Tell The Damn Story

Tell The Damn Story episodes:

• 06.30.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 318: The History of Hip Hop: Exploring Creating Fielder & Greason's Visionary Graphic Novel

  Today, cohost Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan talk with renowned visual Afrofuturist and graphic novelist Tim Fielder and the distinguished author, historian, and economist Walter Greason. Together, they explore the fascinating process behind creating their 92-page graphic novel, The Graphic History...

  
• 06.23.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 317: Crafting Compelling Characters & Authentic Dialogue, Answering Your Writing Questions with Alex and Chris

  Welcome to another episode of "Tell The Damn Story" with your hosts, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan. Today, we’re dedicating time and thought to tackling your top questions about crafting compelling characters and authentic dialogue. We’ll discuss the importance of...

  
• 06.16.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 316: Father-Daughter Duo Discuss Writing About Comics, Myths, and Environmental Education

  Here we go with another exciting episode of "Tell The Damn Story"!  Today, Alex and Chris return to the fascinating world of comic book creation with special guests Juan Espinosa and his daughter, Grace.  Juan is the writer/creator of the comic book...

  
• 06.09.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 315: Author Brandon Easton Talks Real About Writing, Comics, TV, and Black Representation.

  Co-hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan are joined by a remarkable guest, writer Brandon Easton. Brandon's path from New York City's classrooms to Hollywood's creative hubs is a powerful testament to perseverance and passion. Raised in Baltimore, Brandon shares his experiences—from...

  
• 06.02.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 314: A Writer's Journey - Celebrating 932 Years of Creativity with Alex Simmons

  "Lessons Learned Being a Writing Hero" ("Those are Chris' words, not mine." - Alex -) Today, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan celebrate Alex's birthday by exploring his life as a creative so that we can discuss the ups and downs, the...

  
• 05.26.2024

  Tell The Damn Story 313: Compact Creativity_The Trends and Techniques of Short Story Fictions

  Join writers Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan as they dive into the world of short story fiction. In this episode, they explore the history and resurgence of shorter works, discussing their experiences, pitfalls to avoid, and the key elements for...

  
• 05.19.2024

  Tell The Damn Story 312: How Important Is Choosing A Genre or Naming Your Characters?

  Welcome to another episode of "Tell The Damn Story," where hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan explore the intricacies of storytelling.  In today's episode, they dive into writing across genres, the importance of character naming, and the unpredictable nature of reader...

  
• 05.12.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 311: Tale of the Great White: Unpacking the Storytelling Mastery in Jaws

  In this exciting and in-depth installment, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons dive deep into the storytelling waters of the iconic film "Jaws." From the comedic yet ominous build-up to the multi-layered character dynamics, we'll analyze how each scene masterfully serves...

  
• 05.05.2024

  Tell The Damn Story 310: Here Are 3 Classic Examples of Creating Compelling Stories In Comics, Novels, & Films!

  In this exciting episode, Alex and Chris dive deep into the art of storytelling through multiple mediums. The boys explore the subtle complexities of storytelling in classic films, novels, and comics. The stimulating discussion starts with the iconic 1957 film 12...

  
• 04.28.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 309: Break into Mainstream Publishing: Expert Insights with Authors Tom Sniegoski & Jeannine Acheson

  How do you come up with a series concept?  How do you write it?  How do you pitch it to publishers?  In this episode, Chris and Alex dive deep into the intricate world of getting a book series mainstream published. Alex...

  
• 04.21.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 308: 3 OF THE BEST WAYS TO INTRODUCE THE HERO

  Welcome to another exciting episode of "Tell The Damn Story," where Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dive deep into the art of character creation and hero introductions. In this episode, they're peeling back the layers of iconic characters, revealing three...

  
• 04.14.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 307: How To Overcome the Shadow of Self-Doubt and Promote Your Art in Public.

  Or, "The Case of the Anxious Author!" This week, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan discuss the abyss of imposter syndrome and its often paralyzing effect.   In this episode, we explore how imposter syndrome can hinder making live appearances and attending conventions. Chris...

  
• 04.07.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 306: Behind the Writing Scene - Is All’s Fair In Comics, Credits, and Creativity?

  "And What’s New In the Vampirella Universe?" Welcome to another exciting episode of "Tell The Damn Story." We have a fascinating lineup for today. Joining hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan are two exceptional guests—renowned writers Tom Sniegoski and the insightful...

  
• 03.31.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 305: How To Dive into Game Writing, And Make Words A Positive Weapon

  How do you create a video game from scratch? Welcome back to "Tell The Damn Story," where today's episode is a fascinating journey with Rob Stenzinger, an indie game designer who demonstrates that the union of passion and profession is the...

  
• 03.24.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 304: Behind the Headlines - Tom Coffey on Writing Realistic Crime Novels

  "Did you choose your interest in crime, or did crime choose you?" Welcome to another episode of Tell The Damn Story, where your hosts, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons, unravel the art of spinning a tale based on insight, experience and...

  
• 03.17.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 303: Reimagining the Classics, Updating Sherlock, Superman, and The Shadow

  How do you take a classic story or character from the past into the present-day entertainment media? Your favorite narrative dissection duo, Chris and Alex, are back to stir the pot of creativity with this latest episode, which is ripe...

  
• 03.10.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 302: How Top Oscar Winners Can Improve Your Damn Story

  This week, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan discuss Oscar Award winners. We've sifted through 54 years, chiseled that number down to 30 significant winners, and plucked out some of the most educational gems for our discussion today. These films received...

  
• 03.04.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 301: From Draft to Readership - Building Your Book's Success Story

  Hello, storytellers and lovers! Welcome to the 301 episode of "Tell The Damn Story" with your dynamic duo, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons. Today, we're riding high off our 300th celebration and ready to dive into the grit of the...

  
• 02.25.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 300th Episode: Crafting Careers From A Writers' Round Table!

  Alex and Chris are joined by .... to celebrate our 300th episode with a great discussion of all things creative! What a show! That's right, and we have an amazing lineup of guests joining us. We have Teel James Glenn, Tim...

  
• 02.18.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 299: Gatekeepers of Narrative, Who Shapes the Stories We Tell?

  This Is The One Before The Big One In this episode, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan discuss whether society shapes the artist's creativity or whether the artist helps to shape society. Expect to hear reflections on historical events, like World...

  
• 02.11.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 298: From Prison to Publication...A Writer's Transformation, Recovery, and Creative Journey

  What doesn't break you makes you stronger. In this episode of Tell The Damn Story, host Chris Ryan (rolling solo) interviews Daemon Manx, an author with a remarkable journey from bass player to prison inmate to best-selling writer. Daemon shares how...

  
• 02.04.2024

  Tell The Damn Story ep 297: How To Embrace Horror, Ghosts, and Creative Chaos

  An Interview with Rebbeca Cuthbert on her new how-to-c craft Horror book, CREEP THIS WAY. On today's episode of Tell The Damn Story, our hosts, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons, are joined by the amazing author Rebecca Cuthbert. Together, they dive...

  
• 01.28.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 296: How To Keep Writing, 400 Stories Later

  Welcome to Tell The Damn Story, where we delve into the challenges of storytelling and the creative process with our guests. In today's episode, cohosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are happy to have returning the esteemed author Teel James...

  
• 01.21.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, 295: Foxhole, The Blessing and Beartraps of Writing With A Partner

  We're back. You're back. They're back! And with some candid insight on how fear, risk, and respect factor in collaborative writing. In this episode, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons engage in an enriching conversation with guest authors Jeannine Acheson and Tom Sniegoski. They delve...

  
• 01.14.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 294: Shannon Symonds, From Survivor to Storyteller in Cozy Mysteries

  Welcome back to Tell The Damn Story! In this episode, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons interview Shannon Symonds, author of cozy mystery novels. Shannon shares her unique writing process using the "save the cat" method and Scrivener while discussing the...

  
• 01.07.2024

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 293: How To Strengthen the Writer's Life: Balancing Health, Creativity, and Self-belief

  For a Healthy, Productive 2024- This week, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan discuss physical, mental, and emotional health for creatives, especially writers. Why? To help them put their bodies and minds in the best position to succeed in 2024. No matter...

  
• 12.31.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 292: Our Top 2023 Books, Songs, and Films: Lessons for the Creative Journey

  As we round out this adventurous year, veteran authors Christopher Ryan and Alex Simmons discuss their favorite works of 2023 in novels, music, TV, and film and discuss the future of Marvel’s MCU. Tune in as they discuss the impact...

  
• 12.24.2023

  Tell The Damn Story ep.291: Scrooge Wars Exploring The Power of Iconic Adaption

  And What Does Your Favorite Holiday Films Have To Do With It? This week, veteran authors Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan find themselves smack dab amid the SCROOGE WARS! They go through a March Madness-style bracket filled with Scrooge/A Christmas Carol...

  
• 12.17.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 290: Creating Quality Content: Balancing Personal Interest and Audience Appeal

  Welcome to Tell The Damn Story, where we dive into the world of storytelling and writing. In this episode, host Alex Simmons takes the solo seat to tackle listener questions and provide a rain-day-style episode. Join us as we explore...

  
• 12.10.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 289 : This Week's Top Q&A! You Asked. We Answered

  This week, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan answer questions from our audience on all things related to writing. We cover salaries and finances, acquiring artists, publishing, first drafts, and so much more. This includes a humiliating story about one of us...

  
• 12.03.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 288: How To Publish Your Books and Avoid Insanity ... Kind Of.

  It's not impossible, but it's a hell of a ride! This week, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons delve into the nitty-gritty of independent publishing, exploring the challenges and triumphs of bringing books to life outside of traditional publishing avenues. Chris shares...

  
• 11.26.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 287: "From Fright to Insight: Soul Scream Authors on Crafting Powerful Stories"

  The Authors Tour Continues! In this episode of Tell The Damn Story, titled "Soul Scream Authors' Tour 4," hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are joined by special guests Rebecca Cuthbert, Jonathan Gensler, Kathleen Scheiner, and Steven Van Patten. Listen as...

  
• 11.19.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 286: The Power of Stories: Exploring the Depths of Human Emotions in Horror and Crime

  All Stories Come From Within - It's Part 3 of the Soul Scream Atholozine Author Tour. In this episode, Alex and Chris speak with Long Island horror writer John Collins about the origins of his story "The Lovers" and his  the...

  
• 11.12.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 285: Horror, History, and Heroes: Soul Scream Authors Tour - Pt 2

  Once again, we're exploring the creative minds behind the stories that captivate us. In this episode, hosts Chris and Alex are joined by writers Teel James Glenn, Bobby Nash, and Randee Dawn. The conversation delves into the depths of horror,...

  
• 11.05.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 284: Writing Hybrid Horror - From The Living To The Undead

  In this thrilling episode of "Tell The Damn Story"! We have two incredible guests joining our hosts, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons. First, we have the multi-talented Teel James Glenn, writer, actor, stuntman and more.  Next is the talented actor,...

  
• 10.29.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, 283: Uncovering Hidden Talents and Inspiring Creative Potential

  The Art of Collaborating for Success This week, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan speak to TTDS friends Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson, writing partners on Vampirella and other projects, about all aspects of attending Cons as professionals.  We discuss how to avoid...

  
• 10.22.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 282: Aiding The Abused, Battling Human Trafficking and Writing Cozy Mysteries, The Life of Shannon Symonds.

  Welcome to another exciting episode of "Tell The Damn Story!" This week, while cohost Chris Ryan is on another case, Alex Simmons interviews special guest Shannon Symonds.  The two writers delve into her fascinating world of raising a family of six,...

  
• 10.15.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, ep 281: Unleashing Your Creative Potential - Lessons from the Past

  Welcome to a slightly different episode of Tell The Damn Story, the podcast where we delve into the depths of storytelling and creativity. I This week, your host, Alex Simmons, is going semi-solo and the episode is a mashup, combining the...

  
• 10.08.2023

  Tell The Damn Story ep 280: Burnout &. the Unwavering Spirit: Rebirth of A Creative Mind

  In this episode, Chris and Alex dive deep into two topics. The first is about the challenges writers face and the superpowers that sometimes get them out of it. The boys share stories of passion, resilience, and finding one's voice....

  
• 10.01.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, 279: Persistence: Jessica Thompson's Path From Writer To Successful Book Touring Agent

  On this episode, hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons continue their interview with author Jessica Thompson. They delve into Jessica's experience as a self-starter and how she created her own opportunities in the writing industry. Jessica shares her journey of...

  
• 09.24.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, #278: How to Go From the Kitchen to Crime Scenes

  Or, What's A Culinary Cozy Mysteries? In this exciting episode of Tell The Damn Story co-host, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are joined by the talented author and mystery enthusiast Jessica Thompson.  We learn how she overcame self-doubt and found the unique...

  
• 09.17.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, #277: Batman Behind the Mask: A Weekend Celebration with Michael Uslan

  Welcome back, folks! In today's episode, Alex and Chris have some excitement in store for you as they dive into the world of Batman. After all, it is Batman week, weekend, month ... who cares? It's Batman!! Get ready for...

  
• 09.10.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 276: Plotting for Others, Balancing Artistic Vision ...

  ... with Client Expectations. Adventures in Editing This week, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan discuss the kinds of feedback you can expect to get from editors when working on a writing project. The gents talk about constructive criticism, how to...

  
• 09.04.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 275: Can Looking Back At Summer As You Slip Into Fall Improve Your Writing

  Or, How Self-Assessment Helps Creativity. This week, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan review what they did on their summer non-vacation to model how to do a seasonal self-assessment of successes, challenges, and disappointments that you can learn from so...

  
• 08.27.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 274: Can Old Heroes Fit In A New World?

  Here's another way of looking at this episode. "Are Some Genres Aging Out of Audiences & Readership?" With Flinch Books' John Bruening and Jim Beard, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan discuss whether pulp, adventure, and other older genres are still...

  
• 08.20.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 273: The Art Of Successful Adventure Fiction, Creating Timeless Pulp Stories for Today's Readers

  In storytelling, can the old please the new? And can it inspire successful variations on the same theme? Comparing Indy Publishing Notes With Flinch Books' John Bruening and Jim Beard" This week, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan talk about the challenges...

  
• 08.13.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 272: Should Writers Reveal Real Life Secrets In Our Fictional Tales - Part 2

  Once again, Alex and Chris are in the tiny Writer's Interrogation Room. The harsh white lamp lights burn into their eyes as they go deep to answer tough questions from our audience about some of the more subtle challenges of...

  
• 08.07.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 271: Part 1. Exploring the Unseen: How Do You Write About What You've Never, Done, Seen, or Been?

  This week we're Answering audience questions" And our co-hosts, Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan, talk about two top challenges. The first is the ups and downs Chris is facing by publishing a series of new horror anthologies. In the...

  
• 07.30.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 270: Monsters, Mayhem, and Marvel, The Voice of Kevin Grevioux

  "Underworld," to "Blue Marvel," to "King of Killers," A Writer's Gauntlet. Break out pen, paper, and an open mind yearning to gain insight! We have Kevin Grievioux for a long, in-depth interview about his comic book series, DARKSTORM, and DJINNATRA: RISE OF...

  
• 07.23.2023

  Tell The Damn Story, Ep 269: How Prompts Can Open Up Our Writing

  Last week, Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan engaged with challenge prompts from our listeners (with a little help from the mischievous Alex Simmons). This week our cohosts deliver answers to those challenges. Both wrote stories based on your challenges and...