Listen to a fascinating conversation with filmmaker and screenwriter Nicholas Tomnay as we talk about whether stories reflect culture or alter it, why you should avoid Toxic Carrots, and the difference between twists and reveals. We also discuss his latest film, “What You Wish For.” Give the episode a listen and then check out the movie after you hear Nicholas’s insights into the writing process!

Have you ever wanted to write a script for Hollywood? If so, then you’re going to love this week’s episode of The Story Blender. Screenwriter and script consultant Mike Thompson joins me. He has sold projects to Columbia Pictures, New Line Cinema, Universal, Paramount, NBC, CBS, and many others. We talk about fusing character and concept, coming up with pitches and loglines, the engine that propels every story forward, the secrets to writing scripts that sell, and more. Check it out!

This week I talk with Rowan Gibson, an international business consultant, keynote speaker, and innovator who has told stories in over 60 countries. According to Forbes, Rowan Gibson is “one of the most recognized thought leaders in business innovation.” We talk about everything from telling stories in the corporate world to what it takes to make a James Bond story work to thinking outside the box (and redefining what the box is), and more. Give it a listen. Check it out!

This week we flip the script as bestselling author D.P. Lyle interviews me about my latest book on the craft of writing—DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL. We talk about what led me to write in the first place, what set me back five years in my writing journey, what a “pivot” is and why authors should include one in every scene, and one piece of advice I would give to my younger self. Check it out!

This week I chat with acclaimed artist and American Book Award-winning graphic novelist, Eric Drooker. We talk about vulnerability in storytelling and art, the importance of communicating your vision, and the importance of telling the stories that lie closest to your heart. It’s a wide ranging conversation that explores the significance of stories and art, and even touches on the paradox of holding onto hope in a world that is so often hopeless. Give it a listen!

This week I talk with Kiran Singh Sirah, an award-winning Storytelling Industry leader and Past President of the International Storytelling Center. His work in peace-building through storytelling has received recognition from UNESCO, The White House, and The United Nations. Kiran and I explore the power of stories to build bridges and understanding between different groups and cultures. Join us as we discuss Telling Stories that Matter, no matter what background you might have!

This Christmas and holiday season I sat down with storyteller, performer, and conference speaker Keith Ferrin. He has presented and performed entire books of the Bible, created biblical storytelling programs for Christmas, and spoken at events worldwide. We talk about his journey toward becoming a storyteller, his three words of advice on how to enhance, improve and avoid different aspects of your presentation, and keys to great presentations no matter who your audience is. Give it a listen!

This week I speak with New York Times bestselling author Travis Thrasher. He’s a prolific author who has written an astonishing 100 books including memoirs and fiction. His latest collaboration is That Deserves a Wow by sports broadcaster Chris Myers. We discuss writing stories from your life and the types of moments to include, what lies at the heart of all great stories (regardless of the genre), and how to apply fiction writing techniques to nonfiction. Check it out!