The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Geoffrey D. Calhoun
  • 4.9 (31)
  • Film Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to The Successful Screenwriter Podcast, your go-to source for in-depth discussions, expert insights, and captivating interviews in the world of screenwriting. Hosted by seasoned screenwriter Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Lee Lussier, this podcast is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced screenwriters, offering a wealth of insights and guidance. About the Podcast: Dive deep into the art and craft of screenwriting with our engaging episodes that cover a spectrum of topics from mastering the screenplay format to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, providing valuable takeaways for writers at every stage of their journey. Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriting instructor and bestselling author with a passion for storytelling. With a proven track record in the film industry, Geoffrey has not only honed his craft as a successful screenwriter but also shares his wealth of knowledge as an instructor. His unique journey in the world of screenwriting has equipped him with a unique perspective, making him an essential guide for screenwriters of all levels. Key Features: Expert Interviews: Gain insights from renowned screenwriters, filmmakers, and industry professionals who share their experiences, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories.Screenwriting Tips: Unlock the secrets of successful screenwriting with actionable tips, tricks, and techniques discussed in every episode.Film Analysis: Explore in-depth film analyses, breaking down the storytelling techniques that make movies memorable and impactful.Exclusive Industry Insights: Access exclusive industry secrets and stay updated on the latest trends. Get insider knowledge to navigate the world of screenwriting with confidence.Connect with Us: Subscribe to the podcast on Spreaker for regular updates.Engage with us on Instagram @screenwriterpod for the latest news, discussions, and community interactions.Visit our official website thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for additional resources such as: Screenwriting Gigs, Screenplay Library, Seminars and other exclusive content.Embark on your screenwriting journey with The Successful Screenwriter Podcast. Let's transform your storytelling aspirations into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Subscribe to our screenwriting podcast now and join our vibrant community of storytellers!

  1. Sep 6

    Ep 317 - I infiltrated Screenwriting Reddit. Here's What Happened

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  2. Aug 17

    EP 316 – Screenwriters, Stop Writing Dialogue Like This

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  3. Jul 19

    EP 315 - The Secrets to Indie Film Success, George Ansara on Building Vault Studio

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  4. Jul 6

    Ep 314 - Why Supergirl Doesn't Work (It's Not What You Think)

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  5. Jun 7

    EP 313 – ELSY: The Post-Apocalyptic Vertical Series That Could Change Everything

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  6. Jun 1

    Ep 312 - Hollywood Is Changing Faster Than Most Writers Realize

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  7. Apr 13

    Ep 311 - Why Fan Service Is Killing Movies

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

  8. Mar 23

    Ep 310 - I Was Hospitalized for Suicide (No One Talks About This)

    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 Guest Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolf's MateConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Watch: ElsyWebsite: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife Please share this podcast with your community!

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4.9
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About

Welcome to The Successful Screenwriter Podcast, your go-to source for in-depth discussions, expert insights, and captivating interviews in the world of screenwriting. Hosted by seasoned screenwriter Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Lee Lussier, this podcast is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced screenwriters, offering a wealth of insights and guidance. About the Podcast: Dive deep into the art and craft of screenwriting with our engaging episodes that cover a spectrum of topics from mastering the screenplay format to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, providing valuable takeaways for writers at every stage of their journey. Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriting instructor and bestselling author with a passion for storytelling. With a proven track record in the film industry, Geoffrey has not only honed his craft as a successful screenwriter but also shares his wealth of knowledge as an instructor. His unique journey in the world of screenwriting has equipped him with a unique perspective, making him an essential guide for screenwriters of all levels. Key Features: Expert Interviews: Gain insights from renowned screenwriters, filmmakers, and industry professionals who share their experiences, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories.Screenwriting Tips: Unlock the secrets of successful screenwriting with actionable tips, tricks, and techniques discussed in every episode.Film Analysis: Explore in-depth film analyses, breaking down the storytelling techniques that make movies memorable and impactful.Exclusive Industry Insights: Access exclusive industry secrets and stay updated on the latest trends. Get insider knowledge to navigate the world of screenwriting with confidence.Connect with Us: Subscribe to the podcast on Spreaker for regular updates.Engage with us on Instagram @screenwriterpod for the latest news, discussions, and community interactions.Visit our official website thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for additional resources such as: Screenwriting Gigs, Screenplay Library, Seminars and other exclusive content.Embark on your screenwriting journey with The Successful Screenwriter Podcast. Let's transform your storytelling aspirations into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Subscribe to our screenwriting podcast now and join our vibrant community of storytellers!

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