Project: Shadow

Charlie Dorsett

Join me, Charlie, your guide on this journey of discovery, as we delve into the otherworldly harmonies of music to the imaginative depths of entertaining novels, films, and TV shows, we explore the magic and mechanics of storytelling. This podcast is a celebration of the artistry that fuels our fantasies and a nod to the unseen brilliance often overlooked. Tune in to uncover the hidden layers of your favorite narratives, meet the unsung heroes of creativity, and ignite your passion for the fantastical. Step into the shadow with us, where wonders unseen await! read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Writing for a Subscription Platform
Dec 8 2023
Writing for a Subscription Platform
The episode of Project: Shadow titled "Writing for a Subscription Platform" features Charlie, a non-binary sci-fi and fantasy writer, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities of writing for a subscription-based platform. Charlie contrasts this model with traditional novel writing, highlighting the constant need for engaging content in subscription writing and the different kind of pressure it entails. Charlie explains that in subscription writing, each part of the story must be captivating, unlike a novel where the overall narrative holds precedence. This model allows for the story to evolve and grow over time, offering a more dynamic and interactive experience for both the writer and the audience. The subscription model is detailed as a process where readers pay a small fee for early access to drafts and the opportunity to influence the story's direction. Charlie emphasizes the benefits of having committed beta readers (or alpha readers) who provide valuable feedback throughout the writing process. Charlie shares personal experiences and strategies, including a shift towards more outlining than usual, while still allowing room for spontaneous creativity. They also express the vulnerability and fear associated with sharing early, unrefined drafts and the worry that their work might not resonate with readers. The discussion then shifts to the mechanics of using a platform like Ream for publishing drafts and the fear of judgment that writers face. Charlie questions traditional publication methods' sustainability and suggests that the subscription model aligns more closely with modern readers' preferences for interactive and regularly updated content. Finally, Charlie invites listeners to join them on their writing journey through their podcast, "The Nonbinary Writer," and teases future episodes focusing on media analysis, specifically Star Trek and Star Wars. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
This Pride is Difficult
Jun 9 2023
This Pride is Difficult
In this emotionally charged episode, Charlie reflects on the changing nature of Pride in a time of increased legislative attacks on the trans community and a rise in societal tensions. The episode, titled "This Pride is Difficult," provides a candid and heartfelt commentary on the current struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the context of widespread drag bans, legal challenges to trans rights, and the impact of societal violence. Charlie shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the difficulties in creating content amidst ongoing tragedies and the complexities of navigating life under restrictive state laws. This episode also addresses the sense of guilt and responsibility felt in the face of these challenges, emphasizing the importance of community support and action. Despite the serious tone, Charlie strives to foster a sense of hope and solidarity, urging listeners to acknowledge the realities of the situation while also finding ways to safely speak out and support each other. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to engage and communicate through Charlie's platform, encouraging continued dialogue and action within the community. Themes: The evolving nature of Pride as a protest in challenging timesThe impact of legislative and societal attacks on the LGBTQ+ communityPersonal struggles and reflections on activism and advocacyThe importance of community, communication, and solidarity in the face of adversity Notable Quotes: "This year, Pride needs to be a protest.""It's okay not to have answers... but it's not okay to remain silent.""We can't do this alone. We have to do it together." --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
Let's talk about and listen to my new Album, Born in Shadow
Mar 29 2023
Let's talk about and listen to my new Album, Born in Shadow
Welcome to Project: Shadow! I'm excited to announce that my new album, Born in Shadow, is finally out! This album marks the beginning of a lot of new music that I have in store for you. If you've been following my music, you may recognize some tracks on this album, but let me break it down for you. The first two tracks, Motion and Disharmony in Accord, are blasts from the past from my first album, Manifesto, which was released over 20 years ago. These tracks have been remastered and give you a glimpse into where my music journey started. The next two tracks on the album are covers of the Ghost songs, He is and Cirice, which were the first tracks I made when I started making music again a couple of years ago. The rest of the album features remastered versions of the singles I released over the last couple of years, including Finding Joy, Have Mercy, Into the Dream Realm, Salvatrix Mundi, and Don't Want. I'm thrilled with how this album turned out, and I feel like I'm finally making music the way I want to. If you want to learn more about the album, head over to Project: Shadow! Check out my other podcasts and writing at ProjectShadow.com. Music:  Intro music by Project: Shadow If you want to support the work that I do, you can join the project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cedorsett Or buy me a Coffee on Ko-fi. Join my Discord. Myth Weaving, my Writing and World Building Podcast= https://anchor.fm/mythweaving Project: Shadow YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/c/Projectshadowsite/ Personal YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/user/cedorsett/ Site: https://www.projectshadow.com Dragon's of Night: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/dragons-of-night Twitter: https://twitter.com/cedorsett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectshadowsite/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
The Gay episode of the Last of Us is bad, actually
Mar 9 2023
The Gay episode of the Last of Us is bad, actually
In this episode of Project: Shadow, we dive into the gay episode of The Last of Us and explore the problematic tropes that it leans into. We examine the harmful effects of these tropes and how they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and stigmas about the LGBTQ+ community. We start by discussing the first trope, which suggests that all gay people are the same and have the same experiences. This trope is harmful because it erases the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community and reduces individuals to a monolithic group. The second trope we discuss is queer male body shaming. This trope is harmful because it reinforces the harmful idea that there is only one acceptable way to look as a gay man, and anyone who does not fit that mold is ostracized and ridiculed. Next, we delve into the third trope, which portrays queer relationships as predatory and domineering. This trope is harmful because it reinforces the idea that same-sex relationships are inherently dysfunctional or abusive, which is not the case. We then examine the fourth trope, which suggests that death or "un-aliving" can be romantic for queer characters. This trope is harmful because it reinforces the idea that queer love can only exist in the context of tragedy or pain, which is a harmful and limiting representation. The fifth trope we discuss is "bury your gays," which suggests that queer characters are disposable and can be killed off for shock value. This trope is harmful because it reinforces the idea that LGBTQ+ characters are less valuable than their straight counterparts and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Finally, we touch on the issue of tokenism, which is when a character is added to a story solely for the purpose of diversity without giving them any real depth or development. This trope is harmful because it reduces queer characters to a checkbox and fails to give them the same treatment and consideration as other characters. Throughout the episode, we ask the question: Why did this episode and series get a pass? We explore the various factors that may have contributed to the acceptance of these harmful tropes, and examine the ways in which we can work to be more mindful and inclusive in our media consumption and creation. Check out my other podcasts and writing at ProjectShadow.com. Music:  Intro music by Project: Shadow If you want to support the work that I do, you can join the project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cedorsett Or buy me a Coffee on Ko-fi. Join my Discord. Myth Weaving, my Writing and World Building Podcast= https://anchor.fm/mythweaving Project: Shadow YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/c/Projectshadowsite/ Personal YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/user/cedorsett/ Site: https://www.projectshadow.com Dragon's of Night: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/dragons-of-night Twitter: https://twitter.com/cedorsett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectshadowsite/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
On Queer Defiance and The Shadow Phoenix Saga
Mar 1 2023
On Queer Defiance and The Shadow Phoenix Saga
On this episode of Project: Shadow, we'll be discussing a personal struggle: the rise in transphobia and how it affects me, C E. Dorsett, as a nonbinary trans writer. We'll explore the challenges of creating content while also facing discrimination and hatred in the current social and political climate. We'll discuss how I navigate my identity as a nonbinary trans writer and how it influences my creative work. We'll also talk about the importance of representation in media and the responsibility of creators to accurately and authentically portray marginalized communities. We'll dive deep into my personal experiences and share tips for staying motivated and productive in the face of adversity. We'll explore how self-care and finding a supportive community can help us navigate difficult times. Join us for this raw and personal episode of Project: Shadow, as we shed light on the struggles faced by nonbinary trans writers in the current state of things and explore the importance of representation and authenticity in media. Check out my other podcasts and writing at ProjectShadow.com. Music:  Intro music by Project: Shadow If you want to support the work that I do, you can join the project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cedorsett Or buy me a Coffee on Ko-fi. Join my Discord. Myth Weaving, my Writing and World Building Podcast= https://anchor.fm/mythweaving Project: Shadow YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/c/Projectshadowsite/ Personal YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/user/cedorsett/ Site: https://www.projectshadow.com Dragon's of Night: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/dragons-of-night Twitter: https://twitter.com/cedorsett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectshadowsite/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
Is Netflix's Wednesday Ace/Aro?
Dec 16 2022
Is Netflix's Wednesday Ace/Aro?
On this episode of Project: Shadow, we dive into the topic of asexuality  and aromanticism in the character of Wednesday Addams from the Netflix  series, "Wednesday." Many fans have speculated that Wednesday  Addams may be asexual and aromantic, and we're here to explore this idea  in depth. We'll look at her relationships with other characters in the  show, including her classmates, her family, and her potential love  interests. We'll also examine the representation of asexuality  and aromanticism in media and why it's important to have diverse and  authentic representation in popular culture. We'll discuss the  potential impact of labeling Wednesday Addams as asexual and aromantic,  both for the character and for the audience. Does it matter if a  fictional character is explicitly labeled as such, or can it be just as  powerful if it's left up to interpretation? Tune in to this  episode of Project: Shadow to explore the complex and nuanced topic of  asexuality and aromanticism in media and to hear our take on whether or  not Wednesday Addams is or should be asexual and aromantic. Join the discussion here. Check out my other podcasts and writing at ProjectShadow.com. Music:  Intro music by Project: Shadow If you want to support the work that I do, you can join the project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cedorsett Or buy me a Coffee on Ko-fi. Join my Discord. Myth Weaving, my Writing and World Building Podcast= https://anchor.fm/mythweaving Project: Shadow YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/c/Projectshadowsite/ Personal YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/user/cedorsett/ Site: https://www.projectshadow.com Dragon's of Night: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/dragons-of-night Twitter: https://twitter.com/cedorsett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectshadowsite/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message
Foundation- How to adapt a classic into a masterpiece
Oct 29 2021
Foundation- How to adapt a classic into a masterpiece
Foundation by Isaac Asimov is a classic science fiction book about Psychohistory, a theoretical science that is able to build a predictive model for life in the galaxy which forecasts the fall and rise of empires and the threats that will threaten to send humanity back into a dark age where most knowledge and progress will be lost. The book is dense and philosophical and lacks the visual and character dynamics that are needed to make a movie or a television series. So, Apple TV+ made it into a series for their streaming series staring Lou Llobell as Gaal Dornick, Jared Harris as Hari Seldon, Lee Pace as Brother Day, Leah Harvey as Salvor Hardin, Terrence Mann as Brother Dusk, and Cassian Bilton as Brother Dawn. How were they able to translate the book into a wonderful series. They understood the narrative and translated it into the new medium with eye-catching visuals and personalizing the stories to powerful character arcs.Music:  Intro and Outro music by Project: Shadow If you want to support the work that I do, you can join the project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cedorsett Or buy me a Coffee on Ko-fi. Join my Discord. Myth Weaving, my Writing and World Building Podcast= https://anchor.fm/mythweaving Project: Shadow YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/c/Projectshadowsite/ Personal YouTube Channel= https://www.youtube.com/user/cedorsett/ Site: https://www.projectshadow.com Dragon's of Night: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/dragons-of-night Twitter: https://twitter.com/cedorsett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectshadowsite/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/projectshadow/message