Why do some stories feel electric—like they’re waking us up to the world in a way we’ve never experienced before—while others fade into the background? The secret often lies in defamiliarization.

Have you ever had a moment—a fleeting, ordinary moment—that just stuck with you? Maybe it was the way sunlight hit the sidewalk, a stranger’s laugh in a quiet café, or a line of conversation overheard in passing. You’re not sure why, but something about it feels important, like it’s an inspiration for writing.

Not every storyteller can be trusted. In this episode, we explore the unreliable narrator—what they are, how they shape storytelling, and how you can craft one that keeps readers questioning everything. Listen now and learn how to turn narrative deception into a powerful tool.

Want to know how to write great fiction? In this episode, we sit down with award-winning author Alan Heathcock to break down the 27 tenets of fiction writing, the power of immersive settings, and why writing is more about discovery than perfection.

Want to write immersive scenes that pull readers in? This episode explores how film techniques like mise-en-scène can transform your writing, making every word work harder to enhance theme, mood, and character development.

Struggling with grammar mistakes in your writing? This episode breaks down essential grammar tips for writers and shows how grammar can actually be fun!

Struggling to spark creativity in your writing? Explore two powerful techniques—reversals and random metaphors—that will help you develop unique characters, settings, and plots.

Struggling with how to make your characters feel real? Learn how to create vivid, believable characters that come alive for readers. Discover key techniques for maintaining verisimilitude and avoiding common pitfalls that break the illusion of reality in fiction.

Struggling to engage readers and draw them into your story? This episode of Inside Creative Writing explores powerful techniques that make readers feel like active participants in your fiction. Listen now to transform your storytelling.

Should your novel start with a prologue? In this episode, we explore when a prologue strengthens your story and when it's better to dive right into the action. Listen in to learn how to decide if your book truly needs one.