Beyond The Trope

This week Sebastien de Castell joins us to tell us about his fantasy novel, WAY OF THE ARGOSI. Find out more at https://decastell.com and follow him …

This week it's just Michelle and Giles, and we're sharing some of our favorite mealtime and food memories. It's a simple discussion, but one packed with nostalgia.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners and …

This week Patrick Johns joins us to talk about his brand new book, THE LOST SOUL, Book 2 of The Hoarding! Find out more at …

This week Christopher Buehlman joined us to talk about his new book, THE BLACKTONGUE THIEF. Find out more at https://www.christopherbuehlmanauthor.com

This week we get to talk with Gina Wilkinson, author of WHEN THE APRICOTS BLOOM. Find out more at https://www.ginawilkinson.net and follow her on …

This week Lavie Tidhar joined us to talk about his most recent international anthology, THE BEST OF WORLD SF VOL. 1. Get it now at …

This week we're joined by the one and only Andy Weir, author of THE MARTIAN. He's here to tell us about his newest book, PROJECT HAIL MARY, available today! Find out more at https://www.andyweirauthor.com and order it …

This week we're talking to Laura Amy Schlitz, author of AMBER AND CLAY, out now! Find out more on her author page with Candlewick Press!

Thank you to our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week we're talking to Cavan Scott. He's joining us to talk about his new comic, SHADOW SERVICE, out now! Find out more at https://cavanscott.com …

This week, Michelle and Giles reminisced about their past, sharing stories of some of the moments that influenced them.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week Ana Lal Din joins us to talk about her debut novel, THE DESCENT OF THE DROWNED. Find out more at https://www.laldinana.net and follow her …

David Pepose returns to the show this week to talk about his new project, SCOUT'S HONOR, following Kit as she navigates a post-apocalyptic world that …

This week we're joined by Gregory Ashe, an alum and upcoming guest speaker at Odyssey Writing Workshop. Find out more about the workshop at https://www.odysseyworkshop.org and apply online by April 1, 2021 at …

This week Michelle and Giles are talking about books from their childhood, reminiscing about the stories that influenced them.

Thank you to all of our incredible listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week we're bringing you a Behind The Scenes discussion, going behind our interview process!

As always, thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Don't …

This week Theresa Halvorsen joins us to tell us about her Science Fiction Romance, WAREHOUSE DREAMS. We also talked about the Semi-Sages of the Pages podcast, which she co-hosts! Find out more at …

This week Michelle and Giles are talking about the joys of having pets, comparing cats versus dogs!

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Don't …

This week Lee Matthew Goldberg joins us to talk about his work as a thriller and science fiction author, and we also geek out about '90s music! Check …

This week Liz Butcher joined us to talk about her books, AFTER DARK, FATES' FURY, and LEROUX MANOR! Find out more at …

This week it's just Giles and Michelle talking about how their writing changed over the years.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Don't forget to pick …

This week we're talking to Sean Gibson about his debut novel, THE PART ABOUT THE DRAGON WAS (MOSTLY) TRUE, out now! Find out more at …

This week Josh Malerman, author of BIRDBOX, joined us to talk about his new novella, A HOUSE AT THE BOTTOM OF A LAKE. Find out more at …

This week Michelle and Giles are talking about how to balance work, life, and school.

Thank you to all of our incredible listeners, including our …

This week Robin LaFevers joins us to talk about the Courting Darkness duology, the followup to the His Fair Assassins trilogy. Find out more at …

This week we are sharing some favorite New Years celebration stories.

Thank you to all of our incredible listeners, including our Patrons at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Don't forget you grab exclusive Beyond The …

Breaking tradition, we're bringing you a mini episode for the week of Christmas. Michelle and Giles are sharing a favorite Christmas story with you, …

This week we're chatting with Willie Handler, author of THE ROAD AHEAD and LOVED MARS HATED THE FOOD. Find out more at https://williehandler.com and …

This week, thriller author Chris Mooney joins us to tell us about his newest book, BLOOD WORLD, available now wherever books are sold! Find out more …

This week we get to talk with Kathleen West, author of MINOR DRAMAS AND OTHER CATASTROPHES and the upcoming novel, ARE WE THERE YET? Find out more at

This week we're excited to bring you an interview with Stephanie  Perkins, author of ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS, LOLA AND THE BOY NEXT DOOR, ISLA AND THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER, and THERE'S SOMEONE INSIDE YOUR HOUSE, which is …

This week Mike White, author and illustrator! He's here to tell us about MELLYBEAN AND THE GIANT MONSTER, out now, and MELLYBEAN AND THE WICKED WIZARD, out June 15, 2021. Find out more at https://mellypup.com.

Thank you …

This week Burt Weissbourd joins us to talk about his new thriller, DANGER IN PLAIN SIGHT. Find out more at https://burtweissbourd.com and follow him …

This week it's just the two of us, and we're bringing you our recommendations for 2020: what we're reading, watching, and listening to!

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week, Susan Spann returns to tell us of her exciting travels throughout Japan and her new book, CLIMB! Find out more at http://www.susanspann.com

This week, Benjamin Warner and Julian Stamboulieh return to talk about LARPs the Series: Season 3! It is still in the early stages, but with help …

This week J. T. Evans joins us to talk about designing roleplaying games, with an emphasis on the mechanical portion of the creative process. Find …

This week comic artist Jamie Noguchi joined us to talk about his work on SCHOOL FOR EXTRATERRESTRIAL GIRLS, written by Jeremy Whitley. Find out more …

This week Jax Miller joins us to talk about her new book, HELL IN THE HEARTLAND. It's a true crime story of meth, murder, and the search for two …

This week we got to talk with Harlequin Romance author, Jo McNally. Check out her new book, BAREFOOT ON A STARLIT NIGHT, out now! Find out more at …

This week, thriller author, Nina Sadowsky, joined us to talk about her new book, CONVINCE ME, available now! Find out more at https://ninasadowsky.com

We made it! Episode 300. It has been a long road, and our friendship has grown incredibly over the years. So this week, we're talking about how to friend. How to make friends and how to be a friend.

Thank you to our …

This week we're joined by Rachel Harrison, author of THE RETURN. Find out more at https://www.rachel-harrison.com and follow her on Twitter at …

This week we are joined by Annie Sullivan, author of A TOUCH OF GOLD, out now, and A CURSE OF GOLD, available September 22, 2020! Find out more at …

This week, a brave listener turned in some wonderfully written trunk pages for a fun and educational critique. Not did this listener write them in …

This week, Hank Green joins us to talk about his new book, A BEAUTIFULLY FOOLISH ENDEAVOR, out now! Find out more at https://hankgreen.com and follow …

This week, our wonderful support team joins us to on the mic! We are bringing you The World According to Emmy.

Thank you to all of our amazing …

This week, Hanna C. Howard returns to talk to us about her debut novel, IGNITE THE SUN, out August 18, 2020! Find out more at …

This week we get to chat with Derek Künsken, author of THE HOUSE OF STYX, THE QUANTUM MAGICIAN, and THE QUANTUM GARDEN. Find out more at …

This week we interviewed MarcyKate Connolly, author of TWIN DAGGERS, available August 25, 2020. Find out more at https://MarcyKate.com and follow her …

This week, Michelle and Giles are talking Tabletop RPGs some more since Michelle has joined a Dungeons and Dragons group.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week we're talking to Hugo Award finalist, Robert Jackson Bennett, author of SHOREFALL, which is out now! Find out more at …

This week we're talking to Kyle McCarthy, author of EVERYONE KNOWS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU! Find out more at https://www.kylermccarthy.com.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons over at …

This week, Jon Richter joins us to talk about his first foray into the world of cyberpunk with his new novel, LONDON 2039: AUXILIARY, out now. Find …

This week Michelle is a guest on her own show as Giles interviews her, thanks to a suggestion from Patrick Hester of The Functional Nerds.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons at …

This week we get to talk with debut author, Zach Jordan, code-wrangler and musician. Find out more about THE LAST HUMAN, his debut novel, at …

This week we got to talk to Marc Watson, poutine aficionado and author of DEATH DRESSES POORLY, CATCHING HELL PART 1: JOURNEY and CATCHING HELL PART …

This week we got to talk to bestselling Indie Author, Kathrin Hutson. Check out her books, SLEEPWATER BEAT, SLEEPWATER STATIC, as well as her Gyenona's Children series and The Unclaimed trilogy, over at …

This week, M. J. Preston joins us to talk about horror and thriller writing, and he discusses how he gets inspired to write about monsters. Check out his HIGHWAYMAN series, HIGHWAYMAN and FOUR, and learn more about his …

This week we're talking to Natasha Pulley, author of THE WATCHMAKER OF FILIGREE STREET, THE BEDLAM STACKS, and THE LOST FUTURE OF PEPPERHARROW. Find …

This week, Kristina Rienzi, author of AMONG US and TRAIN GIRL, joins us to talk about her writing and coaching! Find out more at …

This week, Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo, Nebula, and Campbell Memorial-award winning science fiction writer, joins us to talk about his upcoming book, THE …

This week we're talking to Dr. Bruce Olav Solheim, author of TIMELESS: A PARANORMAL PERSONAL HISTORY, TIMELESS: DEJA VU, and TIMELESS: TRINITY. He is …

This week we're talking to Jeffrey Carver, author of The Chaos Chronicles, the Star Rigger universe, the Starstream series. Find out more at …

This week, we took a listener suggestion and decided to delve into The World According to Giles.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Don't forget …

This week we get to interview Jonathan Silver, actor and voiceover professional. Not only did he play Arthur and Noctus in LARPs: The Series, he also …

This week Zhenghua "Z" Yang, the founder of Serenity Forge, joins us to talk about Where the Water Tastes Like Wine and Half Past Fate, both video games out now! Find out more at https://serenityforge.com, …

This week we get to talk with Tosca Lee, author of THE LINE BETWEEN, A SINGLE LIGHT, THE PROGENY, and FIRST BORN. Find out more at …

This week Dan Koboldt returns to talk about the Audio Book release of THE ROGUE RETRIEVAL, and we even have an opportunity to get a copy of that …

This week we're reviewing trunk pages from an anonymous trunk from a listener who we have named "Tim." We hope you learn a lot from this exercise!

Thank you to all of our amazing supporters, including our patrons over …

This week Dan Stout returns to talk about his upcoming book, TITAN'S DAY, the sequel to TITANSHADE, from DAW Publishing, out April 7, 2020. Find out …

This week we're talking about the things we're watching, reading, and listening to right now! Including a couple of guilty pleasures.

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, including our Patrons over on …

This week we're talking to Edward Willett, author of WORLDSHAPERS, MASTER OF THE WORLD, and THE MOONLIT WORLD. Find out more at …

Jon Sprunk, author of The Book of Black Earth series and the Shadow Saga, joins us this week to discuss his work. Find out more at …

This week we're talking to Ed Kramer, a pioneer in the CGI industry, who's joining us to talk about his history in the industry and his upcoming …

This week we're talking to Christine Tyler, short story author, cosplay enthusiast, and Odyssey Workshop alum. Check out her first published short story, THE HORRIBLE DEATHS OF HELGA HRAFNSDÓTTIR, over on PodCastle at …

This week we're talking about impostor syndrome. This is something that many successful people suffer from.

Thank you to all of our amazing …

This week we're talking to Kate DiCamillo, author of BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE, THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX, and the brand new BEVERLY, RIGHT HERE. Find out …

This week we're talking to Ian Brazee-Cannon, author of the new novella, THE COST OF LEVELING UP, and the book, A DAY AT GEORGIE AND ARMAND'S PLACE. …

This week we're talking to Sarah Nicolas, author of DRAGONS ARE PEOPLE, TOO and KEEPING HER SECRET. They are also currently running Pitch Wars. Find …

This week Ira Nayman, the editor of Amazing Stories, joins us to talk about science fiction short stories and the incredible history of this legendary publication. Find out more at https://amazingstories.com/, …

William Leibowitz, author of MIRACLE MAN and THE AUSTIN PARADOX, joins us this week to talk about science, ethical responsibilities with medical advancement, and how that inspires his fiction. Find out more at …

This week we're talking to Nancy Wilkie, scientist-turned-author, whose new collection of short stories, SEVEN SIDES OF SELF, is out now. Find out …

This week we're talking to Tina Chang, the Poet Laureate of Brooklyn and author of HYBRIDA, HALF LIT HOUSES, and OF GOD AND STRANGERS. Find out more at http://tinachang.com and …

This week we're talking to V. S. Holmes, author of the NEL BENTLY science fiction series, and the REFORGED fantasy series. Find out more at …

This week Sherrilyn Kenyon returns to talk about her new book, AT DEATH'S DOOR. Find out more about her at https://www.sherrilynkenyon.com and follow …

This week we're sharing life updates, show updates, and writing updates!

Thank you to all of our amazing supporters, including our Patrons over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

You can now get official Beyond The …

This week we're reflecting on Michelle's first game night, playing the Dresden Files RPG with some friends of the show.

Thank you to all of our amazing supporters, including our Patrons over at …

This week we're talking to improv director, Amanda Sutton, who joins us to talk about her work in the local Denver improv scene, as well as her new …

This week we're talking to comic writer, David Pepose. Check out the Ringo-Award Nominated comic, Spencer & Locke through https://twitter.com/SpencerAndLocke, Going to the Chapel through …

This week we're talking with John Marrs, author of THE PASSENGERS, HER LAST MOVE, and THE GOOD SAMARITAN. Find out more about him over at …

This week an anonymous listener sent in trunk pages for us to review.

Thank you to all of our amazing supporters, including our Patrons over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Expanse …

This week, we're joined by M. C. Planck, author of the World of Prime book series and THE KASSA GAMBIT. Find out more at http://www.mcplanck.com and http://mcplanck.blogspot.com.

Thank you to all of our amazing …

This week we're talking to Caite Dolan-Leach, author of WE WENT TO THE WOODS. Find out more about Caite at http://caitedolanleach.com and follow her …

This week, we're talking to Tracy Townsend, author of THE NINE and THE FALL from the THIEVES OF FATE series. Find out more about her at …

This week we're talking to Melanie Benjamin whose book, MISTRESS OF THE RITZ, recounts the story of a little-known heroine of the French Resistance in German-Occupied France. Find out more about Melanie at …

This week we have author of Pathfinder, Shadowrun, and Arkham Horror fiction, among many other amazing stories. Find out more at https://jaxbooks.com,

This week J. T. Evans returns to talk about his new book, VIPER'S BANE. Find out more at https://jtevans.net, and follow him on Twitter at …

This week we're talking Martha Wells, author of THE MURDERBOT DIARIES, Star Wars and Stargate: Atlantis tie-ins, and multiple fantasy and young adult …

This week we are talking with Samantha Shannon, author of THE PRIORY OF THE ORANGE TREE, THE BONE SEASON, THE MIME ORDER, and THE SONG RISING. To find out more about Samantha and her work, visit …

This week Matt Forbeck, author and game designer, joins us to talk about tie-in fiction, game design, and creating original stories. Find out more at

This week we are excited to have author Meghan Scott Molin on the show! Find out more about her books, THE FRAME-UP and THE QUEEN CON at …

In our final episode from Denver Pop Culture Con, we're bringing you interviews with Jim Beaver of Deadwood, Justified, and Supernatural fame; author …

We're back with another pair of interviews from Denver Pop Culture Con 2019, starting out with professional cosplayer, Ginny Di (…

This week we're bringing you two more interviews from Denver Pop Culture Con 2019. We start out with Gail Carriger (https://gailcarriger.com) and …

This week we are bringing you our first episode from Denver Pop Culture Con 2019. Thank you to Pop Culture Classroom for putting this con together …

This week we are pre-judging movies based on rumors and trailers. Patrick Hester returns as guest-host, too, and you can find out more about him over on https://atfmb.com and https://functionalnerds.com.

Thank you to …

WARNING!! This Episode of Beyond The Trope tackles some mature topics that may be difficult for some of our listers.

This week Patrick Hester returns …

This week Patrick Hester guest-hosts, and we're joined by author Carrie Vaughn! Find out more about Carrie at https://carrievaughn.com and https://curiousfictions.com.

You can also learn more about Patrick Hester at …

This week, Patrick Hester joins us to talk about how media companies are consolidating and removing consumer choice. We also got to test out brand …

This week we are talking to Laura Vanderkam, time management expert, author, speaker, and podcaster. She joins us to talk about her first novel, JULIET'S SCHOOL OF POSSIBILITIES: A LITTLE STORY ABOUT THE POWER OF …

This week we're talking with the Hugo Award winning Sarah Gailey about their upcoming book, MAGIC FOR LIARS. Find out more at https://sarahgailey.com, https://twitter.com/gaileyfrey, and https://instagram.com/gaileyfrey.

Inspired by last week's trunk novel episode, we decided to talk about character creation this week.

Thank you to all of our amazing supporters, including our patrons over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

Mentioned …

We're back with another trunk novel episode, courtesy of J. T. Evans. Thank you J. T. for sending it in!

Thank you to all of our fantastic listeners, too, including our amazing patrons over at …

This week we're talking to author and co-creator of the Pathfinder and Starfinder tabletop role playing games, James L. Sutter. Find out more about …

This week we're talking Jennifer Jill Araya, the amazing voice actress behind some wonderfully fantastic audiobooks in more genres than you can …

James Persichetti returns one more time to chat with us about learning a language. What are some of the benefits, challenges, and how should one go …

This week James Persichetti returns to chat with us about Second Drafts. What are some of the best ways to rewrite a story or book?

You can follow …

This week we're talking to James Persichetti of Lost Hat Editorial Services, LLC. Find out more about the editorial services James can provide over …

This week we are joined by Dan Stout, a listener of the show, and his book, TITAN SHADE, is out March 12. Go pick it up at your nearest bookstore, …

This week we're talking about which literary characters we would want to be our best friend, have a casual dating relationship with, and who we'd …

This week we are joined by Richard K. Morgan, author of THIN AIR and ALTERED CARBON. Follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/quellist1, and …

We're reading our mailbag this week! Thank you to our amazing listeners who reach out to say hi.

Also, thank you to our supporters over at https://Patreon.com/BeyondTheTrope.

This week we're joined by James Anthony, author of SHAKESPEARE'S SONNETS, RETOLD. If you ever had trouble understanding Shakespeare's sonnets, or you just love great poetry, this is the book for you!

Thank you to all of …

This week we're chatting with Jeanne Cavelos, founder of the Odyssey Writing Workshops Charitable Trust. Find out more about the workshop at http://www.odysseyworkshop.org.

Thank you to our amazing supporters over at …

We're talking to Kyle Newman, one of the contributers to Dungeons and Dragons Art and Arcana!

Thank you to all of our amazing listeners and …

Welcome to 2019! With only two full-time hosts moving forward, we decided to revisit the first five episodes of the show. We're rebooting, so what …

This week we're talking about reboots. What do we like about them? Are some reboots better or worse than the originals?

Mentioned in this episode:

Reboot (TV Show)

Netflix

CBS

Queer Eye (TV Show)

Ocean's 8 (Movie)

…

This week we're talking to John and Vito Gutilla, the two creators of the World Builders Anonymous podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

SF Signal

Patrick Hester

Patrick Rothfuss

Brandon Sanderson

The Kingfountain Series …

This week we're talking to voice actress and audiobook narrator, Lauren Fortgang!

Mentioned in this episode:

Red Dead Redemption 2 (Video Game)

Grand Theft Auto (Video Game)

Magic The Gathering Arena (Video Game)

…

This week we're playing Nerdy Would You Rather. Many of the questions we answered this week were found at …

This week we're talking about Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions. We're excited because both holidays are approaching fast!

Mentioned in this …

This week author Matt Maxwell joins us to talk about his his book QUEEN OF NO TOMORROWS.

Mentioned in this episode:

Broken Eye Books

QUEEN OF NO TOMORROWS by Matt Maxwell

Stranger Things (TV Show)

UC Irvine

LA Times

Max …

This week we're talking about musicals, one of our favorite forms of entertainment.

Mentioned in this episode:

You're a Good Man Charlie Brown

Happy Birthday (Song)

Rent

Les Misérables (Movie and Play)

White Christmas

…

Since it's the final Tuesday of October, we're going to talk about things we love about Halloween.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Game (Movie)

…

This week we're talking about media we consume when we're not feeling well, either emotionally or physically. Or both. Basically, comfort brain-food.

Mentioned in this episode:

New Girl (TV Show)

How I Met Your Mother …

This week, because we're excitable nerds, we're talking about Pokemon.

Mentioned in this episode:

Nintendo Switch

Pokemon Red

Pokemon Blue

Nintendo …

This week Laurence MacNaughton is back for a roundtable discussion on what it takes to make a good monster.

Mentioned in this episode:

A Monster in Paris (Movie)

Netflix

Stephen King

CHRISTINE by Stephen King

…

This week we're speaking with Jeremy Whitley, writer of Princeless and Raven the Pirate Princess.

Mentioned in this episode:

PRINCELESS by Jeremy Whitley

SAGA by Brian K. Vaughan

Emily Martin (Comic Artist)

RAVEN THE …

This week, longsword instructor Ben Floyd joins us to talk about Historic European Martial Arts.

Mentioned in this episode:

Krieg School of …

This week we're talking about the proper way to attend, moderate, and sit in as a panelist on conference and convention panels.

Mentioned in this …

This week we're joined by a SUPER talented voice actor from some of your favorite anime and video games: Ray Chase!

Mentioned in this episode:

Final Fantasy XV (Video Game)

Noctis

Anime Expo

Denver Comic Con

Wondercon

…

We sat down for a roundtable reminiscence of days long gone. The topic of the week? What did we do before the internet?

Mentioned in this episode:

Nintendo

Super Nintendo

Mario Kart

Ford

Chevy

Nintendo 64

The Nintendo …

This week, Michelle and Emily are on their own, but they get to interview the amazing Sherrilyn Kenyon, which is fantastic and awesome!

Mentioned in this episode:

The Dark Hunter series by Sherrilyn Kenyon

DEATH DOESN'T …

This week we're playing a nerdy "never-have-I-ever" with our wonderful producer!

Mentioned in this episode:

HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY by …

Listeners, we made it to Episode 200! It's a super exciting and MAJOR milestone for us! And what better way to celebrate than to interview James Marsters? You all remember him from Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel, …

This week, in anticipation of our 200th Episode, we're talking about how to throw a party for introverts!

Mentioned in this episode:

Willy Wonka and …

Dave Robison returns for some EPIC Archivos news and amazing creativity discussion.

Mentioned in this episode:

Archivos

The Marvel Cinematic Universe

Harry Potter (Book Series) by J. K. Rowling

American Library …

Josh Viola returns this week to talk about what Hex Publishers has been up to in the last few months. Spoiler: a lot of cool stuff!

Mentioned in this …

Our fourth week of Denver Comic Con coverage features Kat Leyh and Kurt Lustgarten. A big thanks to Pop Culture Classroom for bringing us to Denver …

Animator, Thomas Estrada, and author, Tricia Levenseller, join us in our third Denver Comic Con episode. Major thanks to Pop Culture Classroom for …

Thank you to Pop Culture Classroom at http://popcultureclassroom.org for bringing us to Denver Comic Con 2018. http://denvercomiccon.com

Also, thank …

Thank you to Denver Commic Con and Pop Culture Classroom for bringing us back for another year of DCC Media Coverate. Check them out at …

John Wenker, the developer for the Borrow Modern app, joins us to talk about starting his own business developing this incredibly useful mobile app.

…

This week we're talking about the tough process of falling out of love with fandoms. We invest our time and energy into shows, comics, movies, and entire universes of characters. And then, something changes. How do we …

With Denver Comic Con just a week and a half away, we look back on previous cons and discuss what we're excited about for Denver Comic Con 2018.

…

This week we're talking to Alex Irvine and Tomm Coker, two of the creators for THE COMIC BOOK STORY OF BASEBALL, available now.

Mentioned in this episode:

THE COMIC BOOK STORY OF BASEBALL by Alex Irvine, Tomm Coker, and …

This week Patrick Hester returns as guest host in a roundtable discussion covering many topics, but focusing mostly on podcasts.

Mentioned in this episode:

Mary Kay

Lime Light

Axe

Star Wars

Functional Nerds

John DeNardo

Emily couldn't join us this week, so we brought in Patrick Hester to guest-host. And since all three of us are coming back from writing breaks, we …

Patrick Hester is with us this week as a special co-host, and it's quite fitting because our guest this week introduced us to him. Gail Carriger is back, and this is actually the longest episode we've done in a very …

Susan Spann returns this week to talk about her upcoming trip to Japan to work on her first non-fiction book, all about hiking the 100 famous mountains. Also, horrifying bugs.

Mentioned in this episode:

TRIAL ON MOUNT …

James P returns for a third week, this time to discuss a set of trunk pages that he submitted for us.

Mentioned in this episode:

FANGIRL by Rainbow …

In part 2 of our Languages series, we're talking about made up languages, how to develop them, and how to use them in your writing. James Persichetti returns, too, and shares a wealth of wisdom with us.

Mentioned in …

James Persichetti returns to the show this week to talk about using real languages in fiction, giving us insights as from his linguistics education and his slush pile reading.

Mentioned in this episode:

Klingon (From …

Today we're talking to Trai Cartwright, screenwriter and consultant. She has an amazing history and fantastic story insights, and we're delighted to …

This week Indie Game developer, Ben Wander, joins us to talk video games, pop culture, and the newly-released A Case of Distrust.

Mentioned in this …

This week we're critiquing a short story from one of our listeners. Thanks, Edwin, for sending them in!

Mentioned in this episode:

The Denver Podcast Network http://denverpodcast.net

Left Hand Right Brain …

We love video games, and there are a few reasons why. This week, Danielle returns to talk about awesome video games and what makes them so great.

Mentioned in this episode:

Final Fantasy

Madden NFL

Mario Tennis

Mario …

We're returning to the topic of Fan Fiction this week, focusing on Emily and Danielle, a duo in charge of a fairly popular Final Fantasy XV Fan …

This week we're talking to Beer Archeologist Travis Rupp. He's a full time professor at CU Boulder, and he works full time at Avery Brewing, …

We tried our hand at scripted radio, and it was a lot of fun. We hope to bring you more episodes like this in the future.

Mentioned in this episode: FRANKENSTEIN by Mary Shelly THE STRANGE CASE OF DR. JEKYLL AND MR HYDE …

Self-published author, Catherine Spader, joins us to talk about her WULFHEDINN series, available now on Amazon and at The Tattered Cover on Colfax in …

This week we're reviewing trunk pages from another listener.

Mentioned in this episode: NEUROMANCER by William Gibson READY PLAYER ONE by Ernest Cline DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP by Philip K. Dick Summer Wars …

This week, Dan Koboldt returns to talk about the third book in his Gateways to Alissia Trilogy.

Mentioned in this episode: THE WORLD AWAKENING by Dan …

This week we're talking to Kevin Ikenberry, sci-fi author and really cool guy!

Mentioned in this episode: VENDETTA PROTOCOL by Kevin Ikenberry …

An anonymous writer sent us trunk pages, so this week we share them without revealing who the writer is.

Listen in next week when we talk to another fantastic guest, Kevin Ikenberry! Check out all of the other great …

This week we're talking to Kate Jonuska, novelist and short fiction author.

Mentioned in this episode: The Denver Post The Colorado Springs Gazette …

This week an amazing listener volunteered to let us read her trunk pages for the show!

Mentioned this week: X-Men (Comic Book Series) Denver Podcast …

We're talking about plotting and pantsing this week, two different methods for writing a story.

Mentioned in this episode: The Matrix (Movie) Final Fantasy (Video Game Franchise) Denver Podcast Network …

We're talking about time travel and book travel this week, nerding out about places we'd like to visit in both fiction and history!

Mentioned in this episode: THE MAGIC TREE HOUSE (Book Series) by Mary Pope Osborne THE …

This week we're talking to the Hugo Award-winning editor, Jason Heller. He's also an amazing musician, sci-fi and fantasy writer, and all-around great guy!

Mentioned in this episode: Clarkesworld Magazine NPR The New …

It's the Lost Episode (sort of). This week, we're catching up with you, the audience. It's an opportunity for us to share some awesome news about our lives, updates about the podcast, and plans for the future.

Mentioned …

This week we're interviewing J. T. Evans, who joins us to talk about his debut novel, GRIFFIN'S FEATHER. We also talk a lot about pie.

Mentioned in this episode: Trader Joe's Carrie Vaughn Keven Hearne Patrick Hester …

This week, J. T. Evans joins us in studio to read his own trunk pages for us to dissect.

Mentioned in this episode: Ghost in the Shell (Anime) William Gibson Kristin Nelson Del Rey Books Simon & Schuster Terry …

This week Jason Petros, Taren Petros, Terrence Green, and Beverly Moore of the EarzUp! Podcast join us to talk about the happiest place on Earth: Disneyland!

Mentioned in this episode: Wikipedia Disneyland Pirates of …

Cosplay duo, JessoLaurus Rex, joins us to talk about all things nerdy, but mostly awesome costumes.

Mentioned in this episode: Denver Comic Con Adventures in Babysitting (Movie) Pokemon GO! Final Fantasy XV Beauty And …

Thanks again to Mutiny Information Cafe for hosting the Denver Podcast Network Launch Showcase. Also, thank to the Denver Podcast Network for bringing us into this awesome group of shows.

Mentioned in this episode: …

This week, Gail Carriger returns to talk about everything that's been happening in her career since the last time she joined us.

Mentioned in this episode: THE SUMAGE SOLUTION by Gail Carriger THE CUSTARD PROTOCOL (Book …

The fabulous Sherry Thomas joins us this week to talk about mystery, romance, and fantasy writing.

Mentioned in this episode: PRIVATE ARRANGEMENTS by …

This week comic writer and playwrite, Crystal Skillman, joins us to talk about her amazing projects!

Mentioned in this episode: Boom Studios Adventure Time (Comic) Fred Van Lente 10 DEAD COMEDIANS by Fred Van Lente King …

Comic writer, Andy Mangels, joins us to talk about Wonder Woman, Star Trek, and Star Wars.

Mentioned in this episode: Denver Comic Con Star Trek Star Wars X Files Iron Man Roswell He Man She-Ra Lucas Films Paramount …

This week, Dave Robison returns to chat about what's been going on in his life and career since the last time we met up with him.

Mentioned in this episode: The Ed Greenwood Group Balticon Manifest (Board Game) Magic …

This week we welcom Jason LaPier to the show to talk about awesome science fiction!

Mentioned in this episode: Harper Voyager THE DOME TRILOGY by Jason LaPier UNEXPECTED RAIN by Jason LaPier Star Trek: Deep Space Nine …

This week we're looking over some more of Giles' Trunk Pages for your education and entertainment.

Mentioned this week: Yoda (from Star Wars) http://patreon.com/beyondthetrope Dave Robison The Roundtable Podcast Peter …

Laurence MacNaughton returns to talk about his next book, A KISS BEFORE DOOMSDAY.

Mentioned in this episode: A KISS BEFORE DOOMSDAY by Laurence MacNaughton Booklist Kirkus Reviews Publishers Weekly Science Fiction Book …

Author J. L. Forrest joins us this week to talk about his new short story collection.

Mentioned in this episode: REQUIES DAY by J. L. Forrest …

Author, J. M. Frey, joins us to talk Science Fiction, Pop Culture, and the anthropology of fandoms.

Mentioned in this episode: Firefly (TV Show) The …

This week, we're bringing you three more awesome interviews, starting with Dan Wells. Next up, we have Delilah Dawson, and we're finishing the show …

Thanks, again, to Denver Comic Con and Pop Culture Classroom for giving us the opportunity to interview Alitha Martinez, Amy Mebberson, Mary …

Denver Comic Con and Pop Culture Classroom gave us such an amazing opportunity by allowing us to collect this fantastic interviews. Thanks to Robin …

The first of our Denver Comic Con 2017 episodes, this was the Saturday morning Main Event with Diana Gabaldon, author of the Outlander series, and Andrew Gower, who played Bonny Prince Charlie on the show.

Big thanks to …

Josh Vogt returns to talk about his new book, THE DUSTPAN COMETH.

Mentioned in this episode: THE DUSTPAN COMETH by Josh Vogt Paizo Pathfinder …

Susan Spann returns this week to talk about her new book, BETRAYAL AT IGA, and how she researched the setting and history on her most recent trip to Japan.

Mentioned in this episode: Seventh Street Books BETRAYAL AT IGA …

Patrick Hester joins us again, this time to talk about his debut novel, INTO THE FIRE.

Mentioned in this episode: The Functional Nerds Podcast THE DRESDEN FILES (Book Series) by Jim Butcher INTO THE FIRE by Patrick …

This week we're celebrating our 150th episode with a quiz put together by our amazing producer, Emily.

Mentioned on this episode: Denver Comic Con THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA by C. S. Lewis GLITTER BOMB (Short Story) by …

This week, Pitch Wars Mentees, Jen DeLuca and Julia Nobel, join us to talk about their journey through the Pitch Wars process and how their careers …

Are stereotypes about writers true? Which ones are, and which ones are just stories we hear about in Hollywood? Well, this week we're talking about …

In this episode of Beyond the Trope, we're revisiting Poetry.

Mentioned this week: Shakespeare Mary Oliver Tor.com APOCALYPSE: AN EPIC POEM by Frederick Turner Marshall Mathers/Eminem Emily Dickinson ALICE IN WONDERLAND …

Sarah Shanze, creator of Thistil Mistil Kistil, joins us to talk web comics!

Mentioned in this episode: Thistil Mistil Kistil …

This week we're interviewing Justin Edwards and Michael Edwards, co-creators of the movie Detective Detective Detective.

Mentioned in this episode: LARPs the Series Fantasy Con Chrono Trigger Jim Butcher Jim C Hines …

The author of Rejected Princesses, Jason Porath, joins us to talk art, princesses, and awesome women in history.

Mentioned in this episode: Dreamworks Kung Fu Panda (Movie) How to Train Your Dragon (Movie) Suffragette …

This week we're reading trunk novel pages from Todd Leatherman, a listener with some serious writing chops!

Mentioned in this episode: Kristin Nelson Nelson Literary Agency

Dan Koboldt is back with us this week to talk about his blog, Science in Sci-Fi and Fact in Fantasy.

Mentioned in this episode: The Incredibles …

This week we're talking with our old friend, Dan Koboldt. A lot's happened in his life since the last time he joined us, including a second book …

This week author Beth Revis joins us for a fun, sci-fi filled interview. 

Mentioned in this episode: 

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE by Beth Revis A MILLION SUNS by Beth Revis A WORLD WITHOUT YOU by Beth Revis THE BODY ELECTRIC by …

This week, Dean Wyant of Hex Publishing joins us to talk short stories, anthologies, and horror.

Mentioned in this episode: Hex Publishing Needles …

This week Holly Jennings comes back to talk about Live Steaming and the culture that surrounds the live gaming community.

Mentioned in this episode: …

Holly Jennings returns to talk about her new book, Gauntlet, and share what she's been up to since we spoke to her last year.

Mentioned in this …

Brenda Drake joins us to talk about writing and pitch contests.

Mentioned in this episode: Pitch Wars Pitch Madness LIBRARY JUMPERS (Book Series) by Brenda Drake TOUCHING FATE by Brenda Drake CURSING FATE by Brenda …

This week we have a roundtable discussion with Patrick Hester and James Persichetti, focused on what we've learned over the last couple of years as we've pursued our writing careers.

Mentioned this week: World Con Mile …

Our wonderful friend, Patrick Hester, joins us this week to talk about his newly released book, Samantha Kane: Into the Fire. We're also joined, yet …

One of our AWESOME listeners, Daniel Mohr (AKA Germany Dan), sent us some pages from a novel he's working on, and we discuss them with our special …

James Persichetti, query reader for Nelson Literary Agency, joins us to talk about the slush pile and life at a literary agency.

Mentioned this week: Nelson Literary Agency Kristin Nelson Joanna MacKenzie Danielle Burby …

Joe Stech, editor of Compelling Science Fiction, joins us to talk about hard sci-fi and data science.

Mentioned in this episode: Mile Hi Con Oracle Brad Feld Hacker News Reddit World Con Neil Clarke Clarke's World Y …

Bryan Thomas Schmidt joins us to talk about writing, X Files, and weird stuff he does during interviews with podcasters.

Mentioned on this episode: The Hugo Award THE MARTIAN by Andy Weir GALACTIC GAMES edited by Bryan …

The author of WINDSWEPT and LIKE A BOSS, Adam Rakunas, joins us this week.

Mentioned in this episode: THE RIGHT PEOPLE by Adam Rakunas OH GIVE ME A HOME by Adam Rakunas Angry Robot Books The Eagles (Band) Hotel …

This week we're joined by three writers who work together to form N.J. Tanger.

Mentioned in this episode: UNIVERSE EVENTUAL (Book Series) by N.J. Tanger CHIMERA by N.J. Tanger HELIOS by N.J. Tanger CERES by N.J. Tanger …

This week, Brianna Shrum joins us to talk about Pitch Wars, writing, and amazing tricksters.

Mentioned in this episode: NEVER NEVER by Brianna Shrum Pitch Wars HOW TO MAKE OUT by Brianna Shrum THE GRISHA TRILOGY (Book …

Travis Heermann joins us this week to talk about screenplays, writing for RPGs, and crowdfunding.

Mentioned on this episode: Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers THE RONIN TRILOGY (Book Series) by Travis Heermann Kickstarter …

There are good ways to handle critiques and bad ways. This week we talk about the good ways.

Mentioned in this episode: Charlaine Harris THE SOUTHERN VAMPIRE SERIES (Book Series) by Charlaine Harris True Blood (TV Show)

Self-care is vital for artists and authors, but it's often neglected. That's why, this week, we're talking about how we rest and relax.

Mentioned …

This week Emily shares the first few pages of her short story, Colfax Kitsune.

Mention on the episode: COLFAX KITSUNE by Emily Kay Singer KITSUNE …

Sci-fi and fantasy author, Nathan Lowell, joins us to talk about his journey through independent publication.

Mentioned this week: http://podiobooks.com QUARTER SHARE by Nathan Lowell TRADER'S TALES FROM THE GOLDEN AGE …

This week we're joined by Mur Lafferty, writer and podcaster extraordinaire.

Mentioned in the episode: I Should Be Writing (podcast) Ditch Diggers …

Urban Fantasy author, Laurence MacNaughton, joins us to talk about his writing, name pronunciation, and telemarketers.

Mentioned this week: IT HAPPENED ONE DOOMSDAY by Laurence MacNaughton Hugh Howey Publishers Weekly …

Giles submits another trunk novel for your listening and learning pleasure.

Mentioned this week: NaNoWriMo The Gingerbread Man TWILIGHT by Stephanie …

Thomas A. Fowler joins us to talk about three new projects he's been working on.

Mentioned on this episode: Denver Comic Con http://writersconquest.com THE WRITER'S CONQUEST: ESTABLISH A BRAND by Thomas A. Fowler Nerdy …

This week we're joined by the co-founder of Hex Publishing, Josh Viola.

Mentioned in this episode: Hex Publishing Mario Acevedo Jason Heller Dean …

Alasdair Stuart, the amazing owner of Escape Artists and host of the Pseudopod Podcast.

CORRECTION: In this episode we said that our interview with Stephen Hood came out one week before the release of this episode. Our …

This week we're joined by Julian Stamboulieh, Benjamin Warner, Jon Verrall, and Elizabeth Neale of LARPs The Series from Geek and Sundry.

Mentioned …

Michelle shares the ending of a short story that turned into the first novel she shared with us at critique group. It's far better than many of her previous submissions.

We met WC Bauers at Denver Comic Con 2016 and decided right away that we needed him to come talk about his amazing books, so he kindly agreed.

Mentioned on this episode: UNBREAKABLE by WC Bauers INDOMITABLE by WC Bauers …

Alex Bledsoe joined us this week to talk about traditional and rural fantasy.

Mentioned in this episode: INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE by Anne Rice TWILIGHT by Stephenie Meyer Star Trek (TV Show) Andrew Vox THE TUFA NOVELS …

This week we're talking to author, Colleen Watson.

Mentioned in this episode: HOW TO SURVIVE A MINOR ALIEN INVASION by Colleen Watson San Diego Comic …

This week we're talking to Stephen Hood, creator of Storium.

Mentioned in this episode: Minecraft (Video Game) GENRENAUTS by Mike Underwood PRIMETIME …

This week we dissect another one of Emily's trunk novels, which is actually a short story.

Mentioned in this episode: MOBY DICK by Herman Melville

This week, author John Stith joins us to talk about the relrelease of his backlist.

Mentioned in this episode: Wildside Press ReAnimus Press ALL FOR NAUGHT by John Stith NAUGHT FOR HIRE by John Stith NAUGHT AGAIN by …

This week, Zhenghua Yang from Serenity Forge joins us to talk about independent video games.

Mentioned in this episode: Final Fantasy (Video Game) World of Warcraft League of Legends Loving Life (Video Game from …

For our final week of Denver Comic Con 2016 coverage, we have C R Richards, F P Dorchak, and the amazing Sue Duff on the show, all thanks to Pop …

It's week FOUR of our awesome interviews from Denver Comic Con 2016. Ellie Ann is back and better than ever, Sisters in Geek geek out with us, and …

In week three of our Denver Comic Con 2016 coverage, we're talking to the amazing Judy Burns, Kevin Hearne, and Amalie Howard. Thanks, again, to Pop …

In week two of our Denver Comic Con 2016 coverage, we're talking to the AMAZING Patrick Hester, the founder of Player Two, a bar for nerds in the planning stages for the Denver area, and Hilly and Hannah Hindi of The …

Our coverage of Denver Comic Con 2016 begins today with great interviews from Ann Stampler, Cat Staggs, and Terry Brooks. It's a fantastic beginning …

This week we're talking horror with Shannon Lawrence. A bit out of our comfort zone, but that's why we brought in an expert.

Mentioned in this episode: Mile Hi Con Anomaly Con IT CAME FROM THE BLUE SLUDGE by Shannon …

This week we're talking to author, Aimie K. Runyan, whose debut novel, PROMISED TO THE CROWN is available NOW wherever fine books are sold.

Mentioned …

Dan Koboldt returns this week to talk about pitching contests.

Mentioned on this episode: Query Kombat Michelle Hauck Pitch Wars Brenda Drake #PitMad …

Putting the science back in science fiction is a subtle art. To help guide us through some techniques to make this happen we brought in author Dan …

We're diving into another trunk novel, this one a much more recent project that Giles abandoned a few years ago.

Mentioned in this episode: HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (Book) by Cressida Cowell Crouching Tiger, Hidden …

This week, we're talking about Tesla and how his inventions can be adapted for great sci-fi writing.

Mentioned in this episode: Batman The Joker DC Comics Thomas Edison J.T. Evans AC/DC Monty Phython THE SORCERER'S …

It's episode 100! And this week we're talking to Carol Berg.

Mentioned in this episode: ALICE IN WONDERLAND by Lewis Carroll King Arthur J.R.R. …

This week we're talking to Y/A Sports Romance author, Ali Dean!

Mentioned in this episode: PEPPER JONES (Book Series) by Ali Dean STARK SPRINGS (Book …

It's time to talk about steampunking.

Mentioned this week:Road to Eldorado (Movie)Michael R. UnderwoodFINISHING SCHOOL SERIES (Book Series) by Gail Carriger

Plagiarism is a terrible thing, and new stories of authors supposedly stealing from each other keep showing up in the news. This week, we're talking about one such story and discussing possible ways to avoid this in our …

In this episode, we're talking to Leonard Balsera, game designer for Evil Hat Productions.

Mentioned this week:Fate CoreEvil Hat ProductionsSpirit of the CenturyThe Dresden Files RPGThe Dresden Files by Jim ButcherGreen …

This week we're talking to Michael R. Underwood.

Mentioned in this episode:michaelrunderwood.comtwitter.com/mikerunderwoodThe Roundtable PodcastAngry Robot BooksPenguin Random HouseMadeline AshbyGENRENAUTS by Michael R. …

We're tackling the Zombie Apocalypse, then we'll jump into one of Michelle's trunk novels.

Mentioned in this episode:J.T. EvansLeverage (TV Show)Star Trek The Next Generation (TV Show)The Karate Kid (Movie)Baccano! …

This week we're talking about forensics and how it applies to fiction.

Mentioned in this episode:CSI (TV Show)Law and Order (TV Show)RMFW Colorado …

This week we're talking with Susan Spann about agent contracts.

Mentioned in this episode:SusanSpann.comSHINOBI MYSTERY SERIES by Susan …

This week Susan Spann returns to talk about Intelectual properties. It's a collection of advice that deals with issues from Fan Fiction to using …

This week we're talking fight scenes with author Blair MacGregor.

Mentioned in this episode:SFWAJean-Claude Van DammeStar Wars: The Phantom Menace (Movie)THE BLACK COMPANY (Book Series) by Glen CookELEMENTAL LOGIC (Book …

It's our two year anniversary. We're taking the opportunity to sit down and reflect on the amazing opportunities we've had as a result of this …

It took us a while to make this review, but we wanted to give as many people as possible a chance to see the movie. Without spoiling it.

This week we talk to author Holly Jennings, whose debut novel releases April 5, 2016.

Mentioned in this episode:ARENA by Holly JenningsNEUROMANCER by …

This week we're talking to Kristin Nelson, the founder of the Nelson Literary Agency in Denver, Colorado.

Mentioned in this …

We're talking about time management for writers this week, complete with tips and tricks and our own personal methods.

Mentioned in this episode:SUCCESSFUL TIME MANAGEMENT FOR DUMMIES by Dirk ZellerSusan SpannThe …

It's a week to talk about all of the exciting releases coming in 2016!

Mentioned in this episode:Mile High ConDenver Comic ConAnomaly ConChemistry Club's Copia comicMAL-ConAftershock ComicsSuperzero (Comic)Marguerite …

This week we interview independent comic writer, Ashish Thomas.

Mentioned in this episode:The Geeked Gods PodcastAgent 18Code Name: TalamhScott SnyderSWAMP THINGBATMAN4th World ComicsJason MoralesX FilesX-MenGraham …

This week we talk to Hanna C. Howard, who recently signed accepted representation from Jenny Bent of the Jenny Bent Agency. We're talking about the process that brought her to getting an agent.

Mentioned in this …

It's our Christmas and New Year's break. We're off this week and next, so enjoy your holidays and family!

This week, Josh Vogt returns to talk about his move to Paizo Games in Redmond, Washington.

Mentioned in this episode:Wordfire PressPaizo GamesPathfinderjrvogt.compaizo.comENTER THE JANITOR by Josh VogtEmerald City Comic …

This week we discuss how characters change and story subplots.

Mentioned in this episode:BatmanX-MenMaleficent (Movie)MAGIC TREEHOUSE (Book Series) by Mary Pope OsborneBuffy the Vampire Slayer (TV Show)

There are good reasons to read and write cross-genre, and that's what we're talking about this week.

Mentioned in this episode:KOP by Warren HammondTHE PARASOL PROTECTORATE (Book Series) by Gail CarrigerTHURSDAY NEXT …

Non-human characters can be tough to write, but there's always a purpose behind them and a method to making them relatable. After that mini-topic, we bring out another set of Emily's trunk novel pages.

Mentioned this …

This week we interview cozy mystery writer, Liesa Malik.

Mentioned in this episode:FAITH ON THE ROCKS by Liesa MalikSLICED VEGETARIAN by Liesa MalikRocky Mountain Fiction WritersHOW TO WRITE A DAMN GOOD MYSTERY by James …

It's Mailbag Time! Thank you so much for writing in, everyone. We have some responses for you, and if you keep writing us, we may read your letter on the show. AND we'll respond.

Mentioned on this episode:SF …

This week we're joined by J.T. Evans and Patrick Hester who spend most of the episode helping us convince Michelle to start playing nerdy games.

This week we bring you a live recording from Crowfoot Valley Coffee in Castle Rock, Colorado. We' interviewed Harris Gray, the writing duo who put …

This week we return from the 2015 RMFW Colorado Gold conference to talk about the importance of education for writers, whether it's formal or …

This week we talk about the middle of the story, why it's so important for a strong book, and how we can improve the so-called "mushy middle."

Interviewees:Chad Mathine: twitter.com/ChadMathineBonnie Ramthun: …

The ending of a book is just as important as the beginning. This episode explains why.

Mentioned in this episode:

Zealander (Movie)

DISCWORLD (Book Series) by Terry Pratchett

THE COLOR OF MAGIC by Terry Pratchett

The …

This fourth installment of our craft series is where we talk about the importance of a strong beginning.

Mentioned in this episode:

THE HOBBIT by …

In this week's installment of our craft series, we're tackling themes.

Mentioned in this episode:

Stephen King

SAGA (Comic Book Series)

THE LORD OF …

This week we're tackling another aspect of Writing Craft: Dialogue and Description.

Mentioned in this episode:

Star Wars

PRUDENCE by Gail Carriger

…

This week we're kicking off a short series of episodes that focus on writing craft, and we're starting with heroes and villains.

Mentioned in this episode:

Superman

Bella Swan (from TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyer)

…

In this episode we took our Tropes 101 workshop and applied the principals we discussed to create a new story.

Mentioned in this episode:

Anomaly …

Ali Golightly joined us in the studio to talk about the United Authors Association.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pop Culture Classroom

Thomas A. …

A closer look at adaptations is where we went with this episode. We focus on books that got turned into movies, then jump into a trunk novel sent in by Veronica R. Calisto.

Mentioned in this episode:

ENDER'S GAME by …

This week we're discussing Amazon's new Kindle Unlimited self-published author payment policy.

Mentioned in this episode:

WAR AND PEACE by Leo …

Aaron Michael Ritchey fills in for Emily one final time to talk about writing feedback.

Mentioned on this episode:

Peter J. Wacks

POST TRAUMATIC STRESS COMMANDER by Aaron Michael Ritchey and Peter J. Wacks

FORTUNE'S …

Aaron Michael Ritchey is still filling in for Emily, and he did a gave us a great perspective on cons.

Mentioned in this episode:

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn (Movie)

Emerald City Comic Con

Mile High Con

Anomaly Con

Aaron Michael Ritchey returns to talk about what's been going on with him since the last time he joined us on the show.

Mentioned in this episode:

ELIZABETH'S MIDNIGHT by Aaron Michael Ritchey

HARRY POTTER (Book …

Author Todd Newton joins us to talk about self publishing.

Mentioned in this episode:

FIGHT CLUB by Chuck Palahniuk

THE NINTH AVATAR by Todd Newton

Patrick Rothfuss

CreateSpace

Kindle Direct

Smashwords

THOMAS REDPOOL …

We start with a brief discussion on serialized stories, then jump into Giles' old serialized blog for trunk novel dissection.

Mentioned in this …

Our final Denver Comic Con 2015 episode is filled with even more awesome!

We start out talking to the new monthly mystery box company, Geek Fuel. Next up, What Pumpkin? joins us to talk about the Hive Swap video game …

Another great collection of interviews from Denver Comic Con, starting with the Stubby Shillelaghs. Next up, we talk to the founder of Dungeons and …

Denver Comic Con 2015 brought amazing people to our table, including the AWESOME Jim Butcher, the TALENTED Josh Vogt, and the EXCITING Senda from the She's A Super Geek podcast (sasgeek.com).

Denver Comic Con sent MANY great authors our way. This week, we feature interviews with Sue Duff, Amalie Howard, and Kevin J. Anderson.

DC Comics' Van Jensen, Jeff King, Marguerite Bennett, and Steve Leioloha all joined us at Denver Comic Con for great interviews. We want to thank …

At Denver Comic Con 2015, Emily got invited onto an impromptu panel about women in the comics industry. Both Michelle and Emily were there to get the entire panel, and amazing things happened!

This week is all about fixing those difficult scenes in your WiP.

Mentioned in this episode:

LOOKING FOR ALASKA by John Green

THE FAULT IN OUR …

This week we discussed how to develop a magic system for your fantasy world.

Mentioned in this episode:

Denver Comic Con

Jim Butcher

Susan Spann

THE CIRCLE OF MAGIC (book series) by Tamora Pierce

GRACELING by Kristin …

Anomaly Con gave us the opportunity to interview both Selena Chambers and Molly Tanzer. It was a great interview, and the entire thing is available …

At Anomaly Con 2015, we got to interview Cory Doctorow. This is the full recording of that event!

WARNING! This episode of Beyond the Trope contais …

At Anomaly Con 2015, we presented our Tropes 101 workshop. This is the full workshop, complete with audience participation.

This week, Chemistry Club joins us again to tell us about their work with artist Patch Silver. Together, they created an amazing comic called Copia: Landfall.

Information at http://chemistryclubmusic.com

This week, Dave Robison of the Roundtable Podcast joins us for a great discussion on workshopping stories. Check him out at http://roundtablepodcast.com and http://twitter.com/WritersPodcast and …

Gail Carson Levine joined us for a great discussion, and when she returned to her day, we talked about some of our favorite fair tales.

Mentioned in this episode:

DAVE AT NIGHT

ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Levine

…

This week, Thomas A. Fowler is back to talk about marketing tools for authors.

Mentioned in this episode:

JURASSIC PARK (Book) by Michael Crichton

…

Our friend, Thomas A. Fowler, joins us this week to talk about author branding and platforms.

Mentioned in this episode:

Book Riot

Kotaku

Quincy J. Allen

George R. R. Martin

Gail Carriger

J. K. Rowling/Rober Galbraith

This week we talk to the amazing Jim C. Hines. He published a trunk novel, and we really like that! After the interview, Michelle shares another set of pages that aren't good enough to publish.

Mentioned in this …

This week we have the pleasure of talking to Tamora Pierce! It's a great interview, so enjoy.

Mentioned in this episode:

Anne McCaffrey

Marion Zimmer Bradley

Robin McKinley

Patricia A. McKillip

Virginia Hankins

…

Steampunk is exciting for us. For many reasons. That's why we're talking about it this week. After a brief discussion, we jump into an exciting interview with Gail Carrier.

Mentioned in this episode:

Steamboy (Movie)

…

This week, we dive into Young Adult Literature. Why we read it, why we write it, and why we love it!

Mentioned in this episode:

BEAST QUEST (Book …

It's our third discussion of Amazon's Kindle Scout. This time, we brought in a lawyer, Susan Spann, to talk about the user agreement from a contract specialist's point of view.

Mentioned in this episode:

The CNET …

In this episode we talk to Author Susan Spann about her Shinobi Mystery series.

Mentioned in this episode:

HARRY POTTER (Book Series) by J. K. Rowling

HOW TO WRITE A DAMN GOOD MYSTERY by James N. Frey

Janet Reid …

Paper and pen, TextEdit, and more complex word processors are the focus of this week's episode. We discuss pros and cons of each medium, then take a break and plunge into poetry.

Mentioned in this episode:

A VISIT …

It's time to announce our resolutions for the new year! We also dive into another one of Emily's trunk novels.

In this episode, we tackle the concept of Writer's Block. After that brief discussion, we dive into one of Giles' old trunk novels.

Relevant to this …

In this episode, we continue our discussion on Amazon's new Kindle Scout publishing service.

Mentioned in this episode:

http://www.cnet.com/au/news/amazon-wants-your-vote-on-which-books-to-publish/

…

In this episode, we start a long discussion on Amazon's new Kindle Scout publishing service.

Mentioned in this episode:

http://www.cnet.com/au/news/amazon-wants-your-vote-on-which-books-to-publish/

…

We're off this week and next. We'll see you again on January 6, 2015!

This week we interview Jamin and Kiowa Winans, producers of The Frame, out now on DVD and BluRay and available at http://double-edge-films.myshopify.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Ink (Movie)

Westword interview with …

With the Holiday Season soon upon us, we talk Holidays in Fiction. It's a fun short episode about our favorite time of year.

Mentioned in this …

Story Tension. The backbone of great fiction.

Mentioned in this episode:

New Girl (TV Show)

THE LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy by J. R. R. Tolkien

THE HUNGER …

What is Character Agency, and why is it important? That's the topic for this week's episode!

Mentioned:

James Bond (Character created by Ian Fleming)

TIR ET LIR (Play) by Marie Redonnet

I AM THE MESSENGER by Markus Zusak

…

This week, it is our pleasure to interview the amazing Jim Butcher, author of THE DRESDEN FILES, CODEX ALERA, and the upcoming CINDER SPIRES. After the interview, the three of us sit down to discuss writing communities.

This week we dive deeper into tropes, focusing on Fantasy Tropes.

Mentioned in this episode:

tvtropes.com

GAME OF THRONES (Novel) by George R. R. Martin

A two-topic episode featuring Body Language and Dialogue.

Mentioned:

Dr. Paul Ekman

Lie to Me (TV Show)

WICKED by Gregory Maguire

THE LITTLE WHITE HORSE …

Join us as we walk down memory lane. It's time to talk books from our childhood!

Mentioned in this episode:

WHITE FANG by Jack London

Nancy Drew (Book Series)

Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner (Book Series)

Magic …

Plagiarism is terrible. There is a current incident that we discuss in this week's episode.

Mentioned:

Rachel Ann Nunes (ranunes.com)

The Absolute …

This week, we talk about conferences, why to attend them, and proper etiquette for pitching to editors and agents.

Mentioned in this episode:

Angie Hodapp

Aaron Michael Ritchey

Chemistry Club (ChemistryClubMusic.com)

Query …

This week we review three of our favorite books.

Mentioned in this episode:

THE SYRENA LEGACY (book series) by Anna Banks

SAGA (Graphic Novel) by Brain K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS by Stephanie …

Last but not least, it's time to talk about Michelle's first book. This week's story gave all of us hours of amusement.

This week, we pick apart Giles' first book. It has its failings, but it's good for a laugh, too. And if you pay close attention, you'll learn something.

This is our first featured trunk novel. This week, we talk about Emily's first novel and dissect it for fun and education.

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this fantastic episode, we interviewed the band, Chemistry Club. Buy their music on iTunes and Bandcamp, and check out their website, www.chemistryclubmusic.com, to get links to their Facebook and Twitter.

Mentioned …

With Angie Hodapp and Warren Hammond in the studio, it's a chance to discuss some publishing industry insider information.

Mentioned:

Hilary Clinton

Neil Gaiman

Chuck Wendig

John Scalzi

MacMillan Publishing

Kristin Nelson

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Warren Hammond and Angie Hodapp are back to talk about the RMFW 2014 Anthology, Crossing Colfax.

Mentioned in this episode:

Nikki Baird (RMFW …

In this episode, we talk Sci-Fi, Mystery, and how to plan a novel.

Mentioned:

KOP Series by Warren Hammond

Raymond Chandler

Kurt Vonnegut

Dick Francis

Jason Star

TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyer

SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION by Stephen King

In this episode, we talk with Warren Hammond and Angie Hodapp about the dynamics of being married to another writer. Then we move into a discussion on critique groups.

Mentioned in this episode:

RMFW

Writers of the Future

Another Mini-Topic episode where we talk about World Building and Character Development.

Mentioned in this episode:

HARRY POTTER by J. K. Rowling

THE …

It's a week of two mini-topics! We split up the episode between Jane Austen and J. R. R. Tolkien.

Mentioned in this episode:

EMMA

PERSUASION

PRIDE AND …

In this episode we discuss (though never quote from) Michael Levin's opinion piece about the possibility of Barnes and Noble going out of business by the end of 2014. His article can be found here: …

This is our final Denver Comic Con 2014 Special. This week, we bring to you three one-on-one interviews from the con. First up, Emily interviewed Denver Comic Con director, Christina Angel. Next, Michelle sat down with …

Our third episode from Denver Comic Con 2014 features interviews from Jason Henderson and Steven L. Sears.

In this, our SECOND fabulous episode from Denver Comic Con 2014, we interview Frank Beddor, The Doubleclicks, and Kevin J. Anderson.

In this, our first of FOUR Denver Comic Con Specials, we discuss Giles' and Michelle's first Con experience. Giles also makes a fool of himself in …

This is the panel for Creating setting in Sci-Fi and Fantasy Novels.

Panelists:

Betsy Dornbusch

Carrie Vaughn

Ellie Ann

Dave Wolverton/David Farland

This is the panel that Emily moderated about the Importance of Strong Female Characters in Sci-Fi and Fantasy.

Panelists:

Amalie Howard

Dave …

On Sunday, we moderated Sherry Ficklin and Tyler Jolley's panel where they talked about writing Extracted, book 1 of The Lost Imperials series.

The author of Zombie Survival Guide and World War Z talks about the movie that shares a title with his book, his new comic series, and the upcoming graphic novel series.

Thanks, again, to Denver Comic Con, Comic Book …

This is the audio that Denver Comic Con graciously allowed us to record at LeVar Burton's Reading Rainbow event in 2014.

We have another guest, Royce Roeswood from roeswood.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Destination Imagination

Whose Line Is It Anyway (TV Show)

Bovine …

Today, we ponder adaptations. From movies to books to stage plays. It's a blast!

Mentioned in this episode:

How to Train Your Dragon

Lilo and Stitch

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This week we talk about Archetypes.

Mentioned in this episode:

THE HERO WITH A THOUSAND FACES by Joseph Campbell

Carl Jung

THE LORD OF THE RINGS by J. …

We discussed some methods and the importance of Self Editing this week.

Mentioned in this episode:

WRITING MAGIC by Gail Carson Levine

Steinbeck

Tolstoy

We're talking about POV and Tense.

Mentioned in this episode:

Star Trek (Sci-Fi Franchise): Kobayashi Maru

THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins

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Write What You Know. The old adage. It's what we discuss this week.

Mentioned in this episode:

Loki: Ragnarok And Roll

Dr. Who

Castle (TV Show)

Brandon …

Short Stories and Long Fiction both have their merits. In this episode, we discuss both, but with a focus on Shorts.

Mentioned in this episode:

TO …

Laughter makes the world go HA!

In this episode, we discussed humor and the following:

Jim Butcher

Joss Whedon

Rowdy Roddy Piper

Loki: Agents of Asgard

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We discuss fan art.

Mentioned in this episode:

tortallcomicsproject.deviantart.com

D&D

World of Warcraft

Robotech

Star Trek

Star Wars

Dr. Who

R.A. Salvatore

The Doubleclicks

Kirby Krackle

M.C. Frontalot

PAX

Harry and the Potters

We FINALLY got around to Tropes!

Discussed:

tvtropes.org

KUNG FU PANDA from Deamworks

HARRY POTTER by J.K. Rowling

SUPERMAN 2

LOKI, AGENT OF ASGARD from Marvel Comics

DR. WHO

Jim Butcher

DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE by Laini …

Aaron Michael Ritchey joins us to talk about his new book LONG LIVE THE SUICIDE KING.

Mentioned in this episode:

STORY by Robert McKee

Deb Courtney …

This week, we discuss our writing processes.

Mentioned during the podcast:

CLOUD ATLAS by David Mitchell

RMFW.org

Terry Wright's Synopsis Guidelines at http://www.rmfw.org/download/contest_info/Synopsis.pdf

Giles Hash's …

In this episode, we go on bunny trails.

Discussed in this episode:

The SERENITY RPG by Margaret Weis Productions (margaretweis.com)

The DRESDEN FILES RPG by Evil Hat Productions (evilhat.com)

little-details.livejournal.com

Episode 3 Shakespeare

Liner Notes:

In this episode we geek out about The Bard Himself! William Shakespeare.

MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM

HAMLET (the play, the movies staring Kenneth Branaugh or Mel Gibson)

TEMPEST

"Wishbone" …

Episode 2 Comics

This Week's Liner Notes:

In this episode, we talk about art in comics. Here are a few of the comics we mentioned during our discussion.

Ctrl+Alt+Del Comic http://www.cad-comic.com

Penny Arcade …

We discuss some of the wonderful ways literature can be used in the classroom.

Mentioned in this episode:

CALL IT COURAGE by Armstrong Sperry

THE …