The Working Writer

Brad Staggs
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  • Performing Arts
  • Updated weekly

If you're a writer of any kind but have a full-time job (or two) to pay the bills, this is the podcast for you! We can write together and keep each other motivated. Each week, we'll talk about how to use your precious time to get your writing going and be accountable for getting it done! Every other week, we'll feature an interview with somebody who can tell you what they expect out of your writing... actors, directors, producers, and yes, other writers!

  1. 22 May

    The Working Writer Podcast: Best of the Brad Solo Years | Special Episode

    In this special episode of The Working Writer Podcast, we look back at some of the best conversations from the Brad Solo years.Featuring highlights with:Katy O’Brian — ActressMichael Price — Writer/Producer, The SimpsonsDave Barry — Author and Pulitzer Prize-winning humoristMike Royce — Writer/ProducerRidley Pearson — Bestselling AuthorThis episode brings together stories, advice, laughs, and behind-the-scenes insight from writers, producers, authors, and performers who have built incredible creative careers.From writing for television and creating comedy, to building novels, developing characters, and surviving the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, this special episode is a celebration of storytelling and the creative process.Whether you’re a screenwriter, novelist, filmmaker, actor, or fan of great conversations about writing, this episode is for you.Watch now and revisit some of the best moments from The Working Writer Podcast’s Brad Solo era.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Journey01:16 Nostalgia in Journalism: Dave Barry's Insights05:08 Acting Perspectives: Katie O'Brien on Script Evaluation09:08 Writing for Disney: Ridley Pearson's Experience15:05 Lessons from Military Comedy: Mike Royce on Enlisted21:00 The Evolution of Spec Scripts: Michael Price's Take28:20 Conclusion: The Importance of Writing for Passion#TheWorkingWriterPodcast #WritingPodcast #Screenwriting #Storytelling #KatyOBrian #TheSimpsons #MichaelPrice #DaveBarry #MikeRoyce #RidleyPearson #WritersLife

    30 min

  2. 16 May

    The Working Writer Podcast Ep 59 Screenwriter Brad Fowler

    This week on The Working Writer Podcast, Brad Staggs sits down with screenwriter and actor Bradley Fowler to talk about the real craft behind writing movies, breaking into screenwriting, and why structure matters more than most beginning writers realize.Bradley shares how he went from being a college football kicker at Northern Iowa to writing his first screenplay as a seven-year love letter, eventually learning the hard truth that talent is not enough without story structure. He also talks about getting professional notes from a Fox reader, studying screenwriting beats, working across genres, writing horror, comedy, romance, mockumentary, and faith-based films, and why every story needs a strong thematic premise.The conversation also covers Bradley’s award-winning film Love, Meet Hope, working with legendary actors like Ed Asner and Lin Shaye, the importance of putting ego aside as a professional writer, and what makes a good pitch. Plus, Brad and Bradley go deep on dentists, villains, antiheroes, blank pages, horror structure, and why writers need to love the work more than the idea of success.Whether you are a new screenwriter, filmmaker, actor, producer, or storyteller trying to understand how professional writers think, this episode is packed with practical advice, funny moments, and honest insight into the writing life.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3815211/  / bfowler29  https://www.hulu.com/movie/slotherhou...

    1 hr

  3. 15 May

    The Working Writer Podcast Ep 58 Author Ray Boomhower

    Join us as we explore the art of historical writing and publishing with Ray Boomhower, a seasoned expert from the Indiana Historical Society. Discover tips for aspiring writers, the importance of research, and the rich history of Indiana's influence in entertainment and culture.historical writing, Indiana history, publishing tips, research, biography, Indiana celebrities, book publishing, writing adviceHistorical writing techniquesResearch and sources for history booksPublishing process and finding an agentIndiana's influence in entertainment and culture00:00 Introduction to Ray Boomhower02:21 The Impact of Robert Kennedy's 1968 Campaign04:01 Ray's Journey into Historical Publishing06:52 Engaging Readers in Historical Writing09:58 Research and Illustrations in Historical Articles13:06 The Process of Writing Books15:56 Self-Publishing and Historical Society Opportunities19:33 Common Mistakes by New Writers22:08 The Changing Landscape of Historical Writing24:38 The Future of Historical Research and Writing27:44 Exploring Historical Figures30:33 Indiana's Hidden Historical Gems32:48 Wrestling Legends from Indianahttps://indianahistory.org/blog/a-loo...https://rayeboomhowerbooks.com/

    38 min

  4. 1 May

    The Working Writer Podcast - Ep 57 Crochet Artist, Author & Creative Entrepreneur Twinkie Chan

    On this episode of The Working Writer Podcast, we’re joined by bestselling crochet designer, author, and creative entrepreneur Twinkie Chan!Known around the world for her whimsical crochet food scarves, amigurumi patterns, and inspiring DIY books, Twinkie joins us to talk about writing craft books, building a creative brand, publishing, entrepreneurship, and turning art into a career.In this conversation we explore:✨ How Twinkie Chan became a successful crochet designer and author✨ Writing and publishing crochet pattern books✨ Creative entrepreneurship and building a handmade business✨ The art of storytelling through crafting and design✨ Advice for writers, makers, fiber artists, and aspiring authors✨ Crochet trends, DIY culture, and the future of handmade artIf you love writing podcasts, author interviews, crochet tutorials, fiber arts, amigurumi, crafting business advice, self-publishing, creative careers, knitting and crochet inspiration, this episode is for you.Twinkie shares incredible insights for anyone interested in crochet design, craft book publishing, maker entrepreneurship, creative writing, and turning passion into profession.🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share if you enjoy conversations about writing, creativity, storytelling, and the handmade life.00:00 - Podcast Introduction and Guest Arrival01:58 - Warm Welcome and First Questions02:22 - Netflix Scarf Story and Creative Ideas04:30 - First Book Journey and Creative Mantra06:55 - Book Production, Layout, and Second Book Reflections09:55 - Sponsor Spot: Fiberglass Freaks Batman Museum10:49 - Returning to Show and Book Organization11:29 - Creating Text First and Book Layout12:22 - First vs Second Book Experiences13:33 - Publisher Changes and Advertising Challenges14:21 - Craft Genre Growth and Pattern Choices15:17 - Second Book Sales Difficulties16:50 - Online Presence and Brand Promotion17:28 - Social Media Evolution for Creators18:18 - Future Book Plans and Self-Publishing19:14 - Publishing Industry Perceptions20:27 - Advice: Research and Market Positioning22:37 - Closing Remarks and Light Banter24:01 - Brad's 80s Song Project and AI32:09 - Poetic Tribute to Twinkie Chan33:01 - Self-Publishing Encouragement and Tips33:39 - Show Wrap-Up and Call to Action34:42 - Brad Promotes Album and Writing Reminderhttps://www.twinkiechan.com/https://www.instagram.com/twinkiechan/https://shopgr.id/twinkiechanhttps://www.instagram.com/sweettoothhotel/https://www.youtube.com/twinkiechantvhttps://www.etsy.com/shop/twinkiechan/?etsrc=sdthttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B003NJRK9E/about?ccs_id=a6a77f65-2aee-409a-9b41-c26a407079e3#TwinkieChan #CrochetPodcast #WritingPodcast #WorkingWriterPodcast #CrochetDesign #FiberArts #Amigurumi #CraftBooks #CreativeEntrepreneur #DIYCrafts #AuthorInterview #CrochetPatterns #WritingCommunity #HandmadeBusiness #CraftingPodcast

    35 min

  5. 24 Apr

    The Working Writer Podcast Ep 56 Writer Director Jakob Bilinski and Actress Writer Emily Durchholz

    This week on The Working Writer Podcast, Brad Staggs sits down with filmmaker Jakob Bilinski and actress/writer Emily Durchholz for a deep dive into the craft of storytelling for screen and stage. From the differences between theater and film performance to writing for low-budget productions, Jakob and Emily share hard-earned insights on script development, directing actors, emotional beats, and finding character through voice. The conversation explores collaboration, creative flexibility, the psychology behind performance, and how great scenes are built from the inside out. They also discuss monologues, method acting vs practicality, and the creative instincts that drive their filmmaking plus a look at upcoming projects and collaborations. If you’re a screenwriter, filmmaker, actor, or anyone fascinated by the storytelling process, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation. #WorkingWriterPodcast #JakobBilinski #EmilyDurchholz #ScreenwritingPodcast #FilmmakingPodcast #WritingCommunity #IndieFilm #Directing #Storytelling #Screenwriters #WritersLife https://www.instagram.com/cinephreakpictures https://www.instagram.com/compressionmovie https://www.cinephreakpictures.com/ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28060455 https://www.facebook.com/emily.durchholz https://www.instagram.com/emjdurch_/ https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0GQ72FBXV/ref=atv_hm_mys_c_UpBNIS_1_3

    1hr 3min

  6. 17 Apr

    The Working Writer Podcast Ep 55 - Producer Writer Director Peter Matsoukas

    In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Peter Matsoukas to break down the craft and reality of modern filmmaking. Peter shares hard-earned insight on what it takes to develop stories that actually work. The conversation dives into the challenges of writing and directing in the horror genre, the importance of authentic dialogue, and how to create distinct character voices that stand out on the page. We also explore the differences between short films and features, the role of a director’s vision, and the level of emotional investment required to see a project through. Peter opens up about his journey from shorts to features, his experiences teaching filmmaking, and why mentorship, discipline, and persistence are critical for anyone serious about the craft. https://www.rockscarfilms.com/ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2416089/?ref_=mv_close https://tubitv.com/movies/100049136/no-place https://tubitv.com/movies/100032583/b-lines 🎬 Writing. Directing. Grinding it out. #WorkingWritersPodcast #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #Directing #HorrorFilms #IndieFilm #Storytelling #FilmPodcast

    53 min

  7. 10 Apr

    The Working Writer Podcast Ep 54 Filmmaker Mark David

    In this episode of the Working Writer Podcast, host Brad Staggs and Producer Dave discuss the nuances of writing and filmmaking with guest Mark David, an experienced cinematographer and writer. They explore the significance of table reads, the challenges of working within budget constraints, and the importance of mentorship in the film industry. Mark shares his journey from aspiring director to a working writer, emphasizing the need for collaboration and learning in the creative process. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of screenwriting, including the use of beat sheets to structure narratives effectively. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of screenwriting and filmmaking, discussing the evolution of the industry with the advent of digital technology and the internet. They explore the creative process behind crafting compelling narratives, character development, and the impact of AI on the film industry. The discussion also highlights the making of the film 'Mr. Wonderful' and offers valuable advice for aspiring screenwriters.

    1hr 2min

  8. 3 Apr

    The Working Writer Podcast EP 53 -Author Derrick Jackson

    In this episode of the Working Writer Podcast, host Brad Staggs sits down with retired Air Force Special Agent turned author Derrick Jackson. Derrick shares his incredible journey from serving as a jet engine specialist and OSI investigator to becoming a published fiction writer. He dives into how real-life military and investigative experience shaped his storytelling, the challenges of transitioning from screenplay to novel writing, and the importance of balancing authenticity with protecting real people’s identities. The conversation explores the inner workings of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), the creative process behind his books, and what it takes to build compelling characters rooted in real-world experience. Derrick also discusses the release of his latest book, “The Raven Shadow” (Shadow One Series), and what’s next as he continues developing the series. If you're a writer, veteran, or just love behind-the-scenes insight into storytelling, this episode is packed with value.

    45 min
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About

If you're a writer of any kind but have a full-time job (or two) to pay the bills, this is the podcast for you! We can write together and keep each other motivated. Each week, we'll talk about how to use your precious time to get your writing going and be accountable for getting it done! Every other week, we'll feature an interview with somebody who can tell you what they expect out of your writing... actors, directors, producers, and yes, other writers!

Information

  • Creator
    Brad Staggs
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Brad Staggs
  • Show Website
    The Working Writer