Oct 12, 2026
If you've ever wondered how to write subtext without leaving readers confused—or explaining so much that the subtext disappears—these five principles can help.
Subtext is everything a story communicates without saying it outright. It can deepen characters, relationships, dialogue, worldbuilding, and theme by...
Sep 28, 2026
Character misdirection does more than set up clever betrayals. By using False Allies and False Enemies, writers can deepen conflict, complicate character arcs, and create plot twists that feel both surprising and inevitable.
In this video, I explore four variations of character misdirection: the False Ally, the False...
Sep 14, 2026
What is an Impact Character, and how can this supporting character help you show a believable character arc instead of simply telling readers your protagonist has changed?
Character arcs are largely internal, which creates an obvious challenge for writers: how do you dramatize a changing worldview on the page? One of...
Aug 31, 2026
How do you identify your writing weaknesses? And, even more importantly, how can you tell if something really is a weakness? In this episode, I share five ways writers can recognize recurring craft problems, strengthen weak areas, and distinguish poor execution from intentional writing style.
Every story presents its...
Aug 3, 2026
What if the Lie the Character Believes isn't really a lie?
For years I've taught the Lie the Character Believes as the foundation of character arc. But over time, I've come to see that this concept may point toward something much deeper than just a mistaken belief.
In this episode, I explore three increasingly complex...