All Episodes
Episodes
Character Unveiled: 5 Expert Techniques Using 'Show Don't Tell'
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Ever feel like using 'show, don't tell' in revealing true character is challenging or almost impossible ? Watch this episode with Zena to learn 5 easy to apply tips on how to do just...
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The Character's Journey: From Inciting Incident to Ultimate Objective
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – In this episode, we delve into character development through setting objectives and overcoming obstacles. Discover how to craft compelling characters that move the story forward and engage...
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Deconstructing Iconic Characters in Casablanca and Silence of the Lambs
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Hannibal Lecter. Agent Starling. Rick Blaine. What do they have in common? They are perfect examples of paradoxical characters, which is really why they are so great! Come along for the ride...
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Beyond First Impressions: Crafting Characters with Depth
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – What is Character? Why do we have trouble really nailing that down? And why does it seem so hard to create 3D characters? Does that really matter if the plot is great? The answers to these and...
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Crafting Characters: Top 7 Tips For Distinctive Character Voices
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – One big issue we can run into as writers is unintentionally making characters who all sound the same. But they all have distinctive lives, backgrounds, and personalities. So, how do we make sure...
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7 Ways to Cultivate Your Unique Voice as a Writer
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Your narrative voice is something unique to you, that sets you apart from others. People can tell it's your voice before they even know you wrote it. So, how do you make that happen? How do you...
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Subtext: What it is and How to Write it into Your Story
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Subtext: an essential element for story to add conflict and further develop your characters. But how do you capture the true essence of this covert communication method? Let's dive into the what...
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What Are the Major Genres for Film and Why That Matters for Novelists
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – What is a genre anyway? Is it really that important for you to identify your genre? You don't want to be boxed in by a label, right? Wrong. You do want that label. You do need to identify your...
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10 Ways to Test if Your Story is Commercial
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Commercial story? Sounds like selling out, but it's more along the lines of actually selling. You have to have mass appeal if you want your stuff to sell. Period. So, put your #wip to the test...
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3 Ingredients Hollywood Wants in Your Story: Heart, Smarts, & Sparkle
EPISODE DESCRIPTION –Whether your #wip is a screenplay, a novel, or a novel that hopes to one day become a screenplay, this episode is for you. Hollywood loves to adapt books into movies, so make sure you start on the...
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Unlocking Story Potential: Elements of a Good Story
EPISODE DESCRIPTION –Ever wonder if you actually have a good story idea? Want to take that story idea that seems good and make it great? Well, stop what you're doing and watch this episode to level up your stories and...
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The How To Guide to Fatal Flaws in Character Development
EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Sneak Peak into the Beta Program for Zena's new online class - Hollywood Story Structure Made Easy. Want a deeper dive into #fatalflaws in character development? Go ahead and click the link below...
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