Best Stuart Wakefield Podcasts (2025)

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The Inciting Incident Isn’t Big. It’s Binding. 12:07

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19h ago12:07

12:07

If your opening goes boom but your hero can shrug and carry on, that’s fireworks, not story. In this episode I breaks down the real job of an inciting incident - to bind your protagonist to an obligation that costs something now and points the story arrow. Here's what you'll learn: What “binding” means in plain English and how to spot it fast The f…

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#28 - Marshall Saviers (Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners) 1:13:47

1d ago1:13:47

1:13:47

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart In a region growing as fast as Northwest Arkansas, who helps guide the pace of progress? In this episode, we sit down with Marshall Saviers, CEO & President of Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners, one of the most influential commercial real estate firms in the region. With nearly two decades of experience, Mars…

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Because > And Then: Building Stories with Causality (feat. Pride & Prejudice + Knives Out) 9:40

9d ago9:40

9:40

And then” isn’t a plot, it’s a queue. In this craft-forward episode, we swap “and then” for the more muscular because / but / therefore and show how tight causality turns scenes into story. You’ll get a clear, jargon-free framework for chaining choices to consequences, plus two case studies that prove the point: a mini-autopsy of Pride & Prejudice …

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Whose Eyes, Which Truth? Mastering POV in Your Novel (with Live Rewrites) 23:55

42m ago23:55

23:55

POV isn’t just a grammar choice - it’s the engine that controls intimacy, suspense, and what your reader knows when. In this craft-deep episode, we demystify point of view by breaking it into three practical dials (access, scope, and distance) then walk through the pros and cons of first person, third limited (close and deep), free indirect style, …

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#27 - Burt Hanna (Hanna's Candle Company) 1:09:38

16d ago1:09:38

1:09:38

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What happens when a broke college student trades potpourri for a secondhand stove and ends up running one of the most productive candle factories in the country? In this episode, we sit down with Burt Hanna, founder of Hanna’s Candle Company, to talk about building a business brick by brick in Northwest Arkansa…

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Author Brain vs. Editor Brain (and When to Use Each) 9:19

14d ago9:19

9:19

Stop polishing your first paragraph into oblivion. In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we split your process into two clean modes: Author Brain for discovery and Editor Brain for decision—used at different times for different jobs. You’ll hear a live “before/after” paragraph where we draft messy, then run a tight verbs-and-cuts pass that sha…

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#26 - Charley Boyce (Paschal Air, Plumbing, & Electric) 1:22:35

30d ago1:22:35

1:22:35

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to grow a local HVAC company into a multi-state home services powerhouse? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Charley Boyce, CEO of Paschal Air, Plumbing, & Electric, to talk about legacy, leadership, and how he’s scaled one of Northwest Arkansas’s most trusted brands while stayi…

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Becoming the Person Who Writes 10:05

1M ago10:05

10:05

Stop waiting for motivation. Start acting from identity. In this mindset kickoff for Master Fiction Writing, we shift the sentence that runs your day from “I want to write a book” to “I’m a person who writes.” You’ll hear a simple, athlete-style routine (warm-up, reps, cooldown), examples, and a 10-minute drill that makes writing easier to start th…

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Open Strong, Close True: Drafting Your First and Final Scenes 14:05

1M ago14:05

14:05

Your novel’s bookends do the heavy lifting. In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we pair Step 16 (Writing the Opening Scene) and Step 17 (Writing the Closing Scene) to help you start with momentum and finish with meaning. You’ll learn what a scene is (and why something must change every time), how to centre your protagonist’s thoughts and fee…

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#25 - Carl Garrett (Table Mesa Restaurant Group) 1:43:23

1M ago1:43:23

1:43:23

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to serve an entire area through good food and world-class experience? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Carl Garrett, founder of Table Mesa Restaurant Group, whose name has become synonymous with Bentonville’s food scene. From launching his first concept with a simple vision to…

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Plot With Heart: The Inside Outline 9:01

2M ago9:01

9:01

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Plot Without Panic: Using the Pixar Story Spine 16:24

2M ago16:24

16:24

Plotting doesn’t have to feel like wrangling an octopus into a cardigan. In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we turn to Pixar’s Story Spine - seven simple prompts that reveal your story’s engine: who we meet, what upends the status quo, how cause-and-effect escalates, where the climax hits, and what the change means. We unpack each beat (fro…

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#24 - Troy Underwood (Underwoods Fine Jewelers) 1:18:57

2M ago1:18:57

1:18:57

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What makes Underwoods different from every other retail jewelry shop? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Troy Underwood, Vice President of Underwoods Fine Jewelers, to explore the legacy, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial mindset behind one of Arkansas’ most respected jewelry businesses. From se…

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Time & Bookends: Your Story’s Timeline, Start, and End 8:03

2M ago8:03

8:03

How much time passes between Page 1 and “The End” - and where, exactly, do you begin and finish? In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we pair Step 12 (Story Timeline) and Step 13 (Opening & Closing) to shape your novel’s container and its proof of change. You’ll learn how to define your story present (the “now” of your narrative), pick a time…

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Voice & Vantage: Who’s Telling the Tale... and When? 10:14

2M ago10:14

10:14

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll delve into the intricacies of narrative voice and perspective, focusing on the importance of point of view (POV) and time stance in storytelling. We'll discuss various narrative techniques, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical exercises to help writers refine their craft.…

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Whose Story Is It? Choosing Your Protagonist and Their Engine of Want 5:05

2M ago5:05

5:05

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll discuss the importance of choosing the right protagonist for your story, emphasising the need for a single human centre that readers can connect with, the distinction between external wants and internal needs, and the significance of crafting tailored opposition to enhance conflict. We'll also cover …

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Mastering World Building 9:09

2M ago9:09

9:09

In this episode, we'll delve into the intricacies of world building, establishing clear rules and consequences, and ensuring that characters and their motivations are relatable to readers. Practical exercises are provided to help writers create immersive worlds that enhance their narratives without overwhelming them with unnecessary details. We'll …

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Who is Your Ideal Reader? 5:37

2M ago5:37

5:37

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll discuss the importance of identifying your ideal reader in the writing process, how understanding your audience can enhance the emotional connection of your story - and making it more impactful. By focusing on a specific reader rather than trying to please everyone, writers can create stories that re…

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Choosing Your Genre 6:30

2M ago6:30

6:30

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll delve into the critical step of choosing a genre in the story development process. We'll explain the importance of genre in guiding creative choices, setting reader expectations, and categorising stories effectively. We'll also cover major genres and their subgenres, the nuances of literary versus co…

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#23 - Joseph Reece (RMP Attorneys at Law) 1:47:59

2M ago1:47:59

1:47:59

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to build a Law Firm where people actually love and care about each other? Most people think of law firms as cutthroat, high-pressure places but Joseph Reece has built something different. As co-founder of RMP Attorneys at Law, Joe shares how faith, integrity, and a “no jerk” culture have shape…

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Crafting the Perfect Working Title 7:03

3M ago7:03

7:03

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we'll discuss the significance of choosing a working title in the story development process. A working title helps writers transition from vague ideas to a more concrete narrative, and the episode also includes practical exercises for generating strong titles that resonate with the story.…

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How to Write Jacket Copy Before You’ve Written the Book 7:45

3M ago7:45

7:45

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we explore Step 4 of the Story Development process: writing your book’s jacket copy before the book is even written. It might sound backwards, but crafting jacket copy early can sharpen your story’s focus, clarify the promise you’re making to readers, and help you stay on track as you write. We’ll break do…

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What’s the Plot? Boiling Your Story Down Without Losing the Heart 4:42

3M ago4:42

4:42

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we explore Step 3 of the Story Development process: What’s the Plot? Forget sprawling outlines or complex twists. This stage is all about simplicity. You’ll learn how to write a short, clear, and purposeful summary of your story in just 50 words or less. Think of it as your story’s spine: the who, the what…

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#22 - Ward Davis & Jason Keathley (High Street Real Estate & Development) 1:23:23

3M ago1:23:23

1:23:23

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart Building Walkable Communities in Northwest Arkansas with High Street Real Estate & Development In this episode, we sit down with Ward Davis and Jason Keathley, the partners behind High Street Real Estate & Development, to talk about how they’re reshaping Northwest Arkansas through walkable, mixed-use neighborho…

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What’s the Point? Why Every Story Needs One 5:08

3M ago5:08

5:08

If you’ve ever found yourself halfway through a novel draft wondering what it’s really about, this episode is for you. In the second instalment of my Story Development series, I explore Step 2 of the Blueprint for a Book: What’s Your Point? This is where your story starts to take shape around something deeper - a belief, a truth, an argument you’re…

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Why THIS Story? Uncovering the Heart of Your Novel 5:05

3M ago5:05

5:05

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, I'll introduce the importance of understanding the 'why' behind writing a book. Before delving into plot or character, writers must explore their personal connection to the story. This foundational step is crucial for creating meaningful narratives that resonate with readers. I'll encourage you to reflect …

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#21 - Matt, Shelby, & Taylor Lewis (Lewis Automotive Group) 2:26:24

3M ago2:26:24

2:26:24

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to run a multi-location car dealership while preserving a 75-year family legacy? In this episode, we sit down with Matt, Shelby, and Taylor Lewis, fourth-generation leaders of Lewis Automotive Group, to talk about what it’s really like to operate a large family business in one of the fastest-g…

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5 Steps to Mastering Revision 12:00

4M ago12:00

12:00

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, I discuss the often daunting process of revising a manuscript. I outline a five-step approach to help writers manage revision overwhelm, emphasising the importance of starting with a high-level read, creating a prioritised revision plan, setting manageable goals, seeking constructive feedback, and celebrat…

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#20 - Clinton Bennett (Focus Commercial Real Estate) 1:36:24

4M ago1:36:24

1:36:24

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it look like to lead one of Northwest Arkansas’s most trusted commercial real estate firms in the middle of a regional development boom? In this episode, we sit down with Clinton Bennett, co-founder of Focus Commercial Real Estate, to explore how he and his team are helping shape the future of Northwe…

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5 Ways to Move Forward When Your Novel Stalls 7:18

4M ago7:18

7:18

You’re a few chapters in. The world is taking shape. Your characters are alive. And then... nothing. You’re stuck. In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, we tackle one of the most common (and demoralising) parts of the writing process: what to do when your novel grinds to a halt. Whether the problem is craft, mindset, or something in between, I…

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The Healing Power of Writing 43:39

4M ago43:39

43:39

Welcome to Master Fiction Writing! In this conversation, Alexandra Vassilaros shares her journey as a writer and workshop founder, emphasising the transformative power of writing workshops, particularly in the context of grief and loss. She discusses her Make Meaning Workshop, which helps participants explore their emotions and experiences through …

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Embracing the Blank Page 6:57

4M ago6:57

6:57

Ugh - the blank page. Daunting at times, so I'll discuss the challenges and processes of writing fiction and memoirs, emphasising the importance of starting with curiosity rather than perfection, nurturing your protagonist, building the emotional core of your story, and finding a writing process that works for you. I encourage you to embrace the me…

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#19 - Bethany Taylor (Gratsy) 1:38:59

4M ago1:38:59

1:38:59

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What happens when you leave a stable corporate job with nothing but an idea you believe in? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Bethany Taylor, the powerhouse founder behind Gratsy: a curated sampling and brand experience company that delivers personalized gift boxes directly into consumers’ hands…

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She Helped Shape 'Groundhog Day' (Then Wrote 25 Books of Her Own) 1:11:31

4M ago1:11:31

1:11:31

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Susan Sloate - novelist, playwright, and former Hollywood story analyst - for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring, hilarious, and packed with practical wisdom for writers. Susan shares what she’s learned from writing over 25 books (including one in just three days!), working in the film industry …

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Write for the Reader Who’s Waiting for You 4:47

5M ago4:47

4:47

Not everyone will love your writing and that’s exactly how it should be. In this uplifting episode, I'll explore why trying to please everyone is the fastest way to water down your voice and how defining your ideal reader can transform your writing process. Learn how to shift from writing for the masses to writing with clarity, confidence, and conn…

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"I Know 15 Ways to Kill My Husband (And Where to Hide His Body." 1:10:28

5M ago1:10:28

1:10:28

How do you write a frozen corpse in a heated pool and make it believable? What’s the etiquette when cold-calling a forensic entomologist? And how do you stop your own research from hijacking the plot? In this episode, I’m joined by bestselling mystery author Lee Clark, whose Matthew Paine Mysteries spans spans seven intricately researched novels. W…

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#18 - Ben Clark (B-Unlimited) 1:45:06

5M ago1:45:06

1:45:06

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to build a multimillion-dollar screen printing business from the ground up? In this episode of NWA Founders, Ben Clark shares the remarkable story behind B-Unlimited, a screen printing and custom apparel company based in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Ben’s journey started with dishwashing jobs and d…

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#17 - Cameron Magee (avad3) 1:52:47

5M ago1:52:47

1:52:47

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to grow a one-man AV setup into a multi-million-dollar production company serving some of the biggest stages in America? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Cameron Magee, founder of avad3 Event Production, to explore how he went from running tech for church services to producing…

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Unlocking Your Writing Potential with a Book Coach 5:45

5M ago5:45

5:45

In this episode of Master Fiction Writing, I'll explore the concept of book coaching, address common misconceptions and highlight its benefits for writers at various stages of their journey. I'll discuss the role of a book coach, who can provide strategic support rather than just editing or ghostwriting. I'll also emphasise the importance of findin…

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#16 - JD Blagg, Aaron Seifritz, & Josh Teff (Fowlco Outfitters) 2:04:00

6M ago2:04:00

2:04:00

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart How do you turn your passion for duck hunting into a nationally recognized brand rooted in culture, hospitality, and grit? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with JD Blagg, Aaron Seifritz, and Josh Teff - the three founders of Fowlco Outfitters, a waterfowl-focused outfitting and lifestyle brand based…

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#15 - Brock Gearhart (Greenwood Gearhart) 1:36:17

6M ago1:36:17

1:36:17

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it look like to run a financial firm built on trust, resilience, and generational vision? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Brock Gearhart, CEO of Greenwood Gearhart, to explore how he transformed a respected Fayetteville-based firm into a 1.7 billion dollar wealth management leader wi…

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Writing Romance: Insights from Author Noël Stark 54:24

7M ago54:24

54:24

In this episode, I talk to novelist Noël Stark about her journey from working in film and TV to crafting her first romance novel, 'Love, Camera, Action'. We discuss the unique challenges of novel writing, the importance of character development, and the emotional landscapes that drive romance narratives. And Noël shares insights on the writing proc…

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#14 - KK Goodwin (Mamaka Bowls) 1:46:59

7M ago1:46:59

1:46:59

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What do you get when a college student blends together a family recipe and a vision for something bigger than herself? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with KK Goodwin, founder and CEO of Mamaka Bowls, a cali-inspired smoothie bowl restaurant with a cult following across 9 US locations. What began a…

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#13 - Jon & Max Harrell (Generations Bank) 1:29:24

7M ago1:29:24

1:29:24

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to sustain a family-owned bank for over 100 years—and still be positioned for explosive growth? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Jon and Max Harrell, the fifth and sixth generation leaders of Generations Bank, to hear the story of how a small-town bank in South Arkansas transf…

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The Art of Tightening Your Narrative 19:52

7M ago19:52

19:52

In this episode, I'll look at the importance of precision in fiction writing, providing practical tips on tightening scenes, enhancing emotional depth, and avoiding unnecessary repetition. I'll cover techniques such as entering late and leaving early, replacing vague summaries with specific details, and using dialogue intentionally to reveal charac…

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#12 - Marlon & Ati Blackwell (Marlon Blackwell Architects) 2:03:07

8M ago2:03:07

2:03:07

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What happens when design, grit, and place come together to form a global architectural voice rooted in Northwest Arkansas? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Marlon and Ati Blackwell, founders of the award-winning firm Marlon Blackwell Architects, to explore how they grew a boutique firm into a n…

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#11 - Matt, Mitchell, & Matthew Mawby (Professional Business Systems) 2:10:54

8M ago2:10:54

2:10:54

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What does it take to run a family-owned company that’s thrived for over 35 years? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Matt, Mitchell, and Matthew Mawby of Professional Business Systems, to explore how a local family business built its success on systems, service, and integrity. From humble beginni…

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The Art of Historical Fiction: Lessons from Shara Moon 38:34

8M ago38:34

38:34

In this episode, Shara Moon discusses her new book 'Let Us March On', which tells the story of Lizzie McDuffie, an influential yet often overlooked figure in American history. Shara shares her journey of researching and writing the book, the challenges of balancing fact and fiction, and the importance of telling Lizzie's story in today's context. T…

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#10 - Tanner Green (Ox) 1:49:39

8M ago1:49:39

1:49:39

→ Learn more about Greenwood Gearhart What if you could run a warehouse remotely with AI-powered insights and real-time data? In this episode of NWA Founders, we sit down with Tanner Green, CEO and co-founder of Ox (Operator Experience), to explore how his company is transforming warehouse logistics through human-centered AI and automation. From a …

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Embracing Absurdity: The Power of Dumb Ideas 53:58

9M ago53:58

53:58

Join me for a fascinating conversation with Dumbify founder David Carson, where we dive into the power of so-called “dumb” ideas—and why they might just be the secret to creative brilliance. We’ll explore how absurdity, humour, and playfulness can fuel innovation in storytelling, the mental models that help spot good dumb ideas, and how embracing t…