Tell The Damn Story

Here we are with another episode of Tell The Damn Story , the podcast that dives deep into the ups and downs every writer faces—whether you’re a newbie putting pen to paper for the first time, or a seasoned pro grappling with self-doubt. This week, cohosts Alex and Chris take on one of the trickiest obstacles in any creative journey: self-rejection. Drawing from personal stories, sharp insights, a...

Welcome to this episode of Tell The Damn Story ! Today, hosts Chris and Alex dive into a fundamental yet often overlooked writing technique: using the five senses to bring your stories to life. Drawing from their personal experiences—everything from train rides to memorable meals and travel adventures—they explore how incorporating sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch can immerse readers in your...

Co-hosts Alex and Chris blend their signature wit, real-world writing experience, and a few sun-soaked vacation antics to tackle some of the most frequently asked questions from writers like you. Broadcasting poolside—Mai Tais not included—they dive into six of the biggest hurdles writers face: from crafting non-linear narratives and writing powerful scenes without dialogue, to building mysteries...

In this lively installment, co-hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan invite you to a sun-soaked, tropical "vacation" where the drinks are (supposedly) flowing and the conversation is all about the magic of comedy. But don’t let the tiki vibes fool you—today’s theme is comedy alchemy: turning tragedy into hilarity. Alex and Chris dive deep into the art of weaving humor into even the heaviest of stories...

"The only way to get through hell is to go through it ." Co-hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan have assembled a powerhouse panel of writers to dive deep into the fiery crucible where personal anguish meets creative expression. In this episode, the spotlight shines on the just-released "Soul Scream Anthology: Fear and Loathing." Every guest on today’s episode is a contributor to...

"Join us for a special episode of Tell The Damn Story! 🎙️ Dive into the world of children's literature with Williamsport, PA author Judi Jessick!   And then take a look at storytelling and the female experience in our second insightful dialogue with TTDS fan and archivist, Glorious. It's a must-listen for writers and readers alike. 💡👩‍💼 #FemaleVoices #AuthorInsights #TellTheDamnSto...

In this episode, cohosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan highlight the importance of community through attending events like Stoker Con , sharing personal experiences overcoming imposter syndrome, and emphasizing the value of putting your work out there. Alex introduces his plan to release six new Blackjack stories starting in July. Our cohosts also discuss creating and publishing works like Chris&#39...

CoHosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan have a bloody good episode for you this time! The boys dive into Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ —a film blending horror, history, and heart. To help them on the hunt, they've invited pop-culture-spoken-word-guru and writer-commentator Omar Holmon , horror writer, and TV production pro, Steven Van Patton . Together, the panel explores the film's depiction of Ji...

In this episode, Chris and Alex discuss one of the greatest challenges writers face and how to overcome it. They emphasize the importance of allowing one's imagination to run free and ask 'what if,' using historical examples from Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, and Mary Shelley to illustrate how these iconic writers created groundbreaking stories without the modern conveniences we have today....

Ambition can serve self and others. In this episode, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons talk with screenwriter and producer Victoria Male about her bold, heartfelt journey through Hollywood. From working with Ivan Reitman ( Ghostbusters films, etc .) to launching her latest project, Whatever Happened to Baby J —a playful, nostalgic, and purpose-driven live stage reading set in the world of 90s boy bands—...

Here we go again! In today's episode, co-hosts Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan are joined by acclaimed comic book artist Eric Battle for an in-depth, wide-ranging conversation brimming with heart, honesty, and humor. From Eric’s earliest memories of being transfixed by comics on the spinner rack as a six-year-old, to the pressures and passions of telling powerful, real-world stories on the page,...

On this special international episode of "Tell The Damn Story," hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons team up with a panel of extraordinary artists and storytellers from across the globe, thanks to the East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention (ECBACC). Joining them are Micheline Hess of Mishmash Arts (NYC), acclaimed cartoonist and illustrator Tayo Fatunla (UK/Nigeria), and Jesse Sunkwa-Mills, CEO of...

Or, "Why Tell Tales of Angels and Monsters?" Welcome to Tell The Damn Story , where hosts Alex Simmons and Christopher Ryan dig into the secrets of writing stories that outlast their times. In this episode, they explore how classic Twilight Zone episodes like “One for the Angels” and “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street” prove that great fiction isn’t just about reflecting current events—it’s abo...

Is AI A Writing Digital Revolution or Deal With The Devil? In this podcast, hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dig into the hotly debated role of AI in the creative process. From using tools like ChatGPT and Descript for research and editing, to the ethical gray areas of letting AI generate content, the conversation gets candid—and sometimes contentious—about where writers should draw the line. Ale...

"Writers, how much do you owe your audience?" In this thought-provoking episode, co-hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dive into the creative risks and responsibilities that come with killing off beloved characters in popular stories like "The Walking Dead" and "The Last of Us." Drawing on recent controversies and their own extensive writing experience, Alex and Chris...

Or ... " How Unexpected Inspiration Sparks Story Ideas" This week, hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dive deep into the fusion of horror and poetry with Chris’s latest experimental project: "It's Been a Privilege."  Chris unpacks the accidental inspiration behind writing a harrowing narrative about a serial killer entirely in verse . This format breaks away from traditional...

🎙️ Welcome to a thrilling new episode of "Tell The Damn Story!" Today, we’re diving headfirst into the wild, wonderful world of theater — where an assassin, a ghost, a legendary Black Shakespearean actor, and Sherlock Holmes collide on one unforgettable stage! Chris Ryan steps up as lead host this time because our very own Alex Simmons wrote the play we’re spotlighting — "Sherlock H...

Or, SHOTGUN PROMPTS! In this wild, fast-paced episode of Tell The Damn Story , Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan hit the gas and tear through Plot Holes, dodge Story Stumps, and smash right through Writer’s Block like it owes them money. Their secret weapon? Creative prompts . From jelly donuts that inspire crime scenes to childhood memories, playlist magic, and the almighty “What if” question, they’ve...

"Tell The Damn Story," is back with a deep dive into the world of creative storytelling with our special guest, Omar Holman .  Omar is a writer, spoken word poet, and passionate comic book enthusiast who masterfully combines his love for words and superheroes in his work.  Along with cohosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons , the three artists open the door to explore a variety of topics, inc...

CAN THE OLD TEACH YOU ANYTHING NEW? In this episode of "Tell The Damn Story," hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are joined by their friend and fellow pulp fiction enthusiast, writer/publisher Jim Beard . Together, they delve deep into the action-packed world of pulp fiction, exploring its roots, evolution, and relevance today. Jim shares insights from his experience as a writer, editor,...

In today's episode, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons dive into the challenges writers face in today's distracting and chaotic world. They introduce the concept of 'aggressive avoidance' —a strategy to stay focused on your creative work despite external turmoil. The discussion covers methods for managing distractions, the importance of storytelling, and the value of even non-political cr...

Hey there, storytellers! Or should we say, fellow procrastinators? Welcome to this episode of "Tell The Damn Story ," where hosts Christopher Ryan and Alex Simmons, alongside the ever-charming Jim Beard , take on the playful yet pesky world of writing roadblocks like procrastination and self-doubt. In this fun and insightful chat, our trio humorously tackles the different shades of procr...

THEY INVITED A PANEL OF NINE TALENTED CREATIVES! Chris and Alex are off for a brief rest. So this we're ... Returning to their third milestone for Tell the Damn Story, where they celebrated reaching their 300th episode! They flow from their humble beginnings discussing the craft of writing with guests, exploring the nuances of public speaking and meeting deadlines, to reflecting on significant ach...

The hosts are off for a brief rest. So this we're ... Returning to their second milestone for Tell the Damn Story, hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons celebrate reaching their 200th episode by diving deep into their journey of creativity and storytelling over the years. They flow from their humble beginnings discussing the craft of writing with guests, exploring the nuances of public speaking and me...

WHY TELL YOUR DAMN STORY?! Why is it important to write the stories that mean something to you? Whether for educational or entertainment purposes! Hey there, fans and fellow creatives,  Tell The Damn Story will be on hiatus for the next 3 weeks.  So, during that time, you'll have a chance to return to those thrilling days of our episodes 100, 200 , and 300 .     Here’s your chance to refresh y...