How do you write a character that readers can’t stop thinking about, even when they shouldn’t like them?

In this live, in-class conversation, novelist Caroline Kepnes shares how she developed the voice behind You, and why character begins with perspective, not plot.

Caroline talks about her path from journalism to television writing to novels, how each medium shaped her craft, and why writing often requires unlearning what you’ve been taught.

We also explore the role of short stories in developing voice, the importance of rewriting, and how small, specific moments create emotional impact.

This episode is especially valuable for fiction writers and anyone trying to create characters that feel real, complex, and unforgettable.

Great storytelling isn’t about charisma.

It’s about empathy.

In this live, in-class conversation, Miri Rodriguez, storytelling leader at Microsoft and author of Brand Storytelling, explains how writers find their voice, connect with audiences, and design stories that actually land.

Miri shares what it was like launching her book during the pandemic, negotiating marketing support with her publisher, and writing under intense constraints while working full-time.

She also introduces a powerful origin story exercise, explains why every story has a mission, and shows how design thinking can help authors communicate with more intention and emotional truth.

This episode is essential for writers building books, brands, and messages that matter.

Why do some books quietly spread for years, while others disappear after launch week?

In this live, in-class conversation, Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver, explains why stories and parables connect on a deeper level than traditional how-to books, and why the most successful messages travel heart-to-heart.

Bob shares his approach to writing benefit-driven titles, building genuine relationships before launching a book, and why you can’t “growth hack” trust.

We also talk about the long game of promotion, why singles matter more than home runs, and how books become cultural artifacts when people start gifting them to others.

This episode is essential for authors, entrepreneurs, and creators who want their work to spread through generosity and real connection.