Subtext: What it is and How to Write it into Your Story

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

#Fine Arts #Arts #Zena Dell Lowe #Storytelling #Writing #Writers #Artists #Fiction #Stories #Screenwriting #Character #Screenplay #Storytellers Mission #Religion #Christianity #Podcasting Education #Craft

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. You can also find us online at ⁠travelandleisure.com/lostcultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 12:33

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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – Subtext: an essential element for story to add conflict and further develop your characters. But how do you capture the true essence of this covert communication method? Let's dive into the what and how of this little beast so you can harness its power in your story.
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228 episodes

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

Subtext: What it is and How to Write it into Your Story

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

published about a year ago

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Send us a text

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228 episodes

All episodes

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Are Your Story Beats Driving Change—or Dulling Impact? 10:05

1 day ago10:05

10:05

You’ve got a great premise, compelling characters… but something’s off. Your story feels stuck, and you can’t figure out why. Chances are, your story beats aren’t pulling their weight. 💡 In this episode: Zena Dell Lowe reveals how to turn every scene into a powerful turning point. You’ll learn how to spot weak story beats, replace them with emotional drivers, and make sure every scene earns its place. 🎯 What you’ll walk away with: A clear definition of what a real story beat is How to ensure each beat creates momentum and change The difference between a tactic shift and a beat shift When a scene is truly over—and when you’re dragging it out 📣 Plus: Get access to Zena’s free video training on the 7 deadly plot points that can make or break your story. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! 🎧 Tune in now—and make every story beat count. The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
How to Ditch Contrived Dialogue for Good 12:41

16 days ago12:41

12:41

Are your characters saying all the right things—but somehow it still feels off? Contrived dialogue is one of the fastest ways to pull your reader or viewer out of the story. Whether you're a novelist or a screenwriter, when your dialogue feels stiff, forced, or unnatural, it kills immersion and weakens emotional impact. The worst part? You might not even realize you're doing it. In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked causes of fake-sounding dialogue—and more importantly, how to fix it. You’ll learn a mindset shift and key storytelling tools that will instantly elevate your scenes and bring your characters to life. 🎬 If you've ever been told your dialogue doesn’t “feel real,” this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Goal Diggers: Characters Who Actually Do Stuff 19:45

23 days ago19:45

19:45

Ever feel like your story should be working — but something’s just... off? Chances are, your characters are missing the one thing that drives truly compelling fiction: a clear, active goal. In this episode, we dig into why so many screenplays and novels lose steam, how to spot the silent killer of narrative momentum, and what your character really needs to stop drifting and start doing . Whether you’re knee-deep in draft land or just sketching your first outline, this is the clarity boost your story structure’s been waiting for. 🎯 Because when your characters stop wandering and start pursuing — that’s when the magic happens. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Unveiling Depths: The Secrets to Engaging Characters 30:25

6 weeks ago30:25

30:25

Click to listen – your characters (and audience) will thank you. Have you ever created a character that felt… flat? No matter how detailed the backstory or how polished the prose, something just doesn’t click — and worse, your audience doesn’t care. That’s the pain point. And we’ve all been there. In this episode, we dig into why your characters might be missing that vital spark — and how to fix it. Whether you're writing a novel, screenplay, or short film, you’ll uncover: ✅ The essential trait all compelling characters share (hint: it’s not just likability) ✅ How paradox, sympathy, and intrigue shape unforgettable protagonists ✅ Why suffering might just be the secret weapon of great storytelling ✅ Real-world examples and feedback that bring these concepts to life Join us as we workshop character ideas live, break down why some characters captivate us instantly, and reveal the storytelling truths that most writers learn the hard way. 🎧 Press play now to finally unlock the emotional core your characters have been missing. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Heroes vs Anti-Heroes: The Battle You Didn’t Know You Were Writing 22:34

9 weeks ago22:34

22:34

Ever wondered if your character is truly a hero or just a morally questionable anti-hero? The lines are blurrier than you think, and it's time to get clear on the difference. In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the world of heroes and anti-heroes, breaking down their key differences and exploring the moral complexities that make them tick. Is your character’s flaw pushing them toward redemption—or just leading them further down the wrong path? We'll also tackle why the world needs more true heroes, and how understanding these distinctions can elevate your writing. But here’s the twist: not all anti-heroes are created equal. Some may challenge our views of morality, but others just reflect the chaos of our modern world. Want to know which category your characters fall into? You'll have to watch to find out. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
The Real Inciting Incident: Why It’s More Than Just Big Events 21:35

11 weeks ago21:35

21:35

Are you struggling to differentiate the inciting incident from your character’s "normal world" in your story? Many writers confuse the two, leading to confusion in their plot structure and weak storytelling. In this episode, we break down the difference between your character's everyday actions and the pivotal moment that launches them into the adventure—the inciting incident. Using popular movies like Armageddon, Star Wars, and Jaws, we’ll show you how to identify the real turning point that transforms your protagonist’s journey. Learn how to pinpoint the exact moment that propels your character into action, making your story unforgettable. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Pressure of Perfection: When Your Story Won’t Speak (& Your Characters Don’t Either) 18:34

13 weeks ago18:34

18:34

Feeling like you have to land on the perfect idea can often freeze you in your tracks. What do you do when it seems like every idea isn’t good enough? How do you keep moving forward when the pressure to create the perfect story is overwhelming? You’ve probably heard other writers talk about their characters “speaking” to them, but what happens when that doesn’t happen for you? Is something wrong, or are you missing an essential piece of the writing puzzle? Join us in this episode as we explore these common struggles and share insights on how to navigate through them. You’ll want to tune in to hear how to keep your writing moving forward, even when the pressure is high and your characters are quiet. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Plot Points & Character Arcs: How to Avoid Paralysis and Focus Your Story 19:01

15 weeks ago19:01

19:01

Writers often feel overwhelmed by the endless possibilities when developing their plot and characters, leading to “paralysis by analysis.” The fear of making the wrong choices can stall progress and derail a story’s direction. Learn how to break through that overwhelm and stay focused with key insights on organizing your story structure, making sure every choice serves the larger narrative. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Mastering Character: A Back-to-Basics Approach for Writers at Any Level 27:23

18 weeks ago27:23

27:23

Are you struggling to create memorable characters that drive your story? Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, mastering character development is crucial to engaging your audience. In this episode, Zena dives into the fundamentals of character creation, exploring why every writer—no matter their experience—should revisit the basics. Tune in for practical insights that will take your storytelling to the next level! Key Takeaways: -Why every character needs a personal crucible to drive their story. -How to differentiate between characterization and true character. -The importance of consistent, paradoxical characters to hook your audience. Revisit the basics, and watch your characters—and your writing—transform! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Offend to Enlighten: The Ethics of Writing 24:33

20 weeks ago24:33

24:33

As writers, we often face the pressure to please our audience, avoid controversy, and "play it safe." But is this the most effective way to create meaningful, impactful stories? Many writers struggle with balancing moral responsibility and creative freedom, worried that their work might offend or alienate readers or viewers. In this episode, we dive deep into the ethics of storytelling and why sometimes offending the audience can be the most ethical act a writer can do. Drawing on insights from Jeffrey Sweet’s work on playwriting, we explore the importance of depicting morally complex characters and scenarios, and how this can push audiences to examine their own worldviews. You’ll learn how to embrace the responsibility of shaping the moral conversation through your work, without falling into the trap of censorship or moral complacency. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to write stories that challenge, provoke, and ultimately enlighten. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Why We’re Obsessed with Characters (and How to Make Yours Irresistible) 23:55

22 weeks ago23:55

23:55

As writers, we often struggle with creating characters that feel real, dynamic, and compelling. Many of us get stuck focusing on plot, not realizing that without a well-crafted character, even the most thrilling story can fall flat. Readers or audiences won’t connect to a character who doesn’t feel authentic or multidimensional. In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe breaks down the essential qualities that make a character irresistible to your audience. You’ll learn why character is more important than plot, how to create paradoxical and complex characters, and how to craft a main character who drives your story with depth and authenticity. By understanding the true nature of character and characterization, you’ll gain practical tools for creating characters that your audience will care about—no matter how complex or flawed they may be. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Fatal Flaws vs. Wounds: How to Deepen Your Characters' Arcs 18:01

23 weeks ago18:01

18:01

Many writers struggle with creating characters who feel both complex and authentic. One common issue is misidentifying a character's fatal flaw, confusing it with a simple moral deficiency or surface-level trait. This misunderstanding can lead to flat, unrelatable characters who fail to resonate with audiences. In this episode, we break down the crucial difference between a fatal flaw and a wound—and why understanding this distinction is key to crafting compelling character arcs. By learning how these two elements connect, you'll discover how to make your characters' flaws a driving force in their personal growth and the overall plot. Whether you're writing a hero, anti-hero, or flawed protagonist, this insight will elevate your character development and strengthen your story's emotional core. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Create Characters Who Evolve: The Power of Rituals and Breaking Patterns 23:39

24 weeks ago23:39

23:39

As writers, it’s easy to get stuck in the rut of creating characters who don’t feel like they’re evolving. If your characters seem to stay the same throughout your story, or their growth feels forced, you’re not alone. Many writers struggle with making their character arcs feel authentic and compelling. By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical strategies to use rituals and deviations to reveal deeper layers of your characters, enhance their arcs, and keep your audience engaged—without ever having to "tell" them what’s going on. Tune in to learn how to transform your character-driven story! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
Crafting Powerful Scenes: Tone, Theme, and Plot Transitions 48:00

25 weeks ago48:00

48:00

Struggling to make your scenes feel dynamic and purposeful? Are you finding it difficult to set the right tone, weave in your theme, or transition smoothly between key plot points? In this episode, we dive into the craft of building powerful, unforgettable scenes that do more than just move the plot forward. Whether you’re a writer or a screenwriter, mastering the art of scene construction can transform your entire story. Learn practical strategies to maximize the dramatic potential of every scene. We’ll cover how to set tone, establish theme, and create seamless transitions that keep your audience hooked. By the end, you’ll have a toolkit for writing scenes that not only work but resonate, propelling your story to the next level. Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO! The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement. Send us a text Support the show…

The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe

1
The Power of Conflict: 3 Types of Obstacles That Build Heroes 19:37

27 weeks ago19:37