writing techniques

From James: Oh, my God, I'm so excited about this, because Amy Morin she doesn't know it, but she's my therapist. Amy doesn't realize it, but whenever she comes on my podcast or I go on her podcast, it's like I'm going into a therapy session.

Of course, you know her as the author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do, sold millions of copies. She's been on my podcast five or six times or more, and I'm really happy this episode is her interviewing me from her podcast. And it's me having a therapy session. Here we go!

Episode Description:

In this episode of Mentally Stronger, Amy Morin engages in a spirited discussion with James about the concept of quests and their transformative potential. They discuss how engaging in a quest, whether it's learning a new skill, exploring a hobby, or pursuing a wild idea, can invigorate life, foster creativity, and build mental strength. They also highlight how quests are journeys of learning, personal growth, and potentially surprising benefits, even if the end goal is not achieved. Additionally, they explore the necessity of shifting and changing quests as needed and the compelling connections between quests and mental strength.

Episode Summary:

• 00:00 Introduction to the Concept of Quests
• 01:56 The Importance of Goals and Quests in Mental Strength
• 03:23 The Role of Quests in Personal Growth
• 04:43 Exploring the Concept of Quests with James Altucher
• 05:23 Defining a Quest and its Impact on Life
• 10:32 The Quest of Visiting Every State in the U.S.
• 15:14 The Quest of Interviewing People at 3am
• 19:01 The Quest of Returning to Chess
• 28:25 The Power of Pursuing a Quest
• 28:32 The Role of Passion and Experimentation
• 29:50 Exploring the World of Forged Artworks
• 30:58 The Impact of Quests on Personal Growth
• 31:47 The Challenges and Rewards of Chess Mastery
• 32:14 The Importance of a Positive Mindset
• 33:28 The Value of Safe Practice and Failure
• 33:52 The Joy of Personal Achievement
• 34:10 The Role of a Trainer in Achieving Goals
• 35:17 The Journey of Learning and Improvement
• 37:09 The Intricacies of Pursuing a Quest
• 46:37 The Unexpected Adventure of Buying Greenland
• 53:18 The Therapist's Take on Mental Strength-Building Strategies

Episode Summary:

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• My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
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• I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com

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Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: 

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Guests: Gary Braver,

On Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/GaryBraver/

Website | https://garybraver.com/

_____________________________

Hosts: 

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

_____________________________

This Episode’s Sponsors

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

_____________________________

Episode Introduction

Hey there, listeners! It's Marco Ciappelli, and welcome to another enlightening episode of Audio Signals. As a storyteller, I've always been drawn to the reasons behind the tales. Why do authors choose specific genres? How do personal experiences mold the narrative fabric? Today, we're diving deep into the mind of a seasoned novelist, one who has effortlessly blended the realms of mystery, thriller, and more.

Joining me is the accomplished Gary Braver, a former professor at Northeastern University, now a full-time writer with ten novels under his belt. His most recent work, "Rumor of Evil," has piqued my interest, and I'm eager to explore its origins. From the get-go, it's evident that Gary's stories aren't just figments of imagination; they're culminations of experiences, observations, and an innate understanding of human nature.

Our chat will center around three primary themes:

• The genesis of "Rumor of Evil" and its inspiration from real-life events, including the unsettling 2014 Slenderman case.
• Gary's affinity for the mystery and thriller genres, informed by a lifetime of movie-watching, teaching detective fiction, and an undeniable cinematic imagination.
• The invaluable insights he has gleaned from teaching college literature and writing, and how these have influenced his own craft.

But there's more than just the art of writing we'll discuss. Gary's journey from scuba diving expeditions to archaeological novels, from medical thrillers to detective series, is nothing short of fascinating. As he rightly points out, stories are born from inspiration, and every writer has their unique triggers. For Gary, it could be a disturbing news article or the historical myths surrounding the Romany people.

So, if you're curious about how a writer's mind works, how real-life events can shape fictional tales, or simply want to know more about the captivating "Rumor of Evil," this episode promises to be a treat.

Tune in, and let's embark on this literary adventure together!

About the Book

A 16-year-old exchange student accused of witchcraft—dark circumstances and sick rumors lead to her brutal death, a cover-up, and more murders two decades later.

Detectives Kirk Lucian and Mandy Wing are charged with investigating a reported suicide of a Cambridge woman in her backyard. The death came as a shock—the woman was considered a pillar of her community and was well-liked by everyone. After further investigation, the hanging appears staged. Once Kirk and Mandy’s suspicions are confirmed, they make a list of suspects.

Clues begin to connect the recent murder to the decades-old mysterious death of a beautiful 16-year-old Romany exchange student who perished when a treehouse she was sleeping in caught fire. The girl, Vadima Lupescu, had done “odd” things among her American peers that stirred up prejudices and suspicions, leading to her brutal death—and cover-up.

As Kirk and Mandy investigate the bizarre rumors—that Vadima had “gypsy powers” and put curses on those around her—they discover a cauldron of dark secrets. Will they uncover the true cause of this tangled web of deaths and horrors before it spirals out of control?

_____________________________

Resources

Rumor of Evil: A Novel: https://www.amazon.com/Rumor-Evil-Novel-Gary-Braver/dp/1608095932

_____________________________

For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS0aVY7qlwHxX3uiN7tqqsy

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

Guests: Gary Braver,

On Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/GaryBraver/

Website | https://garybraver.com/

_____________________________

Hosts: 

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

_____________________________

This Episode’s Sponsors

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

_____________________________

Episode Introduction

Hey there, listeners! It's Marco Ciappelli, and welcome to another enlightening episode of Audio Signals. As a storyteller, I've always been drawn to the reasons behind the tales. Why do authors choose specific genres? How do personal experiences mold the narrative fabric? Today, we're diving deep into the mind of a seasoned novelist, one who has effortlessly blended the realms of mystery, thriller, and more.

Joining me is the accomplished Gary Braver, a former professor at Northeastern University, now a full-time writer with ten novels under his belt. His most recent work, "Rumor of Evil," has piqued my interest, and I'm eager to explore its origins. From the get-go, it's evident that Gary's stories aren't just figments of imagination; they're culminations of experiences, observations, and an innate understanding of human nature.

Our chat will center around three primary themes:

• The genesis of "Rumor of Evil" and its inspiration from real-life events, including the unsettling 2014 Slenderman case.
• Gary's affinity for the mystery and thriller genres, informed by a lifetime of movie-watching, teaching detective fiction, and an undeniable cinematic imagination.
• The invaluable insights he has gleaned from teaching college literature and writing, and how these have influenced his own craft.

But there's more than just the art of writing we'll discuss. Gary's journey from scuba diving expeditions to archaeological novels, from medical thrillers to detective series, is nothing short of fascinating. As he rightly points out, stories are born from inspiration, and every writer has their unique triggers. For Gary, it could be a disturbing news article or the historical myths surrounding the Romany people.

So, if you're curious about how a writer's mind works, how real-life events can shape fictional tales, or simply want to know more about the captivating "Rumor of Evil," this episode promises to be a treat.

Tune in, and let's embark on this literary adventure together!

About the Book

A 16-year-old exchange student accused of witchcraft—dark circumstances and sick rumors lead to her brutal death, a cover-up, and more murders two decades later.

Detectives Kirk Lucian and Mandy Wing are charged with investigating a reported suicide of a Cambridge woman in her backyard. The death came as a shock—the woman was considered a pillar of her community and was well-liked by everyone. After further investigation, the hanging appears staged. Once Kirk and Mandy’s suspicions are confirmed, they make a list of suspects.

Clues begin to connect the recent murder to the decades-old mysterious death of a beautiful 16-year-old Romany exchange student who perished when a treehouse she was sleeping in caught fire. The girl, Vadima Lupescu, had done “odd” things among her American peers that stirred up prejudices and suspicions, leading to her brutal death—and cover-up.

As Kirk and Mandy investigate the bizarre rumors—that Vadima had “gypsy powers” and put curses on those around her—they discover a cauldron of dark secrets. Will they uncover the true cause of this tangled web of deaths and horrors before it spirals out of control?

_____________________________

Resources

Rumor of Evil: A Novel: https://www.amazon.com/Rumor-Evil-Novel-Gary-Braver/dp/1608095932

_____________________________

For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS0aVY7qlwHxX3uiN7tqqsy

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

In this inspiring podcast episode of the India Authors Show, I dive deep into the transformative power of resilience and personal growth. Life can often throw challenges our way, leaving us with scars that serve as a testament to our struggles. But what if these scars could be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful? Join me as I explore the incredible journey of self-discovery and healing, and discover how you can turn your scars into books.

If you've ever faced adversity or wondered how to transform your struggles into a source of strength and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Join me on this empowering journey of self-discovery and learn how to write your own story of resilience. Tune in now and start transforming your scars into books!

Join my free masterclass to learn how to write powerful books, publish it yourself worldwide and market it to #1 bestseller - https://class.swetasamota.com

Welcome to the 'India Authors Show,' where we explore the fascinating world of writing, publishing, and storytelling in India. In this episode, we're delving into the art of selling books through the power of offline appearances. Join me as I unveil ten invaluable strategies that will not only boost your book sales but also help you connect with your readers in a meaningful way.

Whether you're a debut author seeking to establish your presence or a seasoned writer looking to reinvigorate your book sales, these ten offline strategies will be your roadmap to success. Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to make your book stand out in the bustling world of Indian literature.

So, grab your notebook, get ready to step out from behind the desk, and let's dive into 'Ten Ways to Sell Your Books Using Offline Appearances' on the India Authors Show.

Join my free author masterclass here - https://class.swetasamota.com

In this episode, we dive into the secret of 5 that makes book stand out in the sea of books. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join my free author masterclass - https://class.swetasamota.com

In this episode, we dive into the secret of what makes a book timeless. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join my free author masterclass - https://class.swetasamota.com

Welcome to the India Authors Show.

In this episode, we dive into the technique to write your book to turn your readers into raving fans. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join my free author masterclass - https://class.swetasamota.com

Are you overwhelmed with the story bursting to come out of you, yet hesitant about where to start? In today’s episode, we explore the creative but structured technique of storyboarding—a tool often used in the film industry that can be just as effective for novelists. Learn how to map out your story visually, get a bird's eye view of your narrative arc, manage multiple story elements, and ignite fresh inspiration, all without feeling restricted. Whether you're a detailed planner or a free spirit, you'll discover how this method could be the ally your storytelling journey needs.

Welcome to the India Authors Show, the platform that celebrates the art and craft of writing, publishing and marketing books. In this episode, we dive into the secret of writing your book fast. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join my free author masterclass - https://class.swetasamota.com

Welcome to the India Authors Show, the platform that celebrates the art and craft of writing, publishing and marketing books. In this episode, we dive into a literary journey that promises to transform your approach to authorship. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join my free author masterclass - https://class.swetasamota.com

Welcome to the India Authors Show, the platform that celebrates the art and craft of writing, publishing and marketing books. In this episode, we dive into a literary journey that promises to transform your approach to authorship. Join me as I unveil the essence of "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors," a book destined to illuminate your path as a writer.

Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just embarking on your writing odyssey, this episode promises to leave you inspired, informed, and ready to embrace the secrets that can transform your authorial dreams into reality.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain a sneak peek into "The 5 Secrets of Highly Successful Authors" and embark on a new chapter of your own writing journey. Tune in to the The India Authors Show and let the secrets unfold.

Remember to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Your feedback fuels our literary community and helps us bring more valuable insights to aspiring authors across India and beyond.

🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward authorial excellence!

Join us on this insightful podcast as we delve into the world of writing and explore the top 10 mistakes that authors often make, hindering their journey towards crafting a truly exceptional book. Whether you're an aspiring novelist or a non-fiction writer, this show has something valuable for you!

Writing a great book can be a daunting task, and it's easy to stumble into common pitfalls that hinder success. In each episode, we'll uncover these mistakes and provide actionable tips to overcome them. From lack of planning and weak character development to underwriting or overwriting, we leave no stone unturned.

Our discussions embrace both fiction and non-fiction genres, ensuring that every listener gains valuable insights to enhance their writing craft. We'll illustrate these mistakes with relatable examples, making it easier for you to identify and avoid them in your own work.

Discover the keys to capturing your readers' hearts, building compelling narratives, and creating memorable characters. Learn how to strike the right balance between showing and telling, master dialogue, and keep the tension high to keep readers hooked.

Are you tired of struggling through your author's journey? This podcast is your ultimate guide to unlocking the secrets of successful writing. Tune in, sharpen your skills, and take your writing to new heights.

Don't let these top 10 mistakes hold you back from creating a book that leaves a lasting impact. Join us for the "Are You Making These Top 10 Mistakes That Are Keeping You Away From A Great Book?" podcast, and embark on a transformative journey towards becoming a more skilled and confident writer.

Join India Authors Academy here - https://class.swetasamota.com

India Authors Academy is the brainchild of Sweta Samota, the top book coach from India.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of character motivations and their crucial role in creating compelling relationships between the protagonist and the villain. In this episode, we discuss the importance of fleshing out clear, believable motivations for both characters, pushing past one-dimensional villainy and creating a narrative that resonates with the audience. Using examples from popular culture, like the Joker and Batman dynamic in 'The Dark Knight,' we explore how well-defined motivations can create tension, conflict, and emotional resonance, leading to a more captivating story. Tune in for a deep dive into character motivations and how they shape a narrative, whether you're an aspiring writer, an established author, or just a lover of good stories.

Dive deep into the art of storytelling as we explore the essence of conflict and its role in shaping compelling narratives. This episode delves into the intricate relationship between the protagonist and the villain - a critical element that drives a story forward and keeps the reader engaged. We'll discuss different types of conflicts in literature, the importance of a well-crafted antagonist, and how a thoughtfully designed conflict can expose deeper facets of a story's themes and message. Join us as we examine the power of conflict through the lens of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, where the escalating tension between Harry and Voldemort forms the backbone of the narrative. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned novelist, this episode offers invaluable insights into crafting memorable and impactful stories.

In this episode, we delve into the world of foreshadowing, the subtle yet powerful literary device that can elevate a story from ordinary to extraordinary. We explore the art of giving subtle hints about future events, discuss the importance of balance and misdirection, and share tips for using foreshadowing for both plot and character development. Join us as we unlock the secrets to creating a captivating and immersive world for your readers.

Discover the importance of world building in thriller fiction and learn how to create an immersive, believable world that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. We'll discuss tips for establishing atmosphere and tone, grounding your story in reality, and enhancing character development. Dive into researching settings, using sensory details, incorporating social and political dynamics, balancing familiarity and unpredictability, and the age-old writing principle of "show, don't tell." Join us as we explore the essential aspects of world building in thriller fiction and help you create captivating stories.

WE ARE BACK!!!

In this episode, we talk about how to get back into writing after a looooong break!

Come have a drink & listen!

In this episode, we talk about writing horror. Learn ways to add horror to your manuscript! Come have a drink & listen!

In this episode, we talk about writing death scenes! Come have a drink & listen!