Best Character Backstories Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 103: Movies Worth Watching: Creating Backstories and Compelling Characters 43:51

7h ago43:51

43:51

The 9 Points Rating System: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ Code 8 Film Review: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/maverick51411/episodes/2024-08-15T17_07_51-07_00 Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi's Book on Negative Traits: https://a.co/d/1F6iXfQ Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi's Book on Positive Traits: https://a.co/d/iljebe5 ---------- In …

1
Dumbledore was a SLYTHERIN (NOT a Gryffindor) - Harry Potter Theory 21:31

24h ago21:31

21:31

Welcome to Harry Potter Theory. Today, we’ll be discussing the many reasons why Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, famed Headmaster of Hogwarts and former Gryffindor student, may have been more well-suited to Slytherin House. As fans, soon after Harry Potter received his letter of acceptance and we were first introduced to Hogwarts School of …

1
Navigating the Challenges of Using Multiple POVs in Your Story 16:29

3h ago16:29

16:29

In this episode, I discusses the pros and cons of using multiple points of view (POVs) in writing. Point of view (POV) is the narrative perspective that guides the reader through the story. Multiple POVs can add depth and complexity to a story, but they also come with potential pitfalls. Pitfalls of multiple POVs include character chaos, plot compl…

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The Most DANGEROUS Goblin in Wizarding History (Slaughtered Thousands) 13:29

5d ago13:29

13:29

Goblins and wizards have never exactly seen eye to eye…Literally and figuratively. The short-statured humanoid creatures have long since been the subject of considerable prejudice within the Wizarding World, with Wizardkind often looking down on them both physically and socially. And it’s this discriminatory attitude that has led to tension and con…

1
Love the One You’re With – 3WD’s Top 7 Tips To Running Published D&D Adventures 43:54

1h ago43:54

43:54

Movies like The Godfather, The Lord of the Rings, Shawshank Redemption, Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill, Gladiator, Goodfellas… the list is inexhaustible. Movies that are “must-see” movies, classics that are nearly required viewing. Many published adventures, like Curse of Strahd, Storm King’s Thunder, Dragonlance, The Keep on the Borderlands, Against the …

1
How to Write a Seamless Flashback for Your Fiction Novel 28:28

2h ago28:28

28:28

In this episode of the Write it Scared podcast, we explore the art of crafting seamless flashbacks in fiction writing. I break down how and when to use a flashback effectively and the seven key elements every flashback needs to feel seamless and move the story forward. We talk about the pros and cons of flashbacks and how to place them for maximum …

1
Episode 102: Code 8 Review: Indie Films, Plot Holes, and the Superhero Genre 1:10:43

6d ago1:10:43

1:10:43

Find the 9 Points Rating System here: https://www.alostplot.com/9-points/ Maverick and Avalon discuss and review the 2019 independent crowdfunded film “Code 8”. Code 8 is an indie superhero film set in an alternate world where superpowered people exist. The story follows Connor, a powered person with electric abilities, who is trying to save his dy…

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Why Are Modern Wizards so Much WEAKER? - Harry Potter Theory 15:21

2d ago15:21

15:21

Have you ever wondered why the witches and wizards of new are so..WEAK? The Hogwarts founders from the 10th century were supposed to have been 4 of the most skilled witches and wizards that the magical world had ever seen, with proof of this being the impressive magical institution they left behind. Then of course there’s Merlin - another 10th cent…

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Character Names 40:37

11d ago40:37

40:37

What's in a name? Character names can allow readers to peer into and gather insight into what makes them tick. Does your protagonist need an epic name? How about your villains or secondary characters? Russ and Tim get into naming characters in this episode and dive into their own naming experiences and missteps in early drafts.…

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Where Are the 3 MYSTERY Wizarding Schools? - Harry Potter Theory 16:21

11d ago16:21

16:21

In the Goblet of Fire we are introduced to schools outside of Hogwarts for the first time. And while Hogwarts remains a top choice for many aspiring witches and wizards, the truth is that there exists a VAST world of magical education beyond the familiar walls of Hogwarts. There may not be as many options as say..Muggle schools..That much is obviou…

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Breaking Down the Self-Editing Process with Savannah Gilbo 39:56

2d ago39:56

39:56

This week, we're tackling the daunting task of editing your manuscript. Savannah Gilbo, a certified developmental editor and book coach, and I walk you through how to break down the self-editing process into manageable phases. From taking essential breaks to detailed step-by-step strategies, we cover how to transform your messy first draft into a p…

1
What REALLY Happens to Your Soul after a Dementor's Kiss? - Dark Harry Potter Theory 13:30

4d ago13:30

13:30

The consequences of tampering with the soul are not limited to the dark magic of Horcruxes. The wizarding world is fraught with other sinister forces that prey upon the soul, leading to outcomes just as terrifying. Among these, Dementors stand out as one of the most feared creatures, embodying the very essence of despair and hopelessness. Unlike Ho…

1
Episode 101: Back to the Future: Meeting Your Parents, Developing Characters, and Knights in Shining Armor 1:32:36

13d ago1:32:36

1:32:36

Maverick, and his co-hosts Avalon and Andrew review the 1985 release of Back to the Future. The hosts discuss the introduction of the film and the character of Marty McFly. They explore the flaws and relatability of Marty, noting his hot-headedness and fear of failure. They also discuss the mirroring of Marty and his father, George McFly, in terms …

1
Top 5 CREEPIEST Harry Potter Theories 18:04

7d ago18:04

18:04

Over the years I’ve discussed hundreds (if not THOUSANDS of theories) about the Wizarding World at large. I try to challenge aspects of the story (within reason) and build arguments to convince YOU that these theories hold merit. HOWEVER, there is also a time and a place for SHOCK value, and I think it’s safe to say that the theories contained in t…

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It’s the End of the World: 3 Wise DMs Pro Tips to Ending Your D&D Campaign the Right Way 51:05

9d ago51:05

51:05

The 3 Wise DMs are all approaching campaign finales: DM Tony’s Journey to Ragnarok, DM Chris’ “Wednesday-Nighters” campaign in our homebrewed world of The Further, and DM Dave’s Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen campaign. Just like the start of a campaign, the end only comes along once. So what should you focus on when your campaign is coming…

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Techniques to Convey Backstory Without Bogging Down the Narrative: Context & Memory 16:54

9d ago16:54

16:54

Techniques to Convey Backstory Without Bogging Down the Narrative: Context & Memory Today, we dig into the topic of backstory, specifically focusing on how to effectively deliver it without bogging down your narrative by using context and memory to weave backstory seamlessly into your story. Using examples from Rebecca Yarrow's Fourth Wing and VE S…

1
Symbolism 37:31

11d ago37:31

37:31

Symbolism is yet another tool in the author's toolkit for enhancing a story. Whether it be big-picture themes, character behaviors, or a setting, symbolism is a great way to enrich a reader's experience. In this episode, Russ and Tim chat about how they applied symbolism to their stories and lessons learned.…

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7 Major Events AFTER The Harry Potter Story Ended 14:37

11d ago14:37

14:37

To say that the Harry Potter books and films ended a long time ago would be a severe understatement. As of writing this, it’s been a whopping 27 years since the Philosopher’s Stone was first published, and 13 years since the last Harry Potter film hit the silver screen. And while I feel that both mediums sufficiently developed the characters/story,…

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Episode 100: Star Wars IX: The Rise of Skywalker: Destroying Arcs, Breaking Rules, and Violating Fans Expectations 1:52:48

12d ago1:52:48

1:52:48

In this episode, Andrew, Sean, and Maverick discuss the 9th installment in the Star Wars franchise. The hosts discuss the opening of the film and the introduction of the main character, Rey. They explore the confusion and lack of foreshadowing surrounding the return of Palpatine and the impact it has on the story. They also discuss Rey's character …

1
How to Create a Realistic, Relatable Main Character for your Romance Novel 6:51

13d ago6:51

6:51

Creating a realistic and relatable main character is crucial for a good romance novel. This involves giving them a history, their own journey, a job, relationships with others, physical flaws, strength, failure, sexuality, and the spotlight. These elements help readers understand and bond with the main character, making the story more engaging and …

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Hagrid is Secretly RICH - Harry Potter Theory 15:28

14d ago15:28

15:28

When we think of WEALTHY individuals from the Harry Potter story there are a few people and/or wizarding families that come to mind. First and foremost: The Malfoys- a wealthy, pureblood wizarding family known for their influence in the wizarding world and their affiliation with dark magic. The Malfoys built their immense wealth in 1066 when their …

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The Nitty-Gritty Of Book Cover Design with Miblart's Expert Katia Balabaieva 25:50

16d ago25:50

25:50

Today, we're diving into the world of book cover design. I'm thrilled to be joined by Katia from Miblart, a team of professional book cover designers who create marketable book covers for indie authors and publishers. We explore the importance of having a finalized manuscript before commissioning a cover, the types of book covers available, and whe…

1
This Dark Wizard Fooled EVERYONE for 600 Years (the Philosopher's Stone Is FAKE) 14:15

27d ago14:15

14:15

What if there was an ancient DARK wizard that POSED as one of the good guys for over 6 centuries? And what if I told you that he had EVERYONE fooled, INCLUDING Dumbledore and Voldemort? How could a seemingly benevolent wizard pull this off? What DARK deeds was he involved with? And how did he conceal his true nature from the Wizarding World for so …

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The Darkest Wizard Still ALIVE: What Happened to Herpo the Foul's HORCRUX? - Harry Potter Theory 14:59

30d ago14:59

14:59

Of the various Dark Wizards that have stained Wizarding History, very few have been able to perform the most sadistic of magical rituals: Horcrux creation. In fact, of the long list of dark wizards that have plagued the Wizarding World at large, only 2 or 3 names are known to have successfully created Horcruxes. The most infamous (and obvious) name…

1
Episode 99: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey: Stretching Stories, Adding Content, and Bad Manners 1:14:28

28d ago1:14:28

1:14:28

In this episode, Maverick and Philip St. Jean discuss the first movie in the Hobbit trilogy, 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.' They explore the differences between the book and the movie, the main character's role, and the fable-like aspects of the film. They also touch on the rating system and the opening scene. The conversation delves into the…

1
The Ties That Bind – Tying Together Characters, Backstories, And Adventures To Create The Most Immersive D&D Game Ever 48:36

1M ago48:36

48:36

Immersion in your D&D game. It’s one of the most sought after and asked about topics in the whole DMing Multiverse. The real trick always lies in how well you can tie together all the seemingly disparate pieces of your group – characters, backstories, motivations, and adventures – into one cohesive, epic story. In this episode, Tony, Chris, and Dav…

1
How to Craft Relevant Backstory for Complex Characters, Conflicts, Plots, and Worlds 17:24

23d ago17:24

17:24

How to Craft Relevant Backstory for Complex Characters, Conflicts, Plots, and Worlds If you’ve ever been stuck while drafting your manuscript and don’t know what comes next, consider looking at your backstory for the answers! Tune in to Episode 19 of The Write It Scared Podcast with host book coach and writer Stacy Frazer to learn how to craft a re…

1
The 5 BEST Hagrid Theories in Harry Potter 15:59

24d ago15:59

15:59

Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant, is a character that has captured the hearts of readers and viewers alike. With his towering stature, wild mane of hair, and gentle nature, Hagrid serves as the Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Known for his unwavering loyalty to his friends, his fondness for magical cre…

1
Episode 98: Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi Review: Two Opposing Viewpoints 1:37:10

1M ago1:37:10

1:37:10

Maverick, Sean, and Andrew review and debate the merits of Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi. The main themes discussed include the character development of Poe Dameron, the portrayal of legacy and legends, and the roles of Admiral Holdo and Princess Leia. The hosts have differing opinions on the execution of these themes and the overall quality of the…

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Why Snape's Avada Kedavra DIDN'T KILL Dumbledore - DARK Harry Potter Theory 13:56

27d ago13:56

13:56

In the world of Harry Potter, Albus Dumbledore stood as an iconic figure of wisdom, compassion, and unwavering leadership. As headmaster of Hogwarts School, his influence extended far beyond the walls of the magical institution, shaping the fate of the wizarding world itself. Furthermore, Dumbledore's profound empathy and understanding of human nat…

1
Strategies to Maintain Your Motivation to Write 8:12

28d ago8:12

8:12

Do you feel stuck in a rut with your writing? Do you struggle to even sit down to write? Does the blank page seem to loom over you like a cloud, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, and heading for Netflix? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many writers experience this same struggle (me included). Whether you’re working on a novel or just tryi…

1
Backstory 50:21

1M ago50:21

50:21

Backstory is essential to establishing who your characters are and the decisions they'll make in your story, but how much is too much? In this episode, Russ and Tim discuss backstory, how they approached it for their first novels, and how they plan on using it in their new works.By Russ Capasso and Tim Letteney

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The Most EVIL Dark Wizard You've NEVER Heard Of - Harry Potter Explained 14:31

1M ago14:31

14:31

For centuries, the dark art of creating Horcruxes has fascinated and terrified those who delve into the depths of magical history. The common narrative credits Herpo the Foul, an infamous dark wizard of ancient Greece, with pioneering this sinister method of achieving immortality. However, the truth is that the origins of the infamous Horcrux may l…

1
The Truth About Book Coaching with Author Accelerator CEO Jennie Nash 31:37

1M ago31:37

31:37

In this episode of the Write It Scared Podcast, it’s my pleasure to welcome the inspiring Jennie Nash, CEO of Author Accelerator, to discuss her journey from writing instructor and author to successful book coach and business leader. Jennie illuminates the transformative power of book coaching, emphasizing the importance of individual attention and…

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Episode 97: The Silence of the Lambs: Power Dynamics, Horror, and the Lasting Impact of Lecter 1:12:25

1M ago1:12:25

1:12:25

In this conversation, Maverick and Patrick discuss the film 'The Silence of the Lambs' and its standout elements. They highlight the impact of the character Hannibal Lecter, the tension-building in the plot, and the compelling development of the protagonist, Clarice Starling. They also touch on the power dynamics between Hannibal and Clarice, as we…

1
The Most POWERFUL Potion Maker Nobody Talks About - Harry Potter Explained 15:07

1M ago15:07

15:07

Potion making is no easy feat. It requires years of studying, endless practice, and a deep understanding of magical ingredients. Each potion demands precision and patience, with the slightest mistake potentially resulting in disastrous consequences. From brewing the simplest healing draughts to concocting complex elixirs that alter reality, potion …

1
The REAL Reason Hagrid's Wand Was Snapped - DARK Harry Potter Theory 21:25

2M ago21:25

21:25

Rubeus Hagrid’s FIRST wand was rather bendy, 16” long and made of oak. It has been expressed that those with oak wands usually have an ‘affinity with the magic of the natural world’, that a ‘bendy’ wand signifies a high level of adaptability in personality, and that the significant length of his wand is representative of his large stature and enorm…

1
Chill, Till The Next Episode – 3WD Answers The Question Of How Long An Adventure Should Be And How To Build Episodic Adventures For Your D&D Game 50:14

1M ago50:14

50:14

2:05 A listener question regarding how to run episodic adventures that serves as a jumping off point for Matt Colville’s recent video asking the question, “How long should an adventure be?” 3:40 DM Tony’s lead-off question… what is your table hungry for? 5:25 The classic Monster of the Week theme and DM Chris’ love of The X-Files. 7:25 Episodic Adv…

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Three Unhelpful Writing Assumptions to Release Right Now! 14:50

2M ago14:50

14:50

In Episode 17 of the Write it Scared podcast, book coach Stacy Frazer explores three common unhelpful writing assumptions that could be holding you back from crafting your best book. Stacy shares insights into why the belief that writing should be easy is not only false but dangerous, discusses the unrealistic expectation that first drafts should b…

1
The Most EVIL Hufflepuff Wizard Nobody Talks About - Harry Potter Explained 16:59

1M ago16:59

16:59

In the Philosopher’s Stone, Hagrid famously remarked that “There's not a single witch or wizard who went bad who wasn't in Slytherin.”. But..There are a few big issues with this statement. First of all, it’s factually incorrect. While the vast majority of the dark witches and wizards in the wizarding world were indeed at one time Slytherin students…

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Harry Potter EXTENDED Lore: Exploring 90 Published Works (Part 1) 31:55

2M ago31:55

31:55

Although the Harry Potter books and movies were released some time ago, there continues to be an insatiable thirst for more content among fans of all levels. And while seven core books and eight movies might seem like a lot, it feels considerably less substantial when spread over 27 years—a milestone we’ve just reached, as the first book was publis…

1
Episode 96: Collateral: A Hitman, A Cab Driver, and Making Every Moment Count 1:01:52

2M ago1:01:52

1:01:52

Maverick and Avalon discuss and review the 2004 release “Collateral”. The conversation discusses the movie Collateral and focuses on the characters of Max and Vincent, as well as the side plot involving Detective Ray. Max's character arc is explored, highlighting his initial apathy and fear of taking risks, and how his involvement with Vincent forc…

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