The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

Geoffrey D. Calhoun
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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, 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 best selling 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 Screebwriter 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! Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)

  1. 16H AGO

    Ep 296 - When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Break Screenwriting Rules

    Geoffrey D. Calhoun and Kristy Leigh Lussier dive into horror films, story rules, and the art of breaking them the right way. From Geoffrey’s emotional reaction to Good Boy to their debate on flashbacks and narrative discipline, this episode is packed with insights for any writer exploring tension, fear, and structure. Plus, they brainstorm ideas for the upcoming 300th episode giveaway and talk about the films every horror fan should see. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to break story rules the right wayThe importance of structure and consistency in screenwritingHow to use flashbacks effectively (and when they hurt your story)Writing fear through tension, atmosphere, and primal emotionWhat today’s horror films can teach about character and storytellingKey Moments 00:22 Brainstorming ideas for the 300th episode celebration01:03 Geoffrey’s emotional reaction to Good Boy and dog-POV storytelling08:37 The Woman in the Yard and the danger of breaking story rules11:24 Trash Screenwriting Advice: “Just break the rules”19:28 Flashbacks and how to use them effectively About the Guest Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker, writer, and producer with a passion for genre storytelling. She brings a sharp industry perspective and a love of horror to the conversation. Instagram: @kantoka127Watch her series The Witch Wolf’s Mate: Watch HereAbout 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 The Guide For Every ScreenwriterGood BoyWe Are ZombiesTurbo KidTerrifier seriesThe Woman in the YardHalloween (1978)The ConjuringThe ExorcistSession 9Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram:@screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriterWe’re only four episodes away from 300! Have an idea for our big celebration or giveaway? Send it in and don’t forget to share your screenwriting questions for next week’s show. #Screenwriting #WritingTips #Filmmaking #HorrorWriting #Podcast 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    24 min

  2. NOV 3

    EP 295 - Anu Valia on Voice, Casting, and Indie Momentum

    Director Anu Valia joins Geoffrey to unpack the craft behind her feature We Strangers. We dig into keeping your voice while working in TV, building an indie over years, collaborating with actors who elevate subtext, and weaving race, class, and power into story without preaching. If you’re balancing paid gigs with personal work and wondering how to protect your vision, this one’s for you. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and share it with a writer friend. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to keep your creative voice while directing for televisionA practical path from idea to finished indie featureCasting strategies that unlock subtext and performanceDirecting actors with clear, specific adjustmentsWriting themes of race, class, and power with nuanceKey Moments 00:23 Welcome and credits that shaped Anu’s eye01:35 The journey of We Strangers and VOD access04:54 The premise, subtext, and why the “tiny lie” works06:58 Code switching, identity, and carrying the creative backpack16:08 Why “great directing is casting” and working the sceneAbout the Guest Anu Valia is a writer-director known for character-driven stories across film and television, including episodes of acclaimed series and the feature We Strangers. 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 We StrangersShe-Hulk: Attorney at LawShrinkingAnd Just Like That…Connect with Guest Learn more about We Strangers on VOD platformsConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter#screenwriting #filmmaking #directing #indiefilm #acting #casting #WeStrangers #AnuValia #TVdirector #storycraft 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    19 min

  3. OCT 27

    Ep 294 - Breaking In to the Industry Without Breaking Down

    Tommy Cresta from The Popcorn Podcast joins Geoffrey to talk about moving from reviewing movies to writing them. They dig into shopping a home-invasion feature called Trespass, ways to get eyes on your script, and the messy middle of creative burnout. The conversation also gets real about men’s mental health, eating disorders, and building support systems that keep you writing. Stick around for Alien and Predator franchise hot takes plus a peek at Tommy’s found-footage project and gaming content. If you are having thoughts of suicide or are in emotional distress, you are not alone. Call or text 988 in the U.S. to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, 24/7 confidential support. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePractical ways to shop a first feature script without gatekeepersHow contests, listings, and “script for sale” pages can build momentumManaging burnout, depression, and isolation as a writerWhy community matters and how to find your tribeFranchise talk: Alien, Predator, and what’s worth studying as a writerKey Moments00:22 Welcome and the story behind Trespass02:19 From podcasting to screenwriting and finding purpose through writing06:38 Hitting rock bottom, NYU film training, and family support10:33 Men’s mental health, suicidal ideation, and reaching out for help16:14 A lighter turn: Alien, Predator, and finding inspiration in fandomAbout the Guest Tommy Cresta is one half of The Popcorn Podcast. He reviews films, creates gaming content, and is shopping the home-invasion feature Trespass. He’s also developing a winter found-footage horror project and documenting a ghost investigation for his channel. 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 EpisodeTrespass (feature script) and the strategy of listing scripts for purchase13Horror contest model for script visibilityAlien: RomulusThe Rookie (ABC)Hulu’s animated Predator filmNYU filmmaking program (as a career reset and skills boost)Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (U.S.)Connect with GuestThe Popcorn Podcast — YouTube and SpotifyInstagram: search “The Popcorn Podcast Tommy Cresta”Gaming and horror content on the same channelConnect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter #screenwriting #mentalhealth #suicideprevention #indiefilm #screenwriterpodcast #horror #Alien #Predator 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    22 min

  4. OCT 23

    Ep 293 - Why Most Screenwriters Fail to Stand Out with Paul Chitlik

    Screenwriting legend Paul Chitlik joins Geoffrey to reveal why so many screenwriters struggle to break through and how to finally rise above the noise. They discuss the biggest mistakes writers make, why rewriting is the key to success, and how to craft stories and characters that truly stand out in today’s industry. Paul also shares insights from his new book, The Screenwriting Sensei, and how embracing structure (and knowing when to break it) can take your writing to the next level. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why “good” scripts still get ignored in HollywoodThe secret to developing characters readers actually rememberHow to master structure—then break it the right wayWhat today’s changing film industry means for screenwritersWhy rewriting 20+ times might be your key to successKey Moments:(00:35) The origins of The Screenwriting Sensei(04:00) Why the business keeps changing but story doesn’t(06:16) What makes a story truly work(10:22) How to use (and break) traditional structure(16:25) The truth about rewrites and patience in screenwritingAbout the Guest: Paul Chitlik is an award-winning screenwriter, author, and educator with decades of experience writing for film and television. His new book, The Screenwriting Sensei: A Complete Guide to Writing Your First Script, offers writers practical lessons and exercises to master the craft from page one. 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:The Screenwriting Sensei by Paul Chitlik — Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and MWP.com (25% discount at MWP)The Guide for Every Screenwriter by Geoffrey D. CalhounConnect with Guest: Website: https://www.paulchitlik.com Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun:Website: https://www.thesuccessfulscreenwriter.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/screenwriterpodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesuccessfulscreenwriter#ScreenwritingPodcast #ScreenwritingTips #ScreenwritingPainPoints #ScreenwriterAdvice #TheScreenwritingSensei #PaulChitlik #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter  🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    18 min

  5. OCT 20

    Ep 292 - What to Do When Your Screenwriting Career Stalls

    What happens when you’ve done everything right. Made a film, landed a rep, and still find yourself stuck? In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy tackle the tough truth about stalled careers and how rebranding or shifting genres can reignite momentum. They also dive into Steven Soderbergh’s Presence, breaking down why its bold POV and long oners captivate audiences, and chat about Jonathan Nolan’s Fallout heading to New Vegas for Season 2. Plus, Kristy shares insights from her new vertical series The Witch Wolf’s Mate and why short-form storytelling is becoming a massive opportunity for indie filmmakers. Spoiler alert: We discuss key plot details from Presence. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why even successful screenwriters and filmmakers hit career stallsHow to rebrand or change genres strategically to stay relevantWhat makes Presence a masterclass in single-location storytellingWhy vertical short-form filmmaking is the next indie waveWhere to get free, verified weekly script leads from producersKey Moments 00:23 First reactions to Presence and its surprising twist07:30 The craft behind Soderbergh’s long takes and single-location setup09:06 What to do when your screenwriting career stalls15:08 Fallout Season 2 moves to New Vegas — what that means for writers18:11 Kristy’s new vertical drama The Witch Wolf’s Mate and how RealShort changes the gameAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh is a filmmaker and producer specializing in audience-friendly genre storytelling and emerging formats, including vertical dramas. 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 Presence (dir. Steven Soderbergh; written by David Koepp)Fallout (Amazon) – Season 2 moving to New VegasRealShort App – Watch The Witch Wolf’s MateScript Leads by Geoffrey D. Calhoun – Free, verified weekly leadsConnect with Kristy Leigh 📸 Instagram: @kantoka127🎬 Watch “The Witch Wolf’s Mate” on ReelShort Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun 🌐 Website: The Successful Screenwriter📸 Instagram: @screenwriterpod▶️ YouTube: The Successful Screenwriter🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. Got a screenwriting question or challenge you want featured on the show? Drop it in the comments or message Geoffrey on Instagram. #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #CareerAdvice #Soderbergh #Presence #Fallout #RealShort #ScriptLeads #IndieFilm #WritingCommunity 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    22 min

  6. OCT 13

    Ep 291 - Do You Really Need to Live in LA to Be a Screenwriter?

    We’re closing in on 300 episodes and celebrating with a lively live stream. Geoffrey and Kristy dig into the gloriously bonkers Toxic Avenger remake and share why Tron Ares is better than the early negativity suggests.Then we tackle your questions on query letters, page counts that actually get read, whether you must live in LA to make it, and how specialists like medical doctors can break into writing. We wrap with a frank look at the industry slowdown and practical ways to build momentum locally. Like, comment, and drop your questions for next week’s live Q&A. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to write query emails that producers actually readPage count targets that help your script get a yesWhy you do not need to live in LA to build a screenwriting careerPractical entry points for experts outside film, like physicians, to contribute to showsA real talk snapshot of the current market and how to keep moving locallyKey Moments 00:23 Welcome and the road to 300 episodes01:33 Toxic Avenger remake review and why it works03:49 Tron Ares thoughts, redemption arc, and theme of loss09:36 Trash screenwriting advice we are tossing out today18:03 Q&A lightning round: queries, page counts, LA myth, doctor-to-writer path, and market realityAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh is Geoffrey’s on-air partner for our weekly live Q&A. She brings producer insight, story instincts, and a sharp eye for what works on the page and on set. 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 The Toxic Avenger (remake)Tron AresWe Have Always Lived in the CastlePresenceGood BoySisu and the upcoming sequelThe Guide for Every Screenwriter by Geoffrey D. CalhounConnect with Guest Send questions for Kristy during our weekly live Q&A via Geoffrey’s Instagram below. Connect with Geoffrey D. CalhounWebsite: The Successful ScreenwriterInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterEnjoyed the episode? Like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your question for next week’s live Q&A. Want hands-on help with your script? Join our community and get support from Geoffrey and friends. #Screenwriting #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #QueryLetter #IndieFilm #WritingTips #ToxicAvenger #TronAres #Presence #GoodBoy #Sisu #LiveQandA #FilmIndustry #ScriptNotes 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    27 min

  7. OCT 9

    EP 290: Netflix's Black Rabbit with Director Ben Semanoff

    Director Ben Semanoff returns to break down Netflix’s Black Rabbit. We talk about joining a show with a strong tone, how each directing block gently “pushes the circle,” and why the aesthetic grows more unhinged as the brothers’ lives unravel. Ben shares set stories, including the infamous burning bowling ball, the attic scene that runs seven to eight minutes, and how the production design turned New York into a character. We also cover collaborating with writer-producers, directing a director, and shaping visual language that shifts from disciplined to unstable as the story escalates. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to enter an established series, honor the tone, and still add your voicePractical ways to build a visual progression that mirrors character descentThe reality of “tone meetings” and being prepared for on-set challengesCollaborating with writer-producers to protect story intent while solving production problemsProduction design as backstory and how it supports performance and blocking. Key Moments 03:18 — On-set surprises and the burning bowling ball story07:57 — Directing a director: working with Jason Bateman12:47 — Minimal VFX, real locations, and a love letter to New York14:25 — Building the Black Rabbit interior and designing history into sets20:37 — Using visual style to reflect the brothers’ shifting dynamicAbout the Guest Ben Semanoff is a director and cinematographer known for Ozark and The Night Of. On Black Rabbit he directed episodes that push the show’s aesthetic as the story darkens, drawing on a background in precise, deliberate camerawork while embracing a more unstable, naturalistic feel. 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 Black Rabbit (Netflix)OzarkThe Night OfRipleyUncut GemsConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterEnjoyed the episode? Leave a rating on your favorite podcast app, drop a comment with your favorite insight from Ben, and share this with a filmmaker who loves grounded crime drama.  #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #TVDirecting #BlackRabbit #JasonBateman #JudeLaw #SetLife #ProductionDesign #DirectingCraft 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    22 min

  8. OCT 6

    Ep 289 - The Future of A.I. 'Actors' in the Film Industry

    In this live Q&A, Geoffrey D. Calhoun and co-host Kristy Leigh unpack M3GAN 2.0’s genre swerve from horror comedy to horror action, why Terminator 2 may have been the template, and how fast turnarounds can flatten story. Then they dive into Tilly Norwood and the rise of AI performers, what that could cost the industry in craft and jobs, and why strong scripts matter even more. Geoffrey closes with his “trash screenwriting advice” takedown of the luck in the industry and explains the Three Ts that actually move careers. Listener Q&A covers writing pages without knowing the full story, plotting vs pantsing, and the raw emotions that tell you a scene is working. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How a sequel’s genre shift can alienate core fansWhy speed-to-market can warp tone and structureThe real implications of AI performers for actors and writersWhy stronger scripts become critical in an AI pipelineThe Three Ts framework for breaking in without “luck”Plotter vs pantser: when each approach helpsEmotional checkpoints that signal your scene is landingKey Moments 01:22 First take on M3GAN 2.0 and the head-punch opener05:31 Home Alone-style hijinks and tonal whiplash08:08 Tilly Norwood and the AI performer debate11:13 Prediction: indie and international adoption first17:55 Bad screenwriting tip: “You need luck”21:09 Q&A: writing pages without the full story25:14 Killing characters and arguing with your draftAbout the Guest Kristy Leigh is a writer and producer who champions story craft, performance, and indie filmmaking communities, most recently at the Boise Film Festival. 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 M3GAN 2.0Terminator 2: Judgment DayThe Conjuring seriesCharlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) and John AugustBoise Film FestivalTilly Norwood (AI performer)Finding NicoleConnect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun Website: TheSuccessfulScreenwriter.comInstagram: @screenwriterpodYouTube: The Successful ScreenwriterHave a screenwriting question for the next live show? Drop it in the comments, and tune in next week. If today’s chat helped, share the episode with a writer friend. #Screenwriting #ScreenwriterPodcast #M3GAN2 #AIinFilm #WritingProcess #ThreeTs #IndieFilm #BoiseFilmFestival #PlotterVsPantser #HorrorWriting 🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!

    27 min
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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, 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 best selling 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 Screebwriter 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! Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)

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