Welcome to Night Vale Creator Joseph Fink on Storytelling and Grim Fandango

Joseph Fink is widely recognized as the cocreator and cowriter of Welcome to Night Vale, widely considered one of the most important fiction podcasts ever created. His impressive portfolio also includes noir podcasts like Unlicensed, Alice Isn’t Dead, and its darker sequel series Don’t Tell Alice.

In addition to his success in audio fiction, Fink is an accomplished author who has penned several novels tied to his podcast universes alongside standalone works. His latest release, The Nudge, hits shelves on September 1st and features gorgeous illustrations by Jessica Hayworth, telling a chilling tale of a man trying to outrun a mysterious evil.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

During a recent discussion, Fink shared personal insights into his daily tech habits, revealing that Podcast Addict on Android is the primary reason he refuses to switch to an iPhone. On the social media front, he frequents Bluesky, jokingly noting that he initially liked it because nobody was there to read his posts, though he now finds the growing engagement slightly burdensome.

Reflecting on his creative inspirations, Fink acknowledged that his entire understanding of narrative structure was shaped by Grim Fandango, a 1999 adventure game set in a noir afterlife. Lines and imagery from the game continue to resonate with him decades later, cementing its status as a foundational artistic influence.

Source: The Verge