The Truth About Storytelling

The Truth About Storytelling

by Tyrean Martinson

Books Entrepreneurship

Season 1

Episode #131: Writing Prompts Inspired by Jemi Fraser

In this writing prompt episode of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson shares a set of creative writing prompts inspired by her recent conversation with author and editor Jemi Fraser. These prompts explore practical storytelling tools and techniques, including story bibles and spreadsheets, visual mapping, intentional character naming, research that lives alongside the draft, and using pop culture references to reveal character. The episode also includes a fiction prompt inspired by romantic suspense, focusing on trust, tension, and emotional stakes. Listeners will also hear updates on Tyrean’s upcoming poetry collection To Speak (releasing in January), Friday fiction readings from Dark Blade Forged, a limited-time 99¢ deal on Dark Blade Forged, and a preview of upcoming podcast interviews with Damien Larkin and Susanne Bacon. This episode is perfect for writers seeking gentle, practical prompts, sustainable creative systems, and encouragement for telling honest, engaging stories.

Episode #130: Where Stories Live: Crafting Small-Town Worlds with Jemi Fraser

In this episode, Author Jemi Fraser joins Tyrean Martinson for a craft-focused conversation on small-town storytelling and sense of place. Jemi shares how her fictional towns Fail and Blue Moose evolved into central story elements, how she maintains continuity across interconnected series, and how to introduce realistic suspense without losing a cozy tone. The episode also covers writing habits, research, recurring character Easter eggs, and Jemi’s latest series, Pick Your Spot, set on an apple farm and rooted in themes of community, stewardship, and belonging. Jemi Fraser

Episode #129 Reading Dark Blade Forged Chapters 8-11 with Author Notes

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I read Chapters 8-11 of Dark Blade Forged, and give some author notes at the end about the characters and about sword-fighting experience as a one-time collegiate fencer. 99cent ebook of Dark Blade Forged The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter prelaunch page Tyrean's Tales my website

Episode #128 Five Writing Prompts Inspired by Five Voices

Writing thrives in conversation. In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I share five original writing prompts inspired by the creative encouragement, mindset wisdom, and storytelling conversations offered by five podcasters and creators I deeply respect. Drawing on themes like curiosity, sustainability, discipline, gentleness, play, and permission, these prompts are designed to help fiction writers re-enter their stories with fresh energy—whether you’re writing fantasy, romance, thrillers, or speculative fiction. You’ll find prompts inspired by: * Joanna Penn – creative legacy, curiosity, and the long view * Craig Martelle – clarity, momentum, and forward motion * Colleen M. Story – hope, persistence, and the inner life of writers * Elisabeth Wheatley – curiosity, humor, and the joy of research * Becca Syme – permission, process, and writing in a way that fits you These prompts are not summaries or reproductions of their work, but original exercises shaped by the encouragement their creative voices offer to the writing community. Whether you’re stuck, tired, or simply looking for a new angle into your story, this episode invites you to write—curiously, courageously, and with care. At the end of the episode, I mentioned my Kickstarter. Any support would be awesome, even in the prelaunch phase. The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter.

Episode #127: Five Writing Voices Worth Listening To

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, I’m sharing five podcasters and YouTubers whose voices have consistently shaped my thinking about writing, creativity, publishing, and mindset. From industry expertise and indie publishing strategy to creativity, productivity, and encouragement, these creators offer insights that help writers build sustainable, joyful writing lives. You’ll hear why I recommend: Joanna Penn (The Creative Penn, Books and Travel) Craig Martelle (Successful Indie Author) Colleen M. Story (Colleen M. Storyteller, The Next Story Project) Elisabeth Wheatley (YouTube) Becca Syme (QuitCast) Quick note: I’m skipping an interview episode this week, but great conversations are coming soon—Jemi Fraser joins me next week, followed by Damien Larkin the week after. Whether you’re looking for practical publishing advice, mindset shifts, or simply encouragement to keep going, this episode offers voices worth adding to your creative rotation.

Episode #126 Fiction Friday: Dark Blade Forged Chapters 3 through 7

In this episode, I give a little intro and read chapters three through seven of Dark Blade Forged. After, I give some brief notes of thoughts I had on marking time in fantasy worlds and the dangers of using consonance in prose. Links: 99cent original ebook edition of Dark Blade Forged The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter Prelaunch Page

Episode #125 Place and Time Writing Prompts and Minor Reflections for the End of 2025

In this episode, I talk about how much I love the conversational interviews I'm doing with authors on Monday, share two writing prompts about time and place, and reflect on reframing goals for the end of the year and in to the new year. Links: Tyrean's Tales The Dark Blade Trilogy Kickstarter 99cent Dark Blade Forged original ebook

Episode #124: Advent, PLUS Travel, Myth, and Middle Grade Adventure with Sherry Ellis

In this episode of The Truth About Storytelling, Tyrean Martinson reflects on Advent and speaks with award-winning children’s and middle-grade author Sherry Ellis about writing adventurous stories rooted in real places, history, and culture. Sherry shares how her experiences as a musician and scuba diving instructor shape the way she builds authentic settings for her stories—especially in her Bubba and Squirt sibling adventure series, where each book unfolds within a 12-hour window in a different country. The conversation explores blending folklore and mythology with modern storytelling, using sensory detail to immerse young readers, and creating classroom-friendly extras like recipes, language notes, and historical context. They also discuss writing rituals, research accuracy, critique feedback, and Sherry’s upcoming children’s book, Happy Birthday to Us, releasing in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This episode is ideal for writers, educators, parents, and readers who love meaningful children’s stories, travel-inspired fiction, and thoughtful conversations about craft. Sherry Ellis Website Tyrean's Website 99cent deal for Dark Blade Forged original ebook

Episode #123: Black Friday, A Writing Prompt, and reading Dark Blade Forged Chapters 1 and 2

In this episode, I share some thoughts about Thanksgiving and Black Friday, a writing prompt, and a reading from Dark Blade Forged, Volume 1 of The Dark Blade Trilogy. Tyrean's Tales The Dark Blade Kickstarter Original ebook edition of Dark Blade Forged for 99 cents!

Episode #122 Eclectic Wednesday: Kickstarter, Writing Prompts, Settings, Thanksgiving, and Movies

In this episode, I share some thoughts on storytelling in books and movies, share a few writing prompts, and give thanks. Yes, it's eclectic, but I look forward to coming back to these ideas in the future. Tyrean's Tales

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