Podcast appearances and mentions of Lisa M Lilly

This special almost New Year’s Eve edition of Buffy and the Art of Story covers host Lisa M. Lilly’s Top 10 Favorite Buffy the Vampire Slayer characters of all time. Along with naming the characters, she’ll talk about:  (1) how the Season 6 Willow and Spike arcs affect their character rankings; (2) what side character made the rankings; (3) why certain principals are worth watching for very different reasons; and (4) why “favorite character” might be different from favorite character arcs. Learn more about creating characters in Creating Compelling Characters From The Inside Out by L. M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/creating-compelling-characters-inside/ Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Parting Gifts (S1 E10 of Angel), Angel and Cordelia, still struggling to deal with their grief, join an old friend to track a demon bounty hunter. Along with the recap of Parting Gifts, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) themes of grief, staying in the fight, and accepting mistakes; (2) why Cordelia, the least strong physically of the team, makes such a great protagonist; (3) how the villain here echoes the Mayor; (4) whether this episode expands the Buffyverse; and (5) the episode rating from 0 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including Buffy bonus episodes and access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Try out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mysteries/crime novels with a free novella: https://LisaLilly.com/no-good-plays/  Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Hero (S1 E9 of Angel), Angel and Doyle strive to save a helpless demon clan from a storm trooper-like army of pure blood demons. Along with the recap of Hero, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) using flashbacks to tell their own story; (2) character growth for Doyle and Cordelia; (3) themes of atonement and sacrifice; (4) misdirects and foreshadowing; and (5) the episode rating from 0 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Try out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mysteries/crime novels with a free novella: https://LisaLilly.com/no-good-plays/  Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Che

How can you write science-based fiction without info-dumping your research? How can you use AI tools in a creative way, while still focusing on a human-first approach? Why is adapting to the fast pace of change so difficult and how can we make the most of this time? Jamie Metzl talks about Superconvergence and more. In the intro, How to avoid author scams [Written Word Media]; Spotify vs Audible audiobook strategy [The New Publishing Standard]; Thoughts on Author Nation and why constraints are important in your author life [Self-Publishing with ALLi]; Alchemical History And Beautiful Architecture: Prague with Lisa M Lilly on my Books and Travel Podcast. Today's show is sponsored by Draft2Digital, self-publishing with support, where you can get free formatting, free distribution to multiple stores, and a host of other benefits. Just go to www.draft2digital.com to get started. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn Jamie Metzl is a technology futurist, professional speaker, entrepreneur, and the author of sci-fi thrillers and futurist nonfiction books, including the revised and updated edition of Superconvergence: How the Genetics, Biotech, and AI Revolutions Will Transform Our Lives, Work, and World. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes How personal history shaped Jamie's fiction writing Writing science-based fiction without info-dumping The super convergence of three revolutions (genetics, biotech, AI) and why we need to understand them holistically Using fiction to explore the human side of genetic engineering, life extension, and robotics Collaborating with GPT-5 as a named co-author How to be a first-rate human rather than a second-rate machine You can find Jamie at JamieMetzl.com. Transcript of interview with Jamie Metzl Jo: Jamie Metzl is a technology futurist, professional speaker, entrepreneur, and the author of sci-fi thrillers and futurist nonfiction books, including the revised and updated edition of Superconvergence: How the Genetics, Biotech, and AI Revolutions Will Transform Our Lives, Work, and World. So welcome, Jamie. Jamie: Thank you so much, Jo. Very happy to be here with you. Jo: There is so much we could talk about, but let's start with you telling us a bit more about you and how you got into writing. From History PhD to First Novel Jamie: Well, I think like a lot of writers, I didn't know I was a writer. I was just a kid who loved writing. Actually, just last week I was going through a bunch of boxes from my parents' house and I found my autobiography, which I wrote when I was nine years old. So I've been writing my whole life and loving it. It was always something that was very important to me. When I finished my DPhil, my PhD at Oxford, and my dissertation came out, it just got scooped up by Macmillan in like two minutes. And I thought, “God, that was easy.” That got me started thinking about writing books. I wanted to write a novel based on the same historical period – my PhD was in Southeast Asian history – and I wanted to write a historical novel set in the same period as my dissertation, because I felt like the dissertation had missed the human element of the story I was telling, which was related to the Cambodian genocide and its aftermath. So I wrote what became my first novel, and I thought, “Wow, now I'm a writer.” I thought, “All right, I've already published one book. I'm gonna get this other book out into the world.” And then I ran into the brick wall of: it's really hard to be a writer. It's almost easier to write something than to get it published. I had to learn a ton, and it took nine years from when I started writing that first novel, The Depths of the Sea, to when it finally came out. But it was such a positive experience, especially to have something so personal to me as that story. I'd lived in Cambodia for two years, I'd worked on the Thai-Cambodian border, and I'm the child of a Holocaust survivor. So there was a whole lot that was very emotional for me. That set a pattern for the rest of my life as a writer, at least where, in my nonfiction books, I'm thinking about whatever the issues are that are most important to me. Whether it was that historical book, which was my first book, or Hacking Darwin on the future of human genetic engineering, which was my last book, or Superconvergence, which, as you mentioned in the intro, is my current book. But in every one of those stories, the human element is so deep and so profound. You can get at some of that in nonfiction, but I've also loved exploring those issues in deeper ways in my fiction. So in my more recent novels, Genesis Code and Eternal Sonata, I've looked at the human side of the story of genetic engineering and human life extension. And now my agent has just submitted my new novel, Virtuoso, about the intersection of AI, robotics, and classical music. With all of this, who knows what's the real difference between fiction and nonfiction? We're all humans trying to figure things out on many different levels. Shifting from History to Future Tech Jo: I knew that you were a polymath, someone who's interested in so many things, but the music angle with robotics and AI is fascinating. I do just want to ask you, because I was also at Oxford – what college were you at? Jamie: I was in St. Antony's. Jo: I was at Mansfield, so we were in that slightly smaller, less famous college group, if people don't know. Jamie: You know, but we're small but proud. Jo: Exactly. That's fantastic. You mentioned that you were on the historical side of things at the beginning and now you've moved into technology and also science, because this book Superconvergence has a lot of science. So how did you go from history and the past into science and the future? Biology and Seeing the Future Coming Jamie: It's a great question. I'll start at the end and then back up. A few years ago I was speaking at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, which is one of the big scientific labs here in the United States. I was a guest of the director and I was speaking to their 300 top scientists. I said to them, “I'm here to speak with you about the future of biology at the invitation of your director, and I'm really excited. But if you hear something wrong, please raise your hand and let me know, because I'm entirely self-taught. The last biology course I took was in 11th grade of high school in Kansas City.” Of course I wouldn't say that if I didn't have a lot of confidence in my process. But in many ways I'm self-taught in the sciences. As you know, Jo, and as all of your listeners know, the foundation of everything is curiosity and then a disciplined process for learning. Even our greatest super-specialists in the world now – whatever their background – the world is changing so fast that if anyone says, “Oh, I have a PhD in physics/chemistry/biology from 30 years ago,” the exact topic they learned 30 years ago is less significant than their process for continuous learning. More specifically, in the 1990s I was working on the National Security Council for President Clinton, which is the president's foreign policy staff. My then boss and now close friend, Richard Clarke – who became famous as the guy who had tragically predicted 9/11 – used to say that the key to efficacy in Washington and in life is to try to solve problems that other people can't see. For me, almost 30 years ago, I felt to my bones that this intersection of what we now call AI and the nascent genetics revolution and the nascent biotechnology revolution was going to have profound implications for humanity. So I just started obsessively educating myself. When I was ready, I started writing obscure national security articles. Those got a decent amount of attention, so I was invited to testify before the United States Congress. I was speaking out a lot, saying, “Hey, this is a really important story. A lot of people are missing it. Here are the things we should be thinking about for the future.” I wasn't getting the kind of traction that I wanted. I mentioned before that my first book had been this dry Oxford PhD dissertation, and that had led to my first novel. So I thought, why don't I try the same approach again – writing novels to tell this story about the genetics, biotech, and what later became known popularly as the AI revolution? That led to my two near-term sci-fi novels, Genesis Code and Eternal Sonata. On my book tours for those novels, when I explained the underlying science to people in my way, as someone who taught myself, I could see in their eyes that they were recognizing not just that something big was happening, but that they could understand it and feel like they were part of that story. That's what led me to write Hacking Darwin, as I mentioned. That book really unlocked a lot of things. I had essentially predicted the CRISPR babies that were born in China before it happened – down to the specific gene I thought would be targeted, which in fact was the case. After that book was published, Dr. Tedros, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, invited me to join the WHO Expert Advisory Committee on Human Genome Editing, which I did. It was a really great experience and got me thinking a lot about the upside of this revolution and the downside. The Birth of Superconvergence Jamie: I get a lot of wonderful invitations to speak, and I have two basic rules for speaking: Never use notes. Never ever. Never stand behind a podium. Never ever. Because of that, when I speak, my talks tend to migrate. I'd be speaking with people about the genetics revolution as it applied to humans, and I'd say, “Well, this is just a little piece of a much bigger story.” The bigger story is that after nearly four billion years of life on Earth, our one species has the increasing ability to engineer novel intelligence and re-engineer life. The big question for us, and frankly for the world, is whether we're going to be able to use that almost godlike superpower wisely. As that idea got bigger and bigger, it became this inevitable force. You write so many books, Jo, that I think it's second nature for you. Every time I finish a book, I think, “Wow, that was really hard. I'm never doing that again.” And then the books creep up on you. They call to you. At some point you say, “All right, now I'm going to do it.” So that was my current book, Superconvergence. Like everything, every journey you take a step, and that step inspires another step and another. That's why writing and living creatively is such a wonderfully exciting thing – there's always more to learn and always great opportunities to push ourselves in new ways. Balancing Deep Research with Good Storytelling Jo: Yeah, absolutely. I love that you've followed your curiosity and then done this disciplined process for learning. I completely understand that. But one of the big issues with people like us who love the research – and having read your Superconvergence, I know how deeply you go into this and how deeply you care that it's correct – is that with fiction, one of the big problems with too much research is the danger of brain-dumping. Readers go to fiction for escapism. They want the interesting side of it, but they want a story first. What are your tips for authors who might feel like, “Where's the line between putting in my research so that it's interesting for readers, but not going too far and turning it into a textbook?” How do you find that balance? Jamie: It's such a great question. I live in New York now, but I used to live in Washington when I was working for the U.S. government, and there were a number of people I served with who later wrote novels. Some of those novels felt like policy memos with a few sex scenes – and that's not what to do. To write something that's informed by science or really by anything, everything needs to be subservient to the story and the characters. The question is: what is the essential piece of information that can convey something that's both important to your story and your character development, and is also an accurate representation of the world as you want it to be? I certainly write novels that are set in the future – although some of them were a future that's now already happened because I wrote them a long time ago. You can make stuff up, but as an author you have to decide what your connection to existing science and existing technology and the existing world is going to be. I come at it from two angles. One: I read a huge number of scientific papers and think, “What does this mean for now, and if you extrapolate into the future, where might that go?” Two: I think about how to condense things. We've all read books where you're humming along because people read fiction for story and emotional connection, and then you hit a bit like: “I sat down in front of the president, and the president said, ‘Tell me what I need to know about the nuclear threat.'” And then it's like: insert memo. That's a deal-killer. It's like all things – how do you have a meaningful relationship with another person? It's not by just telling them your story. Even when you're telling them something about you, you need to be imagining yourself sitting in their shoes, hearing you. These are very different disciplines, fiction and nonfiction. But for the speculative nonfiction I write – “here's where things are now, and here's where the world is heading” – there's a lot of imagination that goes into that too. It feels in many ways like we're living in a sci-fi world because the rate of technological change has been accelerating continuously, certainly for the last 12,000 years since the dawn of agriculture. It's a balance. For me, I feel like I'm a better fiction writer because I write nonfiction, and I'm a better nonfiction writer because I write fiction. When I'm writing nonfiction, I don't want it to be boring either – I want people to feel like there's a story and characters and that they can feel themselves inside that story. Jo: Yeah, definitely. I think having some distance helps as well. If you're really deep into your topics, as you are, you have to leave that manuscript a little bit so you can go back with the eyes of the reader as opposed to your eyes as the expert. Then you can get their experience, which is great. Looking Beyond Author-Focused AI Fears Jo: I want to come to your technical knowledge, because AI is a big thing in the author and creative community, like everywhere else. One of the issues is that creators are focusing on just this tiny part of the impact of AI, and there's a much bigger picture. For example, in 2024, Demis Hassabis from Google DeepMind and his collaborative partner John Jumper won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry with AlphaFold. It feels to me like there's this massive world of what's happening with AI in health, climate, and other areas, and yet we are so focused on a lot of the negative stuff. Maybe you could give us a couple of things about what there is to be excited and optimistic about in terms of AI-powered science? Jamie: Sure. I'm so excited about all of the new opportunities that AI creates. But I also think there's a reason why evolution has preserved this very human feeling of anxiety: because there are real dangers. Anybody who's Pollyanna-ish and says, “Oh, the AI story is inevitably positive,” I'd be distrustful. And anyone who says, “We're absolutely doomed, this is the end of humanity,” I'd also be distrustful. So let me tell you the positives and the negatives, and maybe some thoughts about how we navigate toward the former and away from the latter. AI as the New Electricity Jamie: When people think of AI right now, they're thinking very narrowly about these AI tools and ChatGPT. But we don't think of electricity that way. Nobody says, “I know electricity – electricity is what happens at the power station.” We've internalised the idea that electricity is woven into not just our communication systems or our houses, but into our clothes, our glasses – it's woven into everything and has super-empowered almost everything in our modern lives. That's what AI is. In Superconvergence, the majority of the book is about positive opportunities: In healthcare, moving from generalised healthcare based on population averages to personalised or precision healthcare based on a molecular understanding of each person's individual biology. As we build these massive datasets like the UK Biobank, we can take a next jump toward predictive and preventive healthcare, where we're able to address health issues far earlier in the process, when interventions can be far more benign. I'm really excited about that, not to mention the incredible new kinds of treatments – gene therapies, or pharmaceuticals based on genetics and systems-biology analyses of patients. Then there's agriculture. Over the last hundred years, because of the technologies of the Green Revolution and synthetic fertilisers, we've had an incredible increase in agricultural productivity. That's what's allowed us to quadruple the global population. But if we just continue agriculture as it is, as we get towards ten billion wealthier, more empowered people wanting to eat like we eat, we're going to have to wipe out all the wild spaces on Earth to feed them. These technologies help provide different paths toward increasing agricultural productivity with fewer inputs of land, water, fertiliser, insecticides, and pesticides. That's really positive. I could go on and on about these positives – and I do – but there are very real negatives. I was a member of the WHO Expert Advisory Committee on Human Genome Editing after the first CRISPR babies were very unethically created in China. I'm extremely aware that these same capabilities have potentially incredible upsides and very real downsides. That's the same as every technology in the past, but this is happening so quickly that it's triggering a lot of anxieties. Governance, Responsibility, and Why Everyone Has a Role Jamie: The question now is: how do we optimise the benefits and minimise the harms? The short, unsexy word for that is governance. Governance is not just what governments do; it's what all of us do. That's why I try to write books, both fiction and nonfiction, to bring people into this story. If people “other” this story – if they say, “There's a technology revolution, it has nothing to do with me, I'm going to keep my head down” – I think that's dangerous. The way we're going to handle this as responsibly as possible is if everybody says, “I have some role. Maybe it's small, maybe it's big. The first step is I need to educate myself. Then I need to have conversations with people around me. I need to express my desires, wishes, and thoughts – with political leaders, organisations I'm part of, businesses.” That has to happen at every level. You're in the UK – you know the anti-slavery movement started with a handful of people in Cambridge and grew into a global movement. I really believe in the power of ideas, but ideas don't spread on their own. These are very human networks, and that's why writing, speaking, communicating – probably for every single person listening to this podcast – is so important. Jo: Mm, yeah. Fiction Like AI 2041 and Thinking Through the Issues Jo: Have you read AI 2041 by Kai-Fu Lee and Chen Qiufan? Jamie: No. I heard a bunch of their interviews when the book came out, but I haven't read it. Jo: I think that's another good one because it's fiction – a whole load of short stories. It came out a few years ago now, but the issues they cover in the stories, about different people in different countries – I remember one about deepfakes – make you think more about the topics and help you figure out where you stand. I think that's the issue right now: it's so complex, there are so many things. I'm generally positive about AI, but of course I don't want autonomous drone weapons, you know? The Messy Reality of “Bad” Technologies Jamie: Can I ask you about that? Because this is why it's so complicated. Like you, I think nobody wants autonomous killer drones anywhere in the world. But if you right now were the defence minister of Ukraine, and your children are being kidnapped, your country is being destroyed, you're fighting for your survival, you're getting attacked every night – and you're getting attacked by the Russians, who are investing more and more in autonomous killer robots – you kind of have two choices. You can say, “I'm going to surrender,” or, “I'm going to use what technology I have available to defend myself, and hopefully fight to either victory or some kind of stand-off.” That's what our societies did with nuclear weapons. Maybe not every American recognises that Churchill gave Britain's nuclear secrets to America as a way of greasing the wheels of the Anglo-American alliance during the Second World War – but that was our programme: we couldn't afford to lose that war, and we couldn't afford to let the Nazis get nuclear weapons before we did. So there's the abstract feeling of, “I'm against all war in the abstract. I'm against autonomous killer robots in the abstract.” But if I were the defence minister of Ukraine, I would say, “What will it take for us to build the weapons we can use to defend ourselves?” That's why all this stuff gets so complicated. And frankly, it's why the relationship between fiction and nonfiction is so important. If every novel had a situation where every character said, “Oh, I know exactly the right answer,” and then they just did the right answer and it was obviously right, it wouldn't make for great fiction. We're dealing with really complex humans. We have conflicting impulses. We're not perfect. Maybe there are no perfect answers – but how do we strive toward better rather than worse? That's the question. Jo: Absolutely. I don't want to get too political on things. How AI Is Changing the Writing Life Jo: Let's come back to authors. In terms of the creative process, the writing process, the research process, and the business of being an author – what are some of the ways that you already use AI tools, and some of the ways, given your futurist brain, that you think things are going to change for us? Jamie: Great question. I'll start with a little middle piece. I found you, Jo, through GPT-5. I asked ChatGPT, “I'm coming out with this book and I want to connect with podcasters who are a little different from the ones I've done in the past. I've been a guest on Joe Rogan twice and some of the bigger podcasts. Make me a list of really interesting people I can have great conversations with.” That's how I found you. So this is one reward of that process. Let me say that in the last year I've worked on three books, and I'll explain how my relationship with AI has changed over those books. Cleaning Up Citations (and Getting Burned) Jamie: First is the highly revised paperback edition of Superconvergence. When the hardback came out, I had – I don't normally work with research assistants because I like to dig into everything myself – but the one thing I do use a research assistant for is that I can't be bothered, when I'm writing something, to do the full Chicago-style footnote if I'm already referencing an academic paper. So I'd just put the URL as the footnote and then hire a research assistant and say, “Go to this URL and change it into a Chicago-style citation. That's it.” Unfortunately, my research assistant on the hardback used early-days ChatGPT for that work. He did the whole thing, came back, everything looked perfect. I said, “Wow, amazing job.” It was only later, as I was going through them, that I realised something like 50% of them were invented footnotes. It was very painful to go back and fix, and it took ten times more time. With the paperback edition, I didn't use AI that much, but I did say things like, “Here's all the information – generate a Chicago-style citation.” That was better. I noticed there were a few things where I stopped using the thesaurus function on Microsoft Word because I'd just put the whole paragraph into the AI and say, “Give me ten other options for this one word,” and it would be like a contextual thesaurus. That was pretty good. Talking to a Robot Pianist Character Jamie: Then, for my new novel Virtuoso, I was writing a character who is a futurist robot that plays the piano very beautifully – not just humanly, but almost finding new things in the music we've written and composing music that resonates with us. I described the actions of that robot in the novel, but I didn't describe the inner workings of the robot's mind. In thinking about that character, I realised I was the first science-fiction writer in history who could interrogate a machine about what it was “thinking” in a particular context. I had the most beautiful conversations with ChatGPT, where I would give scenarios and ask, “What are you thinking? What are you feeling in this context?” It was all background for that character, but it was truly profound. Co-Authoring The AI Ten Commandments with GPT-5 Jamie: Third, I have another book coming out in May in the United States. I gave a talk this summer at the Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York about AI and spirituality. I talked about the history of our human relationship with our technology, about how all our religious and spiritual traditions have deep technological underpinnings – certainly our Abrahamic religions are deeply connected to farming, and Protestantism to the printing press. Then I had a section about the role of AI in generating moral codes that would resonate with humans. Everybody went nuts for this talk, and I thought, “I think I'm going to write a book.” I decided to write it differently, with GPT-5 as my named co-author. The first thing I did was outline the entire book based on the talk, which I'd already spent a huge amount of time thinking about and organising. Then I did a full outline of the arguments and structures. Then I trained GPT-5 on my writing style. The way I did it – which I fully describe in the introduction to the book – was that I'd handle all the framing: the full introduction, the argument, the structure. But if there was a section where, for a few paragraphs, I was summarising a huge field of data, even something I knew well, I'd give GPT-5 the intro sentence and say, “In my writing style, prepare four paragraphs on this.” For example, I might write: “AI has the potential to see us humans like we humans see ant colonies.” Then I'd say, “Give me four paragraphs on the relationship between the individual and the collective in ant colonies.” I could have written those four paragraphs myself, but it would've taken a month to read the life's work of E.O. Wilson and then write them. GPT-5 wrote them in seconds or minutes, in its thinking mode. I'd then say, “It's not quite right – change this, change that,” and we'd go back and forth three or four times. Then I'd edit the whole thing and put it into the text. So this book that I could have written on my own in a year, I wrote a first draft of with GPT-5 as my named co-author in two days. The whole project will take about six months from start to finish, and I'm having massive human editing – multiple edits from me, plus a professional editor. It's not a magic AI button. But I feel strongly about listing GPT-5 as a co-author because I've written it differently than previous books. I'm a huge believer in the old-fashioned lone author struggling and suffering – that's in my novels, and in Virtuoso I explore that. But other forms are going to emerge, just like video games are a creative, artistic form deeply connected to technology. The novel hasn't been around forever – the current format is only a few centuries old – and forms are always changing. There are real opportunities for authors, and there will be so much crap flooding the market because everybody can write something and put it up on Amazon. But I think there will be a very special place for thoughtful human authors who have an idea of what humans do at our best, and who translate that into content other humans can enjoy. Traditional vs Indie: Why This Book Will Be Self-Published Jo: I'm interested – you mentioned that it's your named co-author. Is this book going through a traditional publisher, and what do they think about that? Or are you going to publish it yourself? Jamie: It's such a smart question. What I found quickly is that when you get to be an author later in your career, you have all the infrastructure – a track record, a fantastic agent, all of that. But there were two things that were really important to me here: I wanted to get this book out really fast – six months instead of a year and a half. It was essential to me to have GPT-5 listed as my co-author, because if it were just my name, I feel like it would be dishonest. Readers who are used to reading my books – I didn't want to present something different than what it was. I spoke with my agent, who I absolutely love, and she said that for this particular project it was going to be really hard in traditional publishing. So I did a huge amount of research, because I'd never done anything in the self-publishing world before. I looked at different models. There was one hybrid model that's basically the same as traditional, but you pay for the things the publisher would normally pay for. I ended up not doing that. Instead, I decided on a self-publishing route where I disaggregated the publishing process. I found three teams: one for producing the book, one for getting the book out into the world, and a smaller one for the audiobook. I still believe in traditional publishing – there's a lot of wonderful human value-add. But some works just don't lend themselves to traditional publishing. For this book, which is called The AI Ten Commandments, that's the path I've chosen. Jo: And when's that out? I think people will be interested. Jamie: April 26th. Those of us used to traditional publishing think, “I've finished the book, sold the proposal, it'll be out any day now,” and then it can be a year and a half. It's frustrating. With this, the process can be much faster because it's possible to control more of the variables. But the key – as I was saying – is to make sure it's as good a book as everything else you've written. It's great to speed up, but you don't want to compromise on quality. The Coming Flood of Excellent AI-Generated Work Jo: Yeah, absolutely. We're almost out of time, but I want to come back to your “flood of crap” and the “AI slop” idea that's going around. Because you are working with GPT-5 – and I do as well, and I work with Claude and Gemini – and right now there are still issues. Like you said about referencing, there are still hallucinations, though fewer. But fast-forward two, five years: it's not a flood of crap. It's a flood of excellent. It's a flood of stuff that's better than us. Jamie: We're humans. It's better than us in certain ways. If you have farm machinery, it's better than us at certain aspects of farming. I'm a true humanist. I think there will be lots of things machines do better than us, but there will be tons of things we do better than them. There's a reason humans still care about chess, even though machines can beat humans at chess. Some people are saying things I fully disagree with, like this concept of AGI – artificial general intelligence – where machines do everything better than humans. I've summarised my position in seven letters: “AGI is BS.” The only way you can believe in AGI in that sense is if your concept of what a human is and what a human mind is is so narrow that you think it's just a narrow range of analytical skills. We are so much more than that. Humans represent almost four billion years of embodied evolution. There's so much about ourselves that we don't know. As incredible as these machines are and will become, there will always be wonderful things humans can do that are different from machines. What I always tell people is: whatever you're doing, don't be a second-rate machine. Be a first-rate human. If you're doing something and a machine is doing that thing much better than you, then shift to something where your unique capacities as a human give you the opportunity to do something better. So yes, I totally agree that the quality of AI-generated stuff will get better. But I think the most creative and successful humans will be the ones who say, “I recognise that this is creating new opportunities, and I'm going to insert my core humanity to do something magical and new.” People are “othering” these technologies, but the technologies themselves are magnificent human-generated artefacts. They're not alien UFOs that landed here. It's a scary moment for creatives, no doubt, because there are things all of us did in the past that machines can now do really well. But this is the moment where the most creative people ask themselves, “What does it mean for me to be a great human?” The pat answers won't apply. In my Virtuoso novel I explore that a lot. The idea that “machines don't do creativity” – they will do incredible creativity; it just won't be exactly human creativity. We will be potentially huge beneficiaries of these capabilities, but we really have to believe in and invest in the magic of our core humanity. Where to Find Jamie and His Books Jo: Brilliant. So where can people find you and your books online? Jamie: Thank you so much for asking. My website is jamiemetzl.com – and my books are available everywhere. Jo: Fantastic. Thanks so much for your time, Jamie. That was great. Jamie: Thank you, Joanna.The post Writing The Future, And Being More Human In An Age of AI With Jamie Metzl first appeared on The Creative Penn.

What draws a mystery writer from Chicago to the cobblestone streets and alchemical history of Prague? How can a city's mystical atmosphere inspire a novel, and what happens when grief follows you to one of Europe's most beautiful destinations? Lisa M. Lilly shares how Prague captured her imagination, weaving the city's gothic romance and ancient […] The post Alchemical History And Beautiful Architecture: Prague With Lisa M Lilly appeared first on Books And Travel.

In I Will Remember You (S1 E8 of Angel), Buffy arrives in Los Angeles in time to help Angel hunt a demon--with earth shattering consequences for them both. Along with the recap of I Will Remember You, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) major plot turns for Angel's story and Buffy's subplot; (2) how the episode changes when seen from Angel's point-of-view, not Buffy's; (3) the way Angel's motives affect the story's themes; and (5) the episode rating from 0 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Try out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis crime novels in this ebook box set: https://lisalilly.com/q-c-davis-mysteries-1-3-box-set/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Bachelor Party (S1 E7 of Angel), Doyle's estranged wife asks him for a divorce and Angel investigates her new fiancé. Along with the recap of Bachelor Party, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) a subtle main plot we might not notice because of all the action; (2) themes of self-acceptance and identity; (3) character growth for Doyle; (4) a bit of shaky world building; and (5) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Check out the online self-study court How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft at https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly/shop Get more content (including access How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft), by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Get The One-Year Novelist in ebook, audiobook, or workbook formats at https://lisalilly.com/one-year-novelist-week-week-guide-writing-novel-one-year/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Sense & Sensitivity (S1 E6 of Angel), Angel goes undercover to help Kate and sensitivity training causes chaos at the police precinct, putting lives in danger. Along with the recap of Sense & Sensitivity, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) how to subtly foreshadow later conflicts; (2) is sensitivity training the main plot? (3) whether Kate is the protagonist; (4) troubling themes that make the episode less engaging; and (5) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Rm w/a Vu (S1 E5 of Angel), Cordelia gets a rent-controlled apartment with just a few tiny problems – including a homicidal ghost. Along with the recap of Rm w/a Vu, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) what makes horror work? (2) action and setting that mirror character conflicts; (3) strong growth for Cordie, subtle growth for Doyle, tranquility for Angel; (4) seeing the Buffyverse and Buffy from Cordelia's point of view; and (5) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Sale: Get the first 3 Q.C. Davis mysteries for 99 cents from 8/30-9/5/2025 (reg. $9.99): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08FFBY47K Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In I Fall To Pieces (S1 E4 of Angel), Angel Investigations aids a woman being stalked by a surgeon who seems to know--and see--everything about her. Along with the recap of I Fall To Pieces, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) a strong subplot but blurred major plot turns; (2) themes that establish the moral center of the series; (3) why the unclear rules distract from the story; (4) how Angel's actions and past fit the detective and noir genres; and (5) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Check out free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In In The Dark (S1 E3 of Angel), Spike comes to L.A. in search of a gem that makes vampires unkillable. Along with the recap of In The Dark, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) Angel's mission, promises kept, and vampire philosophy; (2) whether Spike ever learns or Angel is addicted to brooding; (3) revisiting choice in the Buffyverse; and (4) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Find more Buffy podcasts at https://www.millionpodcasts.com/buffy-the-vampire-slayer-podcasts/ Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Lonely Hearts (S1 E2 of Angel), Angel must meet new people when he, Cordelia, and Doyle hunt for a serial killer that finds victims in the singles bar scene. Along with the recap of Lonely Hearts, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) themes of trust, secret-keeping, and connection; (2) how the writers introduce many new characters while keeping the story clear; (3) the way Lonely Hearts fits into the Buffyverse; and (4) the episode rating from 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Find more Buffy podcasts at https://www.millionpodcasts.com/buffy-the-vampire-slayer-podcasts/ Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ Get 16% Off Ritual Zero Proof (enter the code BUFFYSTORY at checkout): https://www.ritualzeroproof.com/discount/BUFFYSTORY About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In City Of (S1 E1 of Angel), the Powers That Be reach out to Angel, who is struggling to fight evil without becoming evil himself. Along with the recap of City Of, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) themes of connection, friendship, and staying in the fight; (2) revisiting characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and meeting new ones; (3) how City Of expands and alters the Buffyverse; and (4) where the episode falls on a scale of 1 to 10. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Read the Buffy and the Art of Story books: https://lisalilly.com/buffy/ Find more Buffy podcasts at https://www.millionpodcasts.com/buffy-the-vampire-slayer-podcasts/ Listen to the Buffy podcast episodes starting from the beginning: https://lisalilly.com/buffy-story-hellmouth/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes the Writing As A Second Career books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In the Last 5 Buffy Episodes Ever Caleb is introduced and Faith comes to Sunnydale. These episodes wrap up Buffy the Vampire Slayer the series, but do they form their own separate story arc, too? Along with the recap of Chosen, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) how well the major plot turns in Dirty Girls, Empty Places, Touched, End of Days, and Chosen work to bring the series to a close; (2) what events start and finish the 5-episode story arc; and (3) why the writers may have made the choices they did. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Check Out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mystery series by getting a free novella: https://lisalilly.com/no-good-plays/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Chosen (S7 E22 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy, her friends, and the potentials bring the series to a close and engage in one final battle with The First. Along with the recap of Chosen, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) the challenges of winding up a seven-season story; (2) deep character development that makes the finale gripping; (3) inconsistency that undermines some of the finale's impact; (4) whether the scythe's magic is too convenient; and (5) writing a happy ending while ensuring the final battle takes a toll. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Check Out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mystery series by getting a free novella: https://lisalilly.com/no-good-plays/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In End of Days (S7 E21 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy King-Arthurs the scythe from a rock, the gang tries to save wounded potentials, and Buffy faces Caleb again. Along with the recap of End of Days, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) choosing which characters to highlight at the end; (2) indirect dialogue and actions that resolve character arcs; (3) whether Willow's magic, Caleb's strength, and another new character are consistent with Buffy's history; (4) the perils of new story questions at the eleventh hour; and (5) satisfying the audience as you wrap a very longform story. Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Check Out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mystery series by getting a free novella: https://lisalilly.com/no-good-plays/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Touched (S7 E20 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Faith takes over as the leader, Spike reaches out to Buffy, and disaster looms. Along with the recap of Touched, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) the mayor and Giles as foils for one another; (2) the way The First evolves as a season antagonist; (3) Faith's emotions, doubts, and growth shown through action and dialogue; (4) recurring episode themes; and (5) why some unanswered questions drive a story and others distract from it. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Check Out Lisa M. Lilly's Q.C. Davis mystery series by getting a free novella: https://lisalilly.com/no-good-plays/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/ Edit

In Empty Places (S7 E19 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer) Faith takes the potentials on a night out and everyone pushes back against Buffy's plan to attack Caleb again. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) why an antagonist doesn't need to be a villain; (2) strong foreshadowing early in the story; (3) why Faith and Buffy's history affects how Buffy sees the conflicts and her choices; (4) what role grief plays in the final confrontation; and (5) what Empty Places says about leadership. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Check out FeedSpot's 35 Best Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 (Buffy and the Art of Story podcast is No. 7!): https://podcast.feedspot.com/buffy_the_vampire_slayer_podcasts/ Revisit Grief and the Buffyverse: https://lisalilly.com/grief-in-the-buffyverse/ Check Out Lisa M. Lilly's cold case murder mystery The Forgotten Man: https://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Man-Q-C-Davis-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0C2BBNXDT About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Dirty Girls, S7 E18, Faith arrives in Sunnydale and Buffy takes an army of potentials to battle a super-powered misogynistic preacher. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) how to keep it fun when characters need to exchange information viewers already know; (2) foreshadowing a tragic climax; (3) how story structure affects pace; and (4) what Buffy's choices and Caleb's character say about the episode themes. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Check out FeedSpot's 35 Best Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 (Buffy and the Art of Story podcast is No. 7!): https://podcast.feedspot.com/buffy_the_vampire_slayer_podcasts/ Revisit Grief and the Buffyverse before watching Empty Places: https://lisalilly.com/grief-in-the-buffyverse/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Orpheus, Buffy/Angel crossover S4 E15, Angelus and Faith battle it out and Willow comes to L.A. to try to restore Angel's soul. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) Seemingly separate storylines that converge into one gripping plot; (2) how to use multiple characters as the antagonist and a group as a protagonist; (3) whether Willow is a different character on Angel than she is in Buffy Season 7; and (4) how dramatic irony adds tension and keeps the audience engaged. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Check out FeedSpot's 35 Best Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 (Buffy and the Art of Story podcast is No. 7!): https://podcast.feedspot.com/buffy_the_vampire_slayer_podcasts/ About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Release, Angel crossover S4 E14, Faith and Angelus battle, Fred has a crisis, and Cordelia implores Connor to keep their secret. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) how the writers draw on backstory from both Buffy and Angel; (2) true vs. false conflict; (3) many storylines – but is there a main plot? and (4) cliffhanger or gamechanger and when it matters. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.lisalilly.com/worksheets Buffy and the Art of Story podcast is No. 7 on FeedSpot's List: 35 Best Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025 About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly:   

In Salvage (Angel crossover S4 E13), Angelus meets The Beast (a powerful demon terrorizing L.A.) and Wesley persuades to Faith break out of prison. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) showing internal conflict (Wesley's) through imagined dialogue; (2) who the protagonist is in a group with the same goal and two leaders (Wesley and Faith); (3) the challenges and pluses of a  conflict engine character  (Connor); and (4) subplots that resolve issues or raise stakes in the main plot. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets Looking for a winter read? Try The Charming Man, where lawyer/private investigator Quille C. Davis hunts for a killer while trapped in a high rise during a blizzard: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L7PSDNK About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly:  https://lisalilly.com/free/

This podcast episode covers the Top 5 and Bottom 5 Buffy episodes ever, plus some Honorable Mentions. See if you agree. Happy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year!  Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets Looking for a winter read? Try The Charming Man, where lawyer/private investigator Quille C. Davis hunts for a killer while trapped in a high rise during a blizzard: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L7PSDNK About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly:  https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Lies My Parents Told Me (Buffy the Vampire Slayer S7 E17), Robin Wood aims to kill Spike and Giles is in on the plan. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on:  interweaving three plots – Robin v. Spike, Giles v. Buffy, Spike v. himself; whether Giles's choices fit his character; how William becomes Spike; point of view and protagonists; and a (hopefully) unintended episode theme. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets Looking for a winter read? Try The Charming Man, where lawyer/private investigator Quille C. Davis hunts for a killer while trapped in a high rise during a blizzard: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L7PSDNK About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly:  https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Storyteller (S7 E16 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Andrew annoys everyone by videotaping them and is forced to reckon with his past. Along with the recap of Storyteller, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) whose story is it - Buffy's or Andrew's? (2) whether Buffy's and Andrew's goals conflict; (3) what happens when writers fall in love with a character (Andrew); (4) how characterization relates to humor; and (5) flashbacks that tell their own story and move the main plot. Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly:  https://lisalilly.com/free/

In Get It Done (S7 E15 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy risks it all to learn the origin of the First Slayer while Robin Wood learns a whole about Sunnydale – and Spike. Along with the recap of Get It Done, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) what links Andrew, Willow, Anya, and Spike; (2) how each character's story arc explores the nature of power; (3) building small steps to why Buffy, Spike, and Willow make the major choices they do; and (4) reasons to love Dawn and hate Kennedy. Last Episode: First Date Next Episode: Storyteller Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  Get Creating Compelling Characters From The Inside Out: https://lisalilly.com/creating-compelling-characters-inside Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/  

In First Date (S7 E14 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy and Xander embark on romantic encounters (or are about to be hijacked by demonic forces) and The First tries to re-recruit Andrew. Along with the recap of First Date, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) why humor that feels true to a character works best; (2) plot turns that force Buffy, Xander, and Giles to grow and change; and (3) how this somewhat lighthearted episode sets up the rest of the season and the end of the series. Last Episode: The Killer In Me  Next Episode: Get It Done Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/lisamlilly  New Release by Lisa M. Lilly: The Skeptical Man (A Q.C. Davis Mystery): https://lisalilly.com/skeptical/ Download free Story Structure worksheets: https://www.writingasasecondcareer.com/worksheets About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Get free books by Lisa M. Lilly: https://lisalilly.com/free/  

Grief in the Buffyverse asks how grief affects the characters we love in Buffy the Vampire Slayer from Season 1 on. With Tyffany D. Neiheiser, Author of Not Dead Enough. Topics include:  (1) what motivates Buffy's choice to face death (and the Master) in Season 1; (2) what Willow needs from her friends when facing loss; (3) why Buffy withdraws and tries to go it alone; and (4) how the need to deal with their grief affects the Potentials, Willow, and Xander in S7 Empty Places. Last Episode: The Killer in Me Next Episode: First Date Halloween Read: The Tower Formerly Known As Sears And Two Other Tales Of Urban Horror by Lisa M. Lilly New Release by Lisa M. Lilly: The Skeptical Man (A Q.C. Davis Mystery) Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook Learn more about author Tyffany D. Neiheiser and Not Dead Enough at https://tyffanydneiheiser.com/books/ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly 

In The Killer In Me (S7 E13 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Giles might be The First, Spike's chip goes wonky, and Willow changes into her worst enemy. Along with the recap of The Killer In Me, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) weaving plots and subplots together; (2) why some twists frustrate the audience; (3) juggling recurring character relationships (like Buffy & Willow's) with new story arcs (the potentials); and (4) managing too many characters in a story. Last Episode: Potential  Next Episode: Grief in the Buffyverse with author Tyffany D. Neiheiser Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  New Release by Lisa M. Lilly: The Skeptical Man (A Q.C. Davis Mystery) Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly   

In Potential (S7 E12 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), where Buffy trains potential slayers and Willow's spell to find a new one takes a surprising turn. Along with the recap of Potential, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) building to a surprising yet inevitable twist; (2) revealing inner conflict – here, Buffy's about Spike – through dialogue and action; (3) small moments that convey Dawn's emotional journey; (4) changes to Buffy, Xander, and Dawn over the seasons; and (5) how questions about who the protagonist is affect the story. Last Episode: Showtime Next Episode: The Killer In Me Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly   

In Showtime (S7 E11 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), more potential Slayers arrive in Sunnydale and Buffy fights the Turok Han, this time with an audience. Along with the recap of Showtime, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) weaving foreshadowing into your story; (2) just-in-time world building; and (3) how the character relationships gradually evolve in believable ways. Last Episode: Showtime Next Episode: The Killer In Me Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly   

In Bring On The Night (S7 E10 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Giles returns to Sunnydale with potential vampire slayers and Buffy fights an ubervamp. Along with the recap of Bring On The Night, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) making new characters' choices believable; (2) why goals matter (and what happens when they're not clear); (3) Buffy and friends treat Andrew badly – what does that say about them? and (4) when open story questions frustrate the audience. Last Episode: Never Leave Me Next Episode: Showtime Get more content, including access to the self-study course How To Plot Your Novel: From Idea To First Draft, while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly 

In Never Leave Me (S7 E9 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy interrogates Spike, Xander and Anya play good cop/bad cop with Andrew, and Principal Wood acts strangely. Along with the recap of Never Leave Me, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) the challenges of using a group as protagonist; (2) setting the rules in a supernatural story; (3) filling in a lack of plot developments with fun and humor; and (4) building to a key revelation. Last Episode: Sleeper Next Episode: Bring On The Night Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly 

In Sleeper (S7 E8 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy struggles to sort out whether, how, and why Spike is killing again and Giles is in peril. Along with the recap of Sleeper, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) fluid plot turns that keep the pace fast; (2) foreshadowing future rifts among Buffy and her friends; (3) segues that link scenes; (4)  actions and dialogue that can be read multiple ways, creating believable conflict. Last Episode: Pride, Prejudice and Buffy (Bonus) Next Episode: Never Leave Me Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly 

This bonus episode of Buffy and the Art of Story features host Lisa M. Lilly and audiobook narrator and voice actor Shiromi Arserio. The two met due to their shared love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Today they talk about their recent new release, a special edition audiobook of Pride and Prejudice. The conversation includes:  (1) the strong female characters in Pride and Prejudice; (2) what new writers can learn from the Jane Austen classic; (3) why the book has endured for centuries; (4) where Pride and Prejudice crosses paths with Buffy and more. Last Episode: Conversations With Dead People Next Episode: Sleeper Buy The Audiobook Audiobook On Kobo (digital) Audible CD Edition About Lisa Lilly and Shiromi Arserio In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly.  For the past 18 years Shiromi Arserio has worked as a voice actor. As an audiobook narrator she has narrated over 250 titles for major publishers. She is a 2x Audie Finalist, IAA Nominee, SOVAS Nominee and winner of multiple Earphones awards and Pencraft Literary awards for my narrations. She has a knack for accents and loves Science Fiction & Fantasy, as well as YA and Romance. Shiromi Arserio is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA. Learn more at ShiromiSpeaks.com.

In Conversations with Dead People (S7 E7 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy, Willow and Dawn talk with the dead (or the undead)  —  maybe  —  and Spike's story takes an ominous turn. With special guest Steven Youngkin, host of the Angel retrospective podcast Wolfram & Cast. Along with the recap of Conversations with Dead People, this podcast episode focuses on:  (1) connecting seemingly unconnected vignettes; (2) character arcs and themes; (3) pop culture references; and (4) behind-the-scenes trivia and info on writing and production. Last Episode: Sleeper Next Episode: Him Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  More about free novella No Good Plays Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Him (S7 E6 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Dawn falls in love - or falls under a love spell - and Buffy refuses to take her seriously until it's almost too late. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) always making things worse for the protagonist (Dawn); (2) is Buffy under a spell or acting out of character? Or both? and (3) hints of a theme that may be there or coming soon. Last Episode: Selfless Next Episode: Conversations With Dead People Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  More about free novella No Good Plays Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Selfless (S7 E5 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Anya returns to her demon life with a vengeance, forcing Buffy to make a terrible choice. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) why choice is key in the Buffyverse; (2) flashbacks at their best; (3) character motives and exposition revealed through gripping conflict; and (4) how the themes of Selfless affect Anya's story. Last Episode: Help Next Episode: Him Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  New Audiobooks How To Write A Novel, Grades 6-8 and Creating Compelling Characters From The Inside Out Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Help (S7 E4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), a Sunnydale High student insists she will die in a few days though she doesn't know why and Buffy strives to save her. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) Surprising the viewer while playing fair with a second — and third — ending; (2) foreshadowing or overshadowing plot turns and Season 7 themes; (3) callbacks or rehashes? and (4) what makes an opening scene compelling. Last Episode: Same Time Same Place Next Episode: Selfless New Audiobooks How To Write A Novel, Grades 6-8 and Creating Compelling Characters From The Inside Out Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Same Time Same Place (S7 E3 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Willow returns to Sunnydale, a victim is flayed, and no one can find anyone else. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) how coincidence affects story; (2) why the doubled scenes are so engaging; (3) what happens when rules--for demons or spells--are unclear; (4) pacing problem or thematic choice? and (5) many, many metaphors. Last Episode: Beneath You Next Episode: Help New Audiobooks How To Write A Novel, Grades 6-8 and Creating Compelling Characters From The Inside Out Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Beneath You (S7 E2 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), a giant worm demon terrorizes Sunnydale and Buffy learns Spike's secret. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) how well “from beneath you it devours” works in this episode; (2) the oddness of Spike with a soul; (3) repetitive exposition that slows the pace; and (4) well-constructed exposition that adds fun. Last Episode: Lessons Next Episode: Same Time Same Place Latest Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly.

In Lessons (S7 E1 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy tries to prepare Dawn for high school and to fight vampires, zombie ghosts attack, and Spike returns. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) does Lessons work better as a season pilot than an episode? (2) challenges of the “I'm just evil” antagonist; (3) episode v. season themes; and (4) whether we buy the way Buffy and friends have grown and changed since last season. Last Episode: Blind Date (Wolfram & Cast) Next Episode: Beneath You Latest Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

This week Angel retrospective podcast Wolfram & Cast visits Buffy and the Art of Story, looking at Angel S1 E21 Blind Date. In Blind Date, Angel tries to stop a blind assassin. Along with the recap, host Steven Youngkin focuses on: (1) navigating the treacherous waters of destiny, free will, and the all-too-human struggle between redemption and power; (2) dissecting the intricate relationship between Angel and Lindsay MacDonald; (3) the sinister intricacies of Holland Manners, brought to life by Sam Anderson, and his influence on the show's portrayal of good versus evil and more. Last Episode: Buffy Season 6 As A Whole Next Episode: Lessons (Buffy S7 E1) Latest Book Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com.

In Buffy Season 6, Buffy the Vampire Slayer takes a new approach to storytelling. This podcast episode looks at the season arc as a whole. Along with the season recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) how to write a group as protagonist; (2) themes and Dark Willow; (3) whether Buffy's growth rings true; (4) which Buffy Season 6 plot turns are most compelling; and more. Last Episode: Grave Next Episode: Bonus - Wolfram & Cast looks at Angel Episode Blind Date Latest Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

In Grave (S6 E22 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the gang tries to stop Willow from ending the world and Buffy and Dawn battle beneath the earth. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) a protagonist shift from Buffy to Giles to Xander; (2) why Xander is the one and only character who could save the world; (3) Xander's worst traits - same as his best traits? and (4) how Buffy's subplot fits with the larger story (if it does). Last Episode: Two To Go Next Episode: Season 3 As A Whole New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

In Two To Go (S6 E21 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy and friends put themselves in peril to stop Willow from killing Andrew and Jonathan, Dawn seeks out Rack, and Spike faces trials. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) Willow's shift from antagonist to genuine, three-dimensional villain, (2) deeply-felt emotions and other reasons Willow, the villain, is so much more intriguing than Buffy, and (3) whether the repetitive dialogue here creates a theme or slows the story. Last Episode: A Very Buffy Holiday Next Episode: Grave New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Try the first Q.C. Davis Mysteries ($0.99 each 11/13/23 through 11/19/23) by clicking here As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

This bonus A Very Buffy Holiday, compares all 6 Buffy holiday episodes. Plus one Buffy the Vampire Slayer holiday flashback. Last Episode: Villains Next Episode: Bonus Angel S1 E21 Blind Date from Wolfram & Cast  New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

In Villains (S6 E20 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Warren flees, Buffy and friends grapple with Tara's death, and Willow's out for revenge. Or is it justice? Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) whether Villians is Buffy's story or Willow's; (2) why viewers might not love Season 6 Buffy as a character; (3) seamless scene endings and beginnings that move us through the story; (4) how Warren's evil deeds contrast those done by others, first for fun, then for sympathy. Last Episode: Seeing Red Next Episode: Two To Go New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Try the first Q.C. Davis Mysteries ($0.99 each 11/13/23 through 11/19/23) by clicking here As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

In Seeing Red (S6 E19 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the geek trio feuds, Spike assaults Buffy, and Warren strikes a fatal blow. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) how Spike's actions fit his character arc; (2) themes of trust, misogyny, and being a “real man”; (3) episode bookends that maximize the heartrending final moments; and (4) an unclear main plot despite all the drama and conflict. Last Episode: Entropy Next Episode: Villains New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly

In Entropy (S6 E18 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Anya and Spike connect over being rejected and Xander is once again horrible to everyone. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) locked or unresolvable conflicts in key relationships; (2) how Xander/Anya and Buffy/Spike mirror one another; (3) why Dawn is interesting and likeable in this episode; (4) engaging exposition; and (5) scene cuts for maximum emotional impact and a fast pace. Last Episode: Normal Again Next Episode: Seeing Red New Release: Buffy and the Art of Story Season Three Part 1: Write More Gripping Plots, Characters, And Themes By Watching Buffy  Download free Story Structure worksheets Get more content while supporting the podcast by becoming a patron  Get Super Simple Story Structure: A Quick Guide to Plotting And Writing Your Novel (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Get The One-Year Novelist: A Week-By-Week Guide To Writing Your Novel In One Year (ebook, audiobook, or workbook) Check Out Mini-Courses On Finding And Choosing Ideas For Your Novel As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through this site, but that doesn't change the purchase price to you or influence my love of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. About Lisa M. Lilly In addition to hosting the Buffy and the Art of Story podcast, Lisa M. Lilly is the author of the bestselling four-book Awakening supernatural thriller series as well as numerous short stories. She is currently writing the latest novel in her Q.C. Davis mysteries. Her non-fiction includes books on writing craft under L. M. Lilly. She also founded WritingAsASecondCareer.com. Click here for free books by Lisa M. Lilly