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The Plotpoint

A Books , Arts and Fiction podcast

#162 in Books · 🇳🇬
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About the show

Hosted by award-winning filmmaker and author Leslie Zemeckis and bestselling writer Sara DiVello, Plotpoint is a podcast for readers, writers, and anyone chasing success while navigating real-life struggles. Through honest conversations and powerful stories, each episode explores how the written word shapes our ambitions, helps us make sense of challenges, and inspires meaning in our fast-moving, everyday lives. Whether you’re a lifelong storyteller or simply someone searching for motivation and perspective, The Plotpoint podcast turns stories into tools for growth, creativity, and connection.

Newest episodes

Goosebumps: RL Stine Reveals His Story from Rejection to Selling Over 400 Million Books

20 min

In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with bestselling author R.L. Stine, the legendary creator of Goosebumps and Fear Street, to discuss the art of suspense, the power of imagination, and the secrets behind keeping millions of readers turning pages. Stine shares insights into creating unforgettable characters, building suspense, writing stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats, and finding the perfect balance between fear and fun. He also reflects on his extraordinary career, the evolution of children's horror, and what it takes to keep audiences captivated across generations. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a lifelong Goosebumps fan, or simply fascinated by the art of storytelling, this conversation offers a compelling look inside the mind of one of the world's most influential authors. Join us for a fascinating discussion about creativity, writing, publishing, horror, and the enduring magic of a great story. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeffrey Archer: The Art of Storytelling—and a Final Conversation with a Master

21 min

PART 2 of our interview with Jeffrey Archer. What does it take to captivate millions of readers around the world—and keep them turning the pages, book after book? In this remarkable episode, we sit down with international bestselling author Jeffrey Archer for a conversation about the craft of storytelling, the discipline of writing, and a lifetime spent creating stories that readers can’t put down. Recorded before his death, this conversation has taken on a special significance, arriving just as his final book is published. Archer reflects on what makes a story irresistible, how to create unforgettable characters, build plots full of twists and surprises, overcome setbacks, and sustain a creative life over decades. Whether you’re an aspiring author searching for your voice, an experienced writer honing your craft, or a passionate reader curious about what happens behind the pages, this is a rare opportunity to hear from a storyteller who understood the power of a compelling tale. Join us for an intimate, inspiring conversation about writing, ambition, resilience, and the enduring magic of stories—and discover what it takes to keep readers coming back for more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christopher Lloyd Unfiltered: The Man Behind the Legend

19 min

What really happens when one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable actors finally tells his story? In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with legendary actor Christopher Lloyd for a rare and revealing conversation surrounding his first book—a memoir that looks back on the life, career, characters, triumphs, surprises, and twists that made him a Hollywood icon. From *Taxi* to *Back to the Future* and beyond, Lloyd has spent decades disappearing into some of the most memorable characters ever put on screen. But what happens when the character steps aside and Christopher Lloyd himself takes center stage? Lloyd opens up about the experiences behind the performances, the unpredictable path that brought him to Hollywood, the people and moments that shaped his life, and why he decided that now was the time to finally put his story on the page. This isn't just a conversation about movies. It's a look behind the curtain at the man audiences have watched for generations—and the remarkable life hiding behind some of cinema's most unforgettable characters.If you think you know Christopher Lloyd, this conversation may surprise you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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All episodes

Goosebumps: RL Stine Reveals His Story from Rejection to Selling Over 400 Million Books

20 min

In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with bestselling author R.L. Stine, the legendary creator of Goosebumps and Fear Street, to discuss the art of suspense, the power of imagination, and the secrets behind keeping millions of readers turning pages. Stine shares insights into creating unforgettable characters, building suspense, writing stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats, and finding the perfect balance between fear and fun. He also reflects on his extraordinary career, the evolution of children's horror, and what it takes to keep audiences captivated across generations. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a lifelong Goosebumps fan, or simply fascinated by the art of storytelling, this conversation offers a compelling look inside the mind of one of the world's most influential authors. Join us for a fascinating discussion about creativity, writing, publishing, horror, and the enduring magic of a great story. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeffrey Archer: The Art of Storytelling—and a Final Conversation with a Master

21 min

PART 2 of our interview with Jeffrey Archer. What does it take to captivate millions of readers around the world—and keep them turning the pages, book after book? In this remarkable episode, we sit down with international bestselling author Jeffrey Archer for a conversation about the craft of storytelling, the discipline of writing, and a lifetime spent creating stories that readers can’t put down. Recorded before his death, this conversation has taken on a special significance, arriving just as his final book is published. Archer reflects on what makes a story irresistible, how to create unforgettable characters, build plots full of twists and surprises, overcome setbacks, and sustain a creative life over decades. Whether you’re an aspiring author searching for your voice, an experienced writer honing your craft, or a passionate reader curious about what happens behind the pages, this is a rare opportunity to hear from a storyteller who understood the power of a compelling tale. Join us for an intimate, inspiring conversation about writing, ambition, resilience, and the enduring magic of stories—and discover what it takes to keep readers coming back for more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christopher Lloyd Unfiltered: The Man Behind the Legend

19 min

What really happens when one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable actors finally tells his story? In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with legendary actor Christopher Lloyd for a rare and revealing conversation surrounding his first book—a memoir that looks back on the life, career, characters, triumphs, surprises, and twists that made him a Hollywood icon. From *Taxi* to *Back to the Future* and beyond, Lloyd has spent decades disappearing into some of the most memorable characters ever put on screen. But what happens when the character steps aside and Christopher Lloyd himself takes center stage? Lloyd opens up about the experiences behind the performances, the unpredictable path that brought him to Hollywood, the people and moments that shaped his life, and why he decided that now was the time to finally put his story on the page. This isn't just a conversation about movies. It's a look behind the curtain at the man audiences have watched for generations—and the remarkable life hiding behind some of cinema's most unforgettable characters.If you think you know Christopher Lloyd, this conversation may surprise you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From 149 Rejections to Published Author: What Jillian Laine Learned and You Can Too

21 min

It took Jillian Laine 13 years to get published. She wrote 11 manuscripts and queried 149 agents--all rejections--before her debut book, "Henry Tudor Must Die" landed on bookshelves this summer. In our very first episode of The Plotpoint: The Prologue, Laine shares what she learned about the publishing process and perseverance. Whether you're a reader, aspiring novelist, a seasoned writer, or simply looking to cheer for a story of perseverance, tune in for the power of a great story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Small-Town Dreams to Writing with Stephen King: Richard Chizmar's Extraordinary Journey

21 min

Richard Chizmar has never had a "real job." He started a horror magazine, became a publisher, and has co-written with Stephen King. In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with bestselling author, publisher, and acclaimed storyteller Richard Chizmar, who reveals what scares him, his grassroots marketing, his daily habits, and what it's really like to co-write with Stephen King. Whether you're an aspiring novelist, a seasoned writer, or simply a passionate reader, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside the mind of a writer who has spent decades creating, publishing, and championing great stories. Join us for an inspiring discussion about books, writing, publishing, collaboration, and the creative life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

20 Minutes with Chris Bohjalian, Author of "The Flight Attendant" and "The Amateur" on How Bestsellers are Made

20 min

What can you learn from a novelist whose stories captivate millions? Chris Bohjalian, bestselling author of The Flight Attendant and more than two dozen acclaimed novels, joins The Plotpoint for a fast-paced, 20-minute conversation about the real work behind lasting success. Forget generic writing advice. Chris shares the habits, mindset, and storytelling techniques that keep readers turning pages—and publishers coming back—for decades. From overcoming creative obstacles to building unforgettable characters, this episode is packed with practical insights for writers, readers, entrepreneurs, artists, and anyone determined to create work that matters. Hosted by award-winning documentary filmmaker Leslie Zemeckis and author Sara DiVello The Plotpoint brings you intimate conversations with the world's leading authors in just 20 minutes. If you love books—or dream of writing one—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Inside the Mind of Abraham Verghese: Writing, Books, and a Life in Storytelling

22 min

Abraham Verghese is one of the most celebrated novelists writing today, a two-time Oprah Book Club pick, and the bestselling author of "The Covenant of Water" and "Cutting for Stone." In this episode, we discuss: • Why he never quit his day job • Why he walked away from a big-5 publisher • Balancing medicine and literature • Creating novels that resonate with millions of readers around the world. This is a conversation about storytelling and the story behind the stories we love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Rejection to Selling Over 300 Million Books: Jeffrey Archer's Writing Journey

19 min

What does it take to captivate millions of readers across the globe? In this episode of The Plotpoint, we sit down with international bestselling author Jeffrey Archer to discuss the craft of storytelling, the discipline of writing, and the lessons he's learned throughout his extraordinary literary career. Archer shares insights into developing unforgettable characters, constructing compelling plots, overcoming setbacks, and sustaining creativity over decades of writing. Whether you're an aspiring novelist, a seasoned writer, or simply a passionate reader, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside the mind of one of the world's most successful storytellers. Join us for an inspiring discussion about books, writing, publishing, and the enduring power of a great story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Oprah Effect: Wally Lamb on the Stories That Stay with Us

23 min

Why is Wally Lamb the only author Oprah's Book Club has chosen three times? In this must-listen episode, Wally reveals what makes a story impossible to put down—and why his novels stay with readers long after the last page. From the emotional truth behind his characters to the real-life moments that shape his work, this is a rare, behind-the-scenes look at storytelling that doesn’t just entertain—it transforms. If you live for books that make you feel deeply, think differently, and immediately text a friend, press play now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Walter Mosley: One of America’s Most Award-Winning Authors on Success

21 min

In this episode, legendary author Walter Mosley shares hard-earned insights on discipline, creativity, rejection, and building a career that lasts. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a lifelong reader, or chasing success in any field, this conversation will give you insights into craft, struggles, and success. If you’ve ever wondered how great storytellers are made—this is one you don’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Patricia Cornwell Ahead of ‘Scarpetta’ Premiere 

19 min

Cornwell reveals her struggles — she received so many rejections she almost gave up on her dream of becoming an author. Her first signing was a bust: every bookstore in town refused to host her...except for a religious bookstore, who agreed to do it if she would give a free case of books. Not a single person attended, but one man perused her book then threw it across the room and and a woman asked her to throw away her dirty tissue. She reflects on how it feels now on the other side of stratospheric success, having sold more than 100 million books, with a series set to stream on Amazon Prime starring Nicole Kidman alongside Jamie Lee Curtis. She shares the secrets to her craft, her thoughts on AI, and how feels herself to be a "humble scribe." The Plotpoint is built for readers, writers, and anyone chasing success while navigating real life. To catch these fast-paced, insightful conversations, subscribe to The Plotpoint on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen. And remember, writing is the best revenge.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming Soon: The Plotpoint

1 min

The world’s leading authors share craft, struggles, and success in just 20 minutes… because we have cocktails to drink, books to write, and fabulous places to be. And remember, writing is the best revenge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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