Have you listened to Freely Written, my short-story podcast? You can find it here: Freely Written or wherever you listen to podcasts. It features very short stories (about 10 minutes) that are free-written from prompts with no planning and very little editing. I simply sit down with a chosen prompt and write whatever comes to mind. Any genre, any style. Though I do keep them family-friendly.
With well over 100 episodes, there are many short stories to explore. Since they are written without planning or editing, some have turned out better than others. Though that’s subjective, of course! If you want to check it out, here are some of the most popular Freely Written stories (based on listener downloads).
You Are My Sunshine
Episode 58 – April 26, 2022 – Gene adjusts to life back in the office after working from home. Listen here: You Are My Sunshine
This prompt was inspired by my beautiful yellow coffee mug that says “Hello Sunshine!” (made by Barbarah Robertson Pottery). In revisiting this story, I’m pleased with how well it came together. It’s a sweet story with a twist of romance.
Getting Lost
Episode 67 – August 2, 2022 – Stanley explores the Maze of Mirrors. Listen here: Getting Lost
I love getting prompts from listeners. This one came from one of my younger listeners, my best friend’s son, Lincoln McMullan. (Thanks, Lincoln!) The story it inspired has an eerie, supernatural feel as a young boy sees some strange sights in a maze of mirrors.
The Goose in the House
Episode 4 – April 26, 2021 – A couple wakes up to find a goose in their house. Listen here: The Goose in the House
This was one of my first podcast stories and I really enjoyed writing it. The prompt was simply seeing a goose and having the random thought of it getting into a house. The story unfolds in a strange, meta direction.
Weak in the Knees
Episode 22 – July 13, 2021 – Hillary would rather forget a rather embarrassing incident at work. Listen here: Weak in the Knees
When I don’t have a prompt suggestion from anyone else, I often use a familiar phrase or idiom. This phrase became more literal in this silly story about an awkward moment. It’s a fun story, as long as it never happens to you!
Membership
Episode 2 – March 23, 2021 – An unexpected phone call teaches Almina more about the world. Listen here: Membership
Another very early story that is hanging on to a top spot. Centering around a phone conversation, this story quickly wanders into magical realism. I won’t say more about it, but I still enjoy the uneasy yet bittersweet tone of this one.
What do you think of these stories? If you have a favorite episode that isn’t listed here, add it to the comments. Thanks for listening and sharing Freely Written with your friends!