Helping Writers Become Authors

S18:E07: Internal Conflict vs. External Conflict: The Shift From Projection to Agency in Character Arc

06 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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 pow...

S18:E6: 9 Tips for How to Write Dark Stories Responsibly (And Make Hope Feel Earned)

16 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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 prin...

S18:E05: Embodied Writing: How to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Story

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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 whe...

S18:E04: The Four-Act Structure and the Circular Shape of Story

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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...

S18:E3: Story as Cosmology: A Framework for Meaning

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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 meani...

S18:E02: Why Writers Need a Sense of Wonder in Fiction More Than Ever

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We're living in a storytelling moment deeply fascinated by darkness—and for good reason. Stories have always helped us metabolize fear, trauma, and ...

S18:E01: How My Writing Career Evolved in 2025—and the Author Business I'm Building for 2026

05 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

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...

S17:E29: The Best Books I Read in 2025: My Top Fiction and Nonfiction Picks

15 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 unforgett...

S17:E28: Reflections on Turning 40 (+40 Things You Might Not Know About Me)

10 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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, challen...

S17:E27: 5 Ways to Keep the Story Moving Between the Big Moments

03 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 wri...

S17:E26: The Real Purpose of the Second Act (And Why You Can't Skip It)

27 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 Se...

S17:E25: "Who Am I?" The Midpoint as Self-Recognition in Story Structure

20 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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.

S17:S24: Big vs. Small Character Arcs: Understanding the Degrees of Change in Storytelling

22 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Not every story needs a protagonist who undergoes a massive, life-altering transformation. Some of the most memorable tales hinge on smaller, quieter ...

S17:E23: How a Character's Personality Shapes Arc, Voice, and Goals

15 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What makes a character unforgettable? It's not just quirks or dialogue. It's personality. Your characters' personalities shape their arcs, influence t...

S17:E22: Why All Stories Are Myth—and How They Transform Us

08 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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...

S17:E21: What's Happened to Modern Storytelling? (+ 6 Ways Storytelling Can Find Its Soul Again)

25 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Feeling bored at the movies? Learn what's happened to modern storytelling and what it will take to restore the magic and emotional impact.

S17:E20: Writing Better Character Conflicts With the 5 Conflict Management Styles

18 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Here's how writers can apply the five conflict management styles to create richer, more realistic character conflicts in your fiction.

S17:E19: The 5 Types of Scene Endings Every Writer Must Master

04 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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.

S17:E18: 7 Ways to Watch and Read More Intentionally

28 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If writers don't consume stories with intention, who will? Here are 7 mindful habits to read more intentionally and get more from stories.

S17:E17: What Makes a Story "Bad"? A Guide to Why Your Narrative Isn't Working

21 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What makes a bad story? The answer may surprise you. Here's what really makes a story fail—and how to fix it.

S17:E16: Why Intentional Storytelling Matters in an Era of AI and Algorithm-Driven Content

07 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Intentional storytelling means making creative choices with purpose. Here's why that matters more than ever in an AI-driven content world.

S17:E15: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 2 of 2)

16 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover how to honor your character's history while crafting different character arcs for the same character in new stories.

S17:E14: How to Write Different Character Arcs for the Same Character (Part 1 of 2)

09 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover systems that can help you write different character arcs for the same character in your series. Keep stories interesting and unique!

S17:E13: Crafting Archetypal Arcs With Enneagram Insights

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the connection between archetypal arcs and Enneagram insights for transformative storytelling and character growth.

S17:E12: Using the Enneagram for Character Development: Avoiding Repetition for Lies Each Type Might Believe

19 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the unique lies each Enneagram subtype believes and how these shape their fears, desires, and character development in storytelling.

S17:E11: The Most Dangerous Arc: Breaking Down the Corruption Character Arc

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Unlock the intricacies of the Corruption Character Arc. Discover how fear, pride, and desire lead to a character's downfall.

S17:E10: Writing a Fall Arc: How to Show a Character's Moral Decline

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Writing a fall arc involves capturing characters' heartbreaking journeys. Discover techniques for depicting their moral decline.

S17:09: Disillusionment Arc in Storytelling: A Powerful Tool for Character Growth

14 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Understand the Disillusionment Arc in storytelling, a powerful journey portraying human growth through confronting stark realities.

S17:E08: How Writers Can Use the Four Stages of Knowing in Character Arcs

31 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Explore the four stages of knowing in character arcs to understand transformation and enhance your storytelling skills.

S17:E07: How to Make Your Fantasy World Feel Real: 6 Pillars of Organic Worldbuilding

10 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From magic to government, discover the 8 key pillars of worldbuilding that will make your fantasy world feel real.

S17:E06: Your Character's Three Choices: Character Goal Examples for Writers

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover essential character goal examples for writers and learn how to craft compelling, multi-layered motivations using the "three choices."

S17:E05: 5 Proven Ways to Conquer Self-Doubt in Writing

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to conquer self-doubt in writing and transform it into a driving force for growth and improvement.

S17:E04: Exploring the Impact of AI on Fiction Writing: Opportunities and Challenges

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Delve into the impact of AI on fiction writing. Explore the opportunities and concerns surrounding the incorporation of AI in creative work.

S17:E03: The Writer's Road to Creative Burnout Recovery

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Recover from creative burnout with these holistic strategies. Create space in your life to rebuild creativity and overcome writer's block.

S17:E02: The Rules of Fiction: What They Are and What They're Not

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Demystify the rules of fiction and learn how they empower storytelling. Discover how underlying structure enhances creative autonomy.

S17:E01: Reflecting on 6 Life-Changing Lessons in 2024

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Gain insights from life-changing lessons and intentions for growth in the new year. Explore the powerful connection between writing and life.

S16:E42: Top 10 Books I Read in 2024

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the top 10 books of 2024. Dive into captivating fantasy novels and explore fascinating non-fiction works.

S16:E41: Top 8 Lessons I've Learned as a Writer in 16 Years

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the top lessons I've learned as a writer. Gain insights and inspiration from my personal experiences as a career writer.

S16:E40: The 5 Gift Rule for Writers at Christmas

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the 5 gift rule for writers this Christmas. Find sustainable and mindful gift ideas that will delight the writers in your life.

S16:E39: Antagonist vs. Villain: What's the Difference?

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding the difference between antagonist vs. villain. Explore the complex dynamics that go beyond typical storytelling conventions.

S16:E38: The 3 (Structurally) Most Important Characters

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Explore the most important characters driving the narrative in a compelling story. Discover their motivations and how they impact outcome.

S16:E37: Learn About the Different Types of POV (+Head-Hopping)

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the different types of Points of View (POV) in storytelling. Learn how to master narrative perspective for more engaging writing.

S16:E36: The Resolution (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 12 of 12)

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the importance of the Resolution in storytelling. Learn how to bring closure to your story and leave readers with a final emotion.

S16:E35: The Climax (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 11 of 12)

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Crafting the perfect Climax for your novel is essential. Learn how to create tension, suspense, and unforgettable moments for your readers.

S16:E34: The Third Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 10 of 12)

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn why the Third Plot Point is a vital turning point in your story structure. Understand how to set it up for a powerful ending.

S16:E33: The Third Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 9 of 12)

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Explore how to write an exciting and satisfying Third Act. Learn how to build an epic finale as your plot reaches its thrilling conclusion.

S16:E32: How to Trust Yourself as a Writer (Not Relying on Advice Too Much)

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unleash your creativity and trust yourself as a writer. Discover how to overcome self-doubt and embrace your unique artistic voice.

S16:E31: The Second Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 8 of 12)

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unleash the second half of the Second Act in your story. Explore how characters' decisions and inner growth drive the narrative.

S16:E30: The Midpoint (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 7 of 12)

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Uncover the power of the Midpoint in storytelling. Explore how this pivotal moment in the Second Act changes the paradigm of the story.

S16:E29: The First Half of the Second Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 6 of 12)

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover how to tackle the first half of the Second Act in your story with confidence. Learn valuable tips on structure and character.

S16:E28: The Secret to Writing Strong Themes

19 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Craft immersive stories by writing strong themes that resonate. Explore how to create narratives that connect with readers on a deeper level.

S16:E27: The First Plot Point (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 5 of 12)

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Uncover the power of the First Plot Point in storytelling. Learn how this seismic shift sets the stage for escalating tension and conflict.

S16:E26: The Inciting Event (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 4 of 12)

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Master the art of crafting a captivating Inciting Event in your story. Explore its significance and discover techniques to make it impactful.

S16:E25: The First Act (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 3 of 12)

29 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Understand the importance of the First Act in story structure. Learn how the Hook, Inciting Event, and First Plot Point set up the plot.

S16:E24: The Hook (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 2 of 12)

22 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how the Hook grabs readers from the very first page with an irresistible question that piques their curiosity and keeps them reading.

S16:E23: 5 Reasons Story Structure Is Important (Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 1 of 12)

15 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Uncover why story structure is important. Learn how understanding story structure can help you create resonating and seamless narratives.

S16:E22: Launch Day! Two New Books for Writers (+Win a Freewrite Alpha!)

08 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the keys to effective plot structure with two new books for writers from K.M. Weiland. Build a strong foundation for your stories!

S16:E21: Everything You Need to Know About the Lie the Character Believes

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the secrets of the Lie the Character Believes. Explore the impact of this crucial storytelling element.

S16:E20: Juggling Life and Writing: 9 Tips for Maintaining Creative Focus

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn effective strategies for juggling life and writing, including ways to maintain creative focus amid distractions.

S16:E19: Scene Structure and Transitions in Big Scenes

17 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to seamlessly transition out of big set pieces in your story. Discover practical tips for scene structure and transitions.

S16:E18: 5 Strategies for Writing the Parts You Don't Like

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover effective strategies for writing the parts you don't like and maintaining creative flow through elements that trigger resistance.

S16:E17: Troubleshooting Your Story's Ending

20 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to troubleshoot your story's ending and craft a compelling climax. Tips on character arcs and themes for a satisfying conclusion.

S16:E16: Enneagram Types for Writers: Types 5-9

13 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unlock the power of self-awareness in your writing journey with the Enneagram types for writers. Learn strengths and weaknesses of Types 5-9.

S16:E15: Enneagram Types for Writers: Types 1-4

06 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover Enneagram types for writers and how they can enhance your understanding of yourself and your craft. Types 1-4 in this episode.

S16:E14: How to Use Symbolic and Archetypal Settings in Your Story

22 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unleash archetypal settings in your stories. Discover how symbolic and archetypal settings elevate narratives and resonate with readers.

S16:E13: Checklist for Beginning Your Story: Plot Considerations

15 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Start off right with this checklist for beginning your story. Grab your readers' attention and keep them engaged by establishing the plot.

S16:E12: How to Choose Story Settings: The 4 Basic Types of Setting

01 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

 Learn the four basic types of setting as a way to help you choose story settings that create meaningful connections among characters.

S16:E11: From Lead to Gold: The Alchemy of Character Arc With Carl Jung

25 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Delve into the alchemy of character arc. Explore the parallels between alchemy, Jungian analysis, and story structure.

S16:E10: Checklist for Beginning Your Story: Introducing Your Characters

18 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Master the art of introducing your characters in your first chapter. Learn to hook readers and lay the foundation for character development.

S16:E9: Announcing the Shadow Archetypes Course! (+Giveaway)

11 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the power of shadow archetypes in character development. Join the Shadow Archetypes course to write stories of depth and complexity.

S16:E8: 6 Tips to Write Deeply Emotional Fiction

04 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn the art of writing deeply emotional fiction. Discover six tools to infuse stories with emotional resonance that lingers for readers.

S16:E7: How to Use Antagonists in Your Story: The Right Way and the Wrong Way

26 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to use antagonists to create unforgettable plots. Strengthen narratives and build your characters' journey with this skill.

S16:E6: Writing 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Backstory

19 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Use this essential guide to backstory to share the history of your characters and story world with your audience at just the right moments.

S16:E5: Burned Out on the Business of Writing? 6 Insights to Rediscover Joy and Passion in Your Work

05 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to regain a sense of creative fulfillment in the business of writing and get tips for managing the pressures of marketing fiction.

S16:E4: 5 Reasons Marketing Is Hard for Writers

29 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Five reasons marketing is hard for writers and how to flip your mindset to embrace marketing and business as tremendous opportunities.

S16:E3: Writing Multiple Plotlines: Everything You Need to Know

22 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Writing multiple plotlines in your fiction doesn't have to be hard. Learn to navigate the intricacies while balancing the pros and cons.

S16:E2: Lessons From 2023: 5 Reflections on "Flat Arc" Periods

08 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Turns out my personal experiences this year perfectly represent what I want to say about the importance of Flat Arcs in character development.

S16:E1: Top 10 Writing Posts of 2023

01 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Before we say goodbye to the old year, let's take a look at what were, according to your pageviews, my top 10 writing posts of 2023.

Ep. 647: My Top Books of 2023

18 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Check out some of my favorite books from 2023 in three categories: Fiction, Writing How-To, and General Non-Fiction.

Ep. 646: How to Market a Book: 6 Steps From a Full-Time Author

11 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Knowing how to market a book starts with identifying your personal marketing ethos. After that, take these six steps to connect with readers.

Ep. 645: 14 Do's and Don'ts of Time Management for Writers (from a Recovering Over-Achiever)

27 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Time management for writers starts with practical steps for aligning your daily schedule to your vision for your writing life.

Ep. 644: "There and Back Again": The Lord of the Rings and the Power of Despair in Fiction

30 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

To create fiction that offers life-changing hope, authors must be willing to also embrace the power of despair in fiction. Here are 5 tips.

Ep. 643: How to Use Archetypes in a Series

09 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Consider the following four approaches to how to use archetypes in a series so you can determine which feels most resonant for your story.

Ep. 642: How Meditation Can Inspire Your Next Story

02 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you're using a guided approach or just freewheeling, here are five ideas for how meditation can inspire your next story idea.

Ep. 641: Announcing Archetypal Character Guided Meditations! (+Giveaway)

25 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Based on six transformational character arcs, these Archetypal Character Guided Meditations will help writers brainstorm even better stories.

Ep. 640: What Are Antagonistic Proxies? And How Can They Help Your Story?

18 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Here are four tips for how to use antagonistic proxies to your advantage, depending on your story's needs, without complicating your story.

Ep. 639: Where Should You Start Plotting Your Story?

11 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

An overview of the main concerns when deciding where to start plotting a story, depending on where it makes the most sense for you.

Ep. 638: Hot Tip for Character Relationships: The Relationship IS a Character

28 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

One of the best tricks for writing memorable character relationships is to think of each relationship as an entity of its own. Here's how.

Ep. 637: How to Rediscover the Joy of Writing

21 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when you lose the joy? Learn how to rediscover the joy of writing you experienced way back at the beginning of your journey,

What Are Plot Devices? (Why You Should Be Cautious)

14 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Learning how to identify plot devices and fully support them on every page of your story is a huge step toward writing cohesive and resonant fiction.

Ep. 635: How to Write Interesting Happy Scenes? 6 Tips

31 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Six tips for how to write interesting happy scenes that will become some of your readers favorite moments in the story.

Ep. 634: 8 Different Types of Scenes

24 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding some of the main types of scenes can help you recognize which choice is right for your story at any particular moment.

Ep. 633: How to Discover What Your Character Fears

10 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Understanding what your character fears can offer significant insights into your story and its underlying themes.

Ep. 632: A New Way to Think About the Lie the Character Believes

03 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how the Lie the Character Believes is a gauge of the character's relationship with reality--and how to use it to upgrade character arcs.

Ep. 631: What Does Your Character Want? Desire vs. Plot Goal vs. Moral Intention vs. Need

26 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Writers can find value and nuance by digging deeper into the functionality of these four terms in answering: "What does your character want?"

Ep. 630: What's the Difference? Your Character's Ghost vs. Wound vs. Lie vs. Weakness

19 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

All four terms--Ghost vs. wound vs. Lie vs. weakness--refer to a pain point for your character. Here's how to understand the nuances.  

Ep. 629: The Daily Routine of a Full-Time Writer

12 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Join me for a peek into my daily routine as a full-time writer!

Ep. 628: Imposter Syndrome for Writers Is a Real Thing (+ the Key to Slaying It)

05 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How to transform imposter syndrome for writers from an enemy into a tool for growing yourself throughout the journey of the writing life.

Ep. 627: 5 Ways to Use Your Character's Shadows to Power Your Story

29 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Here are five places in your story where you can use your character's shadows to create amazing complexity and thematic resonance.

Ep. 626: How to Create Insanely Complex Characters Using "Shadow Theory"

21 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

"Shadow theory" is one of the most intuitive tools a writer can use to identify the contrasting elements that create complex characters.