Best Worldbuilding wizard Podcasts (2025)

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In Defense of Info Dumps: Worldbuilding Done Right 18:09

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15h ago18:09

18:09

Info-dumps don’t kill stories. Bad info-dumps do. In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito discusses the concept of info dumping in writing, particularly in the genres of science fiction and fantasy. She emphasizes the importance of world building and how to effectively incorporate large chunks of information into a narrative without losing reader eng…

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What It Takes To Lead | Lee Kuan Yew (Allison & Blackwill) BOOK REVIEW 40:21

3d ago40:21

40:21

The future of Asia is interesting but even more so is the man who created it! 'Lee Kuan Yew' by Allison & Blackwill is a compiled selection of speeches & quotes from Lee Kuan Yew bundled together to come across as a single interview. The focus is on his opinions over the years on what he imagines the future will look like. It's split into 10 chapte…

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Worldbuilding on Steroids: Fellowship of the Ring, Book Review 11:46

6d ago11:46

11:46

Tolkien doesn’t write chapters; he builds civilisations. The Fellowship of the Ring is a slow, deliberate march through languages, histories and the lived feel of time, a marathon of meaning more than a sprint of action. I respect the scope, loved the journey, but prefer punchier reads. (00:00) “You shall not pass.” (00:09) Welcome & why review Fel…

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FM-07 | What's the Deal with Shadow Harry? 1:08:06

8d ago1:08:06

1:08:06

Chapters 20 through 23 include Harry's first conversation with Shadow Harry, getting captured by the Streetwolves, and Harry managing to escape to hide in the back of the Fool Moon garage just as Denton, Marcone, and the Streetwolves tear into teach other. (00:00) - Intro (01:59) - Ch. 20 - Meeting Shadow Harry (13:05) - Ch. 21 - He jumped out of t…

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Four Fantastic Secrets to Cozy Storytelling in Scifi & Fantasy Books (from the Fantastic Four) 35:21

8d ago35:21

35:21

Superheroes… but make it cozy. In this episode of Author Culture, I explore the Fantastic Four as a surprising model for cozy storytelling. Inside: * How world-building makes or breaks cozy vibes * Why “flat arcs” still keep readers hooked * Why coziness is about style as much as setting * Reader perception is everything If you’re writing cozy sci-…

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Semiconductors Shape The World | Chip War (Chris Miller) BOOK REVIEW 33:37

10d ago33:37

33:37

A world changing industry that kind of happened by coincidence. 'Chip War' by Chris Miller is a detailed history of the semiconductor industry from its origins in the 1950's to the present day. Important individuals/companies rise and fall as it goes from a new emerging technology created by theorists/tinkers to the global powerhouse companies infl…

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The Science Bros Answer Your Science Questions, Part 1, ft. Rob & Jon Mound 1:01:16

13d ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Suspension of disbelief is a cornerstone of speculative fiction, but as writers and fans, we often find ourselves wondering just how grounded in reality our favourite stories really are. We asked you, our listeners, for questions like: What would happen if I went through a wormhole? Does a Star Trek transporter just kill you and create a new copy o…

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FM-06 | Carmichael Assessment 1:34:14

14d ago1:34:14

1:34:14

Chapter 17 includes Harry sneaking into SI, but finding out he's too late to put a cage around the Loup Garu. MacFinn tears through prisoners, and then comes for Harry. Chapter 18 starts with Murphy saving Harry's life using inherited silver bullets. This allows Harry to back off and take a breather, where he realizes that the silver bullets caused…

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Strength Without Noise: Lessons from Skeleton Key’s Villain 10:01

15d ago10:01

10:01

In this Mere Mortals book review, we revisit Skeleton Key, the third Alex Rider novel, blending teenage espionage with lessons on stoicism, discipline, and composure. Beyond the action-packed spy drama, I explore how the book’s villain, the General, embodies a powerful, minimalistic strength that shaped my early understanding of discipline and quie…

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It's Time to Finish Your Book 32:44

16d ago32:44

32:44

Writing doesn’t have to be a grind! In this episode of Author Culture, I sit down with E.J. Kitchens—author of fantasy, fairytale, and steampunk adventure with romance—to talk about her journey from reluctant writer to joyful storyteller. Elizabeth shares: * How to make writing fun again (yes, even during deadlines) * The “three Rs” every writer ne…

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Historians Attempting Poetry | The Lessons Of History (Will & Ariel Durant) BOOK REVIEW 17:40

17d ago17:40

17:40

Not only is history written by the victors, but it's altered by the academics! 'The Lessons Of History' by Will & Ariel Durant is a small book that attempts to sum-up the history of humanity across several categories of human activity. They use examples from ancient civilisations but also add their own personal opinions into the mix. 13 chapters on…

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FM-05 | What Can a Wizard Gaze? 1:16:01

22d ago1:16:01

1:16:01

In Chapters 14 through 16 of Fool Moon: Harry's gunshot wound is treated by Tera, who leads him to MacFinn. He shares information with Harry, but not enough to draw any conclusions. Then the whole group gets scattered when the cops show up, and Harry/Tera/Susan go back to his apartment for supplies. (00:00) - Intro (01:33) - Ch. 14 - Tera the Comba…

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Who's Going To Man The Boats? | Lords Of The Sea (John R. Hale) BOOK REVIEW 29:58

24d ago29:58

29:58

Move aside Sparta, there's a new power in town! 'Lords of the Sea: The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy' by John R. Hale is a historical book that recounts the period from 483-322 BC of Ancient Greece and in particular the navy armada of Athens. We witness the rise and fall of Athenian power via not only sea battles with o…

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Episode 125 - Past Pandemonium Part 2 2:41:37

23d ago2:41:37

2:41:37

Temptation comes calling. JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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Cloned to Conform: Point Blanc and the Death of Individuality 15:04

28d ago15:04

15:04

In this Mere Mortals book review, we dive into Point Blanc by Anthony Horowitz, a fast-paced youth fiction novel that sparks deeper questions about cloning, perfectionism and identity. Using the wild plot as a springboard, the episode unpacks modern obsessions with filtered personas and asks: what do we lose when we trade uniqueness for conformity?…

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The Hard, Joyful Truth About Book Sales 16:15

30d ago16:15

16:15

Let’s just face that dragon head-on: one is obligated to buy our books. Not our friends. Not our families. Not random internet strangers. Not even that one person who “said they would.” And while that truth can sting a little… it can also set us free. Because now the question isn’t “How do I convince people to care?”It’s “How can I have the most fu…

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Good Man, Corrupt Businessman | The Wizard Of Wall Street & His Wealth (Trumbull White) BOOK REVIEW 28:24

1M ago28:24

28:24

Be wary of association with the Wizard Of Wall St .... unless you are family or friends! 'The Wizard Of Wall Street & His Wealth' by Trumbull White is a biography detailing the life of Jay Gould, at one point one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. It starts from his childhood and shows how he rose from poverty in the 1800's to become one o…

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FM-04 | Who Killed Harry's Parents? 1:19:13

1M ago1:19:13

1:19:13

In Chapters 11, 12, and 13 of Fool Moon, Harry calls up a demon for information, examines Kim Delaney's murder scene, and barely avoids getting arrested with the help of Tara West. (00:00) - Intro (02:05) - Ch. 11 - Summoning Chauncy (22:40) - Ch. 12 - Kim Delaney's Body (45:40) - Ch. 13 - Escape From The Feds with Tera's Help (53:59) - QfB: Who Ki…

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Wizards, Starships & Magic Levels: 5 World Building Decisions That Connect With Readers 15:10

1M ago15:10

15:10

World building isn’t just about the fun, nerdy stuff (though I’m always here for that). It can also be strategic—the part where your dragons, space stations, or magic moose help you actually reach your readers. 🎙️In this Author Culture episode, I’m digging into five key world building areas where your passions and world building excitement can help…

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The Hobbit Review: Why This Classic Still Hits Hard in 2025 11:25

1M ago11:25

11:25

In this episode, we dive into The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, the timeless tale that launched the modern fantasy genre. You'll hear why Bilbo Baggins’ unlikely hero’s journey still resonates today, what Tolkien nailed in his storytelling, and how this short adventure carries deep philosophical punch. From dragons to dwarves to life-changing quotes, t…

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Earn Money By Testing The Ticker | Reminiscences Of A Stock Operator (Edwin Lefevre) BOOK REVIEW 34:33

1M ago34:33

34:33

The fun side of rather questionable behaviour. 'Reminiscences Of A Stock Operator' by Edwin Lefevre is a fictional 1st person account of a Wall St trader in the early 1900's, but largely based on the real life operator of Jesse Lauriston Livermore. He describes his early life trading in bucket shops before moving into more high leverage trading and…

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Episode 124 - Past Pandemonium 2:56:47

1M ago2:56:47

2:56:47

The journey into the past comes to a head! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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FM-03 | What mortal magic is the most unusual? 1:07:39

1M ago1:07:39

1:07:39

In chapters 8, 9, and 10: Harry will pass off his werewolf report to Agent Denton, and receive a wild goose chase in return. Upon reaching the Fool Moon garage, Harry bumbles the interrogation and instead of leaving with answers, he leaves with more enemies. Finally, Marcone confronts Harry and offers him a deal, but is forced, instead, to accept H…

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10 Lessons From Ryan Holiday’s Most Honest Book Yet 12:34

1M ago12:34

12:34

In this Mere Mortals Learnings episode, I unpack the raw insights from Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday. This book, focused on the Stoic virtue of justice, might not be his most thrilling but it’s undoubtedly the one that digs the deepest. From power and personal responsibility to kindness and selfishness, these lessons challenge you to live …

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Fun Can be Profound (and Just Fun) - What the Superman Movie Nails About Storytelling 20:08

1M ago20:08

20:08

In this epic Author Culture episode, Janeen sits down with her husband Stephen Ippolito (superhero super-nerd and cinematic sidekick) to tackle the newest Superman movie—and they’re both psyched and impressed by how much they liked it. In this fun, nerdy breakdown, they dig into: * A Superman portrayal that doesn’t feel flat or forced * Why the dog…

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Philosophical Essays & Nihilism | Readings From The Road 36:50

1M ago36:50

36:50

We're back from travelling, wiser & thankfully not sad about it. In this special episode we are covering 3 books of essays/philosophical investigations by written by 3 authors in the 20th century. The books themselves are 'What Does It All Mean?' by Thomas Nagel, 'What Is Man & Other Essays' by Mark Twain & 'The Foundation Pit' by Andrey Platonov. …

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Against Hopepunk ft. Nick Mamatas 45:07

2M ago45:07

45:07

Sci-fi and fantasy has always had an optimistic current, whether it’s utopian space-age cities or noble chosen ones vanquishing a dark lord. In recent years, with the popularity of romantasy and cozy fantasy, it’s easier than ever to immerse yourself in a more hopeful world. But what if instead we made you feel bad? In this wide-ranging conversatio…

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Random Encounters: The Secret to Effortless GMing | Wizards of Eem EP012 18:41

2M ago18:41

18:41

Send us a text Random encounters aren’t just filler—they add depth, immersion, and flexibility to your tabletop roleplaying games! Whether you're running a sandbox campaign or following a published adventure, random encounters provide the juice for entire sessions, making your world feel alive and unpredictable. In this episode, Ben Costa and James…

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FM-02 | What's the dumbest thing anyone's done? 1:34:37

2M ago1:34:37

1:34:37

Harry continues to fumble his relationship with Murphy in this set of chapters (5, 6, & 7). We also meet the Alphas for the first time, and learn about all the different types of werewolves while Bob helps Harry make two potions that definitely won't backfire later in the book. (00:00) - Intro (00:52) - Ch. 5 - Meeting the Alphas (17:18) - Ch. 6 - …

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Right Thing, Right Now: The Stoic Virtue We Avoid 10:42

2M ago10:42

10:42

In this Mere Mortals book review, I tackle Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday, the third in his Stoic Virtue series. It’s a slower, deeper, more reflective book centred on justice, the virtue that’s hardest to sell and hardest to live by. I share why this wasn’t my favourite read, but why it might be the most meaningful one for the long game of…

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Surviving the Chaos - 5 Essentials for Conference Sanity 17:42

2M ago17:42

17:42

Writers’ conferences are amazing... and also A LOT. 😅Sensory overload, tight schedules, nonstop networking—it’s a full-on experience, especially if you're neurodivergent or prone to overwhelm. In this episode of Author Culture, I share my personal strategies for staying grounded, connected, and fully present at conferences—without melting down. Whe…

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Episode 123 - Scene Skipping 2:24:39

2M ago2:24:39

2:24:39

We're tying up some loose ends and getting to the point! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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Fool Moon - 01 | What if Kim Told The Truth? 1:02:25

2M ago1:02:25

1:02:25

We're off to a quick start in our analysis of Fool Moon. This episode discusses the first 4 chapters of the second book, consisting of Harry's inauspicious meeting with Kim Delaney, Murphy dragging him to the Crime scene, a tense standoff with FBI Agents, and a reconciliation between Harry and Murphy. Finally, our Question for Bob discusses how thi…

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The Case for Imbalanced Combat | Wizards of Eem EP011 15:30

2M ago15:30

15:30

Send us a text Wizards of Eem EP011 – The Case for Imbalanced Combat Are you a GM tired of building "perfectly balanced" encounters? In this episode, we explore why Land of Eem embraces unfair fights—and how imbalance leads to better stories. Topics include: Why imbalance creates tension, surprise, and creativity How Land of Eem’s conflict system r…

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Low-Risk, Rule-Breaking Marketing with Special Guest J.J. Johnson 1:21:15

2M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

Don’t be afraid to rebel—just do it wisely. Too often, writers stick to the “safe” path when it comes to marketing—social posts, newsletter swaps, maybe a hopeful BookTok attempt, and then wonder why no one’s noticing. The truth? In an overcrowded market, sometimes you need to step a little outside the lines to get seen. This livestream of the Auth…

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The Easiest Way to Run TTRPGs for Kids | Wizards of Eem EP010 13:27

2M ago13:27

13:27

Send us a text Are you a parent or educator looking to introduce tabletop roleplaying games to kids? TTRPGs aren’t just fun—they build social skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities while keeping kids off screens! As new dads, Ben Costa and James Parks wanted to create an RPG that kids can pick up and play without the complexity of tradit…

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SF-12 | Assessing Storm Front 1:48:51

2M ago1:48:51

1:48:51

We've finished our chapter by chapter re-read of Storm Front, but we're not done yet. This episode dives into the unresolved questions around this book. We start with an additional analysis of the book's major beats and best scenes. We then examine Harry's use of Magic and Gadgets within this book, and we then rank his relationships with other char…

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New Release, Realm Makers Expo, and Book Haul 27:13

2M ago27:13

27:13

This one’s personal: what I’m reading, what I’m writing, and how I’m navigating the creative chaos. In this episode, I share a peek inside my current author life—including how community, covers, and conferences are playing a big part in my process right now. You’ll hear: -My upcoming release – The Veracin Blade (aka, “the book that just. WOUDN’T. E…

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We Failed Every Roll…and it was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009 16:57

2M ago16:57

16:57

Send us a text We Failed Every Roll... and It Was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009 June 20, 2025 | Actual Play Tips & GM Advice In this episode of the Wizards of Eem podcast, we explore one of the most powerful storytelling tools in tabletop RPGs: failure. Join us as we break down the Land of Eem’s unique dice system and the mechanics that make fail…

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Their Success Isn’t Your Failure 12:57

2M ago12:57

12:57

You are not behind. You are not too late. You are not a failure because another author just hit 100K in sales. 🎙️ In this episode of Author Culture, I get raw about mindset, marketing, and the hard-but-true fact that your worth isn’t measured by someone else’s metrics. Takeaways * A healthy mindset is key to effective book marketing. * Jealousy and…

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The Ur-Pisode: The Queer Heart of The Epic of Gilgamesh, ft. Julian Gunn 54:30

3M ago54:30

54:30

For 4000 years, The Epic of Gilgamesh has influenced mythology, theology, and literature, and its rediscovery in the 1850s is itself an epic tale of war, theft, and Hobby Lobby. A meditation on love and death, rage and grief, civilization and nature, starring two problematic queer frat boys, it is the foundation of so many of our stories. In this e…

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SF-11 | What Could Harry Have Done Differently? 1:30:45

3M ago1:30:45

1:30:45

This week we're discussing the final 3 chapters of Storm Front (25, 26, and 27). Harry finally confronts the Shadowman, decides to sacrifice himself to stop him, and then gets rescued anyway. The story concludes Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: What Could Harry Have Done Differently*? (00:00) - Intro (00:49) - Ch. 25 Harry Ente…

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Is the Book Really Better Than the Movie? 11:22

3M ago11:22

11:22

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito explores the ongoing debate of book versus movie adaptations, discussing the challenges and successes of translating beloved stories to the big screen. She reflects on various adaptations, including the recent live-action version of 'How to Train Your Dragon,' and considers the perspectives of authors regarding crea…

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Episode 122 - Deputized Desperado Dismantles Dwarven Devices 1:57:02

3M ago1:57:02

1:57:02

Isla concocts an unexpected diversion! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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SF-10 | How Does Air Magic Work? 1:24:05

3M ago1:24:05

1:24:05

This week we're delving into chapters 22-24 of Storm Front. This includes Harry fighting against the Scorpion, his confrontation with Morgan at Macs, and his confrontation against his own darker nature outside the lake house. Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: How does Air Magic Work with Physics? (00:00) - Intro (01:49) - Ch. 22…

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Amplify Your Writing with Action, Humor, & Mental Health 1:19:15

3M ago1:19:15

1:19:15

Need help writing stories that are as emotionally deep as they are action-packed? In this episode, Janeen and A.C. Williams explore how to bring humor, mental health, and character growth into the heat of sci-fi and fantasy plots. They offer practical tips for authors who want to write with more heart, without losing momentum or reader engagement. …

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Adapt or Die: The Youth Spy Who Sparked a Passion for Discipline | Stormbreaker BOOK REVIEW 8:25

3M ago8:25

8:25

A 14-year-old is thrust into the shadow world of espionage, where every move is a fight to survive—and grow up fast. My book review on an oldie but a goodie, Stormbreaker by Anthony Horrowitz (00:00) – You're Never Too Young to Die (00:47) – First Encounter at 14 (02:15) – Spy Fantasy Meets Realism (03:38) – Plot Recap & Absurd Action (05:41) – Phi…

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SF-09 | What's the Enemy's Plan? 1:20:10

3M ago1:20:10

1:20:10

This week we're tackling chapters 18, 19, 20, and most of 21. We explore the information presented about Harry's father, Malcom Dresden. Next, we discuss Harry's confrontations with the Photographer and Monica Sells until ultimately, Monica cracks the case wide open for him. Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: What was the Enemy's…

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Standalone or Series: Which is Better for You? 22:29

3M ago22:29

22:29

In this episode, I discuss the decision-making process for authors considering whether to write a standalone book or a series. Rather than just giving you hard and fast answers, I offer three key questions that you can answer to figure out your next best step. These questions emphasize the importance of understanding one's creative process, genre e…

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You Can’t Pour From an Empty Bucket: Real-World Laws for Life & Leadership 12:52

3M ago12:52

12:52

In this episode, I explore the concrete takeaways from The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett. These aren’t abstract ideals—they're raw, lived-in lessons. From why your mind and body are your first foundation, to how meaningful questions shape behaviour, this reflection dives deep into the book’s most impactful ideas and challenges conventional wisd…

Worldbuilding Wizard Podcasts