21.14: Because at First, They Don’t Succeed

Today, we’re talking about the “try-fail cycle” and why failure is essential to making the middle of your story actually interesting. It allows readers to follow characters as they try something, fail, adjust, and try again until they finally succeed. Our conversation gets into how failure builds tension and empathy and how you can use “yes, but / no, and” to control your story’s momentum. We also address the difference between barriers and attempts, and how to keep things from feeling repetitive or stalled, whether you’re writing epic fantasy or a quiet coffee shop story. Homework : Look at the MICE quotient elements (milieu, inquiry, character, event) in your story and make a list of barriers for each. Then choose a smaller subset of those barriers that work well together, and use them to design try-fail cycles that keep your story dynamic without becoming repetitive or overcrowded. Locus Magazine Annual Fundraiser (ends April 14th, 2026) Join us in supporting Locus Magazine– explore the campaign and fantastic rewards for donors online at locusmag.com/igg26 . Final WXR Cruise! Our final WXR cruise sets sail for Alaska in September 2026—get your tickets here ! Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, Erin Roberts, and DongWon Song. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson. Join Our Writing Community! Writing Retreats Newsletter Patreon Instagram Threads Bluesky TikTok YouTube Facebook Our Sponsors: * Check out HomeServe: * Check out MasterClass: * Check out Talkiatry: * If you’re struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: Support this podcast at — Advertising Inquiries: Privacy & Opt-Out:

You can listen to 21.14: Because at First, They Don’t Succeed online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

21.14: Because at First, They Don’t Succeed is an episode from Writing Excuses by Brandon Sanderson, Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler.

This episode is 25:21 long.

This episode was published on Apr 5, 2026.

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