Telling A Story vs. Delivering A Message | Pastor & Fiction Writer Zac Cannon
Sep 15, 2026
Zac Cannon is not only an award-winning storyteller, novelist, and screenwriter…he is also a pastor. His background is in film and fiction writing, but he has also spent years communicating from the pulpit.
In this conversation, I wanted to ask Zac about how (and if) the intention behind storytelling changes across fiction and spirituality. We also talk about the difference between compelling an audience and manipulating one, and how to communicate strong convictions while still leaving room for curiosity.
TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:
- What is the difference between telling a story and delivering a message?
- How do you communicate strong convictions without manipulating your audience?
- Does a good story need an agenda—or should you let the audience decide what it means?
- How do you give yourself permission to create without needing your work to serve a larger purpose?
- How can fiction help us understand perspectives and experiences outside our own?
CONNECT WITH ZAC CANNON:
- Website: https://zaccannon.com/
- Buy ‘Stillwater Trace’: https://zaccannon.com/books/stillwater-trace-a-novel-zac-cannon/B0H5XHW244
