Podcast
Tell The Damn Story
Hosted by Alex Simmons & Chris Ryan · EN
This is where we interview and discuss the challenges and successes of writing books, comics, films, and other creative arts and pop culture topics.
43episodes
Episodes
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Tell The Damn Story ep 407: Crafting Characters Like Michael B. Jordan, The Art of Backstory Exploration
Mar 2200:28:47Tap to summarizeToday, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan enthusiastically discuss the craft of building unforgettable characters, taking inspiration from none other than Michael B. Jordan. Right after his Oscar win, Jordan shared the journaling process he uses to create fully formed backstories for his roles—an approach our hosts believe every writer should consider.Throughout this episode, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan explore how journaling from a character's earliest memory to the first page of your script can add authentic layers and nuance that pull audiences in. They discuss the impact of detailed backstory on everything from character dialogue to world-building, with examples ranging from the rich and poor origins of characters to the expansive histories of Tolkien's Middle-earth.Tune in for inspiration, actionable tips, and a fun, insightful look at how the best storytellers—including Michael B. Jordan—build characters that live, breathe, and stick with us long after the story ends.And as promised, here are 20 Character Bio Questions out of over 170. Use them for writing good and evil characters.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn Story
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story, ep 406: How Rebel Writer Got A Clue
Mar 1500:24:37Tap to summarizeWelcome to a brand new episode of Tell The Damn Story! This time, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons head straight to the heart of what makes storytelling possible for so many writers—the trusty index card. In this episode, you’ll hear the inside scoop on a simple, affordable, and portable technique that’s helped countless creators map out their stories, movies, and plays.But there’s more—Chris Ryan reveals a long-overdue debt of gratitude to the person who inspired his go-to method. Link to "Notecars & Origins: Robert Rodriguez Film School Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!00:00 "Note Card Story Method"05:18 Story Flow and Sequencing08:05 "Writing Process with Index Cards"10:41 "Bodega Memories and Supplies"15:34 "YouTube: Endless Discovery Platform"19:04 "Rebel Without a Crew Inspiration"21:37 "Robert Rodriguez Film School Tribute"23:53 Index Card Method Insights
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story ep 405: Conquer Creative Challenges Essential Tips for Aspiring Authors, Pt 2
Mar 801:16:43Tap to summarize"What's Trickier? Writing The Stories, Or Getting Out To Meet The Public?" In this week’s installment, hosts Alex and Chris are joined once again by acclaimed writers Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson for Part 2 of their deep-dive into conquering creative challenges and empowering aspiring authors. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, candid reflections, and practical advice straight from the trenches of the writing world. From memorable convention encounters—like Alex co-host's full-circle moment with Ray Bradbury—to behind-the-scenes confessions about fan interactions, podcast experiences (both brilliant and bizarre), and the personal struggles of finding hope and motivation in difficult times, the conversation is as honest as it is uplifting. Together, the group explores how creative voices evolve, what it takes to push through creative slumps, and why telling your own damn story matters—not just for you, but for readers and listeners you may never meet. Whether you’re stuck on your first draft, wrestling with self-doubt, or searching for new ways to stay inspired and connected, this episode is filled with encouragement, laughter, and the reminder that you’re never alone on your creative journey.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section. Or ...Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story ep 404: From Inspiration to Publication, Vital Tips for Aspiring Authors. Part 1
Mar 101:10:01Tap to summarizeWelcome to a brand new episode of "Tell The Damn Story," where the journey of writing is as real as it gets! In this episode, co-hosts Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan are joined by returning favorites Jeannine Acheson and Tom Sniegoski for a heartfelt, hilarious, and incredibly honest conversation about conquering creative challenges—especially those every aspiring author faces.The group dives into the origins and trials behind Jeannine Acheson's self-published work "Love Bug," revealing everything from inspiration sparked by a local haunted asylum to the real struggle of pushing through when the writing gets tough. Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson discuss their own creative process—both together and solo—while Chris Ryan and Alex Simmonss contribute advice and anecdotes about finishing long-shelved projects, battling imposter syndrome, and the value of momentum even when you think your draft isn’t perfect.But it’s not just about the hard parts. The episode is packed with insider tips on overcoming editorial setbacks, pitching stories, and navigating the unpredictable—and sometimes hilarious—world of conventions. Whether it’s celebrating wins, learning from stumbles, or the catharsis of a good cry after tough edits, this episode reminds writers that they’re never alone in their struggles.So settle in and get ready for candid real-talk, lots of laughter, and practical advice that’ll help you keep telling your own damn story—no matter what dragons cross your path.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryIf you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to help wet our whistle by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story ep 403: Writing Our Way Through_The Power of Story to Survive and Succeed
Feb 2200:36:33Tap to summarizeWhat does it really mean to survive through art?Alex and Chris take a thoughtful detour from craft mechanics and dive into something deeper — how writing, storytelling, and the arts help us survive difficult seasons of life.From Chris’s college epiphany (when a professor bluntly told him he loved music… but wasn’t a musician), to reflections on Stephen King writing his way through trauma, to stories of young artists in the Bronx finding sanctuary on stage — this conversation explores how creativity becomes more than career.It becomes identity.It becomes a refuge.It becomes survival.We also talk about:Knowing who you really are (Aristotle would approve)The difference between loving an art form and being called to itWhy self-reflection matters more than external labelsHow artists like Josh Johnson find their voice in chaotic timesSurviving expectations — especially other people’s expectationsWhy your art doesn’t need to fit someone else’s definition to be validWhether writing is your sanctuary, your profession, your side hustle, or your calling, this episode asks a simple but powerful question:What does your art do for you?And maybe even more importantly…What might it do for someone else?Tell your story.Tell it honestly.Tell it bravely.And as always…Tell the damn story.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.com TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story, ep 402: Weird By Nature Exploring the Value of Uniqueness in the Writing World
Feb 1500:36:31Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Tell The Damn Story, Alex and Chris dive headfirst into an age-old creative conundrum: do writers need permission to be weird? With their signature blend of humor and insight, they explore what “weird” even means in the world of writers, artists, and storytellers, and why embracing it might just be the secret key to unlocking your most authentic work.Drawing from personal anecdotes—think fourth graders dreaming up purple cows and aliens for a suffragette play—and classic literary examples, from Animal Farm to Kafka’s cockroach, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan remind us that the creative’s job is to challenge the norm, shift perspectives, and offer new ways of seeing the world, even if that means making people uncomfortable.Get ready for a candid, thought-provoking conversation that just might change how you think about creativity, permission, and the beauty of being a little weird.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story, ep 401: Exploring Subtext Secrets from Wonder Man, Lord of the Rings, & 12 Angry Men
Feb 800:47:36Tap to summarizeDespite the cold and snow, Alex and Chris Ryan dive deep into the art of subtext—those rich, unspoken layers that give stories their real meaning. Happily drawing from decades of teaching, writing, and storytelling, they share practical tips to help writers move beyond plot and action and into the heart of what a story is truly about.You’ll hear examples from contemporary pop culture, like Marvel's Wonder Man, as well as timeless classics like 12 Angry Men, The Lord of the Rings, and the revered Japanese film Rashomon. Whether you’re an aspiring writer struggling to bring depth to your characters or a seasoned storyteller searching for the “why” behind your plot, this episode is packed with insights and exercises to strengthen your craft. Special Note: Sir Ian McKellen speaks of "The Strangers..." on Colberthttps://youtube.com/shorts/Nwd6vcfR3HI?si=WDtAYB7cwFHwtUu0Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →TELL THE DAMN STORY, ep 400: A Favorite Founder Returns, a Future Knocks (Part 2)
Feb 100:47:59Tap to summarize"The boys are back in town to explore creativity, responsibility, and the uneasy questions AI brings to writing and illustrative arts."Welcome to Part 2 of episode #400.Join cohosts Alex and Chris, along with returning TTDS cocreator Tim Fielder, as they explore the number one controversy about creativity. From nostalgic sketches inspired by classics like Johnny Quest to cutting-edge digital renderings and micro-drama formats, Tim Fielder walks us through his innovative workflow, showing how technology enables artists to bring their visions to life faster and with greater dimensionality than ever before. We also tackle big questions—how are traditional artists responding to AI, what ethical boundaries do creatives face, and where does market value now live for storytellers?DieselFunk StudioBrotheRoboHave any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story, ep 400: A Founder Returns, a Future Knocks (Part 1)
Feb 101:00:44Tap to summarize"Tim Fielder joins us to explore creativity, responsibility, and the uneasy questions AI brings to the arts."Welcome to a very special milestone on "Tell The Damn Story"—our 400th episode! This week, Alex and Chris are joined by the podcast’s original co-founder, Tim Fielder, for the first half of a two-part event that dives deep into one of the hottest and most controversial topics facing creatives today: artificial intelligence.Rather than looking back, the trio sets its sights on the future, exploring how AI is transforming how we create, promote, and consume stories. The conversation is candid and full of personality, revealing each host’s very different relationship with AI—from Chris co-host's worries about reputation and authenticity, to Alex Simmonss’s spirit of exploration and calculated use of the tech, to Tim’s unapologetic, pedal-to-the-metal embrace of AI as an indispensable creative tool.DieselFunk StudioBrotheRoboHave any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Transcribe →Tell The Damn Story, ep 399: Master the Message, Artful Ways to Convey Powerful Themes
Jan 2500:48:27Tap to summarizeIn this episode, hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons delve into the multifaceted journey of aspiring and struggling writers. They discuss ... The importance of storytelling as a reflection of life, Explore how to tackle challenging themes without sermonizing, and Debate whether writers should maintain neutrality. Amid humorous exchanges and personal anecdotes, Chris and Alex provide valuable insights on how to use fiction to navigate the complexities of reality. The episode also features shoutouts to notable works and addresses how art can heal and empower both creators and audiences.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryIf you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to help wet our whistle by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
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