Pen2Plot Podcast

Keena J Herman

We help storytellers get inspired to write so they can avoid wasting hours staring at a blank page. Tune into the Pen2Plot Podcast to explore creative techniques, creative writing challenges and dive into reviews of the latest and classic films, plays, and books to spark your imagination and fuel your writing journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. I Tried Stephen King's Daily Writing Routine

    10/24/2025

    I Tried Stephen King's Daily Writing Routine

    K.J. Here! I recently tried Stephen King's writing routine to see if I could break through my writer's block and get inspired, here's what worked, what didn't, and my experience overall. In this episode, KJ dives into... 🚨Who Stephen King is and why his routine matters 📢 How treating our writing practice like working out helps productivity and creativity ✍️ Why putting an emphasis on physical well-being is essential for work/life balance and avoiding burnout 💡 PLUS: Final thoughts on the routine and whether or not I'll use it long term 🎧 What part of this routine stood out the most to you? Would you ever try this routine out for yourself?👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ 🎙️Audiobook Narration/Social Media for Authors👇 www.pen2plot.com ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pen2plot.podcast?lang=en ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #stephenking #stephenkingonwriting #stephenkingroutine #stephenkingwritingtips #stephenkingbooks #Pen2Plot #writingislife #writinginspiration #writingmotivation #writingchallenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    22 min
  2. 🔥2025 is a dumpster fire...you should still write your novel!

    10/03/2025

    🔥2025 is a dumpster fire...you should still write your novel!

    2025 has been a pretty confusing year for storytellers, considering A.I. advancements in the creative space, leaving many people asking themselves, "Does my story matter anymore?...should I even bother?" In this episode, KJ dives into... 🚨Why now is the best time to start/complete your work! 📢 How writing your novel is an act of rebellion! ✍️ Overcoming creative guilt and how to take ownership of your writing time 💡 PLUS: What human creativity does that A.I. simply can't recreate 🎧 What's the greatest obstacle holding you back from finishing your novel this year?👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ 🎙️Audiobook Narration/Social Media for Authors👇 www.pen2plot.com ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pen2plot.podcast?lang=en ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #impostersyndrome #innercritic #writingislife #writinginspiration #writingmotivation #dumpsterfire #writingchallenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    6 min
  3. How to Write a Book Blurb in Two Sentences (Writing Advice)

    09/18/2025

    How to Write a Book Blurb in Two Sentences (Writing Advice)

    "So, what's your book about?" Most writers have a love/hate relationship with this question. In this episode, KJ offers practical examples for whipping up an elevator-pitch-style summary of any story…in only two sentences. In this episode, KJ dives into... 🪝 The hook, retention, reward method of developing an engaging summary ✍️ What key descriptive elements to include/exclude to create maximum intrigue and appeal to your audience 💡 PLUS: use this two-sentence summary structure for more than just an elevator pitch ✨📝Here's the template! Use this to quickly come up with impactful blurbs that get readers begging to know more!⬇️ A [genre] novel about a [very short description of your character's key attributes + inciting incident]. She/he/they then must [the central conflict/character's mission] or [the results of failure/the alternative destiny]. 🎧 Will you use this 2-sentence book blurb to summarize your novel? If so, share the results in the comments!👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ 🎙️Audiobook Narration/Social Media for Authors👇 www.pen2plot.com ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pen2plot.podcast?lang=en ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #characterbuilding #characterdevelopment #writingtechnique #writingchallenge #characteranalysis Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:38 - In Today's Episode 1:09 - The Dreaded Question 1:44 - Hook, Retention, Reward 02:59 - Summary Template 03:50 - Personal Example 04:27 - Mainstream Example 05:12 - Other Template Uses 05:52 - Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    7 min
  4. Writers: Steal These Acting Secrets to Build Better Characters

    09/02/2025

    Writers: Steal These Acting Secrets to Build Better Characters

    Are your characters starting to sound a lot like you, but with different masks? Here's how to use Meisner Acting Techniques —emotional prep, moment-to-moment, and strong objectives — to write characters that feel real and unique! In this episode, KJ dives into... 🧠 Actors' methods to avoid flat characters using character development principles derived from acting techniques 📚 Why only relevant backstory is needed to influence character behaviour 📉 How getting specific is the most effective way to create rich, complex characters 💡 How to write moment-to-moment, whether you're a pantser or a plotter! ✅ PLUS: Why having empathy for your enemies actually makes you a stronger writer 🎧 How do you make your characters feel real—do you rely on backstory, moment-to-moment choices, or something else? (Let us know in the comments)👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ 🎙️Audiobook Narration/Social Media for Authors👇 www.pen2plot.com ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pen2plot.podcast?lang=en ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #characterbuilding #characterdevelopment #writingtechnique #writingchallenge #characteranalysis Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:43 - In Today's Episode 5:49 - Audiobook Narration By Pen2Plot 6:38 - Define a Clear Objective 10:11 - Allow Relationship Influence 11:38 - Reactions Guide Dialogue 15:09 - Why Empathy for Our Enemies Improves Our Writing 16:51 - Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    17 min
  5. Why 2025 Is the BEST Time to Be a Writer

    06/22/2025

    Why 2025 Is the BEST Time to Be a Writer

    🎉 Think you’re too old (or too late) to start writing? You’re not alone, but 2025 might just be the perfect year to begin your creative journey. In this episode, K.J. and Chelsey chat all about: ✍️ Why now is the best time in history to become a writer and bypass the gatekeepers! 📱 How new tools and platforms have evolved to put more power than ever in creatives' hands. 💭 Reflecting on our personal mental roadblocks around age, timing, and self-doubt 💌 PLUS: We have a special announcement for writers of any age who are ready to kickstart their creative writing journey this year ⭐Stay tuned until the end! 👇 What’s held you back from starting your creative journey? Let us know in the comments ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ ✍️Check Out Pen2Plot's Novel Lab 👉 https://www.pen2plot.com/p2pcourses/pen2plot-novel-lab ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible ⚫️Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpatreon 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #CreativeMindset #StorytellerLife #StopDreamingStartDoing #WriterMotivation #creativejourney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    11 min
  6. The Ethics of AI in Creative Writing

    06/02/2025

    The Ethics of AI in Creative Writing

    🤖 Tempted to use AI in your story development? Plenty of writers are wondering about its current uses and if there is any ethical way to integrate it into our writing journey...or is it better to just boycott the tech altogether? In this episode, KJ dives into... 🧠 The ethics of using AI in the creative process. Even if it's just to outline, brainstorm, or edit. 📚 Why this topic is so divisive in the creative world, and what the Pen2Plot community has to say. 📉 The uncomfortable questions: Does AI steal intellectual property? Or does it level the playing field? 💡 Where she draws the line, what tools she does use, and why human creativity matters more than ever! ✅ PLUS: If you're looking for ways to speed up your writing process without touching AI, stay until the end for some low-tech hacks that boost creativity and help avoid controversy. 🎧 Does it matter how a story was made if it is objectively good? Where do you draw the line? (Let us know in the comments)👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ ✍️(For New Subscribers) Click Below for Pen2Plot's 9-Step Writing Productivity Workbook: https://pen2plot.substack.com/ ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible ⚫️Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpatreon 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #CreativeMindset #StorytellerLife #StopDreamingStartDoing #WriterMotivation #CreativeJourney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    25 min
  7. Can We Still Call Ourselves Writers If We're Not Writing?

    05/12/2025

    Can We Still Call Ourselves Writers If We're Not Writing?

    😥 Haven’t written in a while? Feeling like a "fake" writer? Trust me, you’re not alone! Life can throw off our creative flow, and getting back into writing can feel like a major challenge. In this episode, we dive into: ✍️ What makes someone a "REAL" writer 😵‍💫 Overcoming imposter syndrome after a long writing break ✨How to reignite your inspiration and get back into your creative flow ✅ PLUS: Sharknado, Cocaine Bear, Twilight fandoms, and community stories to inspire AND make you laugh! 😆 What’s a “B-rated” book or movie that actually inspires you? Drop your faves in the comments below! 👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ ⚔️Click below for our exclusive interview with sci-fi fantasy author Kevin Weir: https://youtu.be/iq0G_L6E18M ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pen2plot.podcast ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #CreativeMindset #StorytellerLife #StopDreamingStartDoing #WriterMotivation #CreativeJourney #impostersyndrome Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
  8. The "Plan B" Myth—And How It's Destroying Our Creative Goals

    04/25/2025

    The "Plan B" Myth—And How It's Destroying Our Creative Goals

    💭✨ "What’s your Plan B when the dream doesn’t work out?" If you’re tired of being asked that question, you’re not alone. Good news: there is a smarter way to build a backup plan—one that doesn’t toss your creative goals in the trash. In this episode, KJ shares… 🧠 Why choosing to invest huge amounts of time in a "safer" path can sabotage our creative momentum. 📅 How reframing "Plan B" as a strategic contingency plan for our creative goals can keep us focused as well as financially stable. 📉 Why a day job isn’t a cushion—it’s an illusion of safety that can keep storytellers stuck. ✅ PLUS: Actionable mindset shifts to help you reclaim your focus, commit to the creative life you actually want, and use your muggle work as fuel, not a fallback. 🎧 Which mindset shift resonated most with you? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇 ❤️Love the show? Support us with a coffee ☕ → https://buymeacoffee.com/pen2plot _____________________________________________________________ ⚔️Click below for our exclusive interview with sci-fi fantasy author Kevin Weir: https://youtu.be/iq0G_L6E18M ✨F O L L O W U S✨ 🔴Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpodcast 🟢Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpod 🔵Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/pentoplotpodcast 💗iHeart Radio: https://tinyurl.com/p2ppodcastiheart 🟠Audible: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotaudible ⚫️Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/pen2plotpatreon 🌐CHECK OUT PEN2PLOT PRODUCTIONS: www.pen2plot.com ✨P 2 P S O C I A L S✨ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pen2plot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pen2plot/ ✨ A B O U T P 2 P✨ K.J. Herman and Chelsey Fawcett are a dynamic duo who have collaborated for over ten years on various film, theatre, and animation projects. Their work has reached national and international audiences, garnering recognition for creativity and impact. Their goal is to connect with fellow storytellers, fostering a supportive community where shared stories and lessons can spark new ideas and encourage creativity. Business inquiries: pen2plot@gmail.com #Pen2Plot #CreativeMindset #StorytellerLife #StopDreamingStartDoing #WriterMotivation #CreativeJourney #planb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    18 min

About

We help storytellers get inspired to write so they can avoid wasting hours staring at a blank page. Tune into the Pen2Plot Podcast to explore creative techniques, creative writing challenges and dive into reviews of the latest and classic films, plays, and books to spark your imagination and fuel your writing journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.