Couverture de The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

De : 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)The Successful Screenwriter Art
Épisodes
  • Ep 311 - Why Fan Service Is Killing Movies

    Ep 311 - Why Fan Service Is Killing Movies
    Apr 13 2026
    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 films
    • The problem with introducing characters too late in a script
    • Why faithful adaptations like Project Hail Mary work
    • The truth about the Hero’s Journey and why it never dies
    • How to write stronger characters in short films
    • Best practices for writing love scenes in today’s industry
    • How to approach a 48-hour film festival script
    • Why you don’t need Hollywood to succeed as a screenwriter
    Key Moments
    • 00:20 – Opening and shift to a lighter episode
    • 00:55 – Geoffrey walks out of Mario Bros 2 and why
    • 02:14 – The rise of fan service over storytelling
    • 06:52 – Why Project Hail Mary connects with audiences
    • 14:34 – “The Hero’s Journey is dead?” debate
    About 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 Mary
    • Interstellar
    • The Martian
    • Ready or Not 2
    • They Will Kill You
    Connect with Guest
    • Instagram: @kantoka127
    • Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs Mate
    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun
    • Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter
    #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife

    🎬 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!
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    29 min
  • Ep 310 - I Was Hospitalized for Suicide (No One Talks About This)

    Ep 310 - I Was Hospitalized for Suicide (No One Talks About This)
    Mar 23 2026
    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 depression
    • What really happens during a psychiatric hospital stay
    • Why many creatives feel isolated despite outward success
    • How “masking” hides internal struggles
    • The importance of support systems during mental health crises
    • Why seeking help is a strength, not a weakness
    • How writing can serve as a lifeline during dark moments
    Key Moments
    • 00:23 – Episode introduction and unexpected reveal
    • 00:49 – Geoffrey shares he was planning suicide
    • 03:19 – Inside the psychiatric hospital experience
    • 05:51 – Why people don’t reach out when they’re struggling
    • 08:33 – The reality of masking and hidden depression
    • 11:25 – Why writing became a saving grace
    • 11:43 – The importance of the 988 crisis line
    About 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 988
    • Local mental health professionals and support groups
    Connect with Guest
    • Instagram: @kantoka127
    • Watch Kristy’s vertical drama: The-Witch-Wolfs-Mate
    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun
    • Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter
    You’re not alone in this journey.
    #MentalHealthAwareness #ScreenwritingLife #CreativeStruggles #DepressionAwareness #FilmmakerLife #WritersJourney #YouAreNotAlone #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!
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    16 min
  • EP 309 – Vertical Series Are Changing Indie Filmmaking

    EP 309 – Vertical Series Are Changing Indie Filmmaking
    Mar 9 2026
    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 filmmakers
    • The difference between talking about filmmaking and actually producing a project
    • How to break through writer’s block and restart creative momentum
    • Why self-doubt is normal for writers at every level of their career
    • How major media mergers could reshape the future of film and television
    • The value of writing habits and routines for maintaining productivity
    Key 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 content
    • HBO series Primal
    Connect 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

    🎬 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!
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    30 min
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