Story Nerd

For novelists, memoirists and screenwriters who want to know how stories work so they can finish their manuscripts faster, and without frustration. Each week literary editors Valerie Francis and Melanie Hill explain the craft of storytelling using films as examples. The goal is simple: to learn from writers who have come before us...what worked well and what didn't work so well. If you want to spend more time writing your book/screenplay and less time studying story theory, this podcast is for you."The only thing that matters, and that ever will matter, is the story. That's it." - Tom Hanks (Oxford Union 2024)

Recent Episodes

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Recent Reviews

RosemariB

Real writers’ resource

Excellent!
MerryBross

An Education on Storytelling

This is one of the best podcasts I’ve heard on storytelling. They break it down so that it’s easy to understand. I’ve learned so much from the hosts- such professionals. My only regret is that I didn’t find them sooner. As a writer, it would’ve saved me so much time with so many mistakes I made with the craft of storytelling.
VAB1953

Excellent way to learn story structure

Their analysis of movies is so informative and I learned something new with every podcast. I like that they have themes for the season that they’re looking at and their disagreements are entertaining.
Kathmack

Great for Emerging Writers

I have studied story structure with Valerie and I credit her with getting me on track with my memoir. Each week, she and Melanie add to my knowledge in an entertaining way. The way they dissect films is quite impressive.
Paul R Worthington

Exceptional

Every week these two present a detailed analysis of a story, and provide information and enlightenment any writer can benefit from. Plus they are very friendly and charming hosts.
R.E.A-G.

Listen to this show if you’re serious about story

Valerie and Melanie talk about story and story structure in a way I have never heard in any other podcast. I’ve read and heard a ton of writing advice about character, plot, setting, etc., but these two hosts bring a degree of analysis and insight into what makes story work (or not) that truly elevates my understanding of the art. Many episodes are worth multiple listens, so if you are serious about understanding the principles of story, you should absolutely subscribe to this show.
Sat88&&

Very useful podcast and entertaining

I love this podcast. They are a great combo. Both share interesting new insights about books and movies. They constantly reference the analytical parts of story creating which I like as this is a good reminder for my own work. My favorite podcast on story writing and analysis is this.
Roland Denzel

Great story structure breakdowns

I'm really enjoying these story structure breakdowns. I love how you two do it. Very helpful AND entertaining!
Interested202

Storytelling Fundamentals

Sharp analysis of movies with the idea of studying the foundations—and some of the nuts and bolts—of storytelling. Each presenter focuses on one key aspect of storytelling over a period of weeks, one movie a week. They know their stuff, and the commentary is crystal clear. As Thoreau wrote, “Simplify, simplify.” They do this, while still acknowledging the subtleties of the works they study.
BennyBoche

Fantastic story-writing podcast!

I so appreciate all the story theory mixed in with their discussion along with some very practical engaging ideas of how to make your writing better!
JHFloyd27

So smart!

This is one of those podcasts I immediately move to the top of my queue whenever a new episode is released. The hosts are brilliant, engaging, and give me so much to think about regarding story, plot, and characters.
Chris O’Neill

Tracks with Story Grid Terminology

Well-produced, insightful, perfect tracking with Story Grid terminology, and fun. I’ve listened to different versions of SG podcasts in the last three years, and this is the easiest to listen to. Thanks for a great job!
abcdefghijklmmm101235

Great Podcast: one random note

This is random, but I wanted to mention it lol. In Turning Red, Mei doesn’t actually get her period at any point in the movie. Her mother *assumes* she got her period, which is why she brings her pads, but she actually hasn’t. The panda works as a metaphor for cultural heritage: the traits that you acquire to protect you in times of peril do not always translate during times of peace. Marginalized communities will understand this element but of course it’s not a perfect metaphor. Anyway, love the podcast lol
Randrifter

Excellent

I’m glad to find that Valerie is doing another podcast. I have been following her for years through the Story Grid. She does a lot of work and research to pass on this knowledge. It’s been a great help for my writing. Looking forward to this new season!