Finding the Right Angle: Character Development and 21st-Century Storytelling with Lisa Angle

Episode Overview

In Episode 4 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with award-winning author Lisa Angle, founder of Ninety Degrees Media, to explore the art and strategy behind compelling character development in modern storytelling.

Together, they unpack what it really means to create characters readers connect with—and why strong character work is often the difference between a story that’s simply read and one that’s deeply felt. From crafting meaningful dialogue to using point of view with intention, Julie and Lisa break down how today’s writers can build emotionally resonant stories that stand out in a fast-moving, digital-first landscape.

Whether you’re drafting your first manuscript or revising a completed one, this conversation offers practical tools and a fresh perspective on how to develop characters that stay with readers long after the final page.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

Lisa’s Origin Story
Lisa shares how she built Ninety Degrees Media and what drew her to helping writers shape and share their stories—from developmental editing to building a meaningful author presence.

Why Character Matters
What makes readers fall in love with a book? Lisa explains why memorable characters—not just plot—are at the heart of lasting stories, and what separates dynamic characters from ones that fall flat.

Character Development in Modern Storytelling
Storytelling has evolved alongside the publishing landscape. Julie and Lisa discuss what “twenty-first century storytelling” really means—and how reader expectations around character depth and relatability have shifted.

Building Characters Readers Care About
Practical strategies for writers at the beginning of a manuscript, including how to create layered, believable characters from the very first page.

Dialogue with Purpose
Lisa breaks down what effective dialogue actually does in a story—and the common mistakes that weaken it. Learn how to ensure every line of dialogue earns its place.

POV and Emotional Connection
Point of view isn’t just a technical choice—it’s an emotional one. This segment explores how intentional POV choices can deepen reader immersion and strengthen connection to your characters.

Balancing Pacing and Character Growth
How do you keep a story moving while still allowing space for meaningful character development? Julie and Lisa discuss how to strike the right balance between plot momentum and emotional evolution.

The One Takeaway
If there’s one thing to remember: strong stories aren’t built on plot alone—they’re built on characters who feel real, complex, and impossible to forget.

Key Takeaways for Writers

• Memorable characters are the foundation of emotionally impactful storytelling.
• Strong dialogue should always serve a purpose—revealing character, advancing plot, or deepening tension.
• Point of view is a strategic tool that shapes reader connection.
• Pacing and character development must work together—not compete.
• Effective self-editing starts by evaluating character motivation, consistency, and growth.
• Storytelling extends beyond the page in today’s digital landscape.

Guest Spotlight: Lisa Angle

Lisa Angle is an award-winning author and the founder of Ninety Degrees Media, where she helps writers develop, refine, and share their stories. Through developmental editing, strategic guidance, and author platform support, Lisa works with writers to strengthen both their craft and their connection with readers.

Her approach centers on helping authors find the right angle for their story—ensuring their characters, voice, and message resonate in today’s evolving storytelling landscape.

Connect with Lisa

Ninety Degrees Media: https://www.ninetydegreesmedia.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angleonwriting/
Download: Top Ten Tips for Writing Your Story: https://www.ninetydegreesmedia.com/contact/ 

About the Show

Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen their work on the page while learning how to position, communicate, and advocate for their stories with confidence.

Listen & Subscribe

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If this episode helped you think differently about your characters, share it with a writer who’s ready to deepen their storytelling.

For more tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media.

Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.