Best Inciting Incident Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 144: How to Make INSTA-LOVE Just as Swoonworthy as Slow Burn Romance 😍 24:11

14d ago24:11

24:11

Is it possible to write "insta-love" romance that actually feels believable and earned? That's the big question we're tackling in today's podcast. We'll explore six powerful tried-and-true methods for making your couple's relationship feel well-developed and compelling, even if you're working with a short timeline for your story. So, if you need tw…

1
Episode 143: 5 Easy Ways to Make Your Characters More FLAWED and LOVABLE 24:35

1M ago24:35

24:35

Do you want to write flawed, lovable, and relatable characters? In this new podcast episode, we're exploring five simple techniques for making your characters more unique and realistic by giving them vices and virtues that will make your readers fall in love. Ready to take your characters to the next level? Grab a notebook, and let's dive into this…

1
Episode 142: How to Make the Inciting Incident Happen in Chapter One 27:53

2M ago27:53

27:53

Do you want to kick your story off with a bang and captivate your readers in chapter one? The secret is to make us care about your characters and write an explosive inciting incident within those crucial first few pages of your story. That's why, in today's podcast, we're exploring how to shove your characters outside their comfort zone in the firs…

1
Episode 141: 3 Simple Ways to Fix BORING Dialogue 29:57

2M ago29:57

29:57

Is your dialogue falling flat, sounding repetitive, or feeling forced? Do you want to elevate your dialogue-writing skills but don’t know where to begin? In this new podcast episode, Kate and I reveal three game-changing tips to transform dull dialogue into compelling conversations—as well as how to pinpoint problem areas so that you can take your …

1
Episode 140: Keys to Writing Writing a Powerful “Aha!” Moment 30:40

4M ago30:40

30:40

The "aha moment" is one of the most important parts of your ENTIRE story! In this episode, we're diving into your character's realization and transformation... and how to leave a lasting impact on your audience. This is YOUR moment – the reason why you wanted to write this story in the first place! We're going to break this down step-by-step. So gr…

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Episode 139: 6 MUST-KNOW TIPS for Young Writers (or Beginner Writers!) 36:26

6M ago36:26

36:26

Are you a young writer or just a beginner, and you’re feeling...overwhelmed? If so, you’re not alone. Kate and I are both familiar with the feeling of starting out on this writing journey and feeling pulled in a hundred different directions. How do you know if your writing is any good? When should you publish your first novel? How do you edit your …

1
Episode 138: How to Design a Book Cover That STANDS OUT 29:10

7M ago29:10

29:10

Do you want to design a book cover that stops your readers in their tracks and instantly pulls them in? Are you struggling to figure out where to even begin with cover design? If so, today's podcast is for you. In this episode, Kate and I will divulge our best tips and techniques for designing a show-stopping cover — whether you're flying solo or w…

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Episode 137: How to Actually Overcome Self-Doubt as a Writer 31:02

8M ago31:02

31:02

Do you ever compare your writing to others and feel like you just don't measure up? Does self-doubt ever make you want to throw your manuscript into the trash bin? Are you feeling discouraged because you're not where you want to be in your writing/publishing journey? If so, you’re not alone. These are mental battles that plague writers everywhere… …

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Episode 136: World-Building MISTAKES New Writers Make (Avoid These Cringeworthy Cliches!) 31:22

8M ago31:22

31:22

Crafting a fictional setting, also known as world-building, is a crucial aspect of any good story. A well-crafted setting has the power to capture our attention and transport us into the world of the characters. However, if you reveal your world in the wrong way, you risk boring your readers and overwhelming them with information.In today's podcast…

1
Episode 135: How to Write MORE WORDS in 2024 27:42

9M ago27:42

27:42

Are you struggling to find the time to write? Do you feel like you just can't get enough words down? This year, all that can change. In this podcast episode, Kate and I will share simple but powerful techniques that can help you overcome this challenge. We'll dive into developing personalized habits, finding an accountability partner, cultivating a…

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Midnight in the Backrooms - An Audioplay - 2023 1:27:30

10M ago1:27:30

1:27:30

MIDNIGHT IN THE BACKROOMS What if a dead mall was literally a *dead* mall? Chris and Victoria find themselves in the mall they worked in as teenagers, stuck in the same snowed-in day in 1998 that never ends. The Evergreen Glen Mall, or as it’s known on the other side, it’s the EverMall! Their old friends are back, as are stores they thought long go…

1
Episode 134: Answering YOUR writing questions! (End-of-Year Special) 48:49

10M ago48:49

48:49

You asked us writing questions... and we are here to answer them! In this end-of-year special episode of The Kate & Abbie Show, we're sitting down and tackling your toughest writing struggles, offering insightful tips and tricks that have helped us throughout the years to build successful and joyful author careers. So grab your favorite cozy blanke…

1
Episode 133: 7 Reasons To KEEP WRITING When You Feel Like Giving Up 27:21

11M ago27:21

27:21

Every writer faces it at one time or another: doubt, discouragement, fear, hesitation… the feeling of wanting to give up on your novel. Sometimes we reach a point in the writing process where we ask ourselves: is it even worth it to keep going? We writers are introspective by nature, but sometimes our reckless imaginations come back to bite us when…

1
Episode 132: How to Break Through Writer's Block During NaNoWriMo 34:47

11M ago34:47

34:47

We’re nearly halfway through NaNoWriMo! A lot of writers experience a creative lull during the halfway point of a writing project — also known as the “mushy middle” 😰 when you might be feeling burnt out or lacking creativity. That’s why, in this new podcast, Kate and I are tackling one of the most daunting challenges any writer can face: writer's b…

1
Episode 131: How to Write Consistently Every Day for NaNoWriMo 2023 28:52

11M ago28:52

28:52

One of the most daunting hurdles for writers is finding the time to sit down and write. 😩🕒 Kate and I understand the struggle of juggling various responsibilities and still trying to squeeze in some time for writing. That's why, in today’s podcast, we’re sharing our best tips for building an unstoppable writing habit and avoiding distractions. We’r…

1
Episode 130: The #1 BIGGEST MISTAKE New Writers Make 30:32

12M ago30:32

30:32

There's one big mistake I often see many new writers make… a mistake that can ruin your whole story and end your author career before it even begins. (No exaggeration.) This mistake has destroyed many writers who could have been great, if they had just done this ONE THING differently. What is this mistake? That's the big question we are unpacking a…

1
Episode 129: How to Prepare to Write a Novel for NaNoWriMo 2023 ✨✍️ #Preptober 28:03

1y ago28:03

28:03

Preptober starts now! Are you preparing to write your novel for NaNoWriMo 2023, but you're not sure where to start? We believe that everyone's process is different -- and that's why, in today's podcast, Kate and I are sharing out perspectives and best advice for bringing joy and creative inspiration to the story-planning journey. Grab your notebook…

1
Episode 128: Fall in LOVE With Your Side Characters – Tips for Writing an Unforgettable Cast of Characters 29:22

1y ago29:22

29:22

Are you struggling to make your side characters three-dimensional, relatable, and compelling? What if you could give them internal conflict that deepens their character and enriches the plot, even if they don't have a POV? In this episode, Kate and Abbie share tips and tricks for writing side characters with internal conflict. They discuss how inte…

1
Episode 127: How to Write a Compelling Romance Between a Hero and Villain 27:16

1y ago27:16

27:16

Are you tired of the same old romance tropes? Do you want to shake things up and create a compelling love story between your hero and villain? If so, this new episode of The Kate and Abbie Show is for you! Today, we’re diving into the complexities of writing a romance between a protagonist and antagonist. We're sharing simple but powerful technique…

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5 Movies to WATCH Before Barbie (Ep #5) 1:02:48

1y ago1:02:48

1:02:48

In this episode, Maral and Anna dish on the Barbie movies of their childhood and look through the career and filmography Greta Gerwig (writer/director/actor), exploring "Frances Ha", "Lady Bird", "Little Women", "White Noise", and more. Join us for a juicy episode on womanhood, Barbie culture, and modern romance! Tik Tok: @theplotpals Instagram: @t…

1
The BEST Little Women Adaptations, 1868-Today (Ep #4) 46:53

1y ago46:53

46:53

In this episode, Maral and Anna explore the structure of Louisa May Alcott’s captivating novel “Little Women”, and discuss their experiences as young women dealing with dilemmas of their own. As well, we look at filmic adaptation of “Little Women" from 1949, 1994, and 2019, each from groups of notable screenwriters, directors, and producers. Tik To…

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INCITING INCIDENTS: Analyzing “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (Ep #3) 31:55

1y ago31:55

31:55

In this episode we explore inciting incidents and their profound impact on your narratives. Join us as we unravel the layers of one of Hollywood's iconic films, "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." Follow us on Tik Tok: @theplotpals Instagram: @theplotpals See you on Saturdays!By Anna Gin and Maral Mostafavi

1
Episode 126: How to Make Time to Write and Establish a Writing Routine That Lasts 26:27

1y ago26:27

26:27

Are you struggling to find time to write? Do you constantly find yourself procrastinating and avoiding your writing projects? Are you desperate to establish a writing habit that truly lasts? If so, today’s podcast is for you! In this episode of The Kate and Abbie Show, Abbie and I share powerful tips and techniques to help you overcome writing chal…

1
Episode 125: How to Write a Bestselling Book Blurb 37:23

1y ago37:23

37:23

Condensing your perhaps 100k+ word book into a tiny blurb is no easy task! Many writers are intimidated by the idea of narrowing down their book to a mere, brief summery. We have but a moment to capture our readers attention! So what goes into crafting an engaging book blurb? We're breaking that down in this episode, so grab your notebook and lets …

1
Episode 124: How to Write a BANGER Opening Hook For Your Story 34:51

1y ago34:51

34:51

Are you struggling to create an opening hook that truly grabs your reader's attention? Are you having trouble making your readers care about your characters and their desires? Do you feel like your world-building is getting in the way of your story? In this episode, we're discussing the key elements of a BANGER opening hook. We explore how internal…

1
Exploring Great Writing in His Girl Friday and 1984 by George Orwell (Ep #2) 58:34

1+ y ago58:34

58:34

In this episode, we explore the timeless charm of the movie "His Girl Friday," dissecting its witty script and unforgettable characters. We also delve into the literary genius of George Orwell's "1984," examining its powerful themes and impactful writing style. Tune in every Saturday! Welcome to the Plot Pals!…

1
Tangled Thoughts: Stories of Overcoming Negative Inner Dialogues (Ep #1) 53:23

1+ y ago53:23

53:23

In this episode, join your pals as they share fun stories and memories growing up in the mountains of Iran, talking about their feelings and methods for overcoming negative thoughts. See you on Saturdays!By Fatemeh Sheibani and Maral Mostafavi

1
Episode 123: How to write complex and RELATABLE anti-heroes (with story examples) 40:14

1+ y ago40:14

40:14

We often hear the phrase, "Anti-heroes are too good to be 'bad' but too bad to be 'good.'" But there's more to these broody, dark, and irresistible characters. In fact, some pretty distinct features go into crafting an unforgettable (and completely lovable) anti-hero. So if you're writing a character somewhere between a hero and a villain... grab a…

1
Episode 122: How to Write Better Descriptions and Make Your Writing Style Shine 37:25

1+ y ago37:25

37:25

Writing clear and captivating descriptions isn't always as easy as it sounds. We've heard from so many writers who struggle with this complex aspect of the writing process. Descriptions have the potential to immerse us in a story, transport us to new worlds, and introduce us to vivid characters. However, description can sometimes bog down your writ…

1
Episode 121: How to Write the END of Your Story and Leave a Lasting Impact on Your Readers 26:57

1+ y ago26:57

26:57

Not sure how to end your story? You want to write an unforgettable ending that will leave a lasting impression on your readers… but how do you pull that off in a powerful way? In today’s podcast, Abbie and I share the most important keys to writing an emotional and satisfying ending for your story. Whether you’re writing a standalone or a series — …

1
Episode 120: How to Instantly Give Your Characters Internal Conflict 28:38

1+ y ago28:38

28:38

If you've ever read through a manuscript and worried that the internal conflict of your characters is just missing something but you can't quite put your finger on what... this episode is for you. Today, Abbie and I are discussing how to instantly take your character's internal conflict to the next level - without rewriting or heavy edits. So if yo…

1
Episode 119: The Ultimate Guide to Writing SLOW-BURN Romance 31:38

1+ y ago31:38

31:38

Are you struggling to write a slow-burn romance that will make your readers fall in love and hold their interest until the very end? If so, today’s podcast is for you. We’re talking all about how to write BETTER SLOW-BURN ROMANCE. In this episode, Abbie and I are case-studying some of our favorite romances and share our best tips for creating tensi…

1
Episode 118: 6 Cliché Tropes We Love/Hate...and How to Make Them NOT Cliché 41:34

1+ y ago41:34

41:34

Are you afraid that what you're writing has all been done before? Is it too "cliche"? Is it an overused trope? Should you avoid writing tropes, or is there a right way to do it? In this episode, Abbie and I are delving into all things tropes, and answering the question that many writers have been asking themselves as they grapple with their novels:…

1
Episode 117: Write a BETTER Epic Fantasy Novel... Debunking Top Myths, and Breaking the Rules 35:48

1+ y ago35:48

35:48

Are you ever overwhelmed by just how much information is out there about how to structure your fantasy world, your magic system, your characters, and your plot? There's a lot of information out there, and it can all be a little daunting. In this episode, Kate and Abbie are speaking from their own experience of fantasy writing to help you simplify, …

1
Episode 116: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Writers - And Feel Better Than Ever 29:10

1+ y ago29:10

29:10

Do you struggle as an author with comparing yourself to other writers? That sinking feeling of dread that fills you when you scroll through social media or read articles online... this persistent fear of not being able to succeed as a writer. Do you find yourself facing this battle? If so, you are not alone. All creatives face this challenge, and w…

1
Episode 115: How to Overcome Self-Doubt as a Writer 29:58

1+ y ago29:58

29:58

Do you struggle with self-doubt as a writer? Do you often wonder if your writing is good enough or if you have what it takes to make your author dreams come true? If so, this podcast is for you. In this episode, Abbie and I share some lifesaving mindset shifts that have helped us to overcome self-doubt and fear of failure when it comes to writing. …

1
Episode 114: Stop Procrastination and Write the Book of Your Dreams 30:23

1+ y ago30:23

30:23

Have you been procrastinating your writing lately? Are you torn between your desire to create and your fear that whatever you write will be total rubbish? If so, this new podcast is for you. Instead of blasting motivational music and muscling through your discomfort, Abbie and I take a holistic approach to overcoming procrastination – by reconnecti…

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Episode 113: How to Accomplish Your Writing Goals in 2023 26:48

2y ago26:48

26:48

Ready to make your author dreams come true in 2023? This new podcast is for you! No more procrastinating, putting off that editing project, or convincing yourself you need to "do more research" before you can start writing that new novel you've been dreaming about. It's a new year – time to MAKE IT HAPPEN. In today's podcast, Abbie and I share our …

1
Superiors vs Millers, Sounds About Cleveland: An Audioplay - 2022 1:16:20

2y ago1:16:20

1:16:20

Support this podcast at patreon.com/qaf, patreon.com/mccool10, Venmo@ThePurpleAmazon, or paypal.me/RissyMcCool SYNOPSIS: The Duluth Superiors, a women's football team out of Minnesota, are groggily heading toward Michigan City, Indiana. Half the team has quit, half the coaches have gone with them, and what's left of the squad still has a chance to …

1
Bitter Tea, the Way the Volcano Gods of Rainier Intended: An Audioplay - 2021 1:31:19

2y ago1:31:19

1:31:19

Support my work at paypal.me/RissyMcCool or Venmo@ThePurpleAmazon The fourth annual-ish holiday-ish play by Marissa McCool 2022 version coming next week. Bitter Tea, the Way the Volcano Gods of Rainier Intended: An Audioplay SUMMARY Eleanor and Rain, two non-binary recluses, live off the grid and gender binary in Northern Minnesota. Living with the…

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Episode 112: How to Write Better CHARACTER VOICE (with examples) 37:31

2y ago37:31

37:31

What are the three key ingredients to writing spot-on character voice? That's the question we're exploring in today's podcast. As writers, we want to build strong, engaging characters that will hook our readers on page one -- and while we want these characters to have transformative journeys and arcs, the one thing we DON'T want is for that charact…

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Episode 111: How to Write Better Character Chemistry & Craft ADDICTIVE Relationships 27:18

2y ago27:18

27:18

Chemistry: that magic ingredient in a story that makes character relationships feel so darn REAL. What is it about a certain "ship," dynamic duo, or group of friends that makes us fall in love so much we can't shut up about them, need to make fan art & videos, and think about these characters as if they are real people? You can probably think of a …

1
Episode 110: How to Write Better INTERNAL CONFLICT 32:39

2y ago32:39

32:39

If you’ve been on mine and Abbie’s respective channels, or watched this podcast for any length of time, you know that Abbie and I believe that this ONE ELEMENT is the most important part of telling a good story -- and that is... INTERNAL CONFLICT. Internal conflict is the desire and fear that your character faces within them -- the driving force th…

1
Episode 109: How to Write the Screenplay of Your Dreams - Turn Your Story Into an Unforgettable Film 54:16

2y ago54:16

54:16

Ever dreamed of turning your story idea or novel into a film, but have NO IDEA how to go about screenwriting? Have you ever felt bewildered by all the multifaceted layers to writing a script - like formatting, and what kind of programs to use, or whether or not your even QUALIFIED to write a screenplay if you've only ever written novels? In this ep…

1
Episode 108: How to Write a BETTER NOVEL this NaNoWriMo 30:19

2y ago30:19

30:19

Tomorrow marks the first day of NaNoWriMo 2022! Who's ready? In this episode, we wanted to provide a burst of insight and helpful tools to arm your for your most fun & successful National Novel Writing Month yet, whether this is your first crack at the challenge, or your 10th. With these basic, easy-to-implement tools and methods, you're sure to hi…

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EPISODE 107: 3 Keys to Immersive Dialogue (with examples!) 49:47

2y ago49:47

49:47

Do you want to write better dialogue? If so, this new podcast is for you. When dialogue is written well, it can take your WIP to new heights, making your story feel vivid and realistic... but when written weakly, dialogue can feel difficult to believe and connect with, and actually distract from the message you are trying to communicate to your rea…

1
Episode 106: The 3 KEYS to Writing Lovable SIDE CHARACTERS 38:24

2y ago38:24

38:24

Do you want to write unforgettable side characters? If so, this episode is for you. Side characters can often take a backseat to the main story and sometimes feel like filler to simply add to the length of the plot. Sometimes they act as a comic relief or as a side-kick that helps the main character accomplish their goal...but many writers make the…

1
EPISODE 105: Become a Successful Indie Author - Prep, Publish, & Market Like a Boss 49:22

2y ago49:22

49:22

"How can we keep our community engaged with our content when our book is still not out?" "How do I know when my book is ready to be published?" "Is it harder to get in bookstores if I indie publish?" "How do you plan the process and the steps for publishing for the first time?" We're answering these questions & MORE in this special Q&A podcast epis…

1
Episode 104: HOW TO CRAFT A MIND BLOWING MAGIC SYSTEM (that feels realer than life) 32:14

2y ago32:14

32:14

From wizardry, to spells, to rings of power, to lost prophecies and deep curses, there's something about magic that has collectively captured our hearts as readers and viewers. Well written magic can catapult us into the stratosphere of mystical realms. But how do we achieve a successful, well-built magic system? How can we ensure that our magic sy…

1
Episode 103: How to Write Addictive, Page-Turning Action (And Keep Your Readers up Until 3 AM) 39:51

2y ago39:51

39:51

Well written action can be downright addictive. Let's face it: we love watching our characters face their biggest challenges and worst fears. But what is at the CORE of a good action sequence that makes it so addictive? What keeps us watching or reading late into the night? Whether you are writing a high fantasy, a sci-fi, or a contemporary, as a w…

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Inciting Incident Podcasts

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