us about these: Writing and researching historical fiction. Drawing on family history and personal experience in your novel. Picking your protagonist's gender. How to deal with heavy themes. How to write on the side, after work. B.C. WALKER LINKS: Buy B.C. Walker’s The Meadowlark: https://amzn.to/3B7DvkQ Brett’s site: https://bcwalker.com/ Brett’s essays: https://bcwalker.com/insights * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Support us on PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Thu, July 20, 2023
SW 133 INT Character Arcs in Nonfiction with NYT Bestselling author of OUTLIVE, Bill Gifford
Subscribe to THE INFORMANT to get a free copy of STEALING INDIANA JONES! http://theinformant.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Kindle: http://stealingindy.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Audible: http://stealingindyaudio.jwashburn.com * * * WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://www.youtube.com/@JWashburnauthor LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://kite.link/start-writing This episode Bill Gifford talks with us about the following: Is writing voice innate? The six-year struggle to bring a New York Times bestseller to life. What it’s like to co-author, and what to consider before you start. The “literary side” of writing a non-fiction treatise. How to add character arcs and emotion to a book ostensibly about facts. What should a writer do to stay healthy? BILL GIFFORD LINKS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/billgifford INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/billgifford/?hl=en OUTLIVE: https://amzn.to/46Y42zK SPRING CHICKEN: https://amzn.to/3O2kTbO Craig Childs https://amzn.to/43zdGG3 https://www.audible.com/pd/Heart-of-Darkness-A-Signature-Performance-by-Kenneth-Branagh-Audiobook/B004AFXAZS * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Wed, June 14, 2023
STEALING INDIANA JONES audiobook first half (1:23) by J Washburn
AUDIBLE: http://stealingindyaudio.jwashburn.com/ KINDLE: http://stealingindy.jwashburn.com/ NEWSLETTER: http://theinformant.jwashburn.com/ EMAIL: me@jwashburn.com SW SPECIAL STEALING INDIANA JONES: An essay on inspiration and death and how George Lucas hijacked the greatest stories of our time. † “[Stealing Indy] will pique your intellect and break your heart.” — James Wolfhampton In 1990, a six year old boy stole something from his neighbors. A small book. The ultimate Indiana Jones treasure—a Grail Diary. It promised everlasting life, but because it was stolen, the little boy didn’t dare tell his older brother—his mentor—what he’d done. In 2020, thirty years later, that older brother passed away. Stealing Indiana Jones is the true story of these two boys and how they discover a monstrous secret: that George Lucas stole his ideas for both Star Wars and Indiana Jones. As they struggle to make sense of what this horrifying truth means for all of us fans, they find redemption along the way. Their story explores inspiration and how great stories come to life. It examines, without shying away, disillusionment and innocence doomed to die. Their story is a salute to the loss of childhood and to the loss of life. Stealing Indiana Jones is a journey through the 90s, a glimpse of boyhood and fandom, and it’s filled with both heartbreak and heroism. Most importantly, it is a quest to uncover the secret behind all great stories— The secret of immortality. † WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/-MypAgsronQ * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Support us on PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Wed, June 07, 2023
SW 132 INT Rob MacGregor, author of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Subscribe to THE INFORMANT to get a free copy of STEALING INDIANA JONES! http://theinformant.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Kindle: http://stealingindy.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Audible: http://stealingindyaudio.jwashburn.com * * * WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/vY3Q0CpGEWw * * * Rob MacGregor wrote the novelization of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and we discuss how he added depth to that story than you don’t see in the film. Then we talk about the 6 original Indiana Jones novels that he wrote at a breakneck speed, 4 months apiece. He tells a funny story about how two Indiana Jones fans were pestering him with mail! We discuss how he had an influence on the creation of the Young Indiana Jones Chronicles but never got credit. He tells us how George Lucas sent instructions on what Rob was allowed to write in the Indiana Jones universe. He had to fight Disney to get his due royalties once Lucasfilm was sold to them. Indiana Jones has a vision quest in Rob’s novels, and it turns out Rob based that on a personal experience. He’s also written some significant nonfiction about the paranormal, true life stories about everything from alien encounters to contacting the dead. Incidentally, he hosts a podcast called the Mystical Underground, which also covers these topics, and it’s a bit of an understatement to call him an expert. https://themysticalunderground.com https://www.instagram.com/robmacgregor16/ https://amzn.to/44NmxWp Rob's books on Amazonhttps://indianajones.fandom.com/wiki/Rob_MacGregor https://amzn.to/3Bknqs4 Peter Benchley, author of Jawshttps://amzn.to/3I5O6k6 Carlos Castaneda, Teachings of Don Juanhttps://amzn.to/3Mjoum7 Prophecy Rock, Rob MacGregor’s award winning book * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Support us on PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Wed, May 03, 2023
SW 131 INT ”Is Indiana Jones allowed to time travel?” with Max McCoy
Start Writing interview with author Max McCoy: CAN INDIANA JONES TIME TRAVEL? Subscribe to THE INFORMANT to get a free copy of STEALING INDIANA JONES! http://theinformant.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Kindle: http://stealingindy.jwashburn.com Buy Stealing Indiana Jones on Audible: http://stealingindyaudio.jwashburn.com * * * WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/Ac1czjZ2-F4 In this episode, we ask questions of Max McCoy, author of four Indiana Jones novels, including The Philosopher’s Stone, The Dinosaur Eggs, The Hollow Earth, and The Secret of the Sphinx! He is also the author of numerous westerns, including the Ophelia Wylde fantasy/mystery series. MAX McCOY LINKS: Amazon: https://amzn.to/3KYfFNW Twitter: https://twitter.com/authormaxmccoy Website: http://www.maxmccoy.com News Articles: https://kansasreflector.com/author/max-mccoy Professor: https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1086091 * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Wed, April 05, 2023
SW 130 INT Rennie Saunders talks SHUT UP & WRITE!
SW INT 130 Rennie Saunders talks SHUT UP & WRITE In this episode, we talk to Rennue Saunders, founder of Shut Up & Write, and organization designed to give writers camaraderie and motivation to complete their writing goals. Watch the interview video here: https://youtu.be/RGKwlIEBmpM * * * LET’S BE FRIENDS: If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Support us on PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast And buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com * * * REFERENCES: https://www.shutupwrite.com https://shutupwrite.com/prompts https://shutupwrite.com/challenges/free-association-challenge Milford Writing Workshop Rules Pale Angel by Rennie Saunders Dhalgren by Samuel R. Delany Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth by Buckminster Fuller
Wed, March 01, 2023
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 10) EDITING TOGETHER
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 10) EDITING TOGETHER WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/wsDodceAOqg Episode 10 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel teach about getting feedback from peers and readers. First, Raiders of the Lost Ark is an excellent example of how to cut all but the best stuff. The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time shows us that the mundane can be made magical with very small tweaks. Harry Potter Illustrated has tons of typos, which means it’s okay to not have perfect copyediting. The different levels of editing are CONTENT, CHAPTER, and COPY editing. J believes content editing is by far the most important. His ideal writing group is one that trades full-length manuscripts, not chapters. You can sign up to be a J Washburn beta reader at http://betareader.jwashburn.com. Give your readers just two instructions: Let me know what you think and feel as you go, and I’ll call you when you finish. J gives his copy editors direct access to the manuscript. All early readers are given an ebook and instructions on how to share their highlights. J shares the list of questions he asks his readers. Don’t get discouraged, but do ask for really candid advice, even if it hurts. In the end, you’re the artist and get to decide what to do. Draft your covers and titles as early as you can. (Or, bump this over into the marketing phase.) P.S. It’s stream of CONSCIOUSNESS! P.P.S. I’m sorry I had a cough and that it’s so choppy! * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Wed, February 01, 2023
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 9) EDITING ALONE
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 9) EDITING ALONE WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/dcrIFhpq6HY Episode 9 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel teaches you how to be a damn fine editor. We talk about when you should NOT be editing. The different levels of editing are CONTENT, CHAPTER, and COPY editing, and we review examples of each of these. J edited STARCHILD one last time (and added a chapter!) before sending the book to his audiobook narrator. We take a forensic examination of book edits (The DaVinci Code adapted for Young Adults and the Anatomy of Peace 4th edition) to see what the pros change. Editing is a careful balance between being too clear and too obscure—go too far either direction and you’ll lose readers. Finally, you should make your book perfect before sending it for other to see (as we’ll talk about in the next episode). * * * If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Tue, November 01, 2022
SW SPECIAL J’s Beginner’s Guide (part 8) SUBPLOTS (Joe’s favorite episode)
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 8) SUBPLOTS (Joe’s favorite episode) WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/HOYNat1l03Y Episode 8 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel teaches you how to do subplots. First, we review PLOT CLOCKS. Then we look at a model called SUBPLOT RAINBOWS. We follow along with how J.K. Rowling outlined the Order of the Phoenix. We see how the innovative MUSICAL PLOT STAFF works for organizing multiple viewpoints. And finally, we look at three short tips, which are (1) get a good editor, (2) start with the smallest plottable story chunk, and (3) keep the plot personal (not epic). If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Tue, October 04, 2022
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 7) PLOT CLOCK
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 7) PLOT CLOCK WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/zR-IPvGfAbg Episode 7 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel teaches you how J Washburn structures a story using a PLOT CLOCK! The main points of this clock are (1) HOOK, (2) PLEDGE, (3) TURN, (4) PRESTIGE, (5) FINALE. We take an in-depth look at Jurassic Park and Star Wars: A New Hope as examples of how this structure works. And we also takes quick glance as the kishotenketsu model for plotting. And finally, I reveal the behind-the-scenes story of the ECKSDOT finale! If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Sat, September 03, 2022
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 6) PLOT FROM SCRATCH
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 6) PLOT FROM SCRATCH WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/_dWnYmQ83M8 Episode 6 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel is the easiest way to write a plot! We start with a letter from a listener, and we address questions like these: - Should I write my story from the finale and work backward? - Should I just figure out the plot as I go or should I write an outline? - How does George Martin plan his FANTASY NOVELS? - How do you fix a broken plot? - Is it faster to just skip outlining and just start writing? - What models can I structure my plot around? - What’s the absolute simplest way to think of plot? If you have questions, EMAIL US: pleasestartwriting@gmail.com * * * Buy our books! JOSEPH BENDOSKI: https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Bendoski/e/B06XX7LYKL J WASHBURN: http://library.jwashburn.com/
Fri, March 04, 2022
SW 129 INT Raymond O’Connor: Stop letting stories die inside you!
OUR PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Ggg13QPw8qs Ray's RUNNING OFF THE RAILS podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/running-off-the-rails/id1546572690https://pca.st/podcast/6c329090-2adc-0139-32e0-0acc26574db2https://runningofftherails.com/WEAVE BREAKER D&D build: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/351499/The-Weave-Breaker--The-Ultimate-Spell-Sword-Class https://www.reddit.com/r/UnearthedArcana/comments/meh5ff/the_weave_breaker_the_ultimate_spell_sword_class/GETTING STARTED IN D&Dhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkVdb9Yr8fc05_VbAVfskCA
Sat, January 29, 2022
SW 128 INT Jeanne Cavelos: Scifi author and founder of OdysseyWorkshop.org
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YaUGPWGYM0w Jeanne Cavelos is an author, editor, scientist, and writing coach. In this episode, we talk about several of her works, including THE SCIENCE OF STAR WARS, several BABYLON 5 novels, and her upcoming near-future scifi novel called FATAL SPIRAL. She is the founder of a nonprofit that brings out the best in writers called the ODYSSEY WRITING WORKSHOP. Apply to the Personal Odyssey Workshop here: http://www.odysseyworkshop.org Read some writing tips on the Odyssey Workshop Blog: https://odysseyworkshop.wordpress.com/ Listen to the Odyssey Workshop Podcast: https://www.odysseyworkshop.org/resources/podcasts/ [NOTE FROM J: Sorry for the audio quality in this episode. That's my mistake. But I'm absolutely delighted to have had this conversation with Jeanne. And my thanks to you for listening!]
Fri, January 07, 2022
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 5) VILLAINS
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 5) VILLAINS WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/9aTS_YrWPhI HOMEWORK: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IYvaxzh7cfys4LP6CJZqje1wspxuNy5U-970mH7EvMY/edit?usp=sharing Episode 5 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel is about how to create DEEP CHARACTERS. This means making them dynamic. Villains can be the opposite of heroes, meaning they're dislikable and bad. Or villains can simply have opposing goals, ones that conflict with what they hero wants. These villains are not bad by nature, but they provide antagonism in a competitive, zero-sum game. http://www.jwashburn.com J Washburn is the author of STARCHILD, an epic space opera about a rogue pilot in a galactic revolution.
Thu, November 18, 2021
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 4) TIPS FOR HEROES
WATCH ON YOUTUBE (with cool visuals): https://youtu.be/6I_9yB4vojs Episode 4 of A BEGINNER’S GUIDE to Writing a Novel gives you tips on how to create real and empathetic characters: Keep your cast small. Make every character physically and emotionally unique. Make sure readers can find the right button on the microwave. Use simple tags to remind your readers of a personality. Don’t be afraid to use repetition. Use a character outline to find the deeper emotional needs. Focus on VISION, INITIATIVE, and SPIRIT. Don’t make your hero too abnormal. NEEDS WASHED: http://archive.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/articles/2007/11/11/lawn_needs_cut/ HOMEWORK: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IYvaxzh7cfys4LP6CJZqje1wspxuNy5U-970mH7EvMY/
Thu, September 23, 2021
SW SPECIAL J‘s Beginner‘s Guide (part 3) HEROIC EQ
Episode 3 of A BEGINNER'S GUIDE to Writing a Novel teaches about building characters from the ground up. In this episode, J Washburn and Joe Bendoski tag team in a lecture that covers emotional intelligence, mimicry, and character names. We look at examples from Charles Dickens, George Lucas, J.K. Rowling, and George R.R. Martin. To see the visuals from the slide deck, check out this episode of Start Writing on YouTube: https://youtu.be/z2tx_8Ovv1g
Fri, August 27, 2021
SW SPECIAL J’s Beginner’s Guide (part 2) WORLDBUILDING
This episode covers how J Washburn goes through the worldbuilding process. He touches on examples from J.K. Rowling, Brandon Sanderson, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. He explains how to make a Story Bible. Oh, and maybe most importantly, he teaches you about finding and defining your genre. Watch the episode on YouTube if you want to see the slides: https://youtu.be/LhHT98U1Pgg
Thu, July 22, 2021
SW SPECIAL J’s Beginner’s Guide to Writing a Novel (part 1) OVERVIEW
We've had a lot of listeners ask us where to start. Our backlog spans many years! So this is meant to be tips for a beginner. It was put together with J as the lead, rather than Joe. See the video version here: https://youtu.be/dB37b0tUIzs Let us know what you think: me@jwashburn.com
Wed, June 16, 2021
SW 122 Marketing Group: Email Super-fan Model
In the marketing group, we discuss the Email Super-fan Model approach and talk about how it can change how you run FB ads, how to set up the email chain, and what you are selling beyond just books. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast Website: http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, June 16, 2021
SW 121 INT Bryan Collins - Dialogue in Non-Fiction
We talk to Bryan Collins about writing dialogue in non-fiction, and how journaling can be used to inform and fuel it. He talks about how he and other authors build a business around their non-fiction writing, and how time and events can change things. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast Website: http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, May 12, 2021
SW 120 Marketing Group: Facebook & Amazon Ads Phase 1
We take a very detailed look at Facebook & Amazon ads, setting them up, evaluating them, and targeting. There is a video that goes along with this on the Patreon Page. Video: https://www.patreon.com/StartWritingPodcast Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast Website: http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, May 12, 2021
SW 119 DIS: Dialogue 005: Switchtracking
We discuss what Swtichtracking and staying-on-your-own-track mean, and how to use them in dialogue to create tension and conflict. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast Website: http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing Hills Like White Elephants https://miettecast.com/2005/06/22/hills-like-white-elephants/
Tue, April 06, 2021
SW 118 DIS: Dialogue 04: Don't Write-On-The-Nose But If You Do
We talk about Writing-On-The-Nose and how to address it. We go over examples and explore how it is approached in different genres. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast Website: http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, March 17, 2021
SW 117 INT Brett Godfrey: How to get a world class narrator to read your book
Brett Godfrey talks about how he writes dialogue. How he got one of the top narrators to take on his books, even though he had just launched it, and it's his first novel. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com jbendoski@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast
Mon, February 15, 2021
SW 116 DIS Dialogue 003: How the same action beats can kill or build tension
We look at the body language of action beats and breakdown how it can be used to build tension in a scene and look at multi-layering your dialogue for better pacing, and less predictable lines. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com jbendoski@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast
Wed, January 20, 2021
SW 115 INT Dialogue With Sandra Montanino
Sandra Montanino talks about her new book, The Weight of Salt: A Gripping Story of Love and Courage and how she crafts dialogue. Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com jbendoski@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast
Sun, November 29, 2020
SW 114 DIS Dialogue 002: Actions Beats & Subtext
We continue our discussion on dialogue. This time we dig into action beats, one-actor-per-paragraph, subtext, stuffing for emphasis vs. shuffling for rhythm. Website: Joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing Email: Pleasestartwriting@gmail.com jbendoski@gmail.com Patreon.com/startwritingpodcast
Tue, September 29, 2020
SW 113 DIS Dialogue 001 - Grammar and Style
We begin our journey into dialogue and start with the basics. Email: jbendoski@gmail.com Web: JosephBendoski.com/Start-Writing
Sun, August 16, 2020
SW 112 INT on Exposition: Micheal Abramson
We discuss some of the ways Micheal Abramson handled exposition is his novel Dominant Trait. www.Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing jbendoski@gmail.com
Wed, July 15, 2020
SW 111 INT Exposition Part 5 - Other Perspectives
We talk with Mark Everglade, T. K. Young, and Joseph Hurtgen about their views on exposition, and how they handled it in their own novels.Website: Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing Email: jbendoski@gmail.com
Fri, June 19, 2020
SW 110 DIS Exposition Part 4 - Essential Parts
We cover interiority and the essential parts of the exposition that are needed for the story to work. Email us at: jbendoski@gmail.com or visit our website Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing
Fri, April 24, 2020
SW109 DIS Exposition: Part 3
We are still talking about exposition, backstory, and flashbacks. email: jbendoski@gmail.com website: Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing
Mon, March 30, 2020
SW108 DIS Exposition: Part 2
We continue our discussion on EXPOSITION with examples from The Expanse and John Updike. Email: jbendoski@gmail.com Website: Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing
Thu, January 30, 2020
SW107 DIS Exposition: Part 1
If Start Wars cut all exposition we wouldn't get this line, "Luke, I am your father." We talk about techniques to make exposition work and bring more life into your work. Visit our site JosephBendoski.com/Start-Writing or send us an email: jbendoski@gmail.com. Pick up the material for the examples on our website and help support the show.
Tue, November 19, 2019
SW106 DIS Chapter Cliffhangers
We discuss how to end chapters with cliffhangers, and what are the essential components that make a cliffhanger work, and what needs to come after. Website: Joseph-Bendoski/Start-Writing Email:jbendoski@gmail.com
Sun, October 13, 2019
SW105 DIS Ambiguous Endings
We discuss why ambiguous endings are used, and how to make them work, and how to know if they are right for the story you are working on. Contact: jbendoski@gmail.com website: JosephBendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, August 28, 2019
SW104 DIS The End with Cliffhangers
We discuss why you would end a book with a cliffhanger, the risks, and rewards of doing it, and look at some examples that have ended stories with cliffhangers successfully. Contact us: jbendoski@gmail.com or visit us for show notes at JosephBendoski.com/Start-Writing
Sat, July 06, 2019
SW103 DIS Elements of a Happy Ending
We continue our discussion of ending with a specific focus on happy ones. email us jbendoski@gmail.com or visit our site www.josephbendoski.com
Sun, May 12, 2019
SW 102 DIS Elements of THE END
We look at how to make an ending satisfying, different types of endings, and the reason they work. email: jbendoski@gmail.com Website: Joseph-Bendoski/Start-Writing.com
Fri, April 05, 2019
SW101 DIS Villains and Antagonists: Part 2
We discuss the differences and importance of political villains and physical villains among other things. Email us at jbendoski@gmail.com Website: joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Wed, February 27, 2019
SW100 DIS Emotional Genres
We discuss the chemistry and style behind writing for specific genres and what emotional experiences readers are looking for. Website: Joseph-Bendoski.com/Start-Writing Email: jbendoski@gmail.com
Thu, January 31, 2019
SW099 DIS Expand the Scene
We discuss how to slow down and expand scene, and which type to use for different kinds of scenes and stories. joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing email:jbendoski@gmail.com
Sat, December 01, 2018
SW098 DIS Villains and Antagonists Part 1
We discuss the making of great villains and antagonist and why it's such an important part of the story. joesph-bendoski.com/start-writing jbendoski@gmail.com
Sat, October 13, 2018
SW097 DIS Story Focus: Lisa Cron Part 2
www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing We discuss how the protagonist builds the structure of the story and why it's important.
Fri, September 21, 2018
SW096 DIS Essential Short Stories
We discuss the two short stories you have to write, why and what to do with them.
Sat, August 11, 2018
SW095 MAR Patreon
We cover everything we've learned about Patreon from various interviews, and our own research and put it all together for you. website Joseph-Bendoski.com/start-writing email: jbendoski@gmail.com
Sat, July 14, 2018
SW094 INT Jenna Moreci: Patreon 3
We interview Jenna Meoreci about her Patreon and Youtube author marketing. joseph-bendoski.com/star-writing. jbendoski@gmail.com
Sat, July 07, 2018
SW093 DIS Character Differentiation
How to differentiate your characters so your readers don't get confused. jbendoski@gmail.com www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, June 22, 2018
SW092 INT Lori Pum: Story Grid
We interview a certified Story Grid editor about how this story method works, and how different elements of the story connect to each other. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, June 01, 2018
SW091 DIS Tropes
We discuss what tropes are how to use them improve the pacing of your story and cut exposition. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Sat, May 19, 2018
SW090 INT Thorn Coyle: Patreon
We talk to Thorn Coyle about her experience with Patreon and how she grows her audience there. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Sat, May 12, 2018
SW089 GRA Whom Should Die
We discuss when to use "whom" and why there is so much confusion, and you should definitely and always say "funnest!" www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, May 04, 2018
SW088 MAR Instafreebie
We discuss what Instafreebie is and how to use it to get more reviews, subscribers, and generate interest in your book. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, April 27, 2018
SW VOC 021 Weekly Vocabulary for Writers
Weekly vocabulary for writers. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, April 27, 2018
SW087 DIS Writing Group
We discuss the different types of writing groups and why writers attend them, along with how to join one. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, April 20, 2018
SW VOC 20 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for writers
SW VOC 20 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for writers. www.joseph-bendoski/start-writing
Fri, April 20, 2018
SW086 INT Alana Terry: Patreon
We interview author Alana Terry about her experience with Patreon. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Sat, April 14, 2018
SW085 GRA Why we capitalize 'I'
We discuss were some of the weird rules of English capitalization come from, and if you should follow them all. www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Sat, April 07, 2018
SW VOC 019 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers. Join our newsletter www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Sat, April 07, 2018
SW084 DIS PoV Update
We talk about the pros and cons of different points of view. Join the newsletter www.joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing
Fri, March 30, 2018
SW VOC 018 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Fri, March 30, 2018
SW 083 DIS Start in the Middle: Cron Theory
We explore some of Lisa Cron's theory on storytelling, beginning at the beginning. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 24, 2018
SW VOC 017 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 24, 2018
SW082 DIS Little Did They Know
We discuss little-did-they-know clauses and as-you-know-bob. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sun, March 18, 2018
SW VOC 016 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sun, March 18, 2018
SW080 MAR Wattpad
We discuss how to use Wattpad for growing a fan base. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 10, 2018
SW VOC 015 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 10, 2018
SW079 INT Tim Niderriter
We interview Tim Niederriter about using Patreon for writing serial stories. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 03, 2018
SW VOC 014 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
SW VOC 014 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, March 03, 2018
SW078 DIS Lamping
We talk about the concept of lamping to remove reader stumbling blocks.
Fri, February 23, 2018
SW VOC 013 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Fri, February 23, 2018
SW077 How to Catch a Unicorn in under an Hour
We explore how articles are used, dropped, and shifted in different regions and during different time periods. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, February 17, 2018
SW VOC 012 Weekly Vocabulary & Poetry for Writers
Less than 5 min if you listen at double speed. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, February 17, 2018
SW076 MAR Blurb Theory Part 2
We discuss using curiosity gaps to write better blurbs and cover the importance of genre styling. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Tue, February 13, 2018
SW VOC 011 Weekly Vocab & Poetry for Writers
Weekly vocab & poetry. Listen at double speed and it's less than 5min. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Tue, February 13, 2018
SW075 INT Amber Dalcourt
We interview brand consultant Amber Dalcourt about how she's using Wattpad to build a fan base. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sun, February 04, 2018
SW VOC 010 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry for Writers
Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sun, February 04, 2018
SW074 DIS The Turn & The Psychology of Curiosity
We discuss the screenwriting term "the turn" and examine how to use the psychology of curiosity to keep readers hooked. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, January 27, 2018
SW VOC 009 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry
This week's vocab and poem. Listen at double speed and it will be less than 5min. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, January 27, 2018
SW073 UPDATE DIS Theme in Setting
We have an update for an older podcast: Theme in setting. I add in some details about how the hopeless side in presented to create balance. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, January 20, 2018
SW VOC 008 Weekly Vocabulary for Writers
We cover week vocabulary for writers along with the history and etymology of the words for those writers of historical fiction. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, January 20, 2018
SW072 DIS Cat & Dogs
We discuss the importance of first impression, relatability, and how to engineer those moments for your characters. Sign up for the newsletter @ http://joseph-bendoski.com/start-writing/
Sat, January 13, 2018
SW VOC 007 Weekly Vocabulary and Poetry.
Weekly vocabulary for writers. Less than 5min if you listen at double speed.
Sat, January 13, 2018
SW071 GRA Go On a Which Hunt
We cover what it means to "go on a which hunt" and "delete all your thats" and cover when you can't.
Wed, January 10, 2018
SW VOC 006 Weekly Vocabulary
Wed, January 10, 2018
SW070 INT Taylor Stevens
We discuss Taylor Stevens' journey to becoming an author. Her in-depth approach to writing craft in her podcast, and a few choices in her own books.
Sat, December 30, 2017
SW VOC 005 Weekly Vocabulary for Writers
Weekly vocabulary and roots for writers.
Sat, December 30, 2017
SW069 RE DIS Author Promise & Climax
What is the author's promise and how does it impact how people feel about your climax?
Fri, December 22, 2017
SW VOC 004 Weekly Vocabulary for Writers
Fri, December 22, 2017
SW068 DIS Relavent Setting
We begin our exploration of Lisa Cron's work on writing, starting with the setting.
Sat, December 16, 2017
SW VOC 003 December 15, 2017
Sat, December 16, 2017
SW067 INT Patrick Adams
We talked with Patrick Adams about indie publishing children's books. What he’s tried in marketing, what worked, and what didn’t. He explains how to approach writing for a child audience and why he chose self-publishing. He walks through his formating process for a image focused book, and what tricks he uses to
Fri, December 08, 2017
SW VOC 002
Weekly Vocabulary for writers. December 8th 2017
Fri, December 08, 2017
SW066 G&P Singular They
We discuss the use and history of singular they, along with a poem by W. B. Yeats
Sat, December 02, 2017
SW VOC 001 December 1st 2017
Weekly vocabulary for writers.
Sat, December 02, 2017
SW065 EX Revising Action Beats
We take an in-depth look at Action and rewriting them for a specific emotion. Also, creating an emotional map towards the chapter climax.
Fri, November 24, 2017
SW064 DIS RE Set Pieces & Sequences
We discuss the difference between set-pieces and sequences and how to use them.
Sat, November 18, 2017
SW063 INT Dave Chesson
We talk to Dave Chesson about blurb writing for different markets and how to get better conversions.
Sat, November 11, 2017
SW062 MAR Blurb Theory
We talk about the different theories that exist for blurbs, and go through writing one to show how each works.
Sat, November 04, 2017
SW062 INT David Wright
We interview David Wright about the struggles of a common name as a writer.
Sat, October 28, 2017
SW061 MAR Pre-Launch Part 1
We discuss everything you need to be doing before you finish and publish your book. At least everything we could fit into part 1.
Fri, October 20, 2017
SW060 DIS Action Beats Re-Release
We re-release one of our most popular episodes: Actions beats.
Fri, October 13, 2017
SW059 G&P Split Infinitive
Can you split them? When should you?
Tue, October 10, 2017
SW058 INT Sarah Werner
Sarah Werner talks to us about going full time as an author, using audio to reach a larger audience, and how to put sound into verbs and bring the setting to life.
Tue, October 03, 2017
SW057 MAR01 Marketing Plan
We discuss the two paths of marketing, why you should choose one or the other.
Sat, September 23, 2017
SW056 INT Alora Dillon
We interview Alora Dillon as she talks about just writing dialogue, using Wattpad and how to make a cover.
Sat, September 16, 2017
SW055 INT Robert Lenz
We interview Robert Lenz about self-editing and writing with a co-author.
Fri, September 08, 2017
SW054 DIS Theme In Setting
We discuss how to leverage your setting to strengthen your theme and prime your readers to read the narrative a specific way.
Sat, September 02, 2017
SW053 G&P Double & Multiple Negatives
We discuss when to use a double negative and for what effect.
Sat, August 26, 2017
SW052 INT Laurence O'Bryan
We interview Laurence O'Bryan about his journey from traditional to indie publishing, and everything he's learned along the way. He developed author teams to help them in their promotion and has an entire site dedicated to it.
Fri, August 18, 2017
SW051 DIS Scent of Memory
We cover using scent and smell to develop settings and build mood while evoking memories. We also discuss the amateur fear of having your idea stolen.
Sat, August 12, 2017
SW050 G&P Passive Voice
Our First Grammar and Poetry episode. We discuss when to use the passive voice.
Fri, August 04, 2017
SW049 INT J T Lawerance
We interview J T Lawerance and talk about how to build a list from nothing, and set up an email chain.
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