Today on our show, we bring you a story by student Kim Costigan. Kim wrote this story while on our December 2022 writing retreat in Key Largo. This story crushed us and made us love Kim even more. What I want you to listen for is the anecdote at the end. This is one of our favorite ways to end a story. It shows how the narrator has been impacted by the situation in real time. Kim has been writing with us for a few years now, and Kim is the perfect example of someone who started green and practiced her way to perfection. Her writing and her vulnerability has come further than almost any student we’ve had. Some people think you can’t teach vulnerability, what we call heart, but we know you can.Kim Costigan is a writer in Winthrop, pursuing a master’s degree in creative writing at Emerson College. She’s also a star at Karaoke. This story may not be appropriate for children or those sensitive to child abuse. Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Justine Shandler.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by student Kim Costigan. Kim wrote this story while on our December 2022 writing retreat in Key Largo. This story crushed us and made us love Kim even more. What I want you to listen for is the anecdote at the end. This is one of our favorite ways to end a story. It shows how the narrator has been impacted by the situation in real time. Kim has been writing with us for a few years now, and Kim is the perfect example of someone who started green and practiced her way to perfection. Her writing and her vulnerability has come further than almost any student we’ve had. Some people think you can’t teach vulnerability, what we call heart, but we know you can.Kim Costigan is a writer in Winthrop, pursuing a master’s degree in creative writing at Emerson College. She’s also a star at Karaoke. This story may not be appropriate for children or those sensitive to child abuse.  Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6nafo2qIWXzs72eSj1ZJMw" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Justine Shandler.</a>There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

159: Rash Decisions

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Maxine Poupko. Maxine’s story is a great example of character development, showing the tiny details in a complex relationship, and bringing the reader into a different world. Maxine wrote this story for the Writing Class Radio retreat in February 2023. The story was workshopped and refined with feedback and encouragement from the group. If you have a strained relationship with a member of your family, this episode is for you!Maxine Poupko is a writer, a registered nurse, and a health advocate. She teaches writing workshops at the International Women’s Writing Guild summer conferences. Her stories have been published in The Sun and the book, A Waist is a Terrible Thing to Mind, by Jan Phillips. Maxine is a student of Writing Class Radio, which she says is her favorite thing to do.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon.If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft and receive a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. A Transcript of this episode is available here. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Maxine Poupko. Maxine’s story is a great example of character development, showing the tiny details in a complex relationship, and bringing the reader into a different world. Maxine wrote this story for the Writing Class Radio retreat in February 2023. The story was workshopped and refined with feedback and encouragement from the group. If you have a strained relationship with a member of your family, this episode is for you!<a href="https://www.instagram.com/maxvenus2222/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Maxine Poupko</a> is a writer, a registered nurse, and a health advocate. She teaches writing workshops at the International Women’s Writing Guild summer conferences. Her stories have been published in The Sun and the book, A Waist is a Terrible Thing to Mind, by Jan Phillips. Maxine is a student of Writing Class Radio, which she says is her favorite thing to do.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>.If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> and receive a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. <a href="https://otter.ai/u/UhNc_WeB1VzR0oQXFFZMFwkA2SE?utm_source=copy_url" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">A Transcript of this episode is available here. </a>There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

158: My Dead Mother Brings My Sister and Me Together Once a Year

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Corey Devon Arthur. Corey has served 25 years on a life sentence for robbery and murder and is currently housed at Otisville Correctional Institution in New York. Corey is an artist and writer who has been published on Writing Class Radio and The Marshall Project, among others. Corey’s stories have aired on Episode 120: My Pen Uncovers the Real Me, Episode 128: My New Manifesto, and Episode 143: Cutting Needless Words. This story is a great example of metaphor, which is not easy to pull off. Andrea and Allison will talk metaphor and about everything Corey nailed in this story.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. A Transcription of the episode is available here. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by <a href="https://medium.com/@coreydevonarthur" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Corey Devon Arthur</a>. <a href="https://medium.com/@coreydevonarthur" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Corey </a>has served 25 years on a life sentence for robbery and murder and is currently housed at Otisville Correctional Institution in New York. Corey is an artist and writer who has been published on Writing Class Radio and <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/08/12/stopping-violence-over-prison-phone-time-there-s-an-app-for-that" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">The Marshall Project</a>, among others. Corey’s stories have aired on<a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-writing-class-radio-30787162/episode/120-my-pen-uncovers-the-real-91480695/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 120: My Pen Uncovers the Real Me</a>, <a href="https://art19.com/shows/writing-class-radio/episodes/617be93f-8b2c-47b9-b1e6-2b8824baf189" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 128: My New Manifesto</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cutting-needless-words/id1049460553?i=1000588055202" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 143: Cutting Needless Words.</a> This story is a great example of metaphor, which is not easy to pull off. Andrea and Allison will talk metaphor and about everything Corey nailed in this story.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. <a href="https://otter.ai/u/whMcWCaug-aX_6nKiTnrmdeBHis" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">A Transcription of the episode is available here. </a>There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

157: I’m the Black Crayon Nobody Wants

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Jenny Powers. Jenny is a New York-based freelance reporter. She writes for HuffPost, The Cut, Business Insider, Fortune, and more. She is working on a memoir called, "Smooth Operator: Confessions of an Accidental Phone Sex Vixen." You can see more of her work at https://www.clippings.me/jpowers.Jenny’s essay originally appeared in The Cut and is titled “Outsourcing My Orgasm.” We trimmed just slightly for the podcast. We love so many things about Jenny’s essay, and we talk about that in detail on this episode. She is vulnerable, honest, and expertly turns a unique situation into a universal story about weight, sex, and marriage.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.A Transcription of this episode is available here. Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by <a href="https://www.clippings.me/jpowers" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Jenny Powers</a>. Jenny is a New York-based freelance reporter. She writes for HuffPost, The Cut, Business Insider, Fortune, and more. She is working on a memoir called, "Smooth Operator: Confessions of an Accidental Phone Sex Vixen." You can see more of her work at <a href="https://www.clippings.me/jpowers" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.clippings.me/jpowers</a>.Jenny’s essay originally appeared in <a href="https://www.thecut.com/2023/04/outsourcing-my-orgasm.html" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">The Cut</a> and is titled “Outsourcing My Orgasm.” We trimmed just slightly for the podcast. We love so many things about Jenny’s essay, and we talk about that in detail on this episode. She is vulnerable, honest, and expertly turns a unique situation into a universal story about weight, sex, and marriage.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.<a href="https://otter.ai/u/Q9qk0vlM4C2rbj2Qgze0LSvYq58" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">A Transcription of this episode is available here. </a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

156: Outsourcing My Orgasm

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Laurie Eynon. This story is a behind-the-scenes Jeopardy! audition revealed and a good lesson in how every word matters. And the voice of the narrator is amazing. So good!!! Laurie takes us through her one chance at becoming a Jeopardy! champion and what happened.Laurie Eynon is a hospital and hospice chaplain in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was a regular contributor to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's Sunday section, wrote a play that was produced off-off Broadway, and has been published in the HuffPost and Christian Science Monitor. Laurie Eynon watches Jeopardy! every night.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A transcript of the episode is available here. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Laurie Eynon. This story is a behind-the-scenes Jeopardy! audition revealed and a good lesson in how every word matters. And the voice of the narrator is amazing. So good!!! Laurie takes us through her one chance at becoming a Jeopardy! champion and what happened.Laurie Eynon is a hospital and hospice chaplain in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was a regular contributor to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's Sunday section, wrote a play that was produced off-off Broadway, and has been published in the HuffPost and Christian Science Monitor. Laurie Eynon watches Jeopardy! every night.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. <a href="https://otter.ai/u/hzM2fcJkNK4qPecJHLiFvtNBRKc?utm_source=copy_url" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">A transcript of the episode is available here. </a>A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

155: Every Word Matters

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Sari Botton. Sari’s story is a great example of how to tell a story that encompasses your whole life. It is also a great example of how to end a story while you are still living with a situation.Sari has been featured before on WCR. Check out Episode 80: You Have Permission to Write or Not Write. Sari Botton (sounds like Larry Cotton) is the author of the memoir in essays, And You May Find Yourself…Confessions of a Late-Blooming Gen-X Weirdo. A different version of the story you’re about to hear appears in that book. Sari publishes Oldster Magazine, Memoir Monday (now Memoir Land), and Adventures in Journalism. Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.A Transcript of the episode is available here. Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by <a href="https://www.saribotton.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Sari Botton</a>. Sari’s story is a great example of how to tell a story that encompasses your whole life. It is also a great example of how to end a story while you are still living with a situation.Sari has been featured before on WCR. Check out <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-class-radio/id1049460553?i=1000470160611" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 80: You Have Permission to Write or Not Write.</a> Sari Botton (sounds like Larry Cotton) is the author of the memoir in essays, <a href="https://bookshop.org/books/and-you-may-find-yourself/9781942762997" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">And You May Find Yourself…Confessions of a Late-Blooming Gen-X Weirdo</a>. A different version of the story you’re about to hear appears in that book. Sari publishes <a href="http://oldster.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Oldster Magazine</a>, <a href="http://memoirmonday.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Memoir Monday</a> (now Memoir Land), and <a href="http://adventuresinjournalism.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Adventures in Journalism</a>. Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join me on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Thursdays with Eduardo Winck 8-9pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a><a href="https://otter.ai/u/9iCWDjTQv1CQh151_mr4A3fWCfI" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">A Transcript of the episode is available here. </a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

154: Are Thin People Allowed To Write About Weight?

Noah Michelson

Today’s episode features a story by one of our favorite students, Margery Berger. She has been taking classes with us since way before the pandemic. Margery has told stories on our podcast twice before. Episode 46: An Object Is not Just an Object aired in 2018 features a really compelling story about Margery’s obsession with her scale. On Episode 95: What Did It Take to Finally Get Published? Margery told a story about the time her boyfriend said she has ugly hands. That episode is great because we talked to Margery about what holds her back. Margery submitted this story to the Huffington Post and editor Noah Michelson (@NoahMichelson on Twitter) picked it up. Her story is called, I Hated My Breasts and Was Afraid to Show Them to Dates. Here’s What Happened When I Did.We also bring you an interview with Noah Michelson who is the head of HuffPost personal and the host of "D Is For Desire," HuffPost's love and sex podcast. Noah gave Margery this note: “What would someone who didn’t have your experience learn from reading your story?” Because of Noah Michelson, we’re thinking about stories in a new way. Maybe you will too.  Margery Berger is the mother of two grown children. She lives in Miami with her two poorly behaved dogs and David. She has written for Home Miami Magazine, Lip Service, Next Tribe and for the Writing Class Radio podcast. Find her on IG: @wherestulipnowWriting Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Marnino Toussaint.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.You Can access a transcript of this episode here. Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today’s episode features a story by one of our favorite students, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wherestulipnow/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Margery Berger</a>. She has been taking classes with us since way before the pandemic. Margery has told stories on our podcast twice before. <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-class-radio/id1049460553?i=1000415215653" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 46: An Object Is not Just an Object aired in 2018</a> features a really compelling story about Margery’s obsession with her scale. On <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-class-radio/id1049460553?i=1000509489735" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 95: What Did It Take to Finally Get Published?</a> Margery told a story about the time her boyfriend said she has ugly hands. That episode is great because we talked to Margery about what holds her back. Margery submitted this story to the <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/double-mastectomy-implants-sex-dating_n_634d4918e4b08e0e6085c627" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Huffington Post</a> and editor Noah Michelson (@NoahMichelson on Twitter) picked it up. Her story is called, I Hated My Breasts and Was Afraid to Show Them to Dates. Here’s What Happened When I Did.We also bring you an interview with Noah Michelson who is the head of HuffPost personal and the host of "D Is For Desire," HuffPost's love and sex podcast. Noah gave Margery this note: “What would someone who didn’t have your experience learn from reading your story?” Because of Noah Michelson, we’re thinking about stories in a new way. Maybe you will too.  Margery Berger is the mother of two grown children. She lives in Miami with her two poorly behaved dogs and David. She has written for Home Miami Magazine, Lip Service, Next Tribe and for the Writing Class Radio podcast. Find her on I<a href="https://www.instagram.com/wherestulipnow/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">G: @wherestulipnow</a>Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski, Chloe Emond-Lane, and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://marnino.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Marnino Toussaint</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.<a href="https://share.poddin.io/e/d76f9403-b79c-46bd-a41f-d221de6ad281" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">You Can access a transcript of this episode here. </a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

153: Want To Get Published in HuffPost? Editor Noah Michelson Tells You How

Today on our show, we bring you a story by Danielle Huggins. Danielle has been featured twice before on WCR. In Episode 105: Teach Us Something We Don’t Know where she shared her experience with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Danielle was also featured in Episode 139: This Is What Mania Looks Like where she takes us through a manic episode. If you haven’t listened to those episodes, definitely check them out.Today’s story was written for our December 2022 writing retreat in Key Largo, edited by Andrea and Allison, revised by Danielle, then brought to the retreat for edits from the group. Today, we will bring you Danielle’s final version.This story is a great example of writing in the moment (without distance and perspective) and how to end a story. Danielle also uses song lyrics to reveal emotion and mood.  Danielle Huggins is a former middle school math teacher. Now she’s a writer, and student of Writing Class Radio. She has written for the Washington Post and Gomag.com and has been featured on the writing class radio podcast twice. She lives with her husband, daughter and mom in northern New Jersey. She can be found on social media @bipolardanielle on TikTok, My Life as a Bipolar Mom on Facebook, and @DanHuggins123 on Twitter. Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundilll, Aidan Glassey, Chloe Emond Lane and Evan Surminski at the Sound Off Media Company Theme music is by Emia.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison Langer on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, or if you are a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?For a transcript of this episode, click here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we bring you a story by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mylifeasabipolarmom" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Danielle Huggins</a>. Danielle has been featured twice before on WCR. In <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-class-radio/id1049460553?i=1000528817743" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 105: Teach Us Something We Don’t Know</a> where she shared her experience with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Danielle was also featured in <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-class-radio/id1049460553?i=1000581629211" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 139: This Is What Mania Looks Like</a> where she takes us through a manic episode. If you haven’t listened to those episodes, definitely check them out.Today’s story was written for our December 2022 writing retreat in Key Largo, edited by Andrea and Allison, revised by Danielle, then brought to the retreat for edits from the group. Today, we will bring you Danielle’s final version.This story is a great example of writing in the moment (without distance and perspective) and how to end a story. Danielle also uses song lyrics to reveal emotion and mood.  Danielle Huggins is a former middle school math teacher. Now she’s a writer, and student of Writing Class Radio. She has written for the Washington Post and <a href="http://gomag.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Gomag.com</a> and has been featured on the writing class radio podcast twice. She lives with her husband, daughter and mom in northern New Jersey. She can be found on social media @bipolardanielle on TikTok, My Life as a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mylifeasabipolarmom" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Bipolar Mom</a> on Facebook, and <a href="https://twitter.com/DanHuggins123" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">@DanHuggins123</a> on Twitter. Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundilll</a>, Aidan Glassey, Chloe Emond Lane and Evan Surminski at the Sound Off Media Company Theme music is by <a href="https://soundcloud.com/thisisemia" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Emia</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison Langer on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, or if you are a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com</a>.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?<a href="https://share.poddin.io/e/fb175bee-4f6d-48ff-887a-098ad9f6ece2" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">For a transcript of this episode, click here. </a>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

152: How Music Inspires Storytelling

This episode showcases the effectiveness of using the story spine structure. The story spine is a story structure as old as time. It’s the model every fairytale follows. It works really well for all stories because it’s intuitive. It’s in our collective unconscious. You will hear three prompt responses from Writing Class Radio’s First Annual Key Largo Writing Retreat. We told our students to think about a time everything changed and then we walked them through the story spine. Kim Costigan, Pamela Lear, and Dr. Jane Marks brought the bag!You will also hear about the other stories at the retreat that were published after hard core edits. Start planning to attend our next Key Largo Writer’s Retreat in Dec 2023.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Guest host Zorina Frey. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Emia.There’s more writing class on our website including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on Patreon. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison Langer on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, or if you are a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our website: writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?For a transcription of today’s episode click here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode showcases the effectiveness of using the story spine structure. The story spine is a story structure as old as time. It’s the model every fairytale follows. It works really well for all stories because it’s intuitive. It’s in our collective unconscious. You will hear three prompt responses from <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/key-largo-florida-workshop-dec-2023" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio’s First Annual Key Largo Writing Retreat.</a> We told our students to think about a time everything changed and then we walked them through the story spine. Kim Costigan, <a href="https://pamelalear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Pamela Lear</a>, and <a href="https://ecoss.nau.edu/team/jane-marks/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Dr. Jane Marks </a>brought the bag!You will also hear about the other stories at the retreat that were published after hard core edits. Start planning to attend our next <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/key-largo-florida-workshop-dec-2023" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Key Largo Writer’s Retreat in Dec 2023</a>.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Guest host <a href="https://zorina-frey.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Zorina Frey</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by <a href="https://soundcloud.com/thisisemia" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Emia</a>.There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. Join our writing community by following us on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. If you want to write with us every week, you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison Langer on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, or if you are a business owner, community activist, group that needs healing, entrepreneur and you want to help your team write better, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website: writingclassradio.com.</a>Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?<a href="https://share.poddin.io/e/5eb28a15-a8cf-48b7-a777-1790891ee099" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">For a transcription of today’s episode click here. </a>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

151: Follow the Story Spine to Get Published

Today on our show, we’re talking about how to write about a situation that is ongoing. Typically, at the end of an essay, the narrator writes about what they learned or how they changed. But what if transition IS the change? What happens if there is no happy (or sad) ending…yet?On this episode, Ariane Malfait writes about her transition–-one that is still in progress and may always be. Ariane tells the story of shedding the masculine body she felt never fit. At 19, after bottom surgery, she expects to finally feel like herself, but when she wakes up from surgery, she is plunged into darkness. Her story is called The Creation of Flesh.Ariane Malfait is a Belgian journalism student with a passion for writing. She writes mainly nonfiction and poetry but loves to experiment with other genres. You can find Ariane on Instagram and Medium.Writing Class Radio is hosted by Allison Langer and Andrea Askowitz. Audio production by Matt Cundill, Evan Surminski and Aiden Glassey at the Sound Off Media Company. Theme music is by Emia. For a transcription of today’s episode click here.There’s more writing class on our website, including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. For $35/month you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET and/or Zorina Frey Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, check out all the classes we offer on our website, writingclassradio.com.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio. Or sign up HERE for First Draft for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we’re talking about how to write about a situation that is ongoing. Typically, at the end of an essay, the narrator writes about what they learned or how they changed. But what if transition IS the change? What happens if there is no happy (or sad) ending…yet?On this episode, Ariane Malfait writes about her transition–-one that is still in progress and may always be. Ariane tells the story of shedding the masculine body she felt never fit. At 19, after bottom surgery, she expects to finally feel like herself, but when she wakes up from surgery, she is plunged into darkness. Her story is called The Creation of Flesh.Ariane Malfait is a Belgian journalism student with a passion for writing. She writes mainly nonfiction and poetry but loves to experiment with other genres. You can find Ariane on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arianemalf/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://medium.com/@ariane-malfait" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Medium</a>.Writing Class Radio is hosted by <a href="https://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> and <a href="https://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a>. Audio production by <a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill</a>, Evan Surminski and Aiden Glassey at the<a href="https://www.soundoffpodcast.com/getapodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> Sound Off Media Company</a>. Theme music is by <a href="https://www.thisisemia.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Emia</a>. <a href="https://share.poddin.io/e/0e2794bf-70b2-4547-830b-446d6422270b" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">For a transcription of today’s episode click here.</a>There’s more writing class on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>, including stories we study, editing resources, video classes, writing retreats, and live online classes. For $35/month you can join our First Draft weekly writers groups. You have the option to join <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Allison on Tuesdays 12-1 ET</a> and/or <a href="https://zorina-frey.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Zorina Frey</a> Wednesdays 7-8pm ET. You’ll write to a prompt and share what you wrote. If you’re looking to take your writing to the next level, check out all the classes we offer on our <a href="https://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">website, writingclassradio.com</a>.Join the community that comes together for instruction, an excuse to write, and most importantly, the support from other writers. To learn more, go to<a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a>. Or sign up <a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1979290/25913/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">HERE for First Draft</a> for a FREE Zoom link.A new episode will drop every other WEDNESDAY. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

150: In Transition: How to Write a Story About an Ongoing Situation

Writing Class Radio is for people who love true, personal stories and want to learn how to write their own stories. There's no better way to understand ourselves and each other than by writing and telling our stories. Everyone has a story. What's yours?

Amazing podcast - I’ve never heard anything like this show.

This is a great concept and nice to hear the analysis and reflection. Awesome

Necessary and refreshing

Writing Class Radio is for people who love true, personal stories and want to learn how to write their own stories. There's no better way to understand ourselves and each other than by writing and telling our stories. Everyone has a story. What's yours?

writing class radio

Hear what Inessa, Danny, Bo, Jahn, Allison and Andrea confess about their relationships with their moms and how those relationships have shaped their lives. We all tell stories, including to ourselves. The truth is, you never know how the people you love will respond to what you write about them. You may be surprised.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hear what Inessa, Danny, Bo, Jahn, Allison and Andrea confess about their relationships with their moms and how those relationships have shaped their lives. We all tell stories, including to ourselves. The truth is, you never know how the people you love will respond to what you write about them. You may be surprised.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

3: What Is the Story You Tell about Your Relationship with Your Mother?

On today’s episode we’re talking about getting out of our own way when writing a story. The writing process starts with getting the truth on paper. We write about situations or problems we’re dealing with or have dealt with, things we’re still trying to understand or resolve. The goal is getting to the reason we’re writing the story and what the story is really about. Andrea is a huge believer in writing and rewriting. That’s her process. A first draft is usually shit. Then the second draft all the way to the 222 draft, is usually still shit, but those drafts are critical for telling the story well. But with all this writing and rewriting, we can get in our own way. In this episode, you'll hear student Misha Mehrel’s story Bad Breath. Misha brought this piece to class a couple of weeks ago and it needed very little editing. You will hear an interview with Misha about his writing process. Misha was wary of writing about his father’s cancer diagnosis. What he did instead was start by writing about physical problems that had been bothering him. He wrote graphically and intimately about his breath and bowel movements, which served to free him up to write about his dad. To help you, the listener, loosen up, here are two prompt ideas. Body Odor or Menstrual Blood. See where that takes you. Look for past stories by Misha in previous episode (Hurricane Irma) and (Comfort Zone where he told a story about his hairy ass).Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora,  Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website. If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today’s episode we’re talking about getting out of our own way when writing a story. The writing process starts with getting the truth on paper. We write about situations or problems we’re dealing with or have dealt with, things we’re still trying to understand or resolve. The goal is getting to the reason we’re writing the story and what the story is really about. Andrea is a huge believer in writing and rewriting. That’s her process. A first draft is usually shit. Then the second draft all the way to the 222 draft, is usually still shit, but those drafts are critical for telling the story well. But with all this writing and rewriting, we can get in our own way. In this episode, you'll hear student Misha Mehrel’s story Bad Breath. Misha brought this piece to class a couple of weeks ago and it needed very little editing. You will hear an interview with Misha about his writing process. Misha was wary of writing about his father’s cancer diagnosis. What he did instead was start by writing about physical problems that had been bothering him. He wrote graphically and intimately about his breath and bowel movements, which served to free him up to write about his dad. To help you, the listener, loosen up, here are two prompt ideas. Body Odor or Menstrual Blood. See where that takes you. Look for past stories by Misha in previous episode (Hurricane Irma) and (Comfort Zone where he told a story about his hairy ass).Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>,  <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website. If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>. See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

39: Get Out of Your Way and Write

Writing is a gift of yourself. It should give the reader or listener a glimpse inside. It should be something true and new and vulnerable. In a story, we reveal ourselves through voice. What we mean by voice in a story is the tone, the mood, and the personality of the narrator. Voice can be created by word choice, sentence structure, and even punctuation. The way someone tells a story out loud plays a big role in how we receive the story, but in today’s episode, we are talking about voice as it appears on the page. We’re also talking about what happens in life when you lose your voice. Finding your voice is the most important element in storytelling. You should write like you speak because that’s what makes your story yours, and it helps the listener or reader connect with you. If you don’t use your true voice then your story doesn’t sound true. To avoid sounding fake, think of one person who knows you well. and write to that person. You’ll hear stories from Allison Langer, Lia Seirotti and Missy Hernandez. Their word choices, and their familiar tones reveal so much about each narrator. Missy’s story also shows what happens when you lose your voice, and not because of laryngitis. Someone got into her brain and she lost her sense of self. Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website.If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Writing is a gift of yourself. It should give the reader or listener a glimpse inside. It should be something true and new and vulnerable. In a story, we reveal ourselves through voice. What we mean by voice in a story is the tone, the mood, and the personality of the narrator. Voice can be created by word choice, sentence structure, and even punctuation. The way someone tells a story out loud plays a big role in how we receive the story, but in today’s episode, we are talking about voice as it appears on the page. We’re also talking about what happens in life when you lose your voice. Finding your voice is the most important element in storytelling. You should write like you speak because that’s what makes your story yours, and it helps the listener or reader connect with you. If you don’t use your true voice then your story doesn’t sound true. To avoid sounding fake, think of one person who knows you well. and write to that person. You’ll hear stories from Allison Langer, Lia Seirotti and Missy Hernandez. Their word choices, and their familiar tones reveal so much about each narrator. Missy’s story also shows what happens when you lose your voice, and not because of laryngitis. Someone got into her brain and she lost her sense of self. Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website.If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>. See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

43: Voices in Your Head

How should a story be structured? Start from the very beginning by using the concept of story spine. Story spine, a technique articulated by the playwright Ken Adams, is the backbone of every traditional story. In this episode, Allison uses the story spine to write about her return to dating after having children on her own. Inessa writes about a date that goes wrong and Jahn uses this structure to tell stories about the first time he got a boner. In each story, the story spine structure brings clarity to the writer and makes the story easy for the listener to follow. Andrea uses her own life as an example of why she fell in love with the story spine and why you will too. Witness the creation of these stories as you learn a new (old) way to structure your own. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Tobi Ash and Alejandro Santiago for help on this episode.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How should a story be structured? Start from the very beginning by using the concept of story spine. Story spine, a technique articulated by the playwright Ken Adams, is the backbone of every traditional story. In this episode, Allison uses the story spine to write about her return to dating after having children on her own. Inessa writes about a date that goes wrong and Jahn uses this structure to tell stories about the first time he got a boner. In each story, the story spine structure brings clarity to the writer and makes the story easy for the listener to follow. Andrea uses her own life as an example of why she fell in love with the story spine and why you will too. Witness the creation of these stories as you learn a new (old) way to structure your own. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Tobi Ash and Alejandro Santiago for help on this episode.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

7: Story Structure Is Sexy

Danny and Bo reveal the lies they've told, especially to themselves. And then the fallout. Danny falls in love with two women but neither knows about the other. Everyone is happy, until he hears a knock at the door. Bo admits to his many sexual encounters with women, sometimes in the same day; all an attempt to cure himself from being gay. Andrea talks about the importance of feedback and encourages the listener to find a writing group. She says feedback can be delicate, especially with any new writing and reveals her own difficulty receiving feedback, especially positive feedback as it poured in about this podcast. She talks about how important it is for students to resist the urge to comment on student's lives--as much as we want to say, "Dude, don't have sex with women who aren't your girlfriend!"--and to keep the feedback specific to the writing. And she encourages you to go to writingclassradio.com, or our Twitter or FB page and pick a daily prompt, set a timer and write. If you like what you wrote, Andrea says, "Keep going with that." Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Danny and Bo reveal the lies they've told, especially to themselves. And then the fallout. Danny falls in love with two women but neither knows about the other. Everyone is happy, until he hears a knock at the door. Bo admits to his many sexual encounters with women, sometimes in the same day; all an attempt to cure himself from being gay. Andrea talks about the importance of feedback and encourages the listener to find a writing group. She says feedback can be delicate, especially with any new writing and reveals her own difficulty receiving feedback, especially positive feedback as it poured in about this podcast. She talks about how important it is for students to resist the urge to comment on student's lives--as much as we want to say, "Dude, don't have sex with women who aren't your girlfriend!"--and to keep the feedback specific to the writing. And she encourages you to go to <a href="http://writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">writingclassradio.com</a>, or our Twitter or FB page and pick a daily prompt, set a timer and write. If you like what you wrote, Andrea says, "Keep going with that." <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

5: The Lies We Tell

Dani Shapiro

We recorded this show from Miami and Madrid. If you are new to Writing Class Radio, welcome. Today on our show, we have the brilliant and generous Dani Shapiro, author of five novels and five memoirs, plus thousands of essays and a podcast called Family Secrets. A few years ago, Andrea sat down with Dani and talked about thinking like a writer, repeating themes in writing, figuring out what a story is about, and the conflicts all writers face, especially mothers, in revealing other people’s stories. Dani Shapiro also reads a story published in the New York Times Book Review in 2013 that we adore. It’s called The Me My Child Mustn’t Know.Dani Shapiro’s newest memoir, Inheritance is one of our favorite memoirs. In her early 50s, Dani found out her father was not her biological father. Inheritance is a thrilling page-turner. Click here to buy it. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by The Launchpad at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by Christine Corey. Additional music is by Emia and Podington Bear.There’s more writing class on our website (www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/), Instagram and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. You can buy one for $20 or all three videos for $50. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on Patreon. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s submissions support conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. Go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio or click here to support us.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We recorded this show from Miami and Madrid. If you are new to Writing Class Radio, welcome. Today on our show, we have the brilliant and generous <a href="https://danishapiro.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dani Shapiro</a>, author of five novels and five memoirs, plus thousands of essays and a podcast called Family Secrets. A few years ago, Andrea sat down with Dani and talked about thinking like a writer, repeating themes in writing, figuring out what a story is about, and the conflicts all writers face, especially mothers, in revealing other people’s stories. Dani Shapiro also reads a story published in the New York Times Book Review in 2013 that we adore. It’s called The Me My Child Mustn’t Know.Dani Shapiro’s newest memoir, <a href="https://shop.booksandbooks.com/search/site/Inheritance" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Inheritance</a> is one of our favorite memoirs. In her early 50s, Dani found out her father was not her biological father. Inheritance is a thrilling page-turner. Click <a href="https://shop.booksandbooks.com/search/site/Inheritance" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> to buy it. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by <a href="http://thelaunchpad.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Launchpad</a> at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by <a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/ChristineCorey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christine Corey</a>. Additional music is by Emia and Podington Bear.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> (<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>), <a href="https://www.instagram.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. You can buy one for $20 or all three videos for $50. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s submissions support conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. Go to <a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a> or <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here to support us.</a>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

74: Think Like a Writer with Dani Shapiro

Andrea follows Inessa to the fertility clinic early one morning as she goes through the process of harvesting her eggs, an undertaking not entirely of her doing. We heard in the second episode that Mama put down $10,000 toward the procedure. Inessa paid the remaining $2,000. Turns out Inessa is not the only one in class who has or is currently going about having children without getting knocked up.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Andrea follows Inessa to the fertility clinic early one morning as she goes through the process of harvesting her eggs, an undertaking not entirely of her doing. We heard in the second episode that Mama put down $10,000 toward the procedure. Inessa paid the remaining $2,000. Turns out Inessa is not the only one in class who has or is currently going about having children without getting knocked up.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>. See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

4: Field Trip to the Fertility Clinic. Freezing Eggs at 6 a.m.

Today we give you Wendi Adelson the way she revealed herself in the first semester. Andrea talks about hot topic, cold prose, a writing technique where the narrator pares down the writing in a difficult moment. The story is told without sentiment. It’s just reported. Two weeks into the semester, Wendi came back with some of the answers to students’ questions. In her first story she hinted at not feeling like she can publicly express how she really feels, a theme she repeated in the next story. In her writing though, she seems to express how she really feels. Wendi responds to the prompt: What is the story you tell about your relationship with your mom? Sometimes prompts bring up memories we don’t consciously realize are still affecting us. In response to the prompt Lies, Wendi realizes people think she’s happy even when she’s not. And later in the same class Wendi responds to the prompt: Your last intimate moment.Andrea says, “I think Wendi’s working on a bigger story. More than just what happened, which was that her ex-husband was murdered. Her bigger story is about what it means for her to be authentic. Wendi writes a lot about how people react when they hear her story. She also writes about her own reactions--how she wishes she could be as true in person as she is in her writing.” Andrea spoke to Wendi about her experience in class. Wendi said she felt good about the classes’ reaction. She says she felt empowered to tell her side of the story. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Tobi Ash and Alejandro Santiago for your help on this episode.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we give you Wendi Adelson the way she revealed herself in the first semester. Andrea talks about hot topic, cold prose, a writing technique where the narrator pares down the writing in a difficult moment. The story is told without sentiment. It’s just reported. Two weeks into the semester, Wendi came back with some of the answers to students’ questions. In her first story she hinted at not feeling like she can publicly express how she really feels, a theme she repeated in the next story. In her writing though, she seems to express how she really feels. Wendi responds to the prompt: What is the story you tell about your relationship with your mom? Sometimes prompts bring up memories we don’t consciously realize are still affecting us. In response to the prompt Lies, Wendi realizes people think she’s happy even when she’s not. And later in the same class Wendi responds to the prompt: Your last intimate moment.Andrea says, “I think Wendi’s working on a bigger story. More than just what happened, which was that her ex-husband was murdered. Her bigger story is about what it means for her to be authentic. Wendi writes a lot about how people react when they hear her story. She also writes about her own reactions--how she wishes she could be as true in person as she is in her writing.” Andrea spoke to Wendi about her experience in class. Wendi said she felt good about the classes’ reaction. She says she felt empowered to tell her side of the story. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Tobi Ash and Alejandro Santiago for your help on this episode.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

6: Wendi Tells the Story of her Ex-husband’s Murder. Writing Is an Exercise in Trust.

November is #NaNoWriMo (https://nanowrimo.org/), and we have executive director, Grant Faulkner (http://www.grantfaulkner.com/), on our show.Today we’re talking about novels because we go both ways. And also because storytelling principles are the same when writing fiction or nonfiction. Get inspired and join millions of people around the world who are racing to finish a book this month. Allison’s in the race.Grant is the Executive Director of National Novel Writing Month and the author of “Pep Talks For Writers. 52 Insights and Actions to Boost Your Creative Mojo.” Among other things, Faulkner talks about the importance of what you wear when you write, making time to write, and knowing thyself. You’ll hear from students Aaron Curtis and Liz Marquardt and producer Virginia Lora. They responded to one of Grant’s writing tips, You are what you wear. You will also hear from Mike Gonzalez, a student in the class Allison teaches at the Dade Correctional Institution as a facilitator for Exchange for Change (http://www.exchange-for-change.org/).Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio. If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website.If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.Thanks to Matt Cundill from Matt Cundill Voiceovers for reading Mike’s story. If you need a voice (male or female) for your radio project or podcast contact Matt. (http://www.mattcundill.ca/)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

November is #<a href="https://www.nanowrimo.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NaNoWriMo</a> (<a href="https://nanowrimo.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://nanowrimo.org/</a>), and we have executive director, <a href="http://grantfaulkner.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grant Faulkner</a> (<a href="http://www.grantfaulkner.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.grantfaulkner.com/</a>), on our show.Today we’re talking about novels because we go both ways. And also because storytelling principles are the same when writing fiction or nonfiction. Get inspired and join millions of people around the world who are racing to finish a book this month. Allison’s in the race.Grant is the Executive Director of National Novel Writing Month and the author of “Pep Talks For Writers. 52 Insights and Actions to Boost Your Creative Mojo.” Among other things, Faulkner talks about the importance of what you wear when you write, making time to write, and knowing thyself. You’ll hear from students Aaron Curtis and Liz Marquardt and producer Virginia Lora. They responded to one of Grant’s writing tips, You are what you wear. You will also hear from Mike Gonzalez, a student in the class Allison teaches at the Dade Correctional Institution as a facilitator for <a href="https://www.exchange-for-change.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Exchange for Change</a> (<a href="http://www.exchange-for-change.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.exchange-for-change.org/</a>).Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio. If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website.If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.Thanks to Matt Cundill from <a href="http://www.mattcundill.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Cundill Voiceovers</a> for reading Mike’s story. If you need a voice (male or female) for your radio project or podcast contact Matt. (<a href="http://www.mattcundill.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.mattcundill.ca/</a>)See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

37: Ready to Write that Memoir or Novel? Nov. is National Novel Writing Month

On this episode, we talk about procrastination. We also talk about speaking directly to the reader from a place of experience. And giving advice, which is really hard in a story and in life. If you're willing to be vulnerable, you can do it. We’re starting with a story by Jenni Berrett called You Aren’t Lazy--You’re Just Terrified: On Paralysis and Perfectionism. Jenni is a columnist at Ravishly, an online magazine that celebrates the mess of being human. Her story is relevant to all of us messy humans, especially the messy writers among us. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories from the students in our class and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in. Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Writing Class Radio is sponsored by The Launchpad at The University of Miami which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. This episode is also sponsored by the podcast, Made Visible. Made Visible is hosted by Harper Spero who struggles with a hidden illness. She uses her podcast to bring other people’s hidden illnesses to light. This episode is also sponsored by Allison Langer, writing coach and editor. Theme music is by Justina Shandler. Additional music is by Podington Bear. You can find all our music on our website. There’s more writing class on our website (www.writingclassradio.com), twitter (@wrtgclassradio) and Facebook. Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay! If you want to be a part of the movement that brings people together through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode, we talk about procrastination. We also talk about speaking directly to the reader from a place of experience. And giving advice, which is really hard in a story and in life. If you're willing to be vulnerable, you can do it. We’re starting with a story by <a href="http://www.jenniberrett.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jenni Berrett</a> called You Aren’t Lazy--You’re Just Terrified: On Paralysis and Perfectionism. Jenni is a columnist at <a href="https://www.ravishly.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ravishly</a>, an online magazine that celebrates the mess of being human. Her story is relevant to all of us messy humans, especially the messy writers among us. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories from the students in our class and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in. Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Writing Class Radio is sponsored by <a href="http://thelaunchpad.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Launchpad</a> at The University of Miami which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. This episode is also sponsored by the podcast, <a href="https://harperspero.com/madevisible" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Made Visible</a>. Made Visible is hosted by <a href="https://harperspero.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Harper Spero</a> who struggles with a hidden illness. She uses her podcast to bring other people’s hidden illnesses to light. This episode is also sponsored by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a>, writing coach and editor. Theme music is by<a href="http://www.justinashandler.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Justina Shandler.</a> Additional music is by Podington Bear. You can find all our music on our website. There’s more writing class on our<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> website</a> (<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio) and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay! If you want to be a part of the movement that brings people together through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

61: How to Stop Procrastinating and Write Your Story

Joyce Maynard

The format for this episode is a little different. Today we’re bringing you a guest teacher, because we think it’s smart to get different perspectives. Joyce Maynard is one of Andrea’s favorite teachers in the world. Joyce has 17 books and has been writing for 50 years. She started when since she was 13. Andrea asked Joyce to read and deconstruct her essay, Letting it Fly which was originally published in 1997 in the New York Times Lives Column. In the interview, Joyce explains what goes into writing a great story and tells us her secrets to making a good essay great. Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio. If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story. Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora,  Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? and enjoy our craft talks. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The format for this episode is a little different. Today we’re bringing you a guest teacher, because we think it’s smart to get different perspectives. <a href="https://www.joycemaynard.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joyce Maynard</a> is one of Andrea’s favorite teachers in the world. Joyce has 17 books and has been writing for 50 years. She started when since she was 13. Andrea asked Joyce to read and deconstruct her essay, Letting it Fly which was originally published in 1997 in the New York Times Lives Column. In the interview, Joyce explains what goes into writing a great story and tells us her secrets to making a good essay great. Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio. If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story. Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>,  <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? and enjoy our craft talks. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

30: How to Write Your True Story with Joyce Maynard

On this episode, we’re talking about creating a likable narrator. The narrator is the I in the story. It’s YOU. We see this a lot with beginner writers and we probably did this too, and that is tell a story about a time we were the hero. Sad truth: no one wants to hear how great you are. This is true in life too. What people connect to in stories and in life are times when you’re vulnerable. This is counterintuitive because everyone wants to show a good face, but we connect to a narrator who’s willing to admit something ugly. By “ugly” we mean the stuff you don’t want people to know. Stuff like, when you were a jealous bitch. When you lost your moral compass. When you were mean to your kids. The truths you spend most of your days covering up. To find the ugly in your story, tell the truth, without leaving out all the good shit out. Here are five ways: Dig deep. Admit something you haven’t told anyone. Look at yourself from your partner or kids' or best friend’s point of view. Always be the biggest asshole in your story. Use self deprecation. Student, Misha Mehrel shows that being a dick is a sure way to be a likable narrator. Misha told a stunning story in our last episode. Student Karen Collazo also shows that even admitting to being a potential thief--because she’s admitting the truth--makes you a likable narrator. Allison Langer also proves to be a likable narrator in a stunningly honest story called Ungrateful Little Piece of Shit. Announcement: Andrea is teaching How to Tell Your Story as part of CreativeLive’s Writing Week. You can watch live and for free on January 15, 2018 at noon Eastern. If you miss the live stream, catch her 90 minute class any time on CreativeLive.com Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Misha Mehrel, Virginia Lora,  Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website. If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode, we’re talking about creating a likable narrator. The narrator is the I in the story. It’s YOU. We see this a lot with beginner writers and we probably did this too, and that is tell a story about a time we were the hero. Sad truth: no one wants to hear how great you are. This is true in life too. What people connect to in stories and in life are times when you’re vulnerable. This is counterintuitive because everyone wants to show a good face, but we connect to a narrator who’s willing to admit something ugly. By “ugly” we mean the stuff you don’t want people to know. Stuff like, when you were a jealous bitch. When you lost your moral compass. When you were mean to your kids. The truths you spend most of your days covering up. To find the ugly in your story, tell the truth, without leaving out all the good shit out. Here are five ways: Dig deep. Admit something you haven’t told anyone. Look at yourself from your partner or kids' or best friend’s point of view. Always be the biggest asshole in your story. Use self deprecation. Student, Misha Mehrel shows that being a dick is a sure way to be a likable narrator. Misha told a stunning story in our last episode. Student Karen Collazo also shows that even admitting to being a potential thief--because she’s admitting the truth--makes you a likable narrator. Allison Langer also proves to be a likable narrator in a stunningly honest story called Ungrateful Little Piece of Shit. Announcement: Andrea is teaching How to Tell Your Story as part of CreativeLive’s Writing Week. You can watch live and for free on January 15, 2018 at noon Eastern. If you miss the live stream, catch her 90 minute class any time on <a href="http://CreativeLive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CreativeLive.com</a> Thank you for listening to Writing Class Radio.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Misha Mehrel, <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>,  <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).If you have a business or a startup and need help telling your story, Andrea will come to your office and teach all your employees how to better articulate why they do what they do. Do it! Stories sell. Allison will come to your retreat and help guests write through their shit so they can live free and happier. Or, hire her to help your high schooler refine his/her college essay.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio). You can make writing a daily practice. We have a growing community of listeners who respond to our daily prompts and give feedback to each other. Join the party. Click on Daily Prompts on our website. If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

40: Likable Narrator: Be the Biggest Asshole in the Story

We’re talking about stakes. And we don’t mean those slabs of meat you eat if you’re not a vegetarian, but what makes a listener or a reader care about a story. And we’re talking about what we have to lose as storytellers when we tell our stories. One thing we know about memoir writing is that the narrator lived to tell the tale. So if we know the narrator lived, why do we care? The job of storytellers is to make us care. Andrea talks about a writing webinar with Lea Thau, host and producer of Strangers, http://www.storycentral.org/strangers/. Lea describes how the written story is different than the event that actually happened. There's the situation and what the story is about. The most pointed way to figure out what the story is about, is to ask: What’s at stake? What is there to be lost or won? The biggest mistake people make is thinking that a dramatic experience equals a story. Andrea uses a personal example to illustrate this point. While Andrea was giving her vows, her uncle Bob went down. She realized that nobody was listening and then saw a man on the ground. The wedding went on, Bob survived, but no one heard her vows. The situation is that Bob went down but the real story, what was at stake was whether or not Andrea felt heard. We discuss what the students in Writing Class Radio have to lose by telling their stories. In Episode 3, Allison told a story, which implicates her mom. And her mom got pissed. And Danny dropped out. Sometimes we don’t know what’s at stake in telling our stories. That for some, there are real risks. But in the end, we think not telling our stories is riskier. We take you into class where Inessa struggles with how she wants to live without hiding. Inessa’s afraid to look bad, but she knows that hiding is worse. That’s her conflict. Those are the stakes. So we’re rooting for her. Go Inessa. You can do this. You also hear Wendi in response to the prompt: What Do You Have to Lose? And Terry tells us how her friend Fred’s death sparked the fear of losing all the people who share her past. Inessa tells a longer story about holding out for true love. Her mama describes her own life at Inessa’s age (40) and how Inessa’s life falls short of mama’s expectations. Mama wants a wedding and a baby. Her papa’s 20-year-old suit is still hanging in the closet waiting for that special day. Will Inessa continue to follow her own heart? Will she ever please her parents?You will hear a story by Christopher Alonso, a listener in Ohio, in response to the prompt: A time I fucked up.Coming up in the next episode: Andrea tells her story about the time she challenged herself to go 24 hours without talking about herself. And you’ll hear Jahn Dope’s story about being a 250 pound black man in a very vulnerable position. The episode is about writing a story meant to be told out loud.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Wendy Pomeranz and Tobi Ash for your help on this podcast.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re talking about stakes. And we don’t mean those slabs of meat you eat if you’re not a vegetarian, but what makes a listener or a reader care about a story. And we’re talking about what we have to lose as storytellers when we tell our stories. One thing we know about memoir writing is that the narrator lived to tell the tale. So if we know the narrator lived, why do we care? The job of storytellers is to make us care. Andrea talks about a writing webinar with Lea Thau, host and producer of Strangers, <a href="http://www.storycentral.org/strangers/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.storycentral.org/strangers/</a>. Lea describes how the written story is different than the event that actually happened. There's the situation and what the story is about. The most pointed way to figure out what the story is about, is to ask: What’s at stake? What is there to be lost or won? The biggest mistake people make is thinking that a dramatic experience equals a story. Andrea uses a personal example to illustrate this point. While Andrea was giving her vows, her uncle Bob went down. She realized that nobody was listening and then saw a man on the ground. The wedding went on, Bob survived, but no one heard her vows. The situation is that Bob went down but the real story, what was at stake was whether or not Andrea felt heard. We discuss what the students in Writing Class Radio have to lose by telling their stories. In Episode 3, Allison told a story, which implicates her mom. And her mom got pissed. And Danny dropped out. Sometimes we don’t know what’s at stake in telling our stories. That for some, there are real risks. But in the end, we think not telling our stories is riskier. We take you into class where Inessa struggles with how she wants to live without hiding. Inessa’s afraid to look bad, but she knows that hiding is worse. That’s her conflict. Those are the stakes. So we’re rooting for her. Go Inessa. You can do this. You also hear Wendi in response to the prompt: What Do You Have to Lose? And Terry tells us how her friend Fred’s death sparked the fear of losing all the people who share her past. Inessa tells a longer story about holding out for true love. Her mama describes her own life at Inessa’s age (40) and how Inessa’s life falls short of mama’s expectations. Mama wants a wedding and a baby. Her papa’s 20-year-old suit is still hanging in the closet waiting for that special day. Will Inessa continue to follow her own heart? Will she ever please her parents?You will hear a story by Christopher Alonso, a listener in Ohio, in response to the prompt: A time I fucked up.Coming up in the next episode: Andrea tells her story about the time she challenged herself to go 24 hours without talking about herself. And you’ll hear Jahn Dope’s story about being a 250 pound black man in a very vulnerable position. The episode is about writing a story meant to be told out loud.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. Thank you to Wendy Pomeranz and Tobi Ash for your help on this podcast.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>. See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

9: Who Cares About Your Story? What Are the Stakes?

Today on our show, we’re talking to Lilly Dancyger, an editor at Catapult, among many things. She’s also a freelance editor at Narratively and Barrelhouse Books, a memoir writing teacher, writer, curator of Memoir Monday, and the editor of the just-released anthology called Burn It Down. We talked to her about what she’s looking for in an essay, and how to successfully pitch to Narratively and Catapult. Read this before you submit to Lilly or anywhere. Ariel Henley reads her essay called There’s a Mathematical Equation that Proves I’m Ugly--Or So I Learned in My Seventh Grade Art Class, which was published in Narratively. Lilly tells us why she chose Ariel’s essay.And because Ariel’s essay spawned a book deal, we got Ariel on the phone to talk about how she went from idea, to essay, to publication, to agent, to published book. This episode is an inspiration to anyone looking to write their stories. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by The Launchpad at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by Christine Corey. Additional music is by Justina Shandler, Ari Herstand, Andi G. Cohen, and Podington Bear.There’s more writing class on our website (www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/), Instagram and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. You get three videos for $50. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on Patreon. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s submissions conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. Go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio or click here to support us.Click to Join our camo-elephant hat project. Get an elephant hat for all the elephants (people who support you/people you love) in your life or make a donation to The Pink Wig Project.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on our show, we’re talking to<a href="https://www.lillydancyger.com/about-contact/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Lilly Dancyger</a>, an editor at <a href="https://catapult.co/stories/15458-dangerous-desire-on-killing-eve-and-finding-space-for-queerness-in-a-straight-passing-relationship-lilly-dancyger" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Catapult</a>, among many things. She’s also a freelance editor at <a href="https://narratively.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Narratively</a> and <a href="https://www.barrelhousemag.com/books" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barrelhouse Books</a>, a memoir writing teacher, writer, curator of Memoir Monday, and the editor of the just-released anthology called <a href="https://shop.booksandbooks.com/book/9781580058933" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Burn It Down</a>. We talked to her about what she’s looking for in an essay, and how to successfully pitch to Narratively and Catapult. Read <a href="https://medium.com/@lillydancyger/how-to-pitch-narratively-memoir-f925bf0b05cb" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this</a> before you submit to Lilly or anywhere. <a href="https://www.arielhenley.com/about" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ariel Henley</a> reads her essay called <a href="https://narratively.com/theres-a-mathematical-equation-that-proves-im-ugly-or-so-i-learned-in-my-seventh-grade-art-class/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">There’s a Mathematical Equation that Proves I’m Ugly--Or So I Learned in My Seventh Grade Art Class</a>, which was published in Narratively. Lilly tells us why she chose Ariel’s essay.And because Ariel’s essay spawned a book deal, we got Ariel on the phone to talk about how she went from idea, to essay, to publication, to agent, to published book. This episode is an inspiration to anyone looking to write their stories. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by <a href="http://thelaunchpad.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Launchpad</a> at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by <a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/ChristineCorey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christine Corey</a>. Additional music is by <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Justina Shandler, Ari Herstand, Andi G. Cohen, and Podington Bear.</a>There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> (<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>), <a href="https://www.instagram.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. You get three videos for $50. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s submissions conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. Go to <a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a> or <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here to support us.</a><a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/camo-elephant-project" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click to Join our camo-elephant hat project</a>. Get an elephant hat for all the elephants (people who support you/people you love) in your life or make a donation to <a href="https://www.pinkwigproject.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Pink Wig Project</a>. See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

75: How to Go From Idea to Published Essay to Book Deal

In this episode, student and co-producer Allison Langer puts herself out there in writing and in love. The first story she tells was submitted to Modern Love, a column in the New York Times. Allison’s story got rejected, which is the subject of the second story she tells. Also in the second story, Allison compares the Modern Love rejection to rejection in love. Allison shares her motto for dealing with rejection. A motto she borrowed from author Cheryl Strayed. You’ll also hear Andrea discuss her current rejection and why she puts herself out there. Like most of us, Andrea wants connection and love. Inessa, a student from Season 1, tells a story about the time she missed a bus to an audition when she was nine years old. Inessa is 40 now, but she still wonders what would have become of her had she been on that bus. Here’s the thing: If you want to get published, you have to risk rejection. If you want love, you have to risk rejection. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Misha Mehrel. Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, student and co-producer Allison Langer puts herself out there in writing and in love. The first story she tells was submitted to Modern Love, a column in the New York Times. Allison’s story got rejected, which is the subject of the second story she tells. Also in the second story, Allison compares the Modern Love rejection to rejection in love. Allison shares her motto for dealing with rejection. A motto she borrowed from author Cheryl Strayed. You’ll also hear Andrea discuss her current rejection and why she puts herself out there. Like most of us, Andrea wants connection and love. Inessa, a student from Season 1, tells a story about the time she missed a bus to an audition when she was nine years old. Inessa is 40 now, but she still wonders what would have become of her had she been on that bus. Here’s the thing: If you want to get published, you have to risk rejection. If you want love, you have to risk rejection. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Misha Mehrel. Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

13: Rejection Sucks. Why Do We Put Ourselves Out There?

Details matter. Details bring the reader/listener into a world they may know nothing about. They help us trust the narrator. The more specific the details; the more universal the story. In this episode we bring you a story by Inessa Freylekhman. She’s a Feng Shui expert, speaker, spiritual counselor and author. Inessa uses details well throughout her story, but there is one specific detail that exemplifies the type of detail we’re always looking for. Listen for it. To help you get specific in your own stories, ask yourself: Like what?Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by The Launchpad at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. This episode is also sponsored by the podcast, Made Visible, hosted by Harper Spero who struggles with a hidden illness. She uses her podcast to bring other people’s hidden illnesses to light.Theme music is by Justina Shandler. Additional music is by Podington Bear. There’s more writing class on our website (www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. For the month of April 2019, you get three videos for the price of two. That’s $40 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Details matter. Details bring the reader/listener into a world they may know nothing about. They help us trust the narrator. The more specific the details; the more universal the story. In this episode we bring you a story by <a href="http://www.fengshuifromtheheart.com/inessa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Inessa Freylekhman</a>. She’s a Feng Shui expert, speaker, spiritual counselor and author. Inessa uses details well throughout her story, but there is one specific detail that exemplifies the type of detail we’re always looking for. Listen for it. To help you get specific in your own stories, ask yourself: Like what?<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by <a href="http://thelaunchpad.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Launchpad</a> at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. This episode is also sponsored by the podcast, <a href="https://harperspero.com/madevisible" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Made Visible</a>, hosted by <a href="https://harperspero.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Harper Spero</a> who struggles with a hidden illness. She uses her podcast to bring other people’s hidden illnesses to light.Theme music is by<a href="http://www.justinashandler.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Justina Shandler.</a> Additional music is by Podington Bear. There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> (<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. For the month of April 2019, you get three videos for the price of two. That’s $40 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

62: The Devil's in the Details

This episode is about connecting through writing. It’s also about the job of storytellers to bring us into their world. New student, Nilsa Rivera, tells a story about her fear of isolation, which stems from a very unique set of circumstances--she’s hard of hearing. She uses writing to fight that fear. Andrea relates to Nilsa in a very small way and emails her after class, which she immediately regrets doing. In class, students (and teacher) are only allowed to give feedback on the writing, not someone’s life because whether or not a reader or listener has had the exact same experience is irrelevant. What readers relate to is the emotion. When a story is well-told anyone can relate. You will hear how Nilsa felt about Andrea’s email and more about what it sounds like to be hard of hearing. Thank you for listening. If you love this podcast, tell your friends.  Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Virginia Lora,  Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com).Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? and enjoy our craft talks. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode is about connecting through writing. It’s also about the job of storytellers to bring us into their world. New student, Nilsa Rivera, tells a story about her fear of isolation, which stems from a very unique set of circumstances--she’s hard of hearing. She uses writing to fight that fear. Andrea relates to Nilsa in a very small way and emails her after class, which she immediately regrets doing. In class, students (and teacher) are only allowed to give feedback on the writing, not someone’s life because whether or not a reader or listener has had the exact same experience is irrelevant. What readers relate to is the emotion. When a story is well-told anyone can relate. You will hear how Nilsa felt about Andrea’s email and more about what it sounds like to be hard of hearing. Thank you for listening. If you love this podcast, tell your friends. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>,  <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>).Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? and enjoy our craft talks. There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

29: Can You Hear Me if I Can't Hear You?

Today our show is going to be a little different because shit just got really real. Three weeks ago, Allison was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer. In this episode, we share the stories we wrote about this situation. We are treating this episode as if we’re in writing class by sharing our own writing and critiquing it, because writing and sharing and then getting and giving feedback is how we deal with whatever's going on in our lives. We thought writing and critiquing would help us process what’s going on. We hope that hearing our stories will motivate you to write and stay connected to the people you love while you go through your own shit.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Virginia Lora, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by The Launchpad at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by Christine Corey. There’s more writing class on our website (www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/), Instagram and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. Through summer 2019, you get three videos for the price of two. That’s $40 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on Patreon. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s publishing conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. This takes place via Zoom, so anyone can join from anywhere in the world. Go to www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio or click here to join.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today our show is going to be a little different because shit just got really real. Three weeks ago, Allison was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer. In this episode, we share the stories we wrote about this situation. We are treating this episode as if we’re in writing class by sharing our own writing and critiquing it, because writing and sharing and then getting and giving feedback is how we deal with whatever's going on in our lives. We thought writing and critiquing would help us process what’s going on. We hope that hearing our stories will motivate you to write and stay connected to the people you love while you go through your own shit.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are. There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by <a href="https://www.virginialora.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virginia Lora</a>, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer and sponsored by <a href="http://thelaunchpad.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Launchpad</a> at The University of Miami, which aims to make the practice of entrepreneurship available to all students and alumni. Theme music is by <a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/ChristineCorey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christine Corey</a>. There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> (<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>), <a href="https://www.instagram.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. Through summer 2019, you get three videos for the price of two. That’s $40 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, we’ve made it easy for you to get involved. We are now on <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patreon</a>. For $10/month you can join Andrea’s publishing conversation. We’ll support each other as we try to get our stories published. For $25/month you can join Allison’s weekly writers lunch, where you can write and share your work. This takes place via Zoom, so anyone can join from anywhere in the world. Go to <a href="http://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.Patreon.com/writingclassradio</a> or <a href="https://www.patreon.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here to join.</a> See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

73: How to Write When Shit Gets Real

Elizabeth Gilbert

The words we say to each other and ourselves shape our lives. One of Andrea’s favorite writing tenets is: Make every word count. In today’s episode we learn that every word counts in life also. This is the first episode of our second semester and we have some new students. You’ll hear Missy Hernandez tell her story called Words. Her story is about sharing words with her hero Elizabeth Gilbert of Eat Pray Love. Missy ended up on Gilbert’s Podcast, Magic Lessons. Hear how Lizzy’s words brought Missy back to life. Misha Mehrel, also a new student tells a story called Fighting Words about how words can trigger repressed emotion. We also bring you a response from a writing prompt by Rebeca Ruiz, a student in one of Andrea’s community workshops. Her story is about a single word, NO. Her parents said “no” to her when she wanted to go to New World School of the Arts and killed her creativity. Until now. Hear what tips Andrea gives Rebeca to make her story stronger. Here’s the prompt for this episode: A time words changed your life. Follow our daily prompts. Record your story and email to info@writingclassradio.com.Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Wilson Sayre, Misha Mehrel and Miriam Herman.Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The words we say to each other and ourselves shape our lives. One of Andrea’s favorite writing tenets is: Make every word count. In today’s episode we learn that every word counts in life also. This is the first episode of our second semester and we have some new students. You’ll hear Missy Hernandez tell her story called Words. Her story is about sharing words with her hero Elizabeth Gilbert of Eat Pray Love. Missy ended up on Gilbert’s Podcast, Magic Lessons. Hear how Lizzy’s words brought Missy back to life. Misha Mehrel, also a new student tells a story called Fighting Words about how words can trigger repressed emotion. We also bring you a response from a writing prompt by Rebeca Ruiz, a student in one of Andrea’s community workshops. Her story is about a single word, NO. Her parents said “no” to her when she wanted to go to New World School of the Arts and killed her creativity. Until now. Hear what tips Andrea gives Rebeca to make her story stronger. Here’s the prompt for this episode: A time words changed your life. Follow our daily prompts. Record your story and email to info@writingclassradio.com.<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Wilson Sayre, Misha Mehrel and Miriam Herman.Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

11: Words Matter: Student Missy Shares Words with her Hero Elizabeth Gilbert

In this episode, we discuss what is taboo. Is it a word, a topic? Is it the same for everyone? We learn why we need to talk about things considered taboo, and when to actually write taboo words instead of referring to them. You’ll hear from Inessa Freylekhman who’s mom tells her what not to say on a date. You’ll also hear from Nicki Post, who feels that abortion is more taboo in the United States than in Korea. We’ll also take you into our community workshop where several new students write after given the prompt: Pussy. Also, Sallye Zilberstein and Mary Parker share stories about subjects that feel taboo to them. And in honor of International Masturbation Month, Allison reveals her masturbation story. Andrea offers insight into when it’s ok to use words like fuck and pussy in a story and when using taboo words is just distracting. Writing Class Radio is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by Allison Langer (www.allisonlanger.com) and Andrea Askowitz (www.andreaaskowitz.com). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Misha Mehrel and Sonesh Chainani. Visit our musicians page to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our website(www.writingclassradio.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/) and Twitter (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on Video Classes on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the submissions page on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we discuss what is taboo. Is it a word, a topic? Is it the same for everyone? We learn why we need to talk about things considered taboo, and when to actually write taboo words instead of referring to them. You’ll hear from Inessa Freylekhman who’s mom tells her what not to say on a date. You’ll also hear from Nicki Post, who feels that abortion is more taboo in the United States than in Korea. We’ll also take you into our community workshop where several new students write after given the prompt: Pussy. Also, Sallye Zilberstein and Mary Parker share stories about subjects that feel taboo to them. And in honor of International Masturbation Month, Allison reveals her masturbation story. Andrea offers insight into when it’s ok to use words like fuck and pussy in a story and when using taboo words is just distracting. <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writing Class Radio</a> is a podcast where you’ll hear true personal stories and learn a little about how to write your own stories. Writing Class Radio is equal parts heart and art. By heart we mean the truth in a story. By art we mean the craft of writing. No matter what’s going on in our lives, writing class is where we tell the truth. It’s where we work out our shit, and figure out who we are.There’s no place in the world like writing class and we want to bring you in.Writing Class Radio is co-hosted by <a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allison Langer</a> (<a href="http://www.allisonlanger.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.allisonlanger.com</a>) and <a href="http://andreaaskowitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Andrea Askowitz</a> (<a href="http://www.andreaaskowitz.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.andreaaskowitz.com</a>). Writing Class Radio is produced by Diego Saldana-Rojas, Andrea Askowitz and Allison Langer. This episode was produced with additional support from Misha Mehrel and Sonesh Chainani. Visit our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/musicians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musicians page</a> to learn about the talented and generous people who allowed us to use their songs.There’s more writing class on our <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>(<a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.writingclassradio.com</a>), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/writingclassradio/</a>) and <a href="https://twitter.com/wrtgclassradio" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@wrtgclassradio).If you love the lessons you get on each episode, you can get them ALL in one place--our three-part video series. $20 for one part or $50 for the series. Click on <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Classes</a> on our website.Writing Class Radio is now open to submissions from our listeners. Go to the <a href="http://www.writingclassradio.com/submissions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">submissions page</a> on our website for guidelines. We pay!If you want to be a part of the movement that helps people better understand each other through storytelling, please go to<a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=559fe3d3e4b0e14960f2a155" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> writingclassradio.com and hit the DONATE button</a>.There’s no better way to understand ourselves and each other, than by writing and sharing our stories. Everyone has a story. What’s yours? See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.

14: Taboo: Fat, Fuck, Masturbation

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