Tell The Damn Story

“A short story is about one thing — one moment, one emotion, one change. Nail that and you’ve got a winner.” Are you a writer looking for answers on how to level up your craft? In this power-packed episode of Tell The Damn Story, we dive into another top 10 questions every emerging writer asks—from building suspense and finding your unique voice, to balancing action with emotion, and even marketin...

How do you turn a half-formed idea into a story readers feel ? Author Charles Barouch joins Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan to reveal the alchemy behind authentic characters and immersive worlds. 🎙 In this episode, we explore: Why every writer “owes the reader” a great story How to avoid “plot-stupid” characters The research method that makes any world believable—even one you’ve never lived in Why giv...

What’s your method: map it, muse it, or mix it till it works? This time, hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dive deep into the age-old debate between Plotter and Pantser writing styles.  They explore the strengths and challenges of each approach, offering practical advice for aspiring and struggling writers. From managing plot inconsistencies and wandering plot lines to overcoming the dreaded '...

In this energizing episode of Tell The Damn Story , hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan team up to reveal the essential secrets of successful collaborative storytelling. Drawing from decades of experience—Alex with his storied background in comic books, fiction, and the legendary Blackjack series, and Chris with his deep dive into the independent publishing world—these two seasoned writers come toge...

On this episode of Tell The Damn Story, hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are joined by legendary comic book artist N. Steven Harris and Afro-Indigenous writer and sound/energy healing practitioner Ry-El Nagasta to talk about their ambitious and culturally vibrant comic, Indigo Clan. As they dive deep into the process of blending diverse spiritual traditions, mythology, and high-octane adventure,...

It's October, and a perfect time to return to the scary side of writer's vile. And so, TTDS returns to episode 368 of Tell The Damn Story, "Vampires, Culture and How Coogler." It's a multi-cultural trip into horror with guest writers Caseen Gaines and Steven Van Patten, along with Alex and Chris, discussing Ryan Coogler's "Sinner." Everyone has something they fear, but how we face it and represent...

“Because every writer deserves permission to tell their story.” This week on Tell The Damn Story, we tackle the fears that keep too many writers silent. From rejection to self-doubt, we’ll show you how to grant yourself the one thing every creative needs: permission to write. Join Alex and Chris as they share stories, strategies, and a few laughs on the road to writing beyond fear. Have any questi...

"Creative Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities in 2025" The dynamic duo of Chris and Alex dive headfirst into a topic that’s more relevant—and contentious—than ever: Is free speech ever really free? In a landscape where creative expression feels increasingly scrutinized and satire itself comes under scrutiny, our co-hosts examine the pressures and pitfalls artists and writers face when ta...

Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons are at it again. This time, they sit down with the immensely talented Rebecca Cuthbert. In this engaging episode, they discuss the triumphs and trials of aspiring writers, delve into the nuances of creativity, and explore the vibrant world of poetry. Rebecca shares insights into her latest projects, including her upcoming book, 'The Hauntings Back Home,' and rev...

Writing Fiction, Monsters, and Industry Icons Can Be A Challenge! In this episode, co-hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons welcome Jim Beard, a prolific writer known for his work in various genres, including horror, pop culture, and pulp fiction. Jim discusses his latest projects, including his soon-to-be-released novel 'Shutter Stories: Corpus Vile,' which explores pulp horror. They also del...

It's How To Mash Horror, Noir Detectives, and Social Commentary from the Past About the Present. In this monstrous episode, co-hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan welcome prolific storyteller Teal James Glenn for a wide-ranging conversation that explores his award-nominated book, Not Born of Woman. It's Teel's unique take on reimagining the classic Frankenstein’s monster as a private eye...

How A Graphic Novel Can Tell A Tale of Wonder, Giant Guinea Pigs, And Immigration Flying solo this week, cohost Alex Simmons is joined by Angela Hsieh, a talented artist and writer whose lifelong love of drawing animals led to her debut graphic novel, Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology . Angela opens up about her winding path from a science-focused student to editorial illustration at NPR, all t...

When the world feels overwhelming, it’s easy for writers to freeze up, shut down, or lose faith in their creative voice. In this episode of Tell The Damn Story, Alex and Chris talk honestly about how to push through writer’s block when fear, frustration, or negativity weigh heavy on your shoulders. We explore how writing can act as an emotional release, why creative expression matters most in trou...

Here it is! Another fun-fact-tips-filled episode of Tell The Damn Story! Today, hosts Chris and Alex are joined by two of their favorite returning guests and accomplished writers, Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson. Together, they dive into the wild world of writing—spanning comics, graphic novels, and original fiction—and share candid insights on navigating creative collaborations, writing for es...

In this Summer Short episode of Tell The Damn Story , co-hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons dive into the triumphs and challenges that writers face—whether you’re just starting or struggling to cross the finish line. In this special Q&A installment, a summer tradition for the show, Chris and Alex tackle a lineup of real questions from aspiring and emerging writers, covering everything from tran...

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—...