Helping Writers Become Authors

Helping Writers Become Authors

Hosted by award-winning story coach K.M. Weiland, the Helping Writers Become Authors podcast will take you deep into story theory, writing techniques, and all the incredible wisdom of story. There is no such thing as "just a story." Come along to find out how to write YOUR best story, astound the world, and (just maybe) change your life!

Episodes

September 22, 2025 26 mins

Not every story needs a protagonist who undergoes a massive, life-altering transformation. Some of the most memorable tales hinge on smaller, quieter shifts, or even on characters who remain steadfast throughout.

In this episode, we’ll explore the full spectrum of character arcs:

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What makes a character unforgettable? It’s not just quirks or dialogue. It’s personality. Your characters' personalities shape their arcs, influence their voices, drive their goals, and and connect plot and theme into a cohesive whole.

In this episode, we’ll explore why personality is the secret ingredient to compelling storytelling and how you can use it to crea...

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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, or Pride & Prejudice—wasn’t just entertainment or even “realistic” ...

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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