
The show is designed to help writers of all levels. The focus is on characterization, narrative, plot development, dialogue, conflict, setting, literary archetypes, etc. Episodes are not centered around mindless, useless pep talks and recycled writing tips. Rather, the Podcast at AmericanWriters.com offers in-depth analysis of what works and what doesn't, with explanations and original writing sam... more
| Publishes | Monthly | Episodes | 16 | Founded | 20 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Categories | ArtsEducationBooksCourses | ||||

Learn about Deus Ex Machina -- its pros and cons and how it can hurt fiction.
This episode doesn't just talk about what superficially motivates characters; it looks at the forces that need to stir at deeper levels.
Many authors are disparaged for using prologues to start their novels -- but is it such a bad practice after all?
Trim down your writing; think about what you should include in your narrative and what should you leave out. Also, learn the difference between story and narrative.
Many writers use their fiction as a form of activism. However, does it hurt the art form?
Learn how external conflict can be written to underscore the turmoil brewing within the character's psyche.
Learn how writing is like painting a picture. However, this episode is not what you think; it has nothing to do with writing description. Give it a listen.
Tom Occhipinti isn't currently churning out any more podcast episodes, but what there is here is extremely useful. I've listened to them over the years, and come back to them from time to time.
Not too long ago, I contacted Tom and asked him what the deal was.... Why was he no longer producing episodes. It's been about 10 or 11 years. He told me he hopes to get back into it again.
Come back, Tom. You clearly have some fans out there.
Great podcast. Takes a straight forward “how to write” style in the art of writing for all levels. Great insights on writing dialogue, internal/external conflict, setting, characters and so much more. Leans more to writing fiction. Only wish there was more! Come on Tom, it’s been a decade, get back on the horse!
Seriously. I’m fairly new to this podcast thing and didn’t know quite what to expect from a podcast specific to writing. I have only listened to a few episodes, but have already gathered so much useful knowledge and inspiration. Each episode is packed with lessons, but rather than feeling like I’m in a classroom, it’s more like chatting with a neighbor. I’m really loving Tom’s style! On another note in case Tom is reading... I’d buy the book about the cabin Tom, I really would! Thanks for shar... more
This podcast long ago ceased production, which is an awful shame. But before he quit, Tom Occhipinti recorded some superb lessons on writing good fiction. He stopped before self-publishing became a real option for writers, which is a shame.
Anyway, don’t let the fact that the episodes are old put you off—every word of this is still useful, helpful, and needed by serious writers of any genre.
Tom knows and articulates the craft very clearly and in a way that moves you to sit your bum down and get writing. I like how he eases you through concepts, exemplifies through his own writing-in-progress, and hones the point home with his direct (ok, New York) speaking style. I could do without the music, or would like it better shortened and just cut to the chase. I’ve read many books on writing over many years of my life and my opinion is that Tom’s teachings are well worth hearing by both th... more
Tom please come back! I just listened to all of the podcast within a month and can't get enough. This is truly a great podcast for aspiring writers who want to learn.
Tom, this is great - finally found some a podcast that helped. Please make more!
Occhipinti, despite his good intentions, only grooms us in the tradition of hack writing that we don't need any more of. Take a listen and agree with me, or take my advice and look somewhere else.
Best writing podcast I've heard.
Aspiring writer seeks favorite mentor. If Tom is still among the living, please update your website and continue your podcast. Fearing the worst; hoping for the best!
Listened to them all today for the first time. I am new to writing and found everything helpful. I look forward to hearing more.
this is a very helpful podcast, but beyond the fact that it doesn't seem to be updated anymore, there are a handful of episodes missing from itunes. what happened?
As far as I can tell, he left for good and I can't help but wondering what happened. Is he dead or something. COME BACK TOM!
I'm sorry, but this is really a waste of time listening to this guy. Instead of challenging you to write and give you tips how to get going he goes on and on about his on failures. I'm actually feeling a bit sorry for him - this is not said with irony. I'm sure he is a lovely person, but if you want to start writing perhaps you should instead of listening to another guy that isn't writing.
The first couple of podcasts were a bit rough, but then they pick up. Tom is a first- rate teacher. Some of his tips I was able to put to use immediately. For example, his bit on speaker attribution. The podcast is loaded with good stuff.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #195 |










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