Best Spec Script Podcasts (2024)

1
22: Where to Get a Mentor For Christmas Scripts 28:33

3d ago28:33

28:33

Screenwriter Lisa Hepner shares how she found a mentor who became integral to her career. She also highlights how mentorship programs can offer industry insights that elevate your writing. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on why having a mentor could be the key to your success. To get our a…

1
21: Are You Targeting the Right Christmas Producer? 1:06:29

14d ago1:06:29

1:06:29

Screenwriter Karen Schaler discusses how to strategically target the right producers, ensuring your Christmas movie idea lands in the hands of those most likely to bring it to life. Discover the importance of researching production companies that align with your story's theme, how to tailor your pitch to their specific preferences, and why your suc…

1
Pushing Back Against Ageism in Screenwriting w/Brad M. Johnson (Founder of The Grey List) 1:18:47

17d ago1:18:47

1:18:47

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--screenwriter and founder of The Grey List, Brad M. Johnson! Brad M. Johnson is a writer and filmmaker based in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle. He’s a life-long storyteller who has recently returned from a 12-year detour into the world of corporate marketing to focus on his or…

1
Film Inquiry Interviews Sandy King, Producer & Co-Founder of Storm King Comics! 17:53

11d ago17:53

17:53

Sandy King is a film producer & businesswoman who is known for In the Mouth of Madness, Village of the Damned, Vampires & Ghosts of Mars, all of which were directed by her husband John Carpenter. She co-created the comic book series Asylum.

1
20: Why You Need 70+ Christmas Script Ideas 18:37

2M ago18:37

18:37

Christmas script ideas are hard to come up with. Screenwriter and development exec, Cara Russell offers tips on how to generate more ideas. Learn why you need dozens (70!) of original Christmas script loglines. In this episode, we dive into Cara Russell's journey to screenwriting success and her invaluable advice for aspiring Christmas screenwriter…

51
Film Inquiry, Interview with Zoe Hodge, an ISA Top 25 Screenwriter to Watch in 2024 17:29

2M ago17:29

17:29

Zoë Hodge is an award winning writer & director born in the Boogie-Down-Bronx. Her work often explores yearning & the deep solitude that comes from denying yourself. As a writer, Zoë grew up on Everybody Hates Chris and Jane Austen adaptations.By Kristy Strouse

1
FSS 49: Script & Story Consultant Jen Grisanti, on the State of writing for TV Today 1:16:47

2M ago1:16:47

1:16:47

This is the replay of a live event Max & Scott did along with the International Screenwriters' Association. They welcomed screenwriting aficionado Jen Grisanti, who has a long history of working with screenwriters as an executive and consultant.By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
19: How to Make Your Christmas Spec Stand Out 26:37

2M ago26:37

26:37

Unlock the secrets to crafting standout Christmas spec scripts with insights from successful screenwriter Timothy Kuryak. Learn genre innovation, representation strategies, portfolio building, film deconstruction, and tapping into international markets to elevate your writing career. For a full transcript, the show notes and your action checklist -…

1
Making a Big Spec Sale w/Jason Gruich (COP CAM) 1:28:32

2M ago1:28:32

1:28:32

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--screenwriter, Jason Gruich! Jason is a current member and Captain of the Writers Guild of America, East. He has sold four original feature specs since 2017 to various production companies including a major spec sale to Warner Bros (New Line Cinema) with his first-person, crime-th…

1
18: Why Emotion Beats Originality In Holiday Scripts 30:51

3M ago30:51

30:51

Screenwriter Isabel Dréan, discusses why a holiday script with heartfelt storytelling has more power than original plots in creating memorable Christmas movies. Join us as we dive into the secrets of successful holiday movies, discussing how strong emotional connections and heartfelt stories resonate more deeply with audiences than unique plots. Wh…

1
17: How to Market Your Script For Success 43:55

3M ago43:55

43:55

In this episode, we delve into tailoring screenplays for networks like Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix, highlighting how understanding their brand and tone can boost script acceptance. We cover key strategies for building industry relationships and the significance of emotional character development in scripts. Learn how to adapt your screenplay to…

1
Film Inquiry's Interview with Thuc Doan Nguyen, an ISA Top 25 Screenwriter to Watch Interview 25:01

3M ago25:01

25:01

Screenwriter Thuc Doan Nguyen went from Vietnamese refugee to writing for The Lost City with Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum & Brad Pitt. Hear her story here.By Kristy Strouse

1
Unfrosted (2024) Review 44:38

3M ago44:38

44:38

Unfrosted Summary: “In 1963 Michigan, business rivals Kellogg's and Post compete to create a cake that could change breakfast forever." Original air date: May 3, 2024 Adam and Corey take a break from Curb to review Jerry Seinfeld's directorial debut, Unfrosted! Not since The Merv Griffin Show episode of Seinfeld have the boys been this far apart in…

1
Film Inquiry's Interview with Adam Karlson, an ISA Top 25 Screenwriter to Watch in 2024 21:30

3M ago21:30

21:30

Adam Karlson signed a shopping agreement with CS Productions and is now managed by Gravity Squared Entertainment due to introductions made by the ISA.By Kristy Strouse

1
Writing on a Fox Sitcom w/Allison Jackson (CALL ME KAT) 1:16:21

3M ago1:16:21

1:16:21

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--screenwriter, Allison Jackson! Allison is a Los Angeles based screenwriter who writes funny shows about Black women in not-so-funny situations. Originally from a town of three thousand in Ohio, Jackson developed her love for screenwriting while working in China, and learned Manda…

1
16: The Secret to Christmas Movie Magic is Hiding in Plain Sight 33:15

4M ago33:15

33:15

Screenwriter, producer and director Christine Conradt shares insights on scriptwriting, effective pitching, and the evolving Christmas movie market. Controversially she reveals how the protagonist’s lessons learned is more important than plot resolution. The show notes, including the transcript and your checklist of actions to take for this episode…

1
15: DIY Christmas Movie Finds Success 30:06

5M ago30:06

30:06

James Temple, an independent writer, director, and producer, explores the art of using the DIY approach to making Christmas movies. He emphasizes the balance between meeting genre expectations and introducing fresh storytelling elements. James advocates for maintaining control over his projects by self-financing and leveraging connections to secure…

1
Producing a Netflix Top 4 Indie Film w/Luke Barnett (YOUR LUCKY DAY) 1:15:58

4M ago1:15:58

1:15:58

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--actor, producer, screenwriter, and director, Luke Barnett! Luke is a jack of all trades and most recently, it was his producing work that helped bring success to the feature film, YOUR LUCKY DAY, written and directed by Dan Brown, and starring the late Angus Cloud and Jessica Gar…

1
Film Inquiry's Interview with Kim Hornby, an ISA Top 25 Writer to Watch in 2024 21:33

5M ago21:33

21:33

Each year the ISA lists 25 talented writers. Our first interview is with multi-talented screenwriter & novel writer Kim Hornsby. I spoke with Kim about her journey, projects, and recommendations for other screenwriters! Check out more at FilmInquiry.comBy Kristy Strouse

1
14: Lifetime's Christmas Movie Success Formula 18:16

6M ago18:16

18:16

Lifetime’s VP of Scripted Content, Sapna Vyas, shares the success formula behind enduring Christmas movie hits. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 14 Sapna Vyas, Vice President, Lifetime Scripted ContentShow Notes HOST: Caryn McCann Website: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMovieScre…

1
Script Clearances and What Writers Need to Know w/Carley Aggromito (ABIGAIL FRANKLIN'S IMPROBABILITY OF STARDOM) 1:08:42

6M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--screenwriter and script clearance professional, Carley Aggromito! Carley is an Australia and Vancouver-based writer writing features while working in script clearances by day. In this episode, we discuss her writing, contest success, and the world of script clearances. I hope you…

1
FSS: Paranormal European Travel - Ireland legends & Faery Lore Above Knockma Hill & at Kilkea Castle & the Hellfire Club 55:17

5M ago55:17

55:17

Scott (and his wife Wendy) fill Max in on their adventure across the Emerald Isle, discussing the haunted hot spots and legendary tales they discovered along the way... also the adventures of driving on the other side of the road.By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
13: How To Write Exactly What Producers Want 41:09

6M ago41:09

41:09

Australian-based producer Steve Jaggi reveals an easy way for writers to connect with producers and to write exactly what producers want. Steve's key advice to writers is to connect with producers and understand their needs before you write that script. He discusses the need for writers to understand their target audience and align scripts with net…

1
Chaseedaw Giles, Using Dark Topics to Find the Light in Humanity, Emerging Screenwriter Interview 31:44

6M ago31:44

31:44

Chaseedaw Giles moved to LA as everything shut down for the pandemic. However, she used that time to work on her craft. She's taken an approach of being proactive and using darker story topics to find positivity.By Shayna Weber

1
12: Persistence Pays - Christmas Script Success 37:28

6M ago37:28

37:28

Enduring 40 Years of No's for a Christmas Yes Screenwriter Brian Ruberry found success after a 40-year slog of rejections. He advises writers that post-first sale, you may be able to get work based just on a synopsis versus writing an entire script. Additionally, he highlights script competitions can offer valuable feedback but warns some are just …

1
Talking Horror Movies & Haunted Chicago with Jackson Schreiber from Katch Data 49:40

6M ago49:40

49:40

Big thanks to the horror blog WonderfullyWeirdAndHorrifying.com for making this conversation happen. What did you think of "Hereditary?"By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
Writing in TV Rooms at Netflix & Amazon w/Shruti Saran (SLIP on Roku) 1:06:19

6M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show we have a very special guest--screenwriter and filmmaker, Shruti Saran! Shruti has written in writer's rooms at Netflix and Amazon, and is currently ESE on Season 2 of SLIP on Roku! In this episode, she shares her personal experience with moving from Texas to LA to join her first writer's room and all the les…

1
Emerging Screenwriter AND Director Interview, Diane Lansing 21:31

6M ago21:31

21:31

An ISA Top 25 Writers To Watch in 2019, Diane has taken her work behind the camera, screening her directing work at the DGA and garnering awards and laurels. Creating and collaborating through film are her driving force.By Shayna Weber

1
11: Holiday Scripts - From Fade Out to Optioned 33:00

7M ago33:00

33:00

Holiday Script finished? Now what? Screenwriter Jordan Imiola discusses connecting with producers, turbo charging your productivity and the pros and cons of paid screenwriting services. Whether you’re a seasoned screenwriter or just starting, this podcast offers actionable insights to help you succeed in the merry marketplace of Christmas scripts. …

1
Introducing Fast Track Fellow & Screenwriter, Kiefer Lloyd 33:03

7M ago33:03

33:03

Kiefer Lloyd's a writer who uses genre to explore queer narrative and masculinity. He is a Lambda Literary fellow, an alumnus of the Tin House Fiction Workshop & holds an MFA in fiction from Vermont College.By Scott Markus

1
A Cinematographer's Approach to Story w/Brett Pawlak (SHORT TERM 12, JUST MERCY) 1:31:37

7M ago1:31:37

1:31:37

Hey there, everybody! Today's guest is cinematographer, Brett Pawlak! Brett was the DP of one of my all-time favorite films, SHORT TERM 12, in addition to a bunch of other incredible television and film credits. In the episode, we talk about how he got started with cameras, meeting frequent collaborator, writer/director, Destin Daniel Cretton, winn…

1
Brittany Kelly's Background in Psychology, the Prison System and ...CraigsList 29:01

7M ago29:01

29:01

Writer-director Brittany Kelly's utterly fascinating life and outlook has certainly influenced her voice as a storyteller. Though she's experienced a recent personal strategy, she's returning to writing and we are so excited for her future.By Shayna Weber

1
10: Success Tactics - Christmas Screenwriters' Guide 39:40

8M ago39:40

39:40

Successful screenwriter Erin Rodman reveals unconventional yet effective strategies for success in the Christmas movie industry. Erin shares her journey, emphasizing the paramount importance of authenticity. Erin advocates staying true to one's unique voice, citing her success in attracting buyers despite initially penning an R-rated comedy. The Ch…

1
Screenwriting From Outside Hollywood with Andy Compton (Special Guest Host - Gabe Braxton) 1:59:26

7M ago1:59:26

1:59:26

Hey there, everybody! Doing something a little different on this episode--the screenwriter in the hot seat will be ME! With my good pal, Gabe Braxton, guest hosting. We talk about how I got into screenwriting, contest success, starting a screenwriting career from outside Hollywood, and more! Also, you can watch the full video podcast of this episod…

1
09: Best Advice For Christmas Screenwriters 19:15

8M ago19:15

19:15

Seasoned professionals in the Christmas movie industry offer crucial advice for screenwriters. Insights include the necessity of aligning scripts with market demands and the importance of acknowledging and pursuing one's writing ambitions without delay. Contributors also stress the benefits of creating passive income streams and understanding the e…

1
08: Brighten Christmas Scripts With Pop Culture 42:07

9M ago42:07

42:07

Successful screenwriter Ansley Gordon offers tips on how to get distributors to reveal what they want in Christmas scripts. She advises on how to add pop culture to your script to make it shine. Ansley discusses: Analyzing produced movies/scripts for insights. Gathering intel from execs; generating fitting ideas. Infusing fresh pop-culture elements…

1
FSS: Paranormal European Travel - Portugal, Sintra's Knights Templar Connection 37:16

8M ago37:16

37:16

Join us for an international travel episode as co-Host Scott Markus & his wife headed to Portugal and visit the most famously haunted location in Portugal & visit a city that has a long mystical connection to folklore and witchcraft.By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
07: Differentiating Your Christmas Script 46:12

9M ago46:12

46:12

Peter Sullivan, Producer, Writer, and Director at Hybrid LLC, shares insights on crafting captivating yuletide tales that break conventions. Valuable advice for writers aiming to stand out in a crowded market. Our top takeaways include: 1. The remarkable openness of executives to fresh ideas. 2. The importance of standing out amidst the sea of Chri…

1
Amanda & Lita Lopez, Underdogs Excelling as Screenwriting Sisters 35:15

9M ago35:15

35:15

Screenwriting SISTERS, Lita and Amanda Lopez, created an amazing drama pilot for a series titled "The Work" that won the Table Read My Screenplay competition in 2022 based on Amanda's social work career.

1
06: Festive Freshness - Elevating Christmas Scripts 1:07:02

9M ago1:07:02

1:07:02

Screenwriter Eirene Donohue discusses infusing your personal experiences into scripts for a unique perspective. She offers out-of-the-box advice on starting a passive income plan. She discusses the power of resilience and a life rich with diverse encounters. This episode is your guide to standing out and thriving in the evergreen world of screenwri…

1
Writing a Feature Film in the Festival Circuit with Leah Simmons (VALENTINE CRUSH) 1:08:40

9M ago1:08:40

1:08:40

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, I'm talking to screenwriter, Leah Simmons, or as you may know her on Twitter, Leah From South Dakota! Leah is a screenwriter based in, you guessed it, South Dakota. She writes genre features and pilots and in this episode we discuss her feature film credit, VALENTINE CRUSH, her writing process, film festival…

1
Caitlin Gallo & Brittany Harris: Don't be Afraid to Stand Out, Be Uniquely You 51:31

9M ago51:31

51:31

You will quickly see how Caitlin and Brittany are writing partners as they practically finish each other’s sentences. These two are high energy, fiercely hard working and driven writers who are part of our ISA Top 25 Writers to Watch in 2023.By Shayna Weber

1
05: How One Conversation Launched a Screenwriting Career 27:48

10M ago27:48

27:48

Samantha Herman, a successful screenwriter of 10 Hallmark movies, discusses breaking into the industry and navigating script commissions. She also explores networking, the impact of AI, and offers advice to aspiring screenwriters. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 5 Samantha Herman – Screenwriter / Producer Show Notes HOST: Caryn M…

1
FSS 44: Rita Mae Moore, Haunted Lake Geneva & the curious ghosts at Baker House 1:06:44

10M ago1:06:44

1:06:44

Haunted history tour guide, Rita Mae Moore, grew up with a ghost hunting mom before working in the police force and having some paranormal experiences there. Today, she's a tour guide & two-time author of a fantasy book series.By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
Tray Epps: Follow the fun & the fear in your writing, Emerging Screenwriter Interview 45:43

10M ago45:43

45:43

Tray Epps just has a really great, infectious charm. He's multi-faceted, having worked in many different areas of production. He came on our radar during our Diversity Initiative and then landed on Top 25 Screenwriters to watch in 2023.By Shayna Weber

1
FSS 45: IAmNotAStalker's Lindsay Blake on Filming Locations & Some Strange LA Crims stories 1:12:51

10M ago1:12:51

1:12:51

Writer/researcher Lindsay Blake has made a career out of a passion - finding where her favorite shows were filmed (starting with "Scream"). Geek out with us as we talk about unique locations across LA including hidden gems & strange LA crimes.By Max Timm & Scott Markus

1
ISAPresents: The WGA Strike is Over - Now What? With Lee Jessup 58:28

10M ago58:28

58:28

Screenwriting career coach Lee Jessup knows that's going on in the entertainment industry better than just about anyone. Chatting with Max Timm, she dives into the details of the strike-ending agreement & what it means to writers and the future.By Max Timm

1
04: How To Make Your Christmas Script Stand Out 30:55

11M ago30:55

30:55

Paula Tiberius is a screenwriter, director, and writing coach. She explains your screenplay’s edge is unique characters and settings. She unravels the secrets to crafting captivating stories that resonate with audiences and get your scripts noticed on major streaming platforms. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting, Paula's insights are…

1
Todd Foley & Dan Healey, Emerging Screenwriters: Set Writing Goals that are within your Control 22:16

10M ago22:16

22:16

Todd Foley & Dan Healey met on Twitter during the pandemic, swapping scripts which led to them write a horror feature together while living in different states.By Shayna Weber

1
Writing a Movie for Lifetime with Brandi Sperry (TAKEN IN MONTANA) 1:30:30

10M ago1:30:30

1:30:30

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, I'm talking to screenwriter, Brandi Sperry! Brandi is the screenwriter of the TV movie, TAKEN IN MONTANA, which premiered on Lifetime in September 2023. She a multi-genre writer who writes in both the TV and film formats. In the episode, she talks about her projects, her writing process, and a disdain for pr…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Spec Script Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide