Plot Points & Character Arcs: How to Avoid Paralysis and Focus Your Story

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

22:49

Jonathan Jones is an NFL cornerback for the Washington Commanders who rose from the undrafted ranks to become two-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, a businessman, philanthropist, and licensed pilot. In 2019, Jonathan founded the Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation in 2019, a platform dedicated to empowering youth through education, professional development, and mentorship. The foundation works to alleviate food insecurity, promote women in stem and sports, and to promote professional development in the communities where he lives. Jay and Jonathan talk about investing in the communities they live in, acknowledging the people who helped you become the person you are, and paying that same investment forward to the next generation. Episode Chapters 0:00 intro 1:24 Building local connections 4:25 Jonathan’s mentors and mentees 10:54 Jonathan’s pride in his mentees’ successes 13:04 how Jonathan chooses his causes 14:08 Jonathan’s support for girls and young women 17:19: Jonathan’s passion for flying 19:40 The Next Step Foundation 20:29 Goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight , in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at www.jayruderman.com .…

circa un anno fa 19:01

Writers often feel overwhelmed by the endless possibilities when developing their plot and characters, leading to “paralysis by analysis.” The fear of making the wrong choices can stall progress and derail a story’s direction.
Learn how to break through that overwhelm and stay focused with key insights on organizing your story structure, making sure every choice serves the larger narrative.
This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out!
Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!
The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.

Send us a text

Support the show

225 episodi

#Fine Arts #Arts #Zena Dell Lowe #Storytelling #Writing #Writers #Artists #Fiction #Stories #Screenwriting #Character #Screenplay #Storytellers Mission #Religion #Christianity #Podcasting Education #Craft

Plot Points & Character Arcs: How to Avoid Paralysis and Focus Your Story

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

published circa un anno fa

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

Send us a text

Support the show

225 episodi

Tutti gli episodi

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Unveiling Depths: The Secrets to Engaging Characters 30:25

8 giorni fa30:25

30:25

Click to listen – your characters (and audience) will thank you. Have you ever created a character that felt… flat? No matter how detailed the backstory or how polished the prose, something just doesn’t click — and worse, your audience doesn’t care. That’s the pain point. And we’ve all been there. In this episode, we dig into why your characters might be missing that vital spark — and how to fix it. Whether you're writing a novel, screenplay, or short film, you’ll uncover: ✅ The essential trait all compelling characters share (hint: it’s not just likability) ✅ How paradox, sympathy, and intrigue shape unforgettable protagonists ✅ Why suffering might just be the secret weapon of great storytelling ✅ Real-world examples and feedback that bring these concepts to life Join us as we workshop character ideas live, break down why some characters captivate us instantly, and reveal the storytelling truths that most writers learn the hard way. 🎧 Press play now to finally unlock the emotional core your characters have been missing. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Heroes vs Anti-Heroes: The Battle You Didn’t Know You Were Writing 22:34

29 giorni fa22:34

22:34

Ever wondered if your character is truly a hero or just a morally questionable anti-hero? The lines are blurrier than you think, and it's time to get clear on the difference. In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the world of heroes and anti-heroes, breaking down their key differences and exploring the moral complexities that make them tick. Is your character’s flaw pushing them toward redemption—or just leading them further down the wrong path? We'll also tackle why the world needs more true heroes, and how understanding these distinctions can elevate your writing. But here’s the twist: not all anti-heroes are created equal. Some may challenge our views of morality, but others just reflect the chaos of our modern world. Want to know which category your characters fall into? You'll have to watch to find out. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
The Real Inciting Incident: Why It’s More Than Just Big Events 21:35

6 weeks fa21:35

21:35

Are you struggling to differentiate the inciting incident from your character’s "normal world" in your story? Many writers confuse the two, leading to confusion in their plot structure and weak storytelling. In this episode, we break down the difference between your character's everyday actions and the pivotal moment that launches them into the adventure—the inciting incident. Using popular movies like Armageddon, Star Wars, and Jaws, we’ll show you how to identify the real turning point that transforms your protagonist’s journey. Learn how to pinpoint the exact moment that propels your character into action, making your story unforgettable. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Pressure of Perfection: When Your Story Won’t Speak (& Your Characters Don’t Either) 18:34

8 weeks fa18:34

18:34

Feeling like you have to land on the perfect idea can often freeze you in your tracks. What do you do when it seems like every idea isn’t good enough? How do you keep moving forward when the pressure to create the perfect story is overwhelming? You’ve probably heard other writers talk about their characters “speaking” to them, but what happens when that doesn’t happen for you? Is something wrong, or are you missing an essential piece of the writing puzzle? Join us in this episode as we explore these common struggles and share insights on how to navigate through them. You’ll want to tune in to hear how to keep your writing moving forward, even when the pressure is high and your characters are quiet. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Plot Points & Character Arcs: How to Avoid Paralysis and Focus Your Story 19:01

10 weeks fa19:01

19:01

Writers often feel overwhelmed by the endless possibilities when developing their plot and characters, leading to “paralysis by analysis.” The fear of making the wrong choices can stall progress and derail a story’s direction. Learn how to break through that overwhelm and stay focused with key insights on organizing your story structure, making sure every choice serves the larger narrative. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Mastering Character: A Back-to-Basics Approach for Writers at Any Level 27:23

13 weeks fa27:23

27:23

Are you struggling to create memorable characters that drive your story? Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, mastering character development is crucial to engaging your audience. In this episode, Zena dives into the fundamentals of character creation, exploring why every writer—no matter their experience—should revisit the basics. Tune in for practical insights that will take your storytelling to the next level! Key Takeaways: -Why every character needs a personal crucible to drive their story. -How to differentiate between characterization and true character. -The importance of consistent, paradoxical characters to hook your audience. Revisit the basics, and watch your characters—and your writing—transform! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Offend to Enlighten: The Ethics of Writing 24:33

15 weeks fa24:33

24:33

As writers, we often face the pressure to please our audience, avoid controversy, and "play it safe." But is this the most effective way to create meaningful, impactful stories? Many writers struggle with balancing moral responsibility and creative freedom, worried that their work might offend or alienate readers or viewers. In this episode, we dive deep into the ethics of storytelling and why sometimes offending the audience can be the most ethical act a writer can do. Drawing on insights from Jeffrey Sweet’s work on playwriting, we explore the importance of depicting morally complex characters and scenarios, and how this can push audiences to examine their own worldviews. You’ll learn how to embrace the responsibility of shaping the moral conversation through your work, without falling into the trap of censorship or moral complacency. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to write stories that challenge, provoke, and ultimately enlighten. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Why We’re Obsessed with Characters (and How to Make Yours Irresistible) 23:55

17 weeks fa23:55

23:55

As writers, we often struggle with creating characters that feel real, dynamic, and compelling. Many of us get stuck focusing on plot, not realizing that without a well-crafted character, even the most thrilling story can fall flat. Readers or audiences won’t connect to a character who doesn’t feel authentic or multidimensional. In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe breaks down the essential qualities that make a character irresistible to your audience. You’ll learn why character is more important than plot, how to create paradoxical and complex characters, and how to craft a main character who drives your story with depth and authenticity. By understanding the true nature of character and characterization, you’ll gain practical tools for creating characters that your audience will care about—no matter how complex or flawed they may be. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Fatal Flaws vs. Wounds: How to Deepen Your Characters' Arcs 18:01

18 weeks fa18:01

18:01

Many writers struggle with creating characters who feel both complex and authentic. One common issue is misidentifying a character's fatal flaw, confusing it with a simple moral deficiency or surface-level trait. This misunderstanding can lead to flat, unrelatable characters who fail to resonate with audiences. In this episode, we break down the crucial difference between a fatal flaw and a wound—and why understanding this distinction is key to crafting compelling character arcs. By learning how these two elements connect, you'll discover how to make your characters' flaws a driving force in their personal growth and the overall plot. Whether you're writing a hero, anti-hero, or flawed protagonist, this insight will elevate your character development and strengthen your story's emotional core. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Create Characters Who Evolve: The Power of Rituals and Breaking Patterns 23:39

19 weeks fa23:39

23:39

As writers, it’s easy to get stuck in the rut of creating characters who don’t feel like they’re evolving. If your characters seem to stay the same throughout your story, or their growth feels forced, you’re not alone. Many writers struggle with making their character arcs feel authentic and compelling. By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical strategies to use rituals and deviations to reveal deeper layers of your characters, enhance their arcs, and keep your audience engaged—without ever having to "tell" them what’s going on. Tune in to learn how to transform your character-driven story! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Crafting Powerful Scenes: Tone, Theme, and Plot Transitions 48:00

20 weeks fa48:00

48:00

Struggling to make your scenes feel dynamic and purposeful? Are you finding it difficult to set the right tone, weave in your theme, or transition smoothly between key plot points? In this episode, we dive into the craft of building powerful, unforgettable scenes that do more than just move the plot forward. Whether you’re a writer or a screenwriter, mastering the art of scene construction can transform your entire story. Learn practical strategies to maximize the dramatic potential of every scene. We’ll cover how to set tone, establish theme, and create seamless transitions that keep your audience hooked. By the end, you’ll have a toolkit for writing scenes that not only work but resonate, propelling your story to the next level. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
The Power of Conflict: 3 Types of Obstacles That Build Heroes 19:37

22 weeks fa19:37

19:37

Are you unsure how to build obstacles that challenge your characters on multiple levels and drive the story forward? In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe breaks down the three key types of obstacles every character can face. Learn how to craft each obstacle to challenge your characters in unique ways, forcing them to grow, make difficult choices, and push the story to its emotional peak. Watch now to discover these obstacles to create compelling, active characters and elevate your storytelling! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
The #1 Thing That Makes a Story Memorable (And 4 Ways to Nail It) 19:57

23 weeks fa19:57

19:57

Struggling to make your stories stick with readers or audiences? You're not alone! Many writers get caught up in creating intricate plots and thrilling twists, but the truth is—it’s the relationships between your characters that keep people coming back. If your stories feel flat or forgettable, it could be because you're missing the emotional core that great relationships bring. In this episode, we dive deep into why relationships are the true heart of every memorable story. You’ll learn how to shift your focus from just plot points to the powerful connections between your characters—because those are the moments that truly captivate and resonate. Tune in to discover 4 actionable takeaways you can apply today to create more impactful, emotionally charged stories that your audience won’t be able to forget. Whether you're working on a novel, screenplay, or TV show, these tips will transform the way you approach storytelling—and elevate your characters to new heights! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Stop Dreading Loglines: A Simple 4-Step Approach to Get It Right 20:23

24 weeks fa20:23

20:23

Struggling with your story's logline? You’re not alone! Writers often avoid creating loglines because they think they’re too hard or too limiting. But what if I told you there’s a simple, 4-step formula that makes writing your logline easy—and it’ll keep your entire story on track? In this episode, we break down exactly how to write a logline that’s clear, concise, and captures the heart of your story. You’ll learn why a solid logline is more than just a pitch—it’s a powerful tool that helps you stay focused as you write. Want to finally crack the logline code and stop stressing over that one sentence? Tune in now and get ready to write a logline that excites you—and your readers! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Rated R for Redemption: Deep Truths, Thoughtful Portrayals 27:49

25 weeks fa27:49