show episodes
 
Zena Dell Lowe is a seasoned and engaging teacher with a passion for writers and storytellers. Her focused, concise, and practical episodes (all roughly 20 minutes) not only explore the nuts and bolts of the craft, but also dive deep into the inner life of the artist and the "why" behind creativity. If you believe that story matters, you'll want to give this podcast a listen.
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show series
 
Many Christian narratives shy away from the complexities of real life, resulting in stories that feel disingenuous or trivial. This avoidance not only limits the impact of these stories but also leaves important human experiences unexplored. In this episode, we’ll focus on two essential rules for tackling hard topics in Christian writing. Join us a…
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What if the stories we tell about faith could be as complex and gritty as real life? It’s time to break free from the confines of family-friendly narratives. Many Christian writers feel pressured to produce only wholesome, safe content, fearing backlash or judgment. This limits the depth and authenticity of their storytelling. Join the conversation…
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World building isn’t just background noise—it's essential to storytelling. Let’s see how two masters, Pierce Brown and Jim Butcher, weave it into every scene. Today, we break down how Red Rising and The Dresden Files build immersive, unforgettable universes. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on Y…
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If you think world-building only matters in sci-fi or fantasy, think again. Whether your story is set in space or suburbia, today we’re breaking down the five world-building rules that can take your writing to the next level. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favori…
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Here's a short, sweet, and MEATY episode for screenwriters and novelists alike! Get tips on how to get those all-important character thoughts and feelings out of their heads and onto your pages. Add intrigue and excitement to your narrative, drawing your audience into your story and bonding them with your characters for life! Subscribe now to The S…
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Ever feel like your story's goal is just too vague or abstract to get a handle on? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive into the crucial difference between a character's want and need and why it’s essential to nail down a concrete objective to keep your story moving forward. Whether you’re struggling with passive characters or just want to en…
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Many writers face the challenge of crafting a distinct voice while meeting specific demands, especially in niche markets like Christian film. This can lead to frustration when feedback seems to undermine your creative vision. In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe shares insights from her experience with the film industry and navigating the Christian mark…
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We're unlocking the secrets to taking your characters from believable to brilliant. Ever wonder what makes characters truly unforgettable? Join us as we explore the three key pillars of dynamic storytelling that will elevate your characters and captivate your audience. Find out the essential elements that will transform your characters and keep you…
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Are you ready to revolutionize your writing process with AI? In this episode of The Storytellers Mission, Zena Dell Lowe dives into the transformative power of artificial intelligence for writers, storytellers, and screenwriters. Discover how AI tools can tackle writer’s block, boost productivity, and enhance creativity. But that's not all. As AI c…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Hey there, writers! Today’s episode is a special treat as we’re diving into some awesome advice from the fantastic Zena Dell Lowe. We’ve pulled together a bunch of her best tips and insights into quick, bite-sized segments just for you. Whether you're stuck in a creative rut or just looking to level up your writing game, Zena’…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Hey there, storytellers! Ever found yourself stuck trying to sum up your epic novel or screenplay in a single line? Well, fear not! On today's episode of The Storytellers Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, we're diving into the art of crafting killer loglines, taglines, and pitch paragraphs. Zena breaks down the differences between …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – In this episode of The Storyteller's Mission, Zena delves into the art of crafting characters that go beyond mere likability to truly resonate with your audience. Exploring three key strategies for creating emotional bonds, Zena challenges traditional notions of what makes a character compelling in storytelling. Join us as we …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – In this episode of Regent Class, Zena Dell Lowe dives into the intricacies of justifying character motivation through visual storytelling in screenwriting. Zena emphasizes the unique challenge of screenplays, which are meant to be produced, not just read, yet must still be engaging on the page. The discussion highlights the im…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – In this unplanned and candid episode, Zena and Larry share their post-conference reflections, revealing unexpected insights on how to stand out at writers' conferences. They recount their personal experiences from the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. Their conversation offers a refreshing blend of humor, hone…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Anthony Gallo interviews Zena Dell Lowe! Tune in as Zena shares valuable insights and insider tips for writers aiming to break into the competitive world of Hollywood. She delves into the strategies that aspiring writers can utilize to make a mark in the industry, offering practical advice on navigating the challenges and seiz…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Tune in to this special episode with one of Zena's coaching clients as he debriefs and talks about what it was like going from the writing stage into directing his first short film. Insights abound! Watch this to be inspired and glean new tips that are sure to boost your writing journey as well. Dr. Joshua Damu Smith is an Eng…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – So, you think you have a great fatal flaw for your MC? Maybe you're still not quite sure what it should be? Avoid the story crisis of a total rewrite by taking steps now to ensure your protagonist has these 4 character traits along with their fatal flaw. Otherwise, you run the risk of an unlikable MC. And if no one likes your …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Bob Tiede (pronounced “Tee-Dee”) has been on the staff of Cru (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ) for 52 years – serving 8 years in Cru Campus and then 24 years as the CEO of Josh McDowell Ministry – a Division of Cru. And Now 20 years on the U.S. Leadership Development Team – developing the next generation of leader…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Are your conflicts coming across a little flat? Do you know what your characters are REALLY fighting about...or for? Do you want to elevate your conflicts and negotiations between characters to the next level? Of course you do! And that is why this episode is a must! Zena gives you three clever ways to elevate and differentiat…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – David Avallone is a writer and filmmaker. He writes on #batwheels for Warner Brothers Animation, and in 2024 he has a few new comic book series in stores, including horror comedy #ELVIRA MEETS HP LOVECRAFT, and his original comic series DRAWING BLOOD, co-created with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles creator Kevin Eastman from Imag…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – How do you hook your audience? How do you keep them engaged from the start of your story through to the end? And how do you keep them from getting bored and tuning out? Hooks don't have to be elusive in storytelling. Tune in to this week's episode where Zena gives you 5 practical tips to hook 'em and hold 'em! Hollywood Story …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Ever feel like using 'show, don't tell' in revealing true character is challenging or almost impossible ? Watch this episode with Zena to learn 5 easy to apply tips on how to do just that! Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – In this episode, we delve into character development through setting objectives and overcoming obstacles. Discover how to craft compelling characters that move the story forward and engage audiences with expert advice. This episode will motivate writers and storytellers with vibrant character creation that resonates with reade…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Hannibal Lecter. Agent Starling. Rick Blaine. What do they have in common? They are perfect examples of paradoxical characters, which is really why they are so great! Come along for the ride while Zena shows clips and breaks down how these characters are not what they seem. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter oppor…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – What is Character? Why do we have trouble really nailing that down? And why does it seem so hard to create 3D characters? Does that really matter if the plot is great? The answers to these and more in this episode where Zena gives tips on how to create characters with depth. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter oppo…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – One big issue we can run into as writers is unintentionally making characters who all sound the same. But they all have distinctive lives, backgrounds, and personalities. So, how do we make sure that is heard in their voice? How do we give them each a distinctive voice of their own? Watch this episode for 7 practical and easy …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Your narrative voice is something unique to you, that sets you apart from others. People can tell it's your voice before they even know you wrote it. So, how do you make that happen? How do you cultivate it? How do you find your author voice? Your writer voice? Watch this episode to find out just that. Hollywood Story Structur…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Subtext: an essential element for story to add conflict and further develop your characters. But how do you capture the true essence of this covert communication method? Let's dive into the what and how of this little beast so you can harness its power in your story. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – What is a genre anyway? Is it really that important for you to identify your genre? You don't want to be boxed in by a label, right? Wrong. You do want that label. You do need to identify your genre. And here's why. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storytelle…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION –Commercial story? Sounds like selling out, but it's more along the lines of actually selling. You have to have mass appeal if you want your stuff to sell. Period. So, put your #wip to the test and see if it stands up to any of these 10. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free Video Tutorial for Screenwr…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION –Whether your #wip is a screenplay, a novel, or a novel that hopes to one day become a screenplay, this episode is for you. Hollywood loves to adapt books into movies, so make sure you start on the right foot by ensuring you have these three elements in your story. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION –Ever wonder if you actually have a good story idea? Want to take that story idea that seems good and make it great? Well, stop what you're doing and watch this episode to level up your stories and unlock their full potential. Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The S…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Sneak Peak into the Beta Program for Zena's new online class - Hollywood Story Structure Made Easy. Want a deeper dive into #fatalflaws in character development? Go ahead and click the link below so you can be a part of this group too! Hollywood Story Structure Class - Early Adopter opportunity Free Video Tutorial for Screenwr…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Sneak Peak into the Beta Program for Zena's new online class - Hollywood Story Structure. Check out this excerpt where she discusses the differences and similarities between writing screenplays and writing novels. Then go ahead and click the link below so you can be a part of this group too! Hollywood Story Structure Class - E…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Zena joins Diana Flagel on Reality Coaching for Writers for this sweet little episode all about why and how to keep your protagonist active. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Jennifer Dornbush teaches the proper processes and evidentiary trails to follow in a crime story, but she also helps connect the dots to see that the same principles can really be applied to all stories, not just in the crime genre. And speaking of genre, Jennifer and Zena also discuss what makes the crime genre so popular and…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Jennifer Dornbush talks forensics, story structure and character arc. If you are writing crime stories or not, there are several applicable tools and tips in this interview. Jennifer is a screenwriter, author, international speaker, and forensic specialist. Raised as the daughter of a medical examiner whose office was in their…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – I know, I know. What fear? Right? You're not scared, right? Or are you? What stories are you allowing yourself to tell? Well, it's time for a paradigm shift. And Zena is here to tell you all about why and how. By the end of this episode you will understand that we need not be afraid. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The S…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Are you stuck in the "and they lived happily ever after" zone? Do you wonder if that's really the only way? What if all stories didn't need a happy ending? Would you want to understand why and how? Well, here's your chance! Zena breaks it all down on this week's episode. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Dialogue is a fantastic tool to provide clarity and show, not tell. But how do you make sure your dialogue is true to your story? How do you justify the dialogue so it isn't trite and contrived? How do you make sure your audience doesn't check out because it's confusing? Tune in as Zena shares 4 tricks to help you create organ…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – No one likes to watch a movie or read a novel where you can see the setups as plain as day. Audiences want to be surprised and delighted when those setups that you integrated come full circle later in the story. So, how do you seamlessly add your setups? One easy to remember tool. Learn about it here and find out how the movie…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Ever wonder if you have too many scenes? Want to make sure every one counts? Want to make sure every scene plays into your narrative? How about making sure they all move the story forward? Well, here is one tip you don't want to miss. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. Yo…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Zena Dell Lowe breaks down one rule for storytellers that George Lucas didn't follow in Star Wars Episode 1. Learn how to avoid this mistake in your own story. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our chann…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Opening scenes can make it or break it for your audience/reader. Take too long and you've lost them, go too fast and you'll miss building the story and the moments. So what is a writer to do? Check out this episode and find 2 simple tips to help hook your audience from the start! Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Story…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Have an antagonist who feels one dimensional? Your villain falling a little flat? Check out this episode to understand how to develop those characters to new satisfying, three-dimensional depths. Free Video Tutorial for Screenwriting The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as we…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Passive characters are un-engaging and boring. Things are happening to them, whereas an active character is driving the action, they are intriguing, and they grab your audience. Okay, so easy choice. You want an active character. But what does that mean? What does that look like? How do you avoid that passive pitfall? Tune in …
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – How easy is it to rely on your characters to extrapolate on their thoughts and feelings? But is that really fair to your readers? I mean, sure, sometimes you can't get around it, but when you can, it adds intrigue and excitement to the narrative. And this in turn hooks your reader on another level. Want to learn how to get out…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Yes, we need our characters to have flaws that they need to overcome in the course of the story. The confusion comes when we start writing our characters as morally depraved beyond the realm of redemption. Do you see the difference? Do you see how this works? Join Zena as she breaks it all down. What makes a hero? What are ess…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Wouldn't it be great to not have to rely so much on clever language to paint the picture of character growth within themselves and their relationships? Yeah, that "show, don't tell" thing again. Catch this week's episode about establishing patterns, breaking them, and using traditions and rituals in order to "show" a great dea…
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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Show, don't tell. It can be a struggle. Let's talk about 2 tips you can sink your teeth into that will help in mastering the art. Significant actions and visual cues. Sure, you may have heard these are great tools, but Zena brings a fresh look at both that will really help you adopt them into your writing. Free Video Tutorial …
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