The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast
The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast
Podcast Description
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.i...
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
This podcast delves into a variety of themes centered around screenwriting, filmmaking, and industry trends. Episodes often cover topics such as personal storytelling journeys, genre-specific writing tactics, and practical advice for emerging screenwriters. For example, episodes like those featuring discussions with recent Script Summit winners highlight unique success stories while providing actionable tips, while analyses of films such as 'Joker: Folie à Deux' and 'Midnight Taxi' explore audience expectations and the creative processes behind screenwriting.

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)
Geoffrey and Kristy tackle some of the worst “rules” floating around screenwriting circles. They break down why advice like “the audience must always be ahead of your characters” or “every line of dialogue needs action underneath it” can actually limit your voice and make your script feel stiff. They dig into Predator: Badlands, Prey, and the new Deathstalker, talk about empathy for monsters, building lore that feels lived in, and how theme and character relationships elevate genre. Then they answer questions on action description, page density, and when it actually makes sense to bend or break format. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by conflicting advice, this episode clears the fog and shows you how to keep scripts clean and professional without losing your style
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why some “never do this” rules are just personal preferences
- How to choose whether the audience is ahead of, equal to, or behind your characters
- When dialogue stands fine on its own
- How to keep action lines tight while still revealing character
- How to bend format without looking sloppy
Key Moments
00:20 300th episode giveaway teaser
00:57 Predator: Badlands, empathy for a Predator, and theme talk
08:30 Breaking down the “audience must be ahead” myth
11:59 Why dialogue doesn’t always need action underneath
20:48 When breaking format is smart instead of sloppy
About the Guest
Kristy Leigh Lussier is a screenwriter, director, and producer focused on character driven storytelling. She brings a director’s eye to structure, performance, and theme, and she joins Geoffrey in the weekly livestreams to help writers level up their craft.
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 mentor dedicated to helping writers grow. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to support filmmakers at every level.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
Predator: Badlands
Prey
Deathstalker
Pearl Harbor (screenplay example)
Star Wars Episode III fight scene
Connect with Kristy
Kristy on Instagram: @kantoka127
Kristy’s vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs Mate
Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun
Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
Instagram:@screenwriterpod
YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter
If this episode helped you rethink some of the “rules,” subscribe, leave a quick review, and share it with a writer who needs to hear it. Screenshot this episode, tag @screenwriterpod, and tell us one writing “rule” you’re ready to let go of. And keep an eye on Instagram for the 300th episode giveaway.
#screenwriting #screenwritingpodcast #screenwritingtips #amwriting #scriptnotes #indiefilm #PredatorBadlands #Deathstalker #writingadvice
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