Tony Ortiz
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
The Spun Today Podcast is a show that is anchored in Writing but unlimited in scope. Join the host Tony Ortiz as he
explores various topics and subjects like writing, podcasting, movies, books, TV shows, people, politics, MMA, current
events and much more. Give it a whirl.... show more
explores various topics and subjects like writing, podcasting, movies, books, TV shows, people, politics, MMA, current
events and much more. Give it a whirl.... show more
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#308 – Voices of 9/11: Recounting Stories from New Yorkers on the Day (Re-release)
Welcome to a special re-release of the Spun Today podcast, episode #308: "Voices of 9/11: Recounting Stories from New Yorkers." In this episode, we journey back through the eyes and words of everyday New Yorkers as they recount their vivid, personal memories of September 11th, 2001. These are not the polished soundbites of newscasters or politicians, but unfiltered, honest recollections from people just like you—students in classrooms, office workers downtown, and families scrambling to reconnect across a city thrown into chaos. You'll hear about the confusion and disbelief that swept through classrooms and office buildings, the frantic attempts to connect with loved ones when communication networks collapsed, and the transformation of an ordinary Tuesday morning into a defining moment in history. Through these voices, the complex aftermath unfolds—how the city's unity and compassion emerged, but also how suspicion, grief, and lingering trauma shaped lives for years to come. Join us as we explore not only the immediate reactions and long-term impacts of 9/11, but also how these harrowing experiences, foster resilience, and inspire a collective resolve to remember and rebuild. This special episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and find light, even in the darkest of times. Special thanks to: Jacey Pascasio, my Father Segundo Ortiz, David Ortiz, Janet Ortiz, Yudy Azurdia, Raul Azurdia, Zoila Ortiz, Elaine Almonte & Steven Almonte. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: 9/11: TIMELINE OF EVENTS: http://www.history.com/topics/9-11-timeline George W. Bush The Night of 9-11-01: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbqCquDl4k4 Angel in the Rubble: The Miraculous Rescue of 9/11's Last Survivor: https://amzn.to/4gZfjWm Elaine Almonte's Facebook Post: https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10100795821199994&id=26304929&set=a.836445090434.2248017.26304929 Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#307 – Unpacking Shrinking Season 3 Creative Tools and Writing Lessons for Storytellers PLUS and addition to our GOATs List!
Welcome to another episode of Spun Today, the only podcast anchored in writing but unlimited in scope. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and in today's episode, I'll be breaking down Season 3 of the acclaimed series Shrinking through the unique lens of a writer. We'll dig deep into the character arcs and narrative choices, extracting motivational and creativity-fueling takeaways to inspire your own storytelling journey. From psychological concepts like the "field" and the "shadow self," to lessons about character scars, growth, and the necessity of letting your creations remain human, there's a wealth of creative insight to unpack. Plus, stick around for our favorite segment, "Goats Doing Goat Shit," where we shine a light on those making a positive difference in their communities. Whether you're a fellow wordsmith, a fan of Shrinking, or just on the hunt for inspiration, this episode is guaranteed to ignite your creative spark and encourage you to keep pursuing your dreams, one word at a time. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Shrinking Season 3: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15677150/ WNBA Stary Paige Bueckers Helps Renovate Childhood Basketball Court: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RrEhdfKEac0 https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-sports/paige-bueckers-unveils-refurbished-basketball-court-in-hometown-of-st-louis-park Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#306 – Writing Lessons from Daredevil Born Again Season 2: Complexity, Conflict, and Creative Takeaways PLUS a new addition to our GOATs doing GOAT Sh*t list!
Welcome to another episode of Spun Today, the podcast dedicated to exploring creativity and storytelling through the lens of writing. In this episode, the conversation focused on the second season of Daredevil: Born Again, diving deep into its morally complex characters, political intrigue, and the ways fiction can feel uncomfortably close to reality. A key theme that emerged was how great writing leverages gray areas—challenging black-and-white morality by making both sides question their own actions. The discussion explored writing techniques like escalating conflict, crafting characters with conflicting identities, and building dramatic irony, all while reflecting on why narrative momentum matters more than just narrative quantity. The episode also highlighted an inspiring "Goats Doing Goat Shit" inductee, in the segment where we celebrate those who go above and beyond in altruism. Stick around for a thoughtful blend of creative insight, pop culture analysis, and motivational energy—perfect for fueling your own creative journey. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Daredevil Born Again Season 2: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18923754/episodes/?season=2 Snap co-founder Evan Spiegel and Miranda Kerr donate millions to erase $550 million in medical debt for 261,000 Californians, following Jeff Bezos' ex-wife MacKenzie Scott's model https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/global-trends/snap-co-founder-evan-spiegel-and-miranda-kerr-donate-millions-to-erase-550-million-in-medical-debt-for-261000-californians-following-jeff-bezos-ex-wife-mackenzie-scotts-model/articleshow/133054339.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com&from=mdr Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#305 – A Night Out – AUDIO BOOK (Re-Release)
Welcome to another episode of Spun Today, where we explore the creative process and the world of storytelling through the eyes of a writer. In this episode, we dive into "A Night Out," the latest short story to come from the Spun Today vault—a thriller born from a vivid dream shared by my brother, David Ortiz. It's been a while since the last short story release, and I reflect on the challenges of carving out time for writing amidst life's whirlwind of big changes—reminding all writers to defend their creative time as they would any other responsibility. We pull back the curtain on how this story was conceived, from the initial dream spark to the slow unwinding of resistance and procrastination, all the way to a finished piece that unfolds like a cinematic experience. Join us as we break down the origins, themes, and creative choices behind "A Night Out," a story woven from a mix of harrowing real-life what-ifs and the kind of moral dilemmas that keep both characters and writers up at night. Whether you're here for the inspiration, the storytelling, or the craft, this episode is for anyone who knows that creativity isn't just about having ideas—it's about nurturing them until they bloom. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Check out the short story: https://www.spuntoday.com/shortstories/anightout Purchase your copy of Melted Cold TODAY! https://amzn.to/456Aw8D Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#304 – Staying Present as a Writer: Learning by Living and Wisdom from Anne Lamott (Free-Writing Session)
Welcome to episode 304 of the Spun Today podcast, where we dive deep into the creative life—its challenges, joys, and moments of breakthrough. In this free writing session, Tony Ortiz shares his latest writing stats, practical tips for writers, and an honest look into the ways presence and mindful living can fuel the creative process. This episode explores inspiration from Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird, actionable advice on tackling writer's block, and the value of noticing the world like a child. Tony Ortiz also introduces a bite-sized writing tool for overcoming stuck points, breaks down actionable writing tips from social media, and spotlights a personal freewriting piece about embracing life's constant transitions. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting out, this episode is packed with creative motivation, strategies for productivity, and reminders to keep writing—one bird, one story, and one moment at a time. Check out all free-writing pieces at: spuntoday.com/freewriting . The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Writing Advice from: https://www.instagram.com/schoolofplot Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott: https://amzn.to/43IfVcG Transitions in Life: https://www.spuntoday.com/freewriting/transitions-in-life Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#303 – Living with MS: Personal Stories and Insights for World MS Day
Welcome to Episode 303 of the Spun Today Podcast—your home for honest conversations about writing, creativity, and the journeys that shape us. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and today we're releasing a truly special episode to honor World MS Day. In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with my wife, Zoila Ortiz, to share her powerful story of living with multiple sclerosis. We dive deep into her first symptoms, the uncertainty of diagnosis, and the emotional and physical challenges that come with MS. Zoila walks us through her search for information, the importance—and dangers—of online self-diagnosis, and the strength found in community. Through candid discussion, Zoila offers an inside look at adapting to adversity, the rollercoaster of medications ( Glatiramer by injection (Copaxone) and Fingolimod (Gilenya) to the current day infusion Rituximab which is a monoclonal antibody). We touched on clinical trials, and the vital role of support systems. She talks openly about how MS can impact confidence, independence, and daily routines—but also about how determination and a strong mindset can turn even the most daunting obstacles into new paths forward. We dig into the importance of raising awareness, supporting one another, and using our platforms to connect and inspire. Tune in for a conversation about resilience, empathy, and the healing power of storytelling—and learn how you, too, can advocate for others and yourself. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Follow Zoila: @melodyrosa2083 What is Multiple Sclerosis video from ASAP Science: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Naecv3h868c To donate for MS research or partake in activities like Bike MS, Walk MS, or just to learn more, check out the National MS Society: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/ Jpmetz YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@jpmetz Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#302 – Turning Misunderstanding into Creative Fuel: Story Construction from Black Mirror's Eulogy and Mark Normand's Standup
Welcome to another episode of Spun Today, where writing and creativity fuel our exploration of stories across media. I'm Tony Ortiz, your host, inviting you to view each topic through the lens of a writer's craft. In this episode, we dive deep into the writing lessons hidden within Black Mirror's "Eulogy," examining how memory shapes narrative and the power of withheld information. Then, we break down Mark Normand's razor-sharp Netflix special, "None Too Pleased," pulling out tools for punchy, impactful writing—whether you're crafting jokes or stories. And in our recurring GOATS DOING GOAT SHIT segment, we celebrate the creative generosity of Tyler Perry. Whether you're a writer, a storyteller, or just seeking creative motivation, stick around for insights and inspiration to help you better tell your own story. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Black Mirror – Eulogy: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31790112/ Mark Normand: None Too Pleased: https://www.netflix.com/title/82155387 Pushing Boulder: A Mark-umentary: https://youtu.be/_sFu5ejKHkk?si=owAb5Ecml4s-O0Aj Tyler Perry made a $750,000 donation to help low-income seniors in Atlanta: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tyler-perry-donates-750000-low-income-seniors-in-atlanta-increased-taxes/ Tyler Perry shocks seniors by paying for groceries at Atlanta Krogers: https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/tyler-perry-shocks-seniors-by-paying-for-groceries-at-atlanta-krogers Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
Bonus: Five Actionable Writing Lessons from Shrinking Season Two (Companion to Ep. 300)
Welcome back to Spun Today! In this bonus episode, Tony Ortiz explores what writers can learn from Season 2 of "Shrinking." Through a breakdown of five actionable takeaways, you'll discover how to craft flawed, believable characters, turn emotional growth into concrete action, and write conflicts where both sides feel justified. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just getting started, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips to fuel your creative process—reminding you that the best writing comes from digging deep into the real, messy parts of being human. Grab the free companion guide at spuntoday.com to follow along visually, and get ready to sharpen your storytelling craft. Download the FREE guide here: The Shrinking S2 Companion The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Shrinking: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15677150/?ref_=ttfc_ov_bk Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#301 – Highlight the Possibilities: Writing Motivation from Jay Z, Creative Marketing, and Trust by Hernan Diaz (Free-Writing Session)
Welcome to another episode of Spun Today, where writing is both our anchor and our gateway to a universe of creativity. I'm Tony Ortiz, and in this episode, I take you deep into my own writing journey — breaking down my day-to-day habits, the victories and setbacks in sticking to a writing schedule, and the lessons learned along the way. I'll share actionable tips, including a powerful insight from Jay Z's creative process and how even a single well-chosen word can completely shift the meaning of a story. We'll dissect the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "Trust" by Hernan Diaz, looking closely at how form and structure themselves can reshape our understanding of narrative and character. From marketing your indie books with smarter tools to using AI for ad campaigns, I discuss how writers can leverage technology to grow their audience. And as always, I'll round things off with one of my free writing pieces—highlighting the importance of focusing on possibilities instead of limitations as fuel for both creative and personal growth. Whether you're searching for inspiration, craft advice, or a creative lift, this episode is for every writer ready to push past the obstacles and chase the spark. Check out all free-writing pieces at: spuntoday.com/freewriting . The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Jay-Z: Lyrical Flow, 'Reasonable Doubt,' Biggie, & More (Exclusive Interview) https://youtu.be/PfMfwwHr8kM?si=XtKFvoDswiC7Ip95 Trust by Hernan Diaz: https://amzn.to/4wh7dPK "Highlight the Possibilities. Not the Limitations." https://www.spuntoday.com/freewriting/highlight-the-possibilities Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
Spun Today with Tony Ortiz
#300 – Writing Lessons from Shrinking Season 2: Character Growth, Accountability, and Full Circle Storytelling
Welcome to the Spun Today Podcast, where creativity, storytelling, and personal growth are always at the forefront. In this milestone 300th episode, Tony Ortiz dives deep into the writing, character arcs, and creative lessons of Shrinking Season 2. Through the lens of writing, Tony explores how the show masterfully brings trauma and accountability front and center—not just for the characters, but for creators looking to fuel their own work. This episode is packed with insightful breakdowns on making emotional concepts concrete, the importance of maintaining a consistent voice, and how true character change begins with accountability. Whether you're a fellow writer, a fan of great storytelling, or simply looking for creative motivation, join Tony as he celebrates growth—imperfect but intentional—and uncovers the powerful writing techniques behind Shrinking's emotionally resonant second season. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Shrinking: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15677150/?ref_=ttfc_ov_bk The Tools: https://amzn.to/3OWqKny Stutz Documentary: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21819228/ https://www.thetoolsbook.com/reversal-of-desire Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way ÁBRЕТЕ CAMINO: CONSEJOS PARA DEJAR DE SER TU PROPIO OBSTÁCULO (Spanish Edition) FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback and Hardcover are now available) Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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