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...
Jul 20, 2026
A great ending is about much more than resolving the plot. Why do satisfying story endings stay with us for years, while others leave us empty? In this video, I explore the psychology of story endings.
When we think about writing endings, we often focus on tying up loose ends or delivering a dramatic finale. But endings...
Apr 6, 2026
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 powerful character arcs aren’t really about defeating the antagonist. They’re about the protagonist reclaiming agency.
In this episode, we explore the deeper difference...
Jan 19, 2026
We’re living in a storytelling moment deeply fascinated by darkness—and for good reason. Stories have always helped us metabolize fear, trauma, and moral failure. But darkness is not meant to be the destination.
In this episode, I explore why writers need a sense of wonder in fiction, not as escapism or denial, but...
Apr 21, 2025
Writing a fall arc involves capturing characters' heartbreaking journeys. Discover techniques for depicting their moral decline.