Advertise on podcast: The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Stuck on that rewrite? I got you. Grab The Rewrite Workbook and work through your screenplay one draft at a time. Could AI let audiences rewrite a movie’s ending and what would that mean for screenwriters? Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh Lussier discuss the possibilities, the concerns, and the value of human storytelling.Then we tackle your screenwriting questions: Do characters have to be likable? How do you convey emotion without dialogue? Should you avoid adverbs? We also discuss juggling multiple scripts, writing across different mediums, and why we both use WriterDuet. What You’ll Learn Why audiences can connect with a character they don’t like.How to convey emotion through behavior without micromanaging actors.How specific action verbs bring energy to your scene descriptions.What to consider when working on multiple screenplays.How theater, film, and video games approach the character experience.Why AI-generated endings raise questions about storytelling and creative control.Key Moments 02:33 — AI filmmaking and the possibility of audience-generated endings.09:59 — Bad screenwriting advice: every character must be likable.12:30 — Should you work on more than one script at a time?14:24 — Theater, film, and video game storytelling.16:34 — Why we use WriterDuet.21:44 — Adverbs, action verbs, and finding the right amount of description. ConnectJoin our live screenwriting Q&A Fridays at 6 p.m. Eastern on Instagram. Bring your questions! Instagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterScreenwriting resources and membership: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.com#Screenwriting #ScreenwritingTips #CharacterDevelopment #WritingEmotion #AIInFilm #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

The Rewrite Workbook is out now! I wrote it to simplify the rewrite process, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed by your draft and start making clear, focused improvements. Grab your copy on Amazon. Are screenwriting “rules” helping your script or getting in the way? Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier break down bad screenwriting advice, including character deaths, dramatic irony, rewriting, horror, first-draft self-doubt, and story pacing. Plus, Geoffrey talks about The Rewrite Workbook, his new tool for making the rewrite process simpler and more focused. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why screenwriting rules should be treated as tools instead of lawsWhen killing a character can establish stakes without advancing the plotHow dramatic irony lets the audience know more than your protagonistWhy rewriting is where much of the real screenwriting work happensHow to keep moving when self-doubt hits during a first draftPractical ways to identify and fix pacing problemsHow horror writers create tension beyond jump scaresKey Moments 07:22 — Bad screenwriting advice and the danger of blanket rules 12:32 — Should the audience ever know more than the protagonist? 14:37 — Geoffrey introduces The Rewrite Workbook 19:25 — Do you really need multiple screenplay drafts? 28:39 — What is story pacing, and how do you fix it? About the Hosts Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a produced screenwriter, bestselling author, filmmaker, and host of The Successful Screenwriter Podcast. He is the author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter and The Rewrite Workbook and has spent more than 25 years developing his craft as a screenwriter. Kristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, filmmaker, producer, and co-host of The Successful Screenwriter Podcast, bringing her writing and production experience to honest conversations about the craft and business of filmmaking. Resources Mentioned in the Episode The Rewrite Workbook by Geoffrey D. CalhounResident EvilMaudWriterDuetHalloween Have a screenwriting or filmmaking question? Join Geoffrey and Kristy live Fridays at 6 PM ET and drop your questions in the comments. They may answer yours on the next episode. #Screenwriting #ScreenwritingTips #WritingTips #Filmmaking # ScreenwritingPodcast Tags:  Geoffrey D Calhoun, Kristy Leigh Lussier, The Successful Screenwriter, The Rewrite Workbook Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier explore what happened when Geoffrey entered Screenwriting Reddit to offer writers free advice without promoting himself or selling anything. His posts quickly reached thousands of writers—but a message encouraging compassion also attracted hostility from the community’s self-appointed gatekeepers.They break down why some online writing communities become toxic, how anonymous critics continually move the goalposts, and why writers need to protect their confidence. Geoffrey and Kristy also discuss the surprising release of Coyote vs. Acme, Jason Statham’s unusual fight-contract rules, when a screenplay prologue works, and why a 30-minute short film may need to become a feature. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What happened when Geoffrey infiltrated Screenwriting RedditWhy compassion matters in online screenwriting communitiesHow writers can protect themselves from toxic feedbackWhy studios shelve completed movies for financial reasonsHow to avoid using a prologue as an exposition dumpWhy an overly long short film may work better as a featureKey Moments: 02:27 – How Coyote vs. Acme escaped the studio shelf 08:41 – The unusual rules behind Jason Statham’s fight scenes 09:45 – Geoffrey infiltrates Screenwriting Reddit 12:26 – When the Screenwriting Reddit trolls arrived 16:15 – Knowing your value when critics attack 24:10 – Avoiding the exposition and monologue trap 24:48 – Why a 30-minute short film may need to become a feature Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Screenwriting RedditCoyote vs. AcmeBatgirlMutinyTerminator 2: Judgment DayHalloweenThe Lord of the RingsRabbit TrapScreenplay prologues and cold opensShort-film structureOnline screenwriting communities Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier break down one of the easiest ways to spot weak screenwriting: dialogue nobody would actually say. They share practical ways to write more authentic conversations before answering listener questions about first drafts, fixing scenes, formatting flashbacks, and whether a writer should ever give up on the dream. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why generic dialogue can immediately weaken a screenplayHow listening to real conversations can improve your character dialogueWhy every scene needs its own purpose, objective, and forward momentumHow to keep moving when a scene is slowing down your first draftHow to approach flashbacks and scene numbering in a screenplayWhy screenwriting formatting has become less rigid over the yearsWhy your filmmaking career may not look the way you originally imaginedHow writers and directors can start creating with the resources they have right now. Key Moments: 01:24 – Breaking down character-driven storytelling in recent movies 06:03 – The generic dialogue screenwriters need to stop using 10:30 – Kristy's techniques for developing authentic character voices 12:36 – What every scene needs to accomplish 15:26 – Why Geoffrey stopped using Final Draft 16:53 – When should you give up on your dream of writing and directing? 19:57 – Redefining what it means to be a writer and director today About the Co-host: Kristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and creative collaborator who works across multiple genres including horror and drama. She has experience in independent film production, writing, and on-set collaboration, and regularly shares insights into the filmmaking process with the screenwriting community. About the Host: With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Indie Gathering International Film FestivalScreenplay dialogue and character developmentFinal Draft screenwriting softwareIndependent filmmakingVertical filmmaking and mobile-first storytelling Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's Mate. Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch Geoffrey's Vertical Thriller: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #ScreenwritingTips #Screenwriting #WritingDialogue #Screenplay #Filmmaking #IndieFilmmaker #Scriptwriting #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter  #WritingCommunity Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Discover how an ordinary break room transformed into a post-apocalyptic set for Geoffrey’s new vertical thriller, Elsy. In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy sit down with filmmaker and Vault Studio founder George Ansara to explore his journey from commercial videography to launching one of Michigan’s top independent film studios. Go behind the scenes of Elsy’s intense five-day shoot, and learn the keys to indie film success: preparation, collaboration, and community. George reveals how Vault Studio empowers creators with affordable, professional spaces, while Geoffrey and Kristy share insights on producing indie films and the power of filmmakers supporting each other. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How George Ansara built Vault Studio into a filmmaker-first production facilityBehind-the-scenes stories from filming ElsyHow Geoffrey designed an entire film set using 3D modeling and AI visualizationWhy adaptable production spaces save time, money, and stress on independent productionsThe producer's perspective on keeping a five-day shoot running smoothlyWhy collaboration not competition is the key to growing the independent film communityGeorge's work with the Detroit 48 Hour Film Project and supporting local filmmakersHelp us spread the word and support indie filmmaking! Our new vertical thriller Elsy premieres soon, and the first trailer is live now on Instagram. Watch the Elsy trailer now on Instagram Here Watch the trailer, share it to your stories, comment with your theories, and tag a friend who loves mystery, suspense, and post-apocalyptic storytelling. Every share helps us reach new viewers and brings more attention to independent filmmaking. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter Podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: https://thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram:@screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwrite Connect with Kristy Lee Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127 Connect with George Ansara Vault Studio:  Vault Studio Podcast #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #IndieFilm #IndependentFilm #FilmProduction #MichiganFilm #VaultStudio #VerticalSeries #Elsy #DetroitFilm #48HourFilmProject #Screenwriter #Storytelling #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier break down why some movies fail despite strong marketing, using Supergirl as a case study to explore how theme, character, and a worthy antagonist determine whether a story truly resonates with audiences. They also discuss the current state of Hollywood, the rise of independent filmmaking, and why audiences may be returning to theaters for the right films. Plus:Why a story without a clear theme feels hollowWhat makes an antagonist compellingThe truth behind "Hollywood is back"Terrible screenwriting advice: "Just add a montage"Geoffrey shares one of the worst screenplay query emails he's ever received—and the surprising response after he tried to mentor the writerAI-generated outreach emails and why human editing still mattersFourth of July movie recommendations and a few classic film memoriesWhether you're an aspiring screenwriter, filmmaker, or movie lover, this episode dives into the storytelling principles that separate memorable films from forgettable ones.If you're serious about writing better screenplays, subscribe for weekly conversations on screenwriting, directing, filmmaking, and breaking down the myths of the entertainment industry.📚 Geoffrey's Book: The Guide for Every Screenwriter🎬  #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #Supergirl #WritingAdvice #Screenwriter #Storytelling #Movies #FilmAnalysis #Hollywood #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

What if the voice keeping you alive couldn't be trusted? In this special episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Assistant Director Kristy Leigh Lussier and interviewer Jess Paul to pull back the curtain on Elsy, a cinematic post-apocalyptic vertical series premiering this July. For over a decade, Elsy existed in different forms a web series, a feature film, a television project before finally finding its perfect home in the exploding world of vertical storytelling. Now, Geoffrey makes his directorial debut with a psychological thriller that blends mystery, survival, loneliness, and hope into a mobile-first cinematic experience unlike anything currently available in the vertical space. In this episode, you'll discover: How vertical storytelling is transforming the entertainment industryThe challenge of creating a cinematic experience in a vertical formatThe process of casting Karly Coffee, Rochelle Nicole, and Eric RomanBehind-the-scenes stories from shooting 21 episodes in just 5 daysWhy loneliness is the emotional core of ElsyThe future of vertical series and why Geoffrey believes this is where storytelling is headedElsy follows a young woman trapped inside a bunker after a mysterious catastrophe leaves the world buried beneath ash. Alone, isolated, and running out of supplies, she discovers a voice on a CB radio. But as hope grows, so do the questions. Can she trust the person on the other end? And what happens when survival depends on believing a lie? If you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, content creator, or simply fascinated by where entertainment is headed next, this episode offers an inside look at the future of storytelling. Topics Covered Vertical Series ProductionPost-Apocalyptic StorytellingPsychological ThrillersWriting for Mobile AudiencesFilm Production on a BudgetThe Future of Streaming ContentBehind the Scenes of ElsyAbout ELSY Elsy is a cinematic vertical thriller following a young woman surviving alone in a bunker after the collapse of civilization. As she forms a connection with a mysterious voice over a CB radio, she begins questioning everything she thought she knew about her world. Written and Directed by Geoffrey D. Calhoun. Coming July 2026. 🚨 Watch the ELSY Trailer: Instagram: @screenwriterpod Watch the trailer, follow the journey, and share your theories before the series premieres. #Elsy #VerticalSeries #PostApocalyptic #PsychologicalThriller #IndieFilm #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #VerticalDrama #DirectorDebut #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #SurvivalThriller #MysterySeries #MobileStorytelling #FilmmakerPodcast Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Hollywood is in the middle of a major shift, and many writers may not realize how quickly the rules are changing. In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy explore the success of creator-driven projects like Backrooms, the growing influence of online audiences. They discuss what today's moviegoers are actually paying to see, how YouTube creators and independent filmmakers are bringing audiences back to theaters, and what these changes mean for screenwriters trying to build careers in an evolving industry.  What You'll Learn in This Episode Why creator-driven films are disrupting HollywoodWhat the success of Backrooms reveals about modern audiencesStrategies for writing authentic dialogueHow to approach talent attachment and financingHelp us spread the word and support indie filmmaking! Our new vertical thriller Elsy premieres this July, and the first trailer is live now on Instagram. Watch the Elsy trailer now on Instagram Here  Watch the trailer, share it to your stories, comment your theories and tag a friend who loves mystery, suspense, and post-apocalyptic storytelling. Every share helps us reach new viewers and brings more attention to independent filmmaking.  About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram: @screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter Connect with Kristy Instagram: @kantoka127 Watch The Witch Wolf's Mate: C #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #Hollywood #Backrooms #IndieFilm #Screenwriter #WritingCommunity #FilmIndustry #Storytelling #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy lighten things up after a heavy week and dive into what’s happening in movies right now. From walking out of Super Mario Bros 2 to breaking down why fan service is starting to replace real storytelling, this conversation gets honest about where the industry is heading. They also explore why adaptations like Project Hail Mary are resonating with audiences, how the Hero’s Journey is still alive and well, and answer real screenwriting questions from listeners. If you’ve been frustrated with modern films or wondering how to sharpen your own writing, this episode gives you clarity and direction. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why fan service is replacing story in major IP filmsThe problem with introducing characters too late in a scriptWhy faithful adaptations like Project Hail Mary workThe truth about the Hero’s Journey and why it never diesHow to write stronger characters in short filmsBest practices for writing love scenes in today’s industryHow to approach a 48-hour film festival scriptWhy you don’t need Hollywood to succeed as a screenwriterKey Moments 00:20 – Opening and shift to a lighter episode00:55 – Geoffrey walks out of Mario Bros 2 and why02:14 – The rise of fan service over storytelling06:52 – Why Project Hail Mary connects with audiences14:34 – “The Hero’s Journey is dead?” debateAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker and storyteller working across multiple formats, including the fast-growing vertical content space. She brings both creative and production insight into modern storytelling trends and industry shifts. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Project Hail MaryInterstellarThe MartianReady or Not 2They Will Kill YouConnect with Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Listener discretion is advised. Episode contains discussion of mental health and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Geoffrey shares his recent experience being hospitalized for mental health and suicidal ideation. What starts as a shocking revelation turns into an honest, raw conversation about depression, trauma, and the silent struggles many creatives face. Together with co-host Kristy Leigh, this episode explores what it feels like to hit a breaking point, what happens inside a psychiatric hospital, and why seeking help is not weakness but survival. If you’ve ever felt alone, overwhelmed, or like you’re not enough, this conversation is for you. This isn’t just about screenwriting. It’s about staying here. If this episode reaches one person who needs it, it’s done its job. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The difference between sadness and high-functioning depressionWhat really happens during a psychiatric hospital stayWhy many creatives feel isolated despite outward successHow “masking” hides internal strugglesThe importance of support systems during mental health crisesWhy seeking help is a strength, not a weaknessHow writing can serve as a lifeline during dark momentsKey Moments 00:23 – Episode introduction and unexpected reveal00:49 – Geoffrey shares he was planning suicide03:19 – Inside the psychiatric hospital experience05:51 – Why people don’t reach out when they’re struggling08:33 – The reality of masking and hidden depression11:25 – Why writing became a saving grace11:43 – The importance of the 988 crisis lineAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, writer, and creative collaborator who brings honesty and empathy to conversations about storytelling and life in the industry. As Geoffrey’s co-host, she helps guide meaningful discussions that go beyond craft and into the human experience behind it. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988Local mental health professionals and support groupsConnect with Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The-Witch-Wolfs-MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterYou’re not alone in this journey. #MentalHealthAwareness #ScreenwritingLife #CreativeStruggles #DepressionAwareness #FilmmakerLife #WritersJourney #YouAreNotAlone #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh return from a short hiatus with exciting news: they’re officially launching their new vertical series. In this episode, they discuss what it’s like to move from talking about filmmaking to actually producing a project together, including casting, crew building, and preparing for production. They also dive into a major industry shakeup involving the rumored Paramount and Warner Bros. consolidation, what it could mean for creators, and why the rise of vertical storytelling platforms may open new doors for independent filmmakers and screenwriters. Plus, Geoffrey and Kristy answer listener questions about writer’s block, creative doubt, genre preferences, writing habits, and surprising books that deserve film adaptations. If you're a screenwriter navigating the changing entertainment landscape, this conversation is packed with insight and perspective. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why vertical series may become a major opportunity for indie filmmakersThe difference between talking about filmmaking and actually producing a projectHow to break through writer’s block and restart creative momentumWhy self-doubt is normal for writers at every level of their careerHow major media mergers could reshape the future of film and televisionThe value of writing habits and routines for maintaining productivityKey Moments 00:20 – Geoffrey and Kristy return from hiatus and tease their new vertical series 02:05 – The origin of Elsy and why Geoffrey revived the script now 03:46 – The rumored vertical storytelling platforms for indie filmmakers 12:55 – Breaking through writer’s block and finding creative flow 19:20 – Should writers focus on one project or juggle multiple scripts? 22:33 – Dealing with doubt as a screenwriter 26:29 – Writing nonfiction stories and handling sensitive personal material About the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and creative collaborator who works across multiple genres including horror and drama. She has experience in independent film production, writing, and on-set collaboration, and regularly shares insights into the filmmaking process with the screenwriting community. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Vertical storytelling platforms and mobile-first contentHBO series PrimalConnect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's Mate Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/screenwriterpod YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #ScreenwritingPodcast #ScreenwritingTips #VerticalSeries #Filmmaking #IndieFilmmaker #Scriptwriting #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #WritingCommunity Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In Episode 308, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh Lussier dig into one of the biggest shifts happening in film right now: the rise of YouTubers as box office draws. Using Iron Lung as a case study, they unpack how creator-driven films are outperforming studio releases, why Hollywood is resisting transparency around indie success, and what this power shift means for filmmakers. They also tackle persistent screenwriting myths about page numbers and beat timing, break down writer’s block from a neurological perspective, and have a candid conversation about how AI should and should not be used in the writing process. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy YouTubers are now the real box office starsHow Iron Lung succeeded as a low-budget, single-location indieThe truth about page numbers, beat sheets, and rigid structure rulesWhy writer’s block is often a physical response, not a creative failureHow AI can support writers without replacing themKey Moments00:20 – Seeing Iron Lung and why it works as contained horror02:25 – Why studios won’t release indie box office numbers04:22 – YouTubers as the new movie stars and marketing engines10:16 – The myth of hitting exact beats on exact page numbers22:23 – How AI should be used to help writers, not replace themAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter working in today’s independent film space. She brings a grounded, real-world perspective to writing craft, production realities, and industry shifts, especially where new media and traditional filmmaking collide. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeIron LungMarkiplierFive Nights at Freddy’sSnowpiercerThe Guide for Every ScreenwriterScreenplayStoryThe Writer’s JourneyConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #IndieFilm #IronLung #YouTubersInFilm #FilmIndustry #WriterLife #ScreenwritingAdvice #Filmmaking Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In this episode, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by co-host Kristy Leigh to unpack what Five Nights at Freddy’s 1 & 2 reveal about the current state of Hollywood storytelling. What happens when IP, fan service, and box office data matter more than narrative coherence? Is this the future of studio filmmaking, and if so, where does that leave screenwriters who still care about story? The conversation expands into the larger industry landscape, including Netflix’s dominance, data-driven decision making, the Stranger Things finale controversy, and what writers should realistically prepare for moving forward. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 abandons traditional storytelling in favor of fan serviceHow studios are prioritizing IP and data over narrative cohesionThe difference between box office success and storytelling successWhy the Stranger Things finale struggled and what writers can learn from itPractical advice for new writers developing loglines and short storiesWhere story-driven filmmakers still fit in today’s industryKey Moments00:25 – Geoffrey watches Five Nights at Freddy’s and immediately senses something is off03:00 – Kristy explains how fan service overtook story in the sequel07:00 – Geoffrey breaks down why the sequel has no clear plot or rules09:45 – Is Hollywood splitting into data-driven content vs story-driven films?15:00 – Why the Stranger Things finale failed structurally17:40 – Advice for writers handwriting drafts vs typing19:00 – How to turn loglines and short stories into real screenplaysAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a producer, filmmaker, and longtime co-host of The Successful Screenwriter. She brings a grounded, industry-aware perspective to conversations about storytelling, IP adaptations, and the shifting realities of modern filmmaking. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeFive Nights at Freddy’s (Film Franchise)Netflix industry data and subscriber growthStranger Things behind-the-scenes documentaryA24 and Neon as story-first distributorsConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #HollywoodTrends #StoryStructure #ScreenwritersLife #PodcastForWriters Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In Episode 306, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier kick things off with a passionate recommendation for the absurd, whimsical thriller-comedy Dust Bunny, then pivot into what writers are feeling right now in the marketplace. They talk about how distributors are shifting toward data-driven “checkbox” content, why star power is not the safety net it used to be, and what that means for screenwriters trying to break in consistently. Then they get into some industry tea, including the rumors swirling around Stranger Things Season 5 and AI, and zoom out into a practical craft debate: is a “vomit draft” (or as a listener calls it, “Draft Zero”) actually the best path to finishing scripts and getting to the rewrite where the real work happens. The episode wraps with audience questions about getting a manager and what to do if you can see scenes in your head but struggle to get them onto the page. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why finishing a rough first draft is often the fastest path to a strong scriptWhat distributors and streamers want right now, and why it is increasingly data-drivenHow to think about concept clarity and producibility without losing your voicePractical ways to network with managers that do not feel transactionalA simple mindset shift that keeps you from rewriting the first 20 pages foreverKey Moments 00:18 Dust Bunny: why Geoffrey calls it a rare “whimsical absurd” gem02:00 Visual subtext and symbolism in Dust Bunny, plus the “unreliable narrator” question05:13 AFM market shift: why actor names are not carrying films like they used to10:01 Stranger Things Season 5 AI rumors and the spectrum of AI use in writing15:45 “Bad advice” spotlight: why the vomit draft (Draft Zero) still mattersAbout the Cohost Kristy Leigh Lussier is Geoffrey’s longtime co-host and a sharp voice on screenwriting craft, industry trends, and the reality of building a writing career one draft at a time. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Dust Bunny (rented on Amazon Prime)Brian Fuller (discussion of his work including Pushing Daisies and Hannibal)Big Eyes (referenced as an example tied to credit and authorship)Draft Zero (listener Gary Thomas’s preferred term for the “vomit draft”)Geoffrey’s book: The Guide for Every ScreenwriterConnect with Kristy Instagram:@kantoka127Vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #screenwriter #writingcommunity #screenwritingtips #screenwritinglife #filmmaking #filmindustry #writingprocess #firstdraft #rewrite Tags  Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

In Episode 305 Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by Kristy Leigh Lussier for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, tone, franchise arcs, and industry realities, and taking a gig you don't love. From horror movies about rabid chimpanzees to why darker sequels often resonate more deeply, this episode blends craft analysis, industry news, and practical screenwriting advice straight from the trenches. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy tonal shifts in sequels can strengthen a franchiseWhat Wicked: Part Two gets right that surprises non-musical fansThe storytelling mistake that doomed the 2011 Conan the Barbarian remakeHow long-form character arcs deepen emotional investmentPractical answers to audience screenwriting questions about dialogue, pitching, and career choicesKey Moments00:00–03:30 – Reviewing Wicked: Part Two and the power of darker second acts05:00–07:30 – Franchise arcs and why Harry Potter matures with its audience08:20–10:30 – The original vs. remake debate: Conan the Barbarian vs. the 2011 reboot10:45–12:30 – Industry Snapshot: MTV officially exits the music-video era14:20–18:20 – Listener Q&A: multilingual dialogue and writing outside your favorite genre19:30–22:40 – What actually happens after a successful pitch and why lawyers matterAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a producer, writer, and script consultant known for her sharp story instincts and deep understanding of character-driven storytelling. She brings thoughtful insight into franchise structure, tonal control, and navigating the industry with clarity. About the Host With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Successful Screenwriter Membership (TV pilot course)Entertainment lawyers and contract basics for writersFranchise case studies: Harry Potter, Wicked, Conan the BarbarianConnect with KristyInstagram: @kantoka127Vertical Drama: The Witch Wolf’s MateConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #ScreenwritingPodcast #FilmIndustry #StoryStructure #TVWriting #ScreenwriterLife #FilmAnalysis Connect with Kristy Leigh Lussier Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyThe Rewrite WorkbookWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!