Story Works Round Table

conversations about craft

for writers and readers curious about writers

SWRT 346 | Telling the Truth in Memoir with Kerry Kriseman

SWRT 346 | Telling the Truth in Memoir with Kerry Kriseman

In this week’s episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Kerry Kriseman to discuss Kerry’s memoir, Accidental First Lady, which provides an unfiltered look at life as a political spouse. Kerry shares her journey from writing news stories in college to crafting her memoir, highlighting the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome and the fear of telling the truth. Tune in for insights on memoir writing, the importance of mission statements, and the emotional hurdles of sharing personal stories.

SWRT 345 | Journaling for Writers with Marcy Sproull

SWRT 345 | Journaling for Writers with Marcy Sproull

In this week’s episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn explore the transformative power of journaling with Marcy Sproull. Join us as Marcy shares her journey into journaling, its therapeutic benefits, and how it can enhance creativity for writers. Discover practical journaling techniques, including the art of dialogue with your thoughts and characters, and learn how to use journaling as a tool for self-discovery and problem-solving. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that promises to inspire your own writing journey!

SWRT 330 | Writing Ancient Historical Mysteries with NL Holmes

SWRT 330 | Writing Ancient Historical Mysteries with NL Holmes

This week, Alida and Kathryn sit down with N.L. Holmes, an archaeologist turned novelist, who crafts mysteries set in ancient Egypt. Join us as we explore her unique journey, the challenges of writing about a distant culture, and the art of blending historical accuracy with engaging storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of her novels or an aspiring writer, this episode is packed with insights into the world of historical fiction and the mystery genre.

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SWRT 329 | Staging Your Action Scenes with CC Robinson

SWRT 329 | Staging Your Action Scenes with CC Robinson

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold have a lively discussion with award-winning author CC Robinson about the art of staging action scenes in writing. Drawing from her theater background, CC shares insights on blocking fight scenes and how to orient readers within the physical space of a story effectively. With real-time sketches and engaging dialogue, we explore the interplay of character goals, motivations, and the dynamics of action sequences. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable tips to elevate your storytelling craft.

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SWRT 328 | Creating Writing Rituals & Celebrations with Elizabeth Barbour

SWRT 328 | Creating Writing Rituals & Celebrations with Elizabeth Barbour

In this enlightening episode, Alida and Kathryn welcome Elizabeth Barber, a life and business coach, shamanic practitioner, and joyful ritualist, who shares her journey of transforming chaos into clarity through sacred celebrations. Elizabeth discusses her award-winning book, ‘Sacred Celebrations,’ and how rituals can be woven into our writing practices and everyday lives. Discover the significance of creating personal rituals and how they can help us navigate life’s milestones, both joyful and challenging. Join us as we explore the power of storytelling, the importance of witnessing, and the art of celebrating our achievements.

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SWRT 327 | Embracing The Heroine’s Journey with Danielle Anderson

SWRT 327 | Embracing The Heroine’s Journey with Danielle Anderson

In this episode, Alida Winternheimer welcomes Danielle Anderson, a seasoned nonfiction book coach and editor, as we delve into the concept of the heroine’s journey. Drawing from Maureen Murdoch’s influential work, Danielle shares her personal experiences and insights on the internal journey women often face, contrasting it with the traditional hero’s journey. Discover how understanding this narrative can empower women to embrace their unique stories and identities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depths of their own journey!

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SWRT 326 | Writing Through Chronic Illness with Beth Biss

SWRT 326 | Writing Through Chronic Illness with Beth Biss

In this episode, Alida and Kathryn explore the intersection of writing and chronic illness with author Beth Biss. Beth shares her personal journey of navigating her health challenges while pursuing her passion for writing. We discuss the themes of identity, acceptance, and empowerment in her work, and how her experiences shape her characters and stories. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of storytelling.

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SWRT 325 | Is Art Enough? with Stephanie Elizondo Griest

SWRT 325 | Is Art Enough? with Stephanie Elizondo Griest

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn talk with Stephanie Elizondo Griest, author of Art Above Everything. In this perspective changing conversation, we talk all about centering your life on art. We talk about the sometimes painful journey of being an art monk, and what it means to dedicate yourself to the creation of art. Join us as we talk about the journey Stephanie has taken to realizing that Art is Enough. And what Enough even means in this capitalistic culture we live in.

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SWRT 324 | The Healing Power of Nature and Memoir with Jon Lurie

SWRT 324 | The Healing Power of Nature and Memoir with Jon Lurie

In this episode, Alida Winternheimer engages in a profound conversation with Jon Lurie as we explore the healing power of nature and the intricate journey of memoir writing. Jon shares insights from his two memoirs, including his epic canoe trip along the Red River with a young man named Jose, highlighting themes of personal growth, cultural identity, and the transformative experience of connecting with the natural world. Then he speaks to the healing power of nature in his own health journey. Join us for an inspiring discussion filled with adventure, reflection, and the importance of storytelling.

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SWRT 323 | What Makes Writing Objectively Good?

SWRT 323 | What Makes Writing Objectively Good?

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we gather a diverse panel of writers to tackle the complex question: what makes writing objectively good? Join Alida Winternheimer, Kathryn Arnold, Mark Liebenow, Daniel Kleifgen, Liz Bird, Miriam Levi, and Monic Ductan as they explore the subjective nature of writing, the challenges of judgment, and the essential components that contribute to strong storytelling. With insights from experienced fiction and nonfiction writers, this discussion is rich with practical advice and personal anecdotes. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that dives into the heart of the writing craft!

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SWRT 322 | A Writer’s Responsibility to Ghosts of the Past: Historical Fiction with J.E. Weiner

SWRT 322 | A Writer’s Responsibility to Ghosts of the Past: Historical Fiction with J.E. Weiner

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold sit down with J.E. Weiner, the author of the captivating novel The Wretched and Undone. This Southern Gothic tale, set in the Texas Hill Country, intertwines history and supernatural elements as it explores the immigrant experience during the American Civil War. Join us for a deep dive into the book’s rich characters, the haunting themes of faith and family, and the fascinating historical research that brought this story to life. Whether you’re a lover of historical fiction or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation is not to be missed!

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