Helping Writers Become Authors
Hosted by award-winning story coach K.M. Weiland, this podcast explores story theory, writing techniques, and the wisdom of storytelling. It aims to help writers craft their best stories and potentially change their lives.
Episodes
S18:E11: How to Write Mythic Fiction: 7 Practices to Reconnect With the Lost Art of Mythmaking
When we talk about mythic fiction, it's easy to assume mythic stories are created through familiar ingredients: archetypes, symbolism, old myths, epic structure. But I don't think that's where mythic storytelling begins. In this post/podcast, I explore seven practices and mindsets that help writers reconnect with what the lost art of mythmaking--not just borrowing of old symbolic forms, but acces
S18:E10: How to Write Mythic Fiction: Stop Borrowing Old Myths and Start Creating New Ones
What makes a story feel truly mythic? Many writers assume mythic fiction comes from borrowing archetypes, retelling old myths, or layering symbolic imagery into a story. While there is immense value in studying mythology, fairy tales, folklore, and archetypal storytelling traditions, something important has been lost in many modern conversations about mythic fiction. The old myths aren't powerful
S18:E09: Thoughts on How the Marketplace Is Shaping the Stories We Tell
For most of human history, stories were not primarily viewed as commercial products to be sold. Story functioned first as myth, meaning-making, entertainment, cultural memory, and a way of understanding ourselves and the world around us. But in today's marketplace-driven culture, storytelling exists almost entirely within commercial systems—something that inevitably shapes not just what we create,
The Emotional Toll on Writers in the Modern Landscape (And Why So Many Are Burning Out)
Many writers are struggling with burnout in today's creative landscape—but the cause isn't always personal habits. In this episode, I explore why writer burnout sometimes has less to do with storytelling itself and more to do with the conditions surrounding modern creative work. From constant output and visibility to the subtle pressure to keep up, many writers are navigating an environment that r
S18:E07: Internal Conflict vs. External Conflict: The Shift From Projection to Agency in Character Arc
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 between internal conflict vs. external conflict and why strong stories use external co
S18:E6: 9 Tips for How to Write Dark Stories Responsibly (And Make Hope Feel Earned)
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 principles behind balancing darkness and meaning in fiction. Some stories venture into shadow and leave us better for it. Others leave us depleted. The difference is rarely in how much suffering appears on the page. It's whether that suffering is tethered
S18:E05: Embodied Writing: How to Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Story
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 when we over-intellectualize the creative process. Craft and structure matter, but when storytelling becomes purely analytical, something vital can sometimes disappear. We'll talk about what embodied writing actually means, how archetypal depth arises fro
S18:E04: The Four-Act Structure and the Circular Shape of Story
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 the shape of story itself? In this episode, I explore why I've always taught structure in four quarters—long before I ever called it a Four-Act Structure—and how that perspective reveals story as a cycle rather than a straight line. We'll look at wh
S18:E3: Story as Cosmology: A Framework for Meaning
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 meaning—one that helps humans understand change, transformation, and lived experience. When I talk about story as cosmology, I'm pointing to the idea that story functions beneath ideology and belief systems, shaping how we make sense of crisis, consequenc
S18:E02: Why Writers Need a Sense of Wonder in Fiction More Than Ever
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 as a way of completing the story arc. Wonder is what allows stories to move through
S18:E01: How My Writing Career Evolved in 2025—and the Author Business I'm Building for 2026
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, and stepping into a deeper vision for my work. I explore the transitions from SEO to GEO, the shifting landscape of the writing life, and the tools and insights that helped me reimagine the next decade of my author career. Join me as I share the less
S17:E29: The Best Books I Read in 2025: My Top Fiction and Nonfiction Picks
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 unforgettablem, from romantasy and magical realism that were some of my best reads of the decade to thought-provoking nonfiction that challenged how I think about life, creativity, and the world around us. This year, I read purely for the joy of it. No research
S17:E28: Reflections on Turning 40 (+40 Things You Might Not Know About Me)
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, challenge, and deep awakening. They changed me utterly, teaching me about pain as a portal, creativity as a life force, and story as the map that guides us home to ourselves. In this episode, I'm sharing 40 Things You Might Not Know About Me—a blend of the
S17:E27: 5 Ways to Keep the Story Moving Between the Big Moments
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 writers can identify the big beats of their story's structure, but find the real challenge is connecting those plot points in a way that feels organic and alive. In this episode, K.M. Weiland shares a powerful shift in perspective: learning to see your
S17:E26: The Real Purpose of the Second Act (And Why You Can't Skip It)
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 Secodn is the heart of every story, where transformation happens. You'll learn why this "middle" isn't just filler, but the symbolic journey that tests your characters, deepens your theme, and gives your ending power and meaning. Whether you're struggl
S17:E25: "Who Am I?" The Midpoint as Self-Recognition in Story Structure
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
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: Big arcs that redefine a protagonist's worldview Small arcs that mirror the subtle growth we experience every day
S17:E23: How a Character's Personality Shapes Arc, Voice, and Goals
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 create characters who resonate with rea
S17:E22: Why All Stories Are Myth—and How They Transform Us
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" fiction, but myth in disguise? In this week's episode of the Helping Writers Become Authors podcast, we explore the mythic foundation of narrative and why all stories are myth at thei
S17:E21: What's Happened to Modern Storytelling? (+ 6 Ways Storytelling Can Find Its Soul Again)
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?
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
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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!)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
Writing multiple plotlines in your fiction doesn't have to be hard. Learn to navigate the intricacies while balancing the pros and cons.
