Simmons Here And Now

This week, Alex and Chris discuss the value of story structure, and offer tips on how to go about gaining a good foundation, internalizing it, and then applying and adjusting the "rules" to create your own original story. We also discuss ways to open your story and offer several examples from famous books and movies for you to check out. Oh, and Chris has a battle with Aaron Sorkin that Sorkin will never know about.  Editor's Notes: Here are links to ...  The book, The Writer's Journey  Info on the movie ... The Courier ...  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section. Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #storystructure #openingscene #Faulkner #Marvel #Seven #Lethal Weapon #ShaneBlack #jeffreyboam #JosephCampbell #HerosJourney #ChistopherVolger #thewritersjourney #astrangercomestotown #amwriting#writingtips #authortips #howtostructurestories #howtowriteopeningscenes #aaronsorkin

Today Alex must heroically persevere through Chris's awful Irish brogue and endless tributes to Roddy Doyle and Tim Fielder to discuss lingering questions about WandaVision and what it's like to write heroic characters.  A hero is usually someone who does “the right thing, at a precarious time.”  Or they face something life threatening for the sake of others. They save lives, invent cures, sacrifice themselves in some outstanding manner in a just cause or selfless act. So how do you write about such characters?  Is it simple and easy, or ... could it have a more complicated side? Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section. Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com.``` Editor's notes:  1) The word Chris cannot remember this episode is "agency". 2) we apologize that our feature "Alex Simmons' Time Machine" did not appear this episode - Alex was too busy being FREAKING AWESOME! #roddydoyle #love #paddyclarkehahaha #thecommitment

Or "Vaccinations, WandaVision, and Author Rights, Oh My!"  This episode, Alex and Chris get wacky celebrating the fact that Alex was getting vaccinated!  Of course, while Chris got vaccinated at CVS at 3:30 PM, Alex had to get his at Yankee Stadium at one in the morning! Always an adventure with that guy!  Being writers, we discuss possible side effects Alex could have, covering everything from the Spider-Man's six arms to the super soldier serum to Morbius the Living Vampire! And we celebrate the final episode of WandaVision in glorious, spoil free fashion!  And then Chris gets on his high horse about ridiculous Twitter posts suggesting writers don't have rights to their creations once they die. He takes no prisoners and Alex, well he comes out with both Colts blazing. It's a fun, goofy, and sometimes serious episode not to be missed! (It's in honor of Stan Lee!) Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section. Or write to us at: &nbs

It's a jam-packed episode of TV shows, international animation, and the value of writer's groups. Today Alex and Chris talk about getting vaccinated, WandaVision episode seven and eight and how that show is offering master classes to creatives.  Alex talks about spending the week on panels to promote the upcoming Tales of Wakanda anthology that he is a part of.  He also mentions appearing virtually at the Jamaica Animation Con, while also teaching his usual load of screen writing classes, including a class consisting of students from all across Africa (told you he was a globetrotting adventurer).  During our segment called "Alex Simmons' Time Machine", Alex issues Chris a challenge to watch any four episodes from season one of the old Perry Mason show now on Netflix.  Then Chris is supposed to watch the eight episode Perry Mason reboot on HBO Max for discussion next week. (Challenge accepted. Come join in!)  Finally, we discuss in detail the pros and cons of leaving a writers group, t

This week, Alex and Chris are joined by Caseen Gaines on Facebook Live for the first time ever! And this time we're discussing how to tell the damn story through the prism of Caseen's upcoming new book FOOTNOTES.  We get deep into African-American entertainment history (spanning from Eubie Blake to August Wilson), deep in to the ongoing struggle that people have to see each other as people, not prey. Don't let that fool you, we have a lot of fun, a lot of laughs, and a lot of audience participation.  You can listen to us here. And you can check out the recorded video too.  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #caseengaines #Footnote #ShuffleAlong #amwriting #writers #screenwriting #novelists #politicalthriller #Capitol #journalism #americandream #creatingcharacters #motivations #timfielder #infinitum #allthewayhome #writingcoach #valueoftruth #factchecking #gowriteforit #rober

Today Alex and Chris talk about how writers and creators become writers and creators.  How does loving story or doodling evolve into creating the characters and heart wrenching stories that fill up so many of our lives? The answer is both unique and universal, and you may recognize yourself in the stories we tell.  Plus we talk briefly about Wanda Vision! Plus plus, we announce the winner of Alex's story idea competition. Plus plus plus, we have way too much fun for a Sunday morning and you get to reap the benefits. Come on along and further your journey on the creative path. NEWS BLASTS Join us Sunday, Feb. 21st for our TTDS Facebook Live Special. And we'll be joined by special guest author Caseen Gaines. Keep an eye on our TTDS Facebook page for more information. Click here to join Alex on a second Writer's Way Webinar on Friday, Feb. 19th at 7 PM eastern standard time. Click here for info on, "Now's The Time To Write The Crime" boot camp. Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? T

We still believe Plot Is Character, And Character Is Plot. This week, Alex and Chris talk about WandaVision episode five and then go deep on characterization, offering a wide array of techniques for developing your characters, with examples of exceptional characterization in lit and on screen. If you want to know how to build your characters, you came to the right place. Let us know what you think and we'll mention it on our next show. Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #WandaVision #MarvelStudios #MarvelComics #Disney #amwriting #writers #screenwriting #novelists #politicalthriller #Capitol #journalism #americandream #creatingcharacters #motivations #timfielder #infinitum #allthewayhome #writingcoach #valueoftruth #factchecking #gowriteforit

Stories & The Truth.  Fact In Fiction and Does It Really Matter This week Alex and Chris talk about very current stuff, very ancient, stuff and some universal all time life and story themes.  As they discuss how rewrites are going for Chris, update our views on Disney+‘s WandaVision (Alex finally saw episodes 1 to 3, Chris saw episode 4 - we talk about at all, sans spoilers).   We also do a commercial for co-founder Tim Fielder’s INFINITUM, and then get down to business.  We talk about the late 50s early 60s short film “All The Way Home“ which is about a black family potentially buying a house in a white neighborhood.  Needless to say we reflect, sadly, how much has not changed, and how much has.  We go deep, ladies and gents, so strap in and come along for the ride. And it all leads to an even deeper discussion of why we need to learn how to write and how to write well.  Harder still, why we need to see our writing as others see it and do the research to get our storie

This episode we learn how Amanda Gorman made Chris cry and blubber and gosh with pride and praise and so much hope that Alex has it take control of the show for a while. After the river of tears ends we move on to discuss our new national poet laureate's impact on the inauguration, on our hearts, on our hopes, and in the textbooks of our children's future.  Then Chris gushed again, this time about WandaVision episode 3 "now in color."  He and Alex discuss how it deepens the plot and rewards patience, and really shows how Marvel is playing with house money and fan loyalty.  We go over how they weave a story that fits in the Marvel canon that they could never have done early on.  And one more topic is covered when we talk about about creating before the money is there, and after.   Speaking of money Alex and Chris, after having fun with it themselves, pose interesting question about the recent billion dollar lotto prize.  And they challenge you to answer it as well.   What que

Good question, especially for writers tackling tough subjects.  This week Alex and Chris discuss almost everything under the sun! Some of it ripe with conflict and controversy. We start off with a follow up on Chris 'Rewrite' Ryan's editing antics, segue to a spoiler free discussion of Marvel's "WandaVision" on Disney+.   Then we  segue to the second part of last weeks challenging discussion, what Alex is calling 'A Capitol Offense.'   It's where we use the developing siege in Washington DC as a way to view writing challenges.   So far that story is developing from an historical thriller, to a homegrown espionage thriller; complete with cyber conspiracies, interstate FBI investigations and arrests, and a multi-family drama that ultimately asks the question, "Who are we and what do we want America to be?"  After all that, we finish off with answers to a question we put to our international audience ... What kind of new books, films, or TV show stories do you want to see

The saying goes, Truth is Stranger Than Fiction.  This week Alex and Chris talk about what happened Wednesday (Jan. 6, 2021) in Washington, DC, through a wilder lens.  They explore the lingering questions surrounding that event as if they were holes in a fictional novel, or a journalism assignment.   Discussing Plot, Characters, Motivations, and Resolutions they examine destress politics, the disenfranchised and focus on the questions that remain. And then Alex challenges Chris on his idea of re-writing the ending to his novel, "A Simple Rebellion," following Wednesday's insurrection. When life imitates art, should art change ... or reexamine it's message? What do you think?  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #amwriting #amediting #screenwriting #novelists #politicalthriller #Capitol #journalism #reporter #insurrection #americandream #followupquestions #research #creati

Today we, Alex and Chris, talk about exploring social media to ask what works for you?  But we start with a special guest star. Sometimes referred to as the goddess, she prefers Tina Ryan. Tina is now doing a podcast with Chris called "Spousing", which is about staying married. They both speak about the podcast and about the Pixar movie "Soul" on Disney+ right now. The three of us discuss the power of that particular movie, urging all to see it as soon as they can.  What's one got to do with the other?  Listen in and find out. Then Alex and I explore Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and most especially Instagram as vehicles to create content which promotes creators.  We also  explore the different options that are being introduced in each platform that help you tell your damn story.  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #Soul #Pixar #Disney+ #spousing #Instagram #Inst

Today on Tell The Damn Story, Chris speaks in defense of "WONDER WOMAN 1984," and Alex enthuses over "JINGLE JANGLE" and "SOULS." And then we look at our welcome goodbye to 2020, and a fond hello to 2021.  We discuss the good things, and there were actual good things, that came out of 2020, and we talk about our own plans, hopes and wishes for everybody in 2021.  We hope you enjoy the last episode of TTDS for the decade that was 2020.   And here's a couple of questions we have for you: What are you looking forward to in 2021?  What do you hope to change in 2021? Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #WW84 #WonderWoman #JingleJangle #Souls #goodbye2020 #lessonsof2020 #welcome2021 #2020 #2021 #pandemic #blacklivesmatter #America #forestwhittaker 

Grab your flashlight, clues kit and, in this case, your reins and saddle.  This week Alex and Chris discuss the mane parts of murder and mystery when they interview equestrian mystery author, Janet Winters.  Ms Winters is the writer/creator of the Ivory Snow series, "Murder At Morgan House," and "Death At Heart's Desire," available on Amazon.   The conversation explores her inspiration and background with horses and mystery, and one more important element.  For over 20 years Janet was a professional in marketing.  Her experiences offer some insight into how authors can promote their books and appearances. Janet Winters web site:  The Barn Goddess Chronicles Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #mysterywriters #writers #horsebackriders #horsemysteries #equestirannovels  

This week, Alex and Chris play "What If..." (No.  Not the Marvel comic book or TV show) with a bunch of the new projects coming from Disney/Marvel/Star Wars.  Then our improv-writing duo discuss how they'd reboot several well-known holiday live action and animated specials.  Why? Besides being fun, it's a great lesson in why creatives need to keep their imagination and braincells flexible when creating new ideas, or revamping old ones. It's all big seasonal fun!  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #Disney #Marvel #StarWars #Chistmas #Hanukkah #Kwanzaa #swissfamiltrobinson #lando #indianajones #iamgroot #shehulk #roguesquadron #pattyjenkins #taikawaititi #itsawonderfullife #wakanda #santaclaus #heyarnold #TheBlackCandle #Achristmascarol #achristmasstory #Miracleon34thstreet #giftofthemagi #thesantaclause #homealone #nightmarebeforechristmas #charliebrownchristmas #eightcr

This TTDS episode is all about "THE RAZZLES, SORT OF," as Chris put it.  This week he and Alex deliver the verbal equivalent of Razzles ("First it's a candy, then it's a gum!") as they begin talking about modern classics redone or spun off in intriguing ways, and end up offering a "must read/see" or "must reread/rewatch" list that'll keep you busy the rest of 2020.  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #TheMandalorian #StarWars #Disney+ #LovecraftCountry #TheWatchmen #AlanMoore #HBO #TheInvisibleMan #UniversalMonsters #Plots #Writers #amwriting #writingexercises #writing 

Where do story Ideas come from and do you grow them? That's a question both Chris I have heard countless times over many years. Because writing is very much a personal experience, there are many ways to answer that it.  So in this episode, we decided not only to tell how, but also to show how.  We us a few writing exercises to spur positive creativity.  And we're hoping it will do the same for our listeners, for whom we are very grateful.  But just before we do, we take a moment to pay tribute to actor David Prowse (Darth Vader). We even share a couple of stories about meeting him some years ago. So sit back, grab a pen and paper and flex your imagination. Suggestion: After listening to this episode, try the exercise we demonstrate.  Then send us your *results in the comments section, or via our email address.  (*No more than a paragraph or two.) BONUS: EMAIL your exercise results and we'll send you a FREE PDF copy of one of our short story anthologies, "BLACKJACK: SHOOTERS."&

This week, Alex and Chris discuss changes. Business changes for DC comics, potential changes in the comic book industry, and changes creatively in who we write, draw, and read about, and who we enjoy…  Yes, we are talking about diversity. What the industry is doing with diversity, where we can see business diversity opportunities and where we can see creative diversity opportunities.  As the year 2020 draws to a close, finally, we're starting to see hope and a chance for a wider basis for storytelling and creativity. Now that's something to be thankful for!  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com. #DC #kidquick #msmarvel #endofprintcomics #independentcomics #marvel #milestonecomics #creatorsofcolor #CW #WonderWoman #YaraFlor #WonderGirl

 This week, Alex and Chris discuss the opportunity that creatives have to end 2020 on a positive note in whatever we are working on. We cover a lot of ground this episode, dropping names and titles of books and films and TV shows (and Alex leaves mysteries for us to solve), and all of it is in the service of trying to inspire you to put those positive moments in your work, to create the world we want to live in together.  Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com.  #outoftheirminds #startrek #picard #sacosby #blacktopwasteland #andhersmilewilluntehertheuniverse #gwendolynkiste #herbodyandotherpaeties #carmenmariamachado #gabinoiglesias #richienarvaez #pa'quetulosepas! #angelluiscolon #shatteringglass #nastywomanpress #underherblackwings #graveyardsmash #2020womenofhorroranthology #kandishapress

Today on Tell The Damn Story, Chris and Alex discuss the dramatic changes defining 2020 and how they can inspire creative to do the kind of work we need to be putting out there these days. A bit of friction ensues as the two old friends discuss the election, ongoing deeply-rooted problems in America, and how all of that actually provides great opportunities for creatives tell the kind of tales we need to create if we are going to contribute to moving our country and our world forward. Have any comments or questions for this episode topics? Then please leave them in our comments section.  Or write to us at:  TTDSOnAir@gmail.com