The ISA Podcast

International Screenwriters' Association
  • 3.9 (19)
  • TV & FILM
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Curious about Screenwriting Podcast where you'll enjoy listening to fascinating film industry guests who share their insights on how you can take your screenwriting career to the next level.

  1. 12/23/2025

    From Contest Quarterfinalist to Industry Meetings: A Screenwriter's Real Path Forward, Jack Cusick

    What does it mean to "level up" as a screenwriter? Grounded sci-fi writer Jack Cusick breaks down the realities of building a screenwriting career, from mastering craft, to finding community, to finally stepping into real industry conversations. Jack shares how he fell in love with storytelling, why the structure of screenwriting sharpened his writing, and how he thinks about grounded sci-fi as character-first storytelling rather than spectacle. He also opens up about "quarterfinalist syndrome," rewriting without losing your sanity, and why progress in this business often feels like a video game with invisible levels. We also talk about: The three stages of a screenwriter's career Why writing is always a little uncomfortable (and why that's a good sign) Using contests and fellowships to practice industry meetings How building real relationships matters more than pitching in your first meeting Why success is either a win… or a learning opportunity Finding your "lightning in a bottle" and staying ready when it strikes Whether you're early in your screenwriting journey or navigating the gap between craft and career, Jack's perspective is grounded, practical, and refreshingly honest.

    35 min

  2. 12/21/2025

    ISA Presents: How to Hook Agents & Producers, a roundtable with ISA Leadership

    Join the ISA for an honest conversation about what agents & producers want & what you need to do to become the writer they're searching for. They're not just looking for potential. They're looking for proof. In this roundtable, we'll cover: What makes agents say yes (& what makes them pass immediately) The truth about what your script needs to be ready & how to get it there How to build the professional foundation that gets you noticed Strategic paths to industry visibility  The ISA resources that help you Get Great → Get Noticed → Get Repped Featuring: Craig James (CEO & Founder), Molly Kasch (COO), Felicity Wren (VP of Dev), Shayna Weber (Creative Exec), Jeffrey Morales (Story Exec), Scott Markus (Dir of Content), Thada Catalon (Digital Marketing Dir) & Ilana Grollman (Submissions Asst) This isn't about shortcuts. It's about the real work & how ISA helps you do it.

    1h 57m

  3. 12/19/2025

    Keeping the Fun in Filmmaking: Molly Ratermann's Creative Mindset | Emerging Screenwriter Interview

    Writer–director–actor Molly Ratermann shares the wild, deeply personal, and inspiring story behind her debut feature film, "Making a Bridesmaid."

    33 min

  4. 12/07/2025

    Take 10 with Craig - General Meetings: Stop Trying to Sell. Start Building Relationships.

    A general meeting isn't about pitching your project. It's about building relationships, establishing trust, and showing executives, producers, and collaborators who you are as a person and storyteller.

    14 min

  5. 12/05/2025

    "How to be a Screenwriter" with Phil Stark (South Park, That '70s Show, Dude, Where's My Car?)

    Screenwriter and therapist Phil Stark joins the ISA for an honest, funny, and deeply insightful conversation about creativity, impostor syndrome, and breaking into the industry.

    44 min

  6. 10/27/2025

    From Dream to Debut: Alex Sarrigeorgiou's First Feature Film Story, making "In Transit"

    Writer, actor, and poet Alex Sarrigeorgiou talks about her creative journey and her debut feature film, "In Transit," a tender, intimate queer drama about connection, identity, and the courage to change direction in life.

    36 min

  7. 10/14/2025

    Overcoming Impostor Syndrome as a Writer | Trusting the Process of Storytelling

    "The idea of impostor syndrome is something I think we all struggle with — and I'm no exception." In this heartfelt reflection, Craig James opens up about creative self-doubt, trusting your work, and learning to let go once you've done your part.

    7 min

  8. 10/13/2025

    Just Your Typical Award-winning Screenwriter-slash-Zookeeper | Alli Kiko Masloske's Inspiring Story

    In this inspiring conversation, Alli Kiko Masloske shares her creative journey from working with animals to writing screenplays that connect deeply with audiences. From navigating chronic illness to finding her voice in a competitive industry, Alli opens up about how humor, honesty, and community have shaped her work and outlook on life.

    37 min
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3.9
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Curious about Screenwriting Podcast where you'll enjoy listening to fascinating film industry guests who share their insights on how you can take your screenwriting career to the next level.

Information

  • Creator
    International Screenwriters' Association
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2015
  • Show Website
    The ISA Podcast

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