Hosts Gary J. Martin and A.R. McNevin explore how personal philosophies, morals, and ethics shape the stories writers tell. They discuss moral complexity in fantasy, the tension between individual and group identity, and how authors hope their work affects readers.
The episode covers examples from Tolkien to role-playing, the power of found family, fame and remembrance, and whether fiction can leave the world a little better than it was found. It balances entertainment with the idea that stories can prompt reflection and change.
Join the conversation and listen as the hosts unpack how real-world influences and personal values filter into character choices, plot design, and the themes writers choose to emphasise.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Bobby Bones Show
Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.