The Writers Hangout

Did Taylor Sheridan Steal the Idea for Yellowstone? Aug 23, 2026

What happens when a struggling writer claims a Hollywood powerhouse stole her idea?

In this episode of The Writers Hangout, Sandy takes a closer look at a lawsuit filed by writer Lauren J. Salkin, who alleges that Taylor Sheridan and others used elements of her 2016 pitch, Sovereign Nation, to create the hit series Yellowstone.

Sandy breaks down a recent Variety article about the lawsuit and examines the similarities Salkin claims exist between her project and Yellowstone — including a tribal casino at the center of political and development power, disputes over reservation land, development deals, and allegedly similar character roles.

But is this actually plagiarism, or could it be a case of parallel thinking — two writers independently arriving at similar ideas within the same genre?

Sandy also looks at the history of Yellowstone, including Taylor Sheridan and John Linson's earlier development of the project, Sheridan's career as a screenwriter, and the challenges writers face when they believe their work has been copied.

Sandy also discusses the importance of understanding how Hollywood actually works when it comes to pitches, ideas, scripts, and intellectual property.

What do you think? Do you believe Taylor Sheridan stole Lauren J. Salkin's pitch, or do you think the similarities are simply examples of parallel thinking?

Send your thoughts to thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com.

The Writers Hangout is sponsored by the Page International Screenwriting Awards.

Executive Producer: Kristen Overn
Executive Producer and Host: Sandy Adamides
Co-Host: Terry Sampson
Music: Ethan Stoller

If you enjoyed the episode, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. And remember: Keep writing. The world needs your stories.

Taylor Sheridan Accused of Stealing ‘Yellowstone’ From 2016 Pitch in Copyright Lawsuit By Jack Dunn

https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/taylor-sheridan-accused-stealing-yellowstone-lawsuit-1236840854/

Rewind: How to Spend $600 Million Dollars: The Story of Screenwriter Steve Bing Aug 16, 2026

Let us introduce you to the fascinating and luxurious world of Stephen Leo Bing, an American businessman, philanthropist, film producer, and screenwriter. Sadly, Steve Bing passed away from multiple blunt-force trauma after jumping from the 27th floor of a luxury apartment building in Century City, Los Angeles, on June 22, 2020. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner officially confirmed his death as a suicide. He was just 55 years old.
Enjoy the show.
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn and Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

The Wild Story Behind 1993's Super Mario Bros. Movie Aug 09, 2026

Rewind. Did you know there was another SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE besides the animated blockbuster starring Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Seth Rogen, and Fred Armisen? The first SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE hit theaters in 1993 and was the first feature-length live-action film based on a video game. Directed by the husband-and-wife team Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel, it follows brothers Mario Mario (Bob Hoskins) and Luigi Mario (John Leguizamo) as they quest to rescue Princess Daisy (Samantha Mathis) from a dystopian parallel universe ruled by the ruthless King Koopa (Dennis Hopper). Unfortunately, it was a box office failure and was widely panned by critics. The credits list three writers, Parker Bennett, Terry Runté, and Ed Solomon.
Why did one MARIO movie succeed when the other MARIO movie didn’t? That’s the big question Sandy and Terry tackle in this episode.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Growing Up Orkin: Comedy, Creativity, and the Legacy of Dick Orkin’s CHICKENMAN with Lisa and Haris Orkin Aug 02, 2026

Hang out with us for a fun conversation with Lisa Orkin and Harris Orkin — daughter and son of legendary radio writer, actor, and producer Dick Orkin. Dick Orkin, the mind behind the iconic radio serial “Chickenman” and the creative powerhouse The Famous Radio Ranch, was hailed by Newsweek as the pioneer of “The Advertising Theater of the Absurd.” He revolutionized audio advertising with his use of deadpan comedy, memorable characters, and situational humor, setting a new standard for creative storytelling in audio.

Meet Our Guests:

Lisa Orkin is a comedian, actor, writer, and audio director renowned for her unique blend of comedy, storytelling, and marketing across radio, film, and digital audio platforms. She’s also known for her podcast production work, distinctive voice acting, and creative leadership at The Radio Ranch.
Harris Orkin is a multi-medium storyteller — author, playwright, screenwriter, video game narrative designer, and voice director. He’s best known for his BAFTA and WGA-nominated scripts for the Resident Evil video games and for his James Flynn Escapades spy comedy novels.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer/CreatorSandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

How Writers Find Their Agents And Managers Jul 26, 2026

Thanks for hanging out with us!
In this REWIND episode, Sandy and Terry dive into a fascinating Twitter thread that shares some really valuable insights into how signed writers found their representation. A big thank you to Tyler Clair Smith, the talented writer on X who inspired this episode. Be sure to follow Tyler Clair Smith at @tclairsmith—we certainly did!
In this episode, we discuss helpful internet programs for screenwriters. The Writers’ Hangout Podcast did not receive payment for our opinion.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Hollywood Insider Becky D’Anna Discusses Terminator, Comic-Con, Ingmar Bergman, and More! Jul 19, 2026

What makes Terminator 2: Judgment Day one of the greatest films ever made?

We're excited to have Becky D'Anna join us! Becky is a podcaster, a movie historian, and a lifelong cinephile with a 26-year career in movie marketing. We'll dive into an engaging chat about The Terminator, Comic-Con, the works of Ingmar Bergman, and much more!

Becky shares how watching Terminator 2 on opening day in 1991 inspired her Hollywood career and ultimately led to a 26-year career in movie marketing, working on blockbuster franchises including X-Men, Spider-Man, and Terminator Salvation.

The conversation also explores Quentin Tarantino's revival of historic movie theaters.

In This Episode

Why Terminator 2 remains one of the greatest action and science fiction films ever made.
How James Cameron blended spectacular action with an emotional story about hope and humanity.
The evolution of the Terminator franchise and Becky's ranking of every film.
The magic of seeing classic movies with an audience on the big screen.
Quentin Tarantino's preservation of the New Beverly Cinema and the Vista Theatre.
Becky's lifelong love of Comic-Con and what first-time attendees should expect.
What it's like to work in movie marketing and how studios promote blockbuster films.
How movie tie-ins with brands and restaurants help launch major releases.
Why Ingmar Bergman's films continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.

Connect with Becky D'Anna

Hanging with Becky

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hanging-with-becky/id1896866617

Director’s Take: A Sony Pictures Podcast

https://directorstakepodcast.com

T2 episode just dropped from Film 89

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-154-terminator-2-judgment-day-1991/id1332493155?i=1000777367810

Christopher Nolan's Writing Advice: 5 Quotes Every Screenwriter Should Know Jul 12, 2026

What can screenwriters learn from one of the greatest filmmakers of our time?

In this episode, we explore five inspiring quotes from Academy Award-winning writer and director Christopher Nolan and break down the storytelling principles behind his remarkable career. From Memento and The Dark Knight trilogy to Inception, Interstellar, and Oppenheimer, Nolan has built a reputation for creating emotionally powerful, intellectually challenging films that captivate audiences worldwide.

Before diving into his writing philosophy, we also discuss Nolan's upcoming epic The Odyssey, the first major studio feature filmed entirely with IMAX cameras, and what makes the project so ambitious.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why embracing your limitations can make you a more creative storyteller.
How creating your own storytelling rules is more powerful than simply breaking existing ones.
Why point of view is one of the most important decisions a writer can make.
Christopher Nolan's "inside-out" approach to writing believable characters.
Why stepping away from a script can often be the key to solving story problems.
How high-concept ideas only work when they're grounded in universal human emotions.

We also discuss:

Christopher Nolan's remarkable filmmaking career.
His long collaboration with his brother Jonathan Nolan and producer Emma Thomas.
The groundbreaking production of The Odyssey and its all-IMAX format.
The film's star-studded cast, including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong'o, John Leguizamo, Elliot Page, and Mia Goth.
How Nolan spent years developing Inception before discovering its emotional core.

Whether you're writing your first screenplay, revising a novel, or simply looking for creative inspiration, these five lessons from Christopher Nolan offer timeless advice on crafting stories that are both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant.

Oh My God! They Killed Kenney! The Too Short and Fascinating Life of Screenwriter Doug Kenney Jun 29, 2026

REWIND This episode explores the remarkable life and tragic death of Doug Kenney, the comedic genius behind Animal House and Caddyshack, and a co-founder of National Lampoon. Friends and collaborators described Kenney as a brilliant creative force whose influence helped redefine American comedy. At just 33 years old, his life came to a sudden and mysterious end after falling from a cliff in Hawaii, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape comedy and filmmaking today.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer/CreatorSandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Vicky Hart on Her Father, Stan Hart, a Legendary Comedy Writer for The Carol Burnett Show Jun 21, 2026

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Victoria “Vicky” Hart, daughter of acclaimed television writer Stan Hart, whose remarkable career helped shape some of the most beloved comedy programs in television history.

Stan Hart, alongside writing partner Larry Siegel, was a key writer for The Carol Burnett Show, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. His extensive career also included writing credits for films such as Move and Eat and Run (1986), as well as television favorites such as Love, American Style (1971) and Oh, Nurse! (1972), The Hal Linden Special (1979), The Wonderful World of Disney, and many other productions. During our conversation, Vicky shares stories about her father’s life, legacy, and impact on comedy writing.

Dr. Victoria Hart is an accomplished performer and educator in her own right. She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) in Vocal Performance from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has built an impressive career as an operatic soprano and teacher. She has performed leading roles with opera companies across the United States, including Knoxville Opera, Sacramento Opera, Fresno Opera, Greensboro Opera, Opera Santa Barbara, Eugene Opera, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Long Beach Opera, and Rimrock Opera.

Join us for a fascinating conversation about television history, comedy, music, family legacy, and the artistic journeys that connect generations.

Filmmaker Billy Luther Talks ‘Frybread Face & Me.’ Jun 14, 2026

Filmmaker Billy Luther talks with Sandy about his coming-of-age film, ‘Frybread Face and Me,’ which was executive-produced by Taika Waititi and distributed by Ava DuVernay’s company, Array, on Netflix.

Written and directed by Billy, ‘Frybread Face and Me’ was selected for SXSW 2023's Narrative Spotlight and TIFF 2023's Discovery and New Wave Selects. Billy’s feature documentary, Miss Navajo, premiered at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival and aired nationally on PBS’ Independent Lens that same year.

Billy has also served as a writer and director on the hit AMC series Dark Winds, adapting Tony Hillerman's novels featuring Navajo tribal police investigations.

You can watch ‘Frybread Face and Me,” ‘Miss Navajo,’ and all of Billy’s films for free on his website here: https://billyluther.com

If you have Netflix, go watch ‘Frybread Face and Me’ right now! Pick up the remote, click the link. Do.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Billy Wilder's 10 Tips To Write A Great Screenplay Jun 07, 2026

Rewind. Sandy and Terry will discuss Billy Wilder's 10 tips for screenwriters. Few screenwriters are as pedigreed as Billy Wilder, who is renowned as one of the most creative filmmakers of American cinema's Golden Age. Wilder was nominated 21 times at the Academy Awards, 13 for screenwriting and 8 for direction. He won the Best Director award for his 1945 film "The Lost Weekend" and again 15 years later for "The Apartment." Thanks to the success of "The Apartment," Wilder became the first person to win an Academy Award as a producer, director, and screenwriter for the same movie. Cameron Crowe said, “There’s no better film school than listening to what Billy Wilder says.”

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Master One Rule Instantly Become A Better Writer May 31, 2026

In today’s episode, we're diving into a key principle of screenwriting: SHOW DON’T TELL. This simple yet powerful rule can truly elevate your writing to new heights. These three words hold a lot of meaning—so what exactly does SHOW DON’T TELL mean? Join us as we explore this idea and share some great examples from well-known films and TV shows that beautifully illustrate this principle.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Four May 25, 2026

REWIND. We continue our conversation about how PAGE Awards Judges evaluate your screenplay with Karen Craig and Scott Barkan. Next week, to wrap up this four-part series, we’ll be talking to Kristin Overn, the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.

Karen Craig is a professional screenwriter and script doctor whose credits include AMERICAN PSYCHO II, starring Mila Kunis and William Shatner, and FORBIDDEN SECRETS, starring Kristy Swanson. Karen has served as a judge for the PAGE Awards for the past 12 years, reviewing both Thriller/Horror scripts and Family Films.

Scott Barkan is a professional screenwriter with several produced films and sold scripts to his name. He has worked with Blumhouse and Lionsgate and is represented by Mainstay Entertainment and CAA. Scott is also a university professor, teaching music and communications. As a PAGE judge, he primarily reads Action/Adventure, Thriller/Horror, and Science Fiction scripts.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Three May 25, 2026

REWIND. PAGE Awards Judges David Portlock and John Evans continue our conversation about how they evaluate your screenplay. These two judges share a lot of helpful information in this interview.

✰ David Portlock has worked as a script reader for United Talent Agency and currently works for Bassett Vance Productions. Over the past 15 years, David has consulted and assisted dozens of writers in developing their films. Also a screenwriter, David wrote and directed a feature film picked up by HBO, Cinemax, and Starz; a short film that premiered at Sundance; and a horror script that topped the Bloodlist. As a PAGE judge, David evaluates screenplays in the Science Fiction, Thriller/Horror, Comedy, and Drama categories.

✰ John Evans received his MFA in Screenwriting from Boston University. Since moving to LA, he has worked in the development departments at ABC Studios, The Donners Company, Kopelson Entertainment, and AEI. John has also taught writing at the college level, authored six educational books, and worked as a copywriter and editor for several film distribution companies. John is the editor of our PAGE Awards ezine, and as a contest judge, he primarily reads Thriller/Horror scripts and TV Drama Pilots.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Two May 25, 2026

REWIND of two more PAGE Awards Judges, Dwayne Smith and Mike Kuciak, continues the conversation about how they evaluate your screenplay.

Mike Kuciak has two movies coming out in 2022; he's the writer-director of one and the writer-producer of the other. He's a producer on a third film scheduled to begin production in late 2022. He has served as a producer and executive producer on several independent films. He was the senior vice president of development for a literary management-production company and, after that, the founder/CEO of his own company before hanging that up to focus on writing/directing/producing.

Dwayne Smith has been a professional screenwriter since 1999 and has written scripts for Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Intermedia, and Gold Circle. His urban thriller PAY THE LADY is in post-production, and his sci-fi feature IMPLANT is in pre-production. Representing the management firm Circle of Confusion at numerous screenwriting conferences and festivals, Dwayne has listened to hundreds of pitches and read countless screenplays in search of new writing talent. As a judge for the PAGE Awards, he reads Comedies, Thriller/Horror, Science Fiction, and Action/Adventure scripts.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part One May 25, 2026

REWIND. Two PAGE Awards Judges, Victoria Lucas and Laurie Ashbourne, discuss how they evaluate your screenplays, whether you're just starting or have a script in the competition. You do not want to miss this inside talk.
⭐️ Laurie Ashbourne began her film career in Disney animation and has worked over the past 20 years as a story consultant, writer, and producer for Disney, Amazon, and many independent producers. She has more than 30 features and short films to her credit, including her new family feature, CHRISTMAS TIME, which is currently in post-production. As a PAGE judge, Laurie reviews scripts across several genre categories, including Family Films, Comedies, Dramas, and Shorts.
⭐️ Victoria Lucas is an independent producer who has developed scripts for projects starring Antonio Banderas, Scarlett Johansson, Wesley Snipes, and Hilary Swank. Among her favorite projects is the highly acclaimed coming-of-age film The Island on Bird Street, which won the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Victoria is also a judge for the PAGE Awards, covering a variety of genres, including Drama and Historical Films.👍

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

CHINATOWN: Why A Famous Last Line Almost Never Happened May 17, 2026

Rewind. Spend some time with Sandy and Terry as they explore one of the most iconic last lines in cinema, "Forget it, Jake. It's Chinatown," from the 1974 film CHINATOWN, written by Robert Towne, directed by Roman Polanski, and starring Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway. In this episode, they reveal the fascinating story of how this memorable line nearly didn’t make it and why!

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

8 Onomatopoeias To Make Your Writing Sizzle! May 10, 2026

In today’s show, Sandy shares some fun insights about onomatopoeia, which can be a writer’s best friend when you want to avoid using the same dull words repeatedly—especially in action scenes. Onomatopoeia is when a word is formed to imitate a sound, like “Boom!”, “Pow!”, or “Splat!”. If you're a screenwriter, it’s a handy trick to keep in your toolkit, especially when crafting exciting action moments. Using onomatopoeia can really bring your writing to life and make it more engaging for your readers, actors, or development executives reading your screenplay.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

10 Pet Peeves That Make A Script Reader Pause May 03, 2026

Rewind. Did you know that our host and creator of The Writers’ Hangout, Sandy Adomaitis, has extensive experience in script development for both television and film? She has worked with some of the industry’s top showrunners, including Carlton Cuse, John Wirth, and Tom Spezialy. Now, for the first time, Sandy has compiled a list of ten warning signs that could dampen her enthusiasm for reading your script, available exclusively to our devoted listeners.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Here's The Story with The Brady Bunch's Eve Plumb Apr 26, 2026

HAPPINESS INCLUDED: It’s finally time for Jan, Jan, Jan!

Sandy has a groovy chat with the legendary Eve Plumb, famously known as the misunderstood middle child, Jan from The Brady Bunch. Eve offers delightful insights into her new memoir, “HAPPINESS INCLUDED: Jan Brady and Beyond.” Since Eve and Sandy are longtime friends, their conversation feels like a cozy, personal catch-up—plus, they even talk about George Glass!

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

Happiness Included: Jan Brady & Beyond (Book)https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9780806545035/happiness-included/

Eve Plumb Official Website https://eveplumb.tv

Follow Eve Plumb https://www.instagram.com/theeveplumb

Agent vs. Manager? What Writers Need to Know! Apr 12, 2026

In today's episode, Sandy breaks down Agent vs. Manager and the important facts screenwriters need to know.

Plus, Sandy dives deep and shares the latest details of the courtroom drama centered on screenwriter Kurt McLeod and Zero Gravity Management over an alleged conflict of interest arising from Zero Gravity Management's negotiation of his deal to write Copshop.

Copshop written by Kurt McLeod is a gritty action-thriller where a wily con artist, Teddy Murretto (Frank Grillo), deliberately gets arrested by rookie officer Valerie Young (Alexis Louder) to hide in a small-town Nevada police station from a lethal hitman, Bob Viddick (Gerard Butler). Viddick manages to get himself locked up, turning the precinct into a high-stakes, single-location cat-and-mouse game, escalating into all-out mayhem with the arrival of another, crazier assassin.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Writer/Director Max Neace Creating With Constraints Mar 29, 2026

Sandy chats with film producer, writer, and director Max Neace about his journey into the entertainment world. Max shares how he learned the ropes of producing and used that knowledge to make his own movies, like Shift—a thrilling film created mostly within tight constraints. The story of SHIFT sounds simple but intriguing: what if a thriller stayed inside a security office? Max also produced other films such as WHAT WE DO NEXT, written and directed by Steven Belber and featuring actors like Corey Stoll, Karen Pittman, and Michelle Veintimilla, along with STALKER and DON'T TELL A SOUL, plus many short films. He studied at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and then moved to Los Angeles to pursue his passion.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Writer/Director Thom Harp on Finding the Humor In HOME DELIVERY Mar 22, 2026

We are so happy to have as our guest, Thom Harp, a screenwriter and director recognized for his work in comedy films and digital media. Thom is here to discuss 'HOME DELIVERY,' his latest comedy, which he both wrote and directed, scheduled for release on March 27 at a local theater. Furthermore, Thom has three feature projects in development: the teen comedy 'CRASH COURSE' for American High; the murder-mystery comedy 'KILLER PARTY' for producer Josh Shader; and an adaptation of the New York Times bestselling romantic comedy 'BUSINESS OR PLEASURE' for producer Margot Hand. There is substantial knowledge to gain here, writers, so press play!

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Spade Robinson Shares Secrets on Collaborating with Writers to Refine Their Scripts Mar 15, 2026

We're delighted to introduce Spade Robinson, a talented filmmaker, screenwriter, and story consultant. She runs the Atlanta Film Project, a consulting firm dedicated to helping storytellers polish their scripts and projects. Currently, Spade is working on her debut feature film, 'Late Bloomers,' set against the beautiful backdrop of the American Heartland.

In our chat, we explore what a story consultant does, how Spade encourages hesitant writers to be honest and dig deeper for stronger screenplays, and she shares five of her best screenwriting tips. She also talks about her favorite clients—including housewives who are passionate screenwriters—how to handle rejection with resilience, and the step she believes offers the most democratic way for a writer to change their life.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Inside Writing With Showrunner Joel Church-Cooper (BROCKMIRE, GOING DUTCH) Mar 01, 2026

We’re thrilled to welcome Joel Church-Cooper, a highly admired TV showrunner celebrated for his talent in creating shows around the industry’s top comedic voices. We hear how Joel took a viral short video and turned it into the acclaimed half-hour comedy series BROCKMIRE, featuring Hank Azaria and Amanda Peet. Joel also shares the hurdles he faced along his writing journey and how improv played a vital role in shaping his skills as a writer today. Additionally, we discuss Joel’s newest series, GOING DUTCH, with stars Dennis Leary and Danny Pudi. There’s a wealth of lessons here for writers, so be sure to listen to this episode more than once!

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Vacations Can Be Murder With Dawn M. Barclay Feb 15, 2026

We're excited to welcome suspense author and travel journalist Dawn M. Barclay. She's here to share insights about her intriguing book: Vacations Can Be Murder, a fascinating travel guide that uncovers the locations of major crimes and buried bodies in New England.

Writers and reference books can be great sources for screenplay ideas, and this book offers countless ideas on every page. Who knows, maybe your next script idea will be on page 43?

Buckle up as we explore the criminal landscape. "Warning: this episode contains content that may be sensitive, distressing, or inappropriate for certain audiences." Please note that we discuss depictions of violence, murder, and sexual assault that you might find disturbing.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Producer Marc Resteghini On The Producer & Writer Relationship—What Makes A Successful Collaboration? Feb 08, 2026

Have you ever wondered what a film and television producer does and thinks? Well, you’re in luck because our guest is the talented Marc Resteghini, a producer who owns Jack Tar Pictures, a company based at Amazon Studios. Marc’s first release under this banner is set for March 4, 2026, with Guy Ritchie’s Young Sherlock, an origin story. Previously, Marc spent over eight years helping to build Amazon Studios, advancing through the executive ranks to eventually serve as the US & Global Head of TV Development. Marc has also overseen more than a dozen feature films over 15 years, working as an executive at 20th Century Fox and as a producer with DreamWorks’ Parkes/MacDonald Productions and Warner Bros.’ Di Novi Pictures.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Molly Ringwald Has A Great Idea For Your Script, Short or Vertical Series Feb 01, 2026

Sandy recently came across an article in Variety that she thinks could spark your creativity for your next screenplay, short film, or vertical series. We also take a moment to revisit the March 2024 episode of 'Don’t You Forget About John Hughes,' where Terry and Sandy dive into four inspiring quotes by the legendary screenwriter, producer, and director John Hughes. As one of Hollywood's most successful and influential talents, John Hughes has played a key role in launching the careers of stars like Andrew McCarthy, Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Macaulay Culkin, Judd Nelson, and John Candy.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Check out our fantastic sponsor, Novelium:

https://novelium.so

Guest Brian Austin Green Talks Actors And Writers Jan 25, 2026

As a winter storm sweeps across the United States, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain from the Southern Rockies and Plains through the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, we hope everyone stays warm and safe. Today, we're excited to welcome Brian Austin Green, a talented actor who's been a familiar face on television for over thirty years. He's most popular for his role as David Silver on "Beverly Hills 90210." With an impressive list of credits, including Smallville, Desperate Housewives, CSI, and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Brian joins us to share his thoughts on writers from an actor’s perspective. So, cozy up, add another log to the fire, and enjoy the show!

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Check out our fantastic sponsor, Novelium:

https://novelium.so

Peter Dekom! Carnivorous Hollywood and the New Rebels: Writers Jan 18, 2026

This week, we invite the esteemed Peter Dekom to provide an in-depth analysis of the intense bidding wars between Netflix and Paramount, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities confronting the entertainment industry today. How do these dynamics influence writers, creators, and the future of storytelling?

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Check out our fantastic sponsor, Novelium:

https://novelium.so

One Super Easy Tip To Make You a Better Writer Jan 11, 2026

Watching movies can significantly boost your writing skills by providing a visual masterclass in storytelling, character development, and structure that you can actively analyze and incorporate into your work. We highlight five key areas a screenwriter should focus on while watching a film to improve as a writer.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Check out our fantastic sponsor, Novelium:

https://novelium.so

Catching Gen Z With Rachel Sennott's I Love LA Jan 04, 2026

Sandy explores a recent Ankler.com article titled: 'Gen Z Is Huge. Their TV Shows Are Tiny. And Hollywood Is Panicking,' written by Whitney Friedlander. Showrunners Nahnatchka Khan, Ben Kronengold, and Rebecca Shaw, along with top executives, discuss the industry's biggest missed demographic target, and how the HBO series 'I LOVE LA,' created by Rachel Sennott, about a close-knit friend group that reunites after years apart to navigate ambition, relationships, and personal changes, has achieved the nearly impossible: getting Gen Z to stop scrolling and watch her show.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Check out our fantastic sponsor:

https://novelium.so

Vertical Storytelling And Its Significance For Writers Dec 27, 2025

Vertical storytelling is gaining popularity, with more producers—mostly overseas—hiring screenwriters for vertical series. While these projects originated in Asia and the initial pay was low, they now offer fair compensation for authentic work.

At The Writers Hangout, we advise writers to write a short to earn produced credits and gain experience, which can open more doors. With the decline of festivals, vertical series are emerging as the new frontier. Mobile reach is extensive and is becoming a good way to break into or stay active in the industry.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer and Host Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

CHECK OUT OUR FANTASTIC SPONSOR HERE:

https://novelium.so

Understanding Schizophrenia: How Rob And Michele Reiner's Tragic Deaths Highlight The Escalating Mental Health Crisis W/Neal Nordlinger, Interventionist And Former Film Producer Dec 21, 2025

Tragically, on December 14, 2025, Rob and Michele Reiner were fatally stabbed by their son, Nick Reiner. How could something like this happen? To assist in understanding these devastating deaths, our guest is Neal Nordlinger, an author, interventionist, and former film and television producer, as well as the founder of inCrisis Consultants. This organization supports families in navigating treatment options for addiction and mental health.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer and Host Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Novelium: Write With an Editor at Your Side

https://novelium.so

The Hostile Takeover of Warner Bros. and Its Implications for Writers Dec 14, 2025

Hang out with Sandy as she discusses the joint statement from WGA East and West about the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Netflix and the hostile takeover by Paramount. Plus, an update on Carl Rinch, the writer/director who embezzled $11 million from Netflix. Carl Rinch’s trial just wrapped up last week. We also share an inspiring story about resilience involving Meryl Streep and Dino De Laurentiis.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer and Host Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Novelium: Write With an Editor at Your Side

https://novelium.so

Murder of Mafia Princess and Screenwriter Susan Berman Nov 30, 2025

Rewind. On Christmas Eve 2000, Susan Berman, a talented journalist, screenwriter, and author, sadly lost her life at her home on 1527 Benedict Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills. Susan, the cherished daughter of a mobster and a former dancer, was raised as part of mob royalty, celebrating birthdays with Elvis and Liberace. Her tragic passing deeply affected her friends, leaving us wondering—did Susan ever suspect her killer?

Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer and Host Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein And 8 Writing Tips Nov 22, 2025

Sandy shares writing advice from Guillermo del Toro, a talented director, screenwriter, producer, and artist whose incredible work spans horror, fiction, and fairy tales. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 1964, del Toro’s passion for film and horror blossomed during his childhood. His unique style beautifully blends genres, often finding grace in the grotesque, and draws inspiration from anime, manga, and Japanese TV. Del Toro has brought to life impressive big-budget movies like Blade II, Hellboy, Pacific Rim, and The Shape of Water, along with Netflix’s captivating Frankenstein.

The Tragic Murder of Screenwriter Adrienne Shelly Nov 09, 2025

In remembrance of the wonderful writer, director, and actor Adrienne Shelly, we're excited to share again The Writers' Hangout Episode dedicated to her story, which we originally posted in the month she passed. It's a heartfelt chance to get to know this talented and incredible woman, whose life was tragically cut short. We hope you feel inspired and connected through her story.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Our Guest Is Comedy Legend Jerry Zucker! Nov 02, 2025

Sometimes, dreams really do come true! We're thrilled to have with us the amazing Jerry Zucker, who, alongside his brother David and their friend Jim Abrahams, played a huge part in transforming comedy in the 1980s. Together, they brought a fresh and hilarious twist to the spoof movie genre with the legendary 1980 hit “Airplane,” which the American Film Institute recognized as one of the ten funniest films ever made.

Before that, the Zuckers and Abrahams wrote the cult classic, "Kentucky Fried Movie" (1977), a comedy consisting of unrelated sketches. After "Airplane," the Zuckers and Abrahams created "Police Squad!" (ABC, 1982) and turned it into the successful film franchise of today. Next, Zucker, Abrahams, Zucker returned to the big screen with "Top Secret!" (1984). Jerry also directed "Ruthless People" (1986) and "Ghost" (1990), starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. "The Naked Gun - From the Files of Police Squad!" (1988). He produced "First Knight" (1995), "Rat Race," "A Walk in the Clouds" (1995), and "My Best Friend's Wedding" (1997). Additionally, he worked on "Fair Game" (2010).

Special thanks to Katie Zucker and Darlene Chan.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Happy Halloween With A Recap of The Ghost And Mr. Chicken! Oct 31, 2025

Happy Halloween!!
Hang out with Sandy, Terry, and special guest screenwriter Mark Steen as they recap "Ghost and Mr. Chicken," starring Don Knotts from "The Andy Griffith Show" fame.

Directed by Alan Rafkin and written by James Fritzell and Everett Greenbaum, "The Ghost and Mr. Chicken" is about a timid typesetter who hasn't a ghost of a chance of becoming a reporter - until he decides to solve a murder mystery and ends up spending a fright-filled night in a haunted house.

You don't need to watch the movie to enjoy the show, but we encourage you to do so since it's a fun movie that the whole family can enjoy.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

The Strange Disappearance of Screenwriter Ian Mackintosh Oct 12, 2025

Rewind Episode -- British screenwriter Ian Mackintosh’s plane went missing on July 7, 1979, nineteen days before his thirty-ninth birthday, over the Gulf of Alaska. What happened remains a mystery. Join us as we tell the story of Lieutenant Commander Hamish Ian Mackintosh, a British Royal Navy officer, a writer of thriller novels, and a screenwriter for British television.
Ian’s series, THE SANDBAGGERS, was groundbreaking. The New York Times said, "the best spy series in television history." Ian MacKintosh was among the first writers to present espionage realistically and as a sordid series of political struggles, double-crosses, and personality clashes.
If you would like to read more about Ian Mackintosh I highly recommend The Life and Mysterious Death of Ian Mackintosh by Robert G. Folsom

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Email: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Rewind: Drinking With Hitchcock and Writing 'Rear Window' Oct 05, 2025

Rewind Episode: Join Sandy and Terry for a fun chat about how a short story from a dime store magazine turned into one of Hollywood's most talked-about films and the fifth-highest-grossing movie of 1954. The film REAR WINDOW, featuring stars like Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly, Raymond Burr, and Thelma Ritter, was written by John Michael Hayes and directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Patricia Resnick On Writing “9 to 5,” Working With Cher, And Writing For Mad Men Sep 21, 2025

We have a fantastic episode for you. My guest is screenwriter, producer, and standup comedian Patricia Resnick, best known as the writer of the iconic film “9 to 5” and the author of the book for “9 to 5: the Musical.” Patricia Resnick was also involved in writing and producing on TV’s “Mad Men” and “Better Things,” among many other projects. Writers and friends, I promise you'll want to listen to this episode multiple times. Patricia shares her journey of becoming a successful, working screenwriter and explains how she, as a single mom, navigated a writing career during a time when women at work were often called "the girl."

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Carolyn And Kai Omine Talk Writing The Simpsons + Spill Exclusives Sep 07, 2025

Carolyn Omine and Kai Omine hang out with Sandy to discuss their Disney+ episode of The Simpsons called "Yellow Mirror." This mother and son writing team (Carolyn Omine is an Emmy-winning producer who joined the Simpsons’ writing staff in Season ten and became the show's first female Executive Producer when she was credited as an Executive Producer in Season 17) pull back the curtain to share how they ended up writing together, their writing process, and spill the beans to give The Writers’ Hangout two super cool exclusives!

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Spec Scripts Are Selling Again -- What You Need To Know Aug 30, 2025

Eight spec scripts have sold so far in August 2025. That's a fantastic achievement that should energize every writer out there. It looks like audiences are eager for movies that keep them guessing, which means fresh, original stories that can still surprise and delight. Sandy reports on this genuine optimism for screenwriters in an industry that has recently been taken over by existing IP.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

It's Never Too Late with Comedian Aaron Foster Aug 10, 2025

Today’s guest is Aaron Foster, a standup comic who brings humor to topics like mental health in his stand-up shows.

Aaron is touring now with his show “Mostly Jokes,” where he shares honest stories about being clinically depressed, his experience hosting an HGTV show, growing up with a bipolar father, and having a schizophrenic brother. At fifty, Aaron decided to follow his passion for stand-up comedy. I’m genuinely excited to introduce Aaron to you all, writers. Remember, it’s never too late to chase your dreams, and I believe Aaron’s story will inspire you to do just that.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Faceoff: Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni – Three Things You Need To Know Aug 03, 2025

In today’s episode, Sandy shares the latest updates on the ongoing legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, highlighting three recent actions taken by each side.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

How Mike White Came Up With The Idea For Jack Black’s School Of Rock Jul 20, 2025

Let's rewind and join Sandy and Terry as they chat about how writer, actor, and director Mike White (The White Lotus) came up with the hit movie, “The School of Rock,” which has been loved by audiences and critics alike. "School of Rock" played a role in boosting Black’s profile and stardom, highlighting his comedic and musical talents to a broader audience.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

'And Just Like That' Kills A Character Twice – Seriously Jul 12, 2025

Sandy offers a behind-the-scenes look at a major TV show that recently made a surprising mistake—killing off a character twice. How did this happen, and who was responsible? We’ll explore these questions with a focus on "And Just Like That." Even if you haven’t watched the series, you’ll find valuable insights here. Additionally, Sandy discusses how continuity is usually managed in TV production, highlighting Gregg Nations, the talented script coordinator from "LOST," as covered in a New York Times profile.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn, Executive Producer/Creator Sandy Adomaitis, Producer Terry Sampson, with music by Ethan Stoller.

Hollywood vs History with 1979’s The Amityville Horror Jul 06, 2025

Let's revisit Episode 15, where Sandy and Terry delve into the fascinating differences between the movie and the true story of the 1979 film "The Amityville Horror,” featuring Josh Brolin, Margot Kidder, and Rod Steiger. This haunting tale follows a family haunted by supernatural forces after moving into a house on Long Island, New York, believed to be haunted.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn, Executive Producer/Creator Sandy Adomaitis, Producer Terry Sampson, with music by Ethan Stoller.

First Draft Practical Steps With Screenwriter Leo Andronov Jun 29, 2025

We're thrilled to introduce our special guest, Leo Andronov! He's a talented screenwriter, director, novelist, dramatist, and the author of FIRST DRAFT PRACTICAL STEPS. Originally from Russia, Leo now makes his home in LA. He's celebrated in his home country, having won the top award at the Eurasia International Dramatist Competition, one of Russia's most prestigious playwriting contests. Leo also wrote and directed his first feature film, 29th Kilometer. His book, First Draft Practical Steps, recently soared to become an Amazon #1 bestseller in the Play & Scriptwriting category.

FIRST DRAFT PRACTICAL STEPS by Leo Andronov is available on Amazon.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

Thomas Dekker Delves Deep Into Screenwriting Jun 08, 2025

Our guest is Thomas Dekker, an actor, musician, director, and screenwriter. Known for portraying John Connor in "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles," Thomas can next be seen in the upcoming camp horror comedy "HALLOWEEN STORE." Thomas wrote and directed "JACK GOES HOME," featuring Rory Culkin, available to watch on Prime. In this episode, Thomas shares invaluable insights about his screenwriting journey that will benefit writers and all creatives who wake up each day to pursue their dreams.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Camilla Luddington Speaks on Elisabeth Finch May 18, 2025

The Writers Hangout Podcast is all ears! In today’s episode, we delve into the latest updates on Elisabeth Finch through the insights of Camilla Luddington and Jessica Capshaw, beloved actors from the iconic medical drama "Grey's Anatomy." Capshaw beautifully portrayed Dr. Arizona Robbins, while Luddington shines as Dr. Josephine "Jo" Wilson. Together, they also co-host the charming podcast "Call It What It Is," where they share valuable life lessons, talk about friendships, and touch on various engaging topics, including Elisabeth Finch.

The Screenwriter And Malibu Squatter - Ellie Mae McNulty May 04, 2025

Sandy takes you with her as we discover a private beach in Malibu's beautiful Point Dume area to discuss Elli Mae McNulty, an actor turned screenwriter who allegedly exploits California’s tenancy laws to turn casual stays into protracted eviction wars. When asked to leave the premises, this English Rose transforms into a nasty piece of work. You wouldn’t want to have tea with this woman at separate restaurants. Quoting Vanity Fair writers, Bradley Hope and Tom Wright, “Sure, let a neighbor use the guest room for a few nights. What could go wrong?”

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

Vanity Fair Article by BRADLEY HOPE AND TOM WRIGHT.

https://www.vanityfair.com/style/story/serial-squatter-malibu-point-dume?srsltid=AfmBOoqdAQrmQmjiVZHtHCVV9o00imDc44tlluoRCh4xD8HdfPrE33bh

The Missing Screenwriter Found With No Hands Apr 20, 2025

In honor of my friend Linda Mazur, we are replaying one of my favorite episodes: the little-known mystery of the 1997 disappearance of screenwriter Gary Devore. Gary was returning home after working out the ending of his latest script, which he claimed would blow the lid off government secrets, when he disappeared without a trace. Did Gary step out to “buy a pack of cigarettes,” or was he met with foul play? We’ll delve into what happened that fateful night and revisit the rumors and conspiracy theories that continue to baffle and disturb people.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

Sydney Sweeney Is Turning a Reddit Story Into a Movie Apr 06, 2025

Show notes to follow.

Poltergeist: Hollywood's Most Cursed Film Ft. Michael McManus Mar 23, 2025

Rewind. Sandy and Terry discuss Poltergeist, one of America's most beloved horror films and possibly the most cursed film in Hollywood history, with Michael McManus, who played Ben Tuthill, the neighbor next door, to get the real story of what happened.
Released by MGM on June 4, 1982, and written by Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, and Mark Victor, *Poltergeist* is rumored to be cursed because real human skeletons were used in a pivotal scene. This curse is believed to have led to the tragic deaths of three individuals in brutal and devastating circumstances.

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts.

Legendary Entertainment Lawyer Peter J. Dekom Explains It All Mar 09, 2025

On today’s show, we have the legendary entertainment lawyer Peter Dekom.

Peter Dekom significantly impacted his time at Bloom, Dekom & Hergott. He has represented remarkable clients, including George Lucas, Keenen Ivory Wayans, John Travolta, Ron Howard, and Robert Towne, as well as renowned companies like Sears and JVC. As an advisor, Peter has contributed significantly to New Mexico, helping shape the state's film incentives.

You’ll want to bookmark this episode and listen to it at least four times. Peter shares a wealth of valuable advice.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

Update: Blake and Justin/Gene Hackman’s Shocking Death Mar 03, 2025

We're diving into more updates from the Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni lawsuit, and we also have some surprising news about Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were sadly found at their home near Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

Hollywood vs. History: The Amityville Horror Feb 23, 2025

Rewind: Join Sandy and Terry as they dive into the intriguing differences between the iconic film and the real-life story behind it! First on their list is the 1979 movie "Amityville Horror," featuring the talented Josh Brolin, Margot Kidder, and Rod Steiger. This captivating film tells the tale of a family haunted by supernatural forces after moving into a house with a dark past in Amityville, Long Island, New York.

If you're enjoying your experience with us, we’d appreciate it if you could follow along and leave a review.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Being Walter Wolf – Hollywood Producer to Professional Interventionist Feb 17, 2025

On today’s episode, we have Walter Wolf, the author of The Right Rehab: A Guide to Addiction and Mental Illness Recovery When Crisis Hits Your Family. This step-by-step guide outlines how to identify and access treatment options for individuals and families, regardless of their resources. Writers, I want to share this book with you because being creative isn’t easy. If you need help, options are available. This book is also an excellent resource if you're writing about addiction.

We need to talk about Walter Wolff. Walter Wolff is a pen name, and the man behind it promised a loved one privacy. Before, as you will soon learn, a phone call changed his life; Walter was a producer in Hollywood for over 30 years. Now, he is an interventionist and treatment placement specialist.

We also break down the movie 28 Days, starring Sandra Bullock, through the lens of Walter Wolf.

Warning: the subject matter we discuss can be triggering.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Blake and Justin - Receipts! Proof! Timeline! Screenshots! Feb 09, 2025

In today’s episode, we discuss three key incidents in the lawsuits involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. Baldoni released a voice memo he sent to Blake and shared footage from a film that shows a scene where Blake expressed discomfort about unwanted touching. He believes the footage demonstrates that he was not inappropriate during this scene. Additionally, Baldoni feels that Ryan was mocking him in Deadpool vs. Wolverine.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Who Killed Thelma Todd In Pacific Palisades Pt. 2 Feb 02, 2025

The conclusion of who killed Thelma Todd in the Pacific Palisades Pt 2.
Actress Thelma Todd was the “Queen of the Lot” and made it in Hollywood when she died of mysterious circumstances at 29 years old. Who killed her? Could it be her business partner Roland West, a one-time screenwriter? Maybe it was the ex-husband, son of the Broccoli King, and agent Pat DiCicco? Police investigate, and all roads lead to The Trocadero, a famous nightclub that opened on the Sunset Strip in 1934.
Hang out with us as we unfold the inexplicable death of Thelma Todd.

An Eternal Hollywood Mystery, Wrapped in Mink and Fog, Survives the Fires | Vanity Fair By Greer Sinclair

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/thelma-todd-death-mystery?utm_source=pocket_reader

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Who Killed Actress Thelma Todd In Pacific Palisades? Feb 02, 2025

Rewind with one of your favorite episodes. Actress Thelma Todd was the “Queen of the Lot” and had made it in Hollywood when she died at just 29 years old. Who killed her? Could it have been her business partner Roland West, a one-time screenwriter? Perhaps it was her ex-husband, the son of the Broccoli King, and agent Pat DiCicco? The police are investigating, and all clues point to The Trocadero, a famous nightclub that opened on the Sunset Strip in 1934.
Hang out with us as we unfold the inexplicable death of Thelma Todd.
❄️ We are thrilled to have music by THE SNO-GLOBES. Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

LA Wildfires Blake Lively Update And A Writer Sues Over Moana 2 Jan 14, 2025

In today’s show, Sandy talks about the wildfires that have sadly affected countless communities and caused trauma to many people in Los Angeles. A thoughtful listener's question brings us an update on Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, adding a personal touch to our discussion. After that, we'll dive into writer Bucky Woodall's lawsuit against Disney regarding the movie Moana 2, exploring the details together.
Research for the episode:
The Hollywood Reporter
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/moana-2-copyright-lawsuit-massive-box-office-gains-1236106869/
The New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/21/business/media/blake-lively-justin-baldoni-it-ends-with-us.html
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Blake Lively Vs. Justin Baldoni Everything You Need To Know Jan 05, 2025

Hang out with us as we dive deep into the Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Lawsuits: A Comprehensive Overview of the Allegations, Key Figures, and Statements Made. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have been engaged in a contentious exchange — and lawsuits — regarding Baldoni's alleged misconduct on the set of their 2024 film, It Ends With Us.
Research for the episode:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/21/business/media/blake-lively-justin-baldoni-it-ends-with-us.html
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Unknown Screenwriter Sells Script for $3M Dec 21, 2024

Hang out with us as we explore the major spec sale that shook Hollywood just before the holidays: the AI thriller spec script "Alignment" by Natan Dotan, a writer who, until a week ago, had no representation.
The Hollywood Reporter Article by Borys Kit
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/fifth-season-makeready-1236069133/
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Hollywood After Dark With Friends Plus The WGA Takes On AI Dec 15, 2024

Come with us as we embark on the exciting and rewarding adventure of making friends in Los Angeles. Plus, we'll look at how the WGA encourages studios to take "immediate legal action" against AI companies.
Show notes to follow.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Rewind Warning About Screenwriting Scams Dec 08, 2024

REWIND. Terry recently received a phone call from a childhood friend who asked for help. The friend has a connection whose work was offered a huge deal, and he wanted Terry to brief him on "Hollywood" deal-making. However, as Terry spoke with his friend, he began to suspect that the whole situation might be a scam. Unfortunately, this isn’t a new problem. Scammers often prey on vulnerable artists, especially screenwriters, by making false promises.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Spec Script Sells For 2 Mill Will Sydney Sweeney Star Dec 01, 2024

In today’s episode, Sandy shares her go-to film genre for those much-needed escape moments.

The enchanting "Moana 2" is lighting up the holiday box office, outshining "Red One," "Wicked," and "Gladiator 2."

In exciting news, Amazon MGM has secured Julia Cox's heartfelt spec script, 'Love of Your Life,' for around $2 million!
Research for this episode included:
Amazon MGM Wins Battle For Julia Cox Spec Script ‘Love Of Your Life’ For Around $2 Million By Mike Fleming Jr, Justin Kroll
https://deadline.com/2024/10/amazon-mgm-wins-julia-cox-spec-script-love-of-your-life-for-around-2-million-1236164029/

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Who Wins Christmas: Red One, Gladiator II, or Wicked Oh My! Nov 17, 2024

The holiday season box office excitement has kicked off with the launch of Amazon’s "RED ONE," featuring the talented Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans! This action-packed adventure revolves around the thrilling kidnapping of Santa Claus, played by J.K. Simmons, and our heroic duo, The Rock and Chris Evans, is on a mission to save him just in time for Christmas. Plus, it comes with a staggering budget of $250 million!
Research for the episode includes
Box Office: ‘Red One’ Has Itself a Fairly Little Opening Day With $10.9 Million by J. Kim Murphy
https://variety.com/2024/film/box-office/red-one-openinBox Office: ‘Red One’ Has Itself a Fairly Little Opening Day With $10.9 Milliong-day-dwayne-johnson-chris-evans-1236211976/
Dwayne Johnson & Chris Evans’ $200M+ Christmas Action Movie ‘Red One’ Opening To $30M: Is It A Bomb Or A Streamer’s Rounding Error? — Saturday AM Box Office by Anthony D’Alessandro
https://deadline.com/2024/11/box-office-red-one-dwayne-johnson-chris-evans-1236177871/
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Unbelievable Story of Grey’s Anatomy's Elisabeth Finch UPDATE & BONUS Nov 03, 2024

The Writers’ Hangout is thrilled to provide an update on Elisabeth Finch, who produced and wrote for Grey’s Anatomy for eight seasons. Once a captivating grifter, she was later uncovered for lying on an epic scale. Previously, we released four episodes based on Elisabeth Finch:

Episode 17 The Unbelievable Story of Elisabeth Finch: Part 1

Episode 18 The Unbelievable Story of Elisabeth Finch: Part 2

Episode 48 Update - Elisabeth Finch The GREY'S ANATOMY Writer Accused Of Faking Cancer

Episode 70 Rewind The Unbelievable Story of TV Writer Elisabeth Finch and Grey's Anatomy – Combines all episodes for an easy listen.

In today’s episode, we dive into the Peacock-exclusive documentary ANATOMY OF LIES, a three-part docu-series investigating Elisabeth Finch’s life. And the Instagram post released by Elisabeth Finch on the same day the docu-series debuted on Peacock.

As a bonus, we have included Episode 70 and all three previous episodes, diving deep into Elizabeth’s unbelievable story.

Monsters/Frankenstein With P. Diddy On The Side Oct 20, 2024

What do Mary Shelley’s "Frankenstein," P. Diddy, and the Universal Lot in Universal City all have in common? It's me, your host, Sandy Adomaitis!
Join me as we dive into the captivating story behind Mary Shelley’s "Frankenstein."
With writers, there’s always an intriguing drama lurking behind the scenes!
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

What Happened To Joker: Folie à Deux Oct 13, 2024

What happened to Joker: Folie à Deux? After flopping at the box office debut, receiving poor reviews and the lowest audience score in comic book movie history, Todd Phillips’s musical Joker sequel has shocked Hollywood by earning a lackluster $40 million domestically. How did this highly anticipated musical follow-up starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga go so wrong?
Research for this article included an article from Vanity Fair’s Chris Murphy
https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/is-joker-folie-a-deux-bombing?utm_source=pocket_shared
Article from Variety by Tatiana Siegel
https://getpocket.com/read/9d4TVAe0g325fZa783ddhvKvf8p1gd3b286q62la3aF0ZmI8ej373V4ed33GtS71_effe7fd23bcddfaf45edeb9f92a03448
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Five Films To Cuddle Up With This Fall Sep 29, 2024

The fall season is well-known for its cozy atmosphere and festive activities. What could be more enjoyable than snuggling up on the couch for a comfortable night in? Here are Sandy's top 5 films to watch on a chilly fall night.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Executive Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Breaking Into Hollywood With A Little Help From Harold Ramis Sep 22, 2024

REWIND EPISODE!
You never know when your big break will happen. In this episode, co-host Terry Sampson shares how he landed his big break, compliments of Harold Ramis.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Claudette Wells Discusses Her New Book: Fine French Dogs Sep 15, 2024

Claudette Wells, a versatile artist known for acting, writing, and voice-over work, is here to provide insights about her new book, FINE FRENCH DOGS.

You may know Claudette from her roles as Peggy from A Different World and the iconic sitcom Square Pegs, where she starred alongside Sarah Jessica Parker. Claudette was on the Hangout with us previously to discuss a unique group she and I are a part of called Dead Mother’s Day. Listen to episode 16 for the 411 on that; it is a good thing.

Buckle up for an exhilarating journey as Claudette Wells leads us to uncover the adventure of FINE FRENCH DOGS.

You can purchase FINE FRENCH DOGS at Amazon.

Be the first to email thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com with your favorite French food to win a free copy of Claudette’s book.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Horror Writer Kevin Bachar Discusses 'The Visitor' Listen If You Dare Sep 01, 2024

We have a fantastic episode lined up for you! Kevin Bachar, an EMMY-winning documentary director and screenwriter, is our guest. Kevin has previously joined us to discuss his horror film "The Inhabitant," available on Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Apple+. He also discussed his book "Dredge: 22 Tales of Terror." Now, he's back to talk about his latest book, "The Visitor.”
Kevin's books are available on Amazon.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Amazon Studios Sues 81-Year-Old Screenwriter Of The 1989 film 'Road House' Aug 25, 2024

The Writers’ Hangout dives into some entertainment news.
Sandy and Terry cover the latest hot Hollywood lawsuits, which are plural, involving screenwriter R. Lance Hill, Amazon, and the remake of the 1989 ‘Roadhouse.’ A cult classic, ‘Roadhouse was a starring vehicle for Patrick Swayze, produced by Joel Silver and directed by Rowdy Herrington.
Then, Terry shares an article by David Courtney, Ten Colorful Ways to Say It’s Hotter Than Hades in Texas, featured in Texas Monthly.
Research for this episode includes:
Amazon, MGM Accuse Original ‘Road House’ Screenwriter of Fraud in Countersuit By Ross A. Lincoln for TheWrap by Samantha Bergeson for IndieWire
https://www.indiewire.com/news/breaking-news/road-house-screenwriter-sues-amazon-over-copyright-ai-use-1234958090/#:~:text=Lance%20Hill%2C%20who%20uses%20the,movie%20was%20released%20in%201989

‘Road House’ Rumble: Amazon Denies AI Used To Create Actors’ Voices For Remake During Strike As Original Pic’s Scribe Sues To Shut Down New Movie by Dominic Patten for Deadline Hollywood
https://deadline.com/2024/02/road-house-lawsuit-amazon-copyright-1235839774/
Ten Colorful Ways to Say It’s Hotter Than Hades in Texas, which was featured in Texas Monthly.
https://www.texasmonthly.com/being-texan/folksy-sayings-heat-weather/?utm_source=pocket_shared&utm_source=pocket_shared
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

What Happened To Gary Devore -- The Screenwriter Found Dead With His Hands Missing Aug 11, 2024

Sandy and Terry Sampson discuss the little-known mystery of the 1997 disappearance of screenwriter Gary Devore. Gary was returning home after finishing the ending of his latest script, which he claimed would uncover government secrets. However, he disappeared without a trace. Did Gary step out to "buy a pack of cigarettes," or was he met with foul play? We'll delve into what happened that fateful night and revisit the rumors and conspiracy theories that continue to baffle and disturb people.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Breaking Down 10 Powerful Writing Quotes So You Can Apply Them To Your Craft Aug 04, 2024

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they explore ten screenwriting quotes and learn how to apply them to your writing. Gaining insights from successful writers is an invaluable approach to refining your craft and overcoming challenges.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Michael Crichton's Writing Process Behind the 1996 Blockbuster "Twister" Jul 28, 2024

Hang out with us as we explore what happened behind the scenes during the writing of Twister, the 1996 blockbuster movie Twister, with a special guest, my cousin Kate!
Twister is an action film and screwball romance featuring Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt. Writer Michael Crichton conceived it as a combination of the classic romantic comedy "His Girl Friday" and a PBS documentary about storm chasers he had seen on TV.

Helen Hunt portrays Jo, a meteorologist whose father was swept away by a tornado when she was a child. She has devoted her life to researching tornadoes and has created a device designed to collect essential data in the midst of severe weather systems. Her estranged husband, Bill Paxton, has left his tornado days behind and is ready to settle down with a new woman, Jami Gertz. The film also stars the late great Philip Seymour Hoffman, Succession’s Alan Ruck, and Todd Field, who directed Tár.
Research for this story includes:
Screenwritersutopia.com
Jeff Nathanson talks Catch Me If You Can
By Fred Topel

https://www.screenwritersutopia.com/article/33dc5cd0
Variety
Twister Stunt Boss Says Steven Spielberg Flew to Oklahoma and ‘Was F—ing Yelling’ at the Director After Crew Walked Off Set Amid Chaotic Filming
By Zack Sharf
https://variety.com/2024/film/news/steven-spielberg-screamed-twister-director-crew-rebelled-1236078124/
Crichton & Co. win Twister Lawsuit
Jury conducts whirlwind deliberations
By Janet Shprintz
https://variety.com/1998/film/news/crichton-co-win-twister-lawsuit-1117467205/
Yardbarker.com
20 facts you might not know about Twister
https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/20_facts_you_might_not_know_about_twister/s1__37717932#slide_1
The Original ‘Twister’ Is a Stealth Remake of a Classic Comedy
https://www.cracked.com/article_42873_the-original-twister-is-a-stealth-remake-of-a-classic-comedy.html
96 Twister Screenplay via Scribd
https://www.scribd.com/document/561736972/Twister-1996-The-Original-Screenplay
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Create Captivating Characters Jul 21, 2024

Sandy and Terry delved into the Enneagram System, a method of categorizing human personality into nine distinct types. For writers, the Enneagram Personality Test website is a valuable resource for mapping out your characters' authentic emotional journeys.

By taking the personality test, you will gain valuable character traits that will enhance your scripts for years by creating authentic and compelling characters!
Learn more about the Enneagram System here: https://enneagramuniverse.com
The Writers' Hangout is not affiliated with the Enneagram System. This is for fun and education.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

PAGE Judges Are Talking About Your Script Jul 13, 2024

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the Writers’ Hangout podcast and will announce the Quarter-Finalists in their 2024 screenplay competition on Monday, July 15th. And that's our excuse to give our listeners a special treat! Today's episode features Sandy and Terry reading comments from the PAGE Awards Judges' scorecards. We also discuss the 10-point scale. A tool PAGE Judges use to score ten elements in your screenplay.

These special Judges’ comments will only be revealed on episode 123 of The Writers’ Hangout Podcast.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

10 Pet Peeves That Make A Script Reader Pause Jul 07, 2024

We’re baaccck!

It is the first week of July 2024, and Sandy and Terry are ready for #hotpodsummer.
Did you know that our host and creator of The Writers’ Hangout, Sandy Adomaitis, has a wealth of experience in script development for both television and film? She has worked with some of the industry’s top showrunners, including Carlton Cuse, John Wirth, and Tom Spezialy. Now, for the first time, Sandy has exclusively compiled a list of ten warning signs that could dampen her enthusiasm for reading your script, available for our devoted listeners.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Screenwriter Stephen Gaghan of 'Traffic' Fame Took Some Rough Turns On The Road To Success Jun 09, 2024

How do they do it? How do successful writers become successful? They must all lead charmed lives. One imagines a successful writer who works hard, gets up at 4 a.m., goes to the gym, then slides behind the laptop for four hours. Afternoons, they take their doodle around the block of their tony neighborhood, then put in another two solid hours of editing. Have a healthy dinner with friends, then go to bed for a brilliant night's sleep. Well, dear writers, as we know on The Writer's Hangout, it doesn't always go well when we tell you a story about a screenwriter.

Hang out with Sandy and Terry, who tell you the fascinating story of screenwriter and director Stephen Gaghan, known for writing the screenplay for Soderbergh's film TRAFFIC, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and Syriana, which he wrote and directed.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Rewind - PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script Ft. Karen Craig and Scott Barkan Jun 02, 2024

REWIND EPISODE.
Join the conversation on how PAGE Awards Judges evaluate your screenplay with Karen Craig and Scott Barkan.

Karen Craig is a professional screenwriter and script doctor whose credits include such films as AMERICAN PSYCHO II, starring Mila Kunis and William Shatner, and FORBIDDEN SECRETS, starring Kristy Swanson. Karen has served as a judge for the PAGE Awards for the past 12 years, reviewing both Thriller/Horror scripts and Family Films.

Scott Barkan is a professional screenwriter who has produced several films and sold scripts. He has worked with Blumhouse and Lionsgate and is represented by Mainstay Entertainment and CAA. Scott is also a university professor who teaches music and communications. As a PAGE judge, he primarily reads Action/Adventure, Thriller/Horror, and Science Fiction scripts.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

The Mysterious Death Of Thelma Todd Ft. Steve Cubine and Nan McNamara From Beneath The Hollywood Sign May 26, 2024

Our guests are Steve Cubine and Nan McNamara from the hit podcast "From Beneath The Hollywood Sign." Every week, Steve and Nan dive into the magical, mysterious, amusing, and sometimes bizarre tales of Old Hollywood. If you're a fan of the Golden Era of Old Hollywood, "From Beneath The Hollywood Sign" is a podcast you won't want to miss. So, follow and listen to them - we highly recommend it.

On today’s show, we discuss the mysterious death of Thelma Todd and whether her screenwriter/director boyfriend, Roland West, had something to do with it. You can enjoy this episode, but we highly recommend listening to the previous three episodes we did on Thelma Todd, where we go into much more detail. Those episodes are 47, 48, and 57.

Alert: This episode discusses suicide. If you need help, text or call 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Listen And Follow "From Beneath The Hollywood Sign" here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-beneath-the-hollywood-sign/id1708470432
Follow Steve Cubine's Blog "From Beneath The Hollywood Sign" here: https://frombeneaththehollywoodsign.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

All Three Episodes of The Unbelievable True Story of Elisabeth Finch and Grey's Anatomy. May 19, 2024

Parts one, two, and three of "The Unbelievable True Story of Elisabeth Finch and Grey's Anatomy." Available now!

Rising star and television writer Elizabeth Finch wrote many emotional scripts for Grey's Anatomy, exploring cancer, abortion, and sexual abuse based on her life experiences. In March of 2022, Grey's Anatomy writer Elisabeth Finch was investigated by Disney and placed on administrative leave by the production company Shondaland over concerns about her medical history. Elisabeth told friends and co-workers at Grey's Anatomy she'd been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer called Chondrosarcoma in 2012. She wore a bandage that covered her port, was pale, nibbled on saltines, and took breaks to vomit during work. Elisabeth's cancer inspired a storyline on Grey's Anatomy, where the character Catherine Avery, played by Debbie Allen, was diagnosed with cancer like Elisabeth in Season 15 of Grey's in 2018. Elisabeth also lost a kidney; then, part of her tibia was removed due to chemotherapy. If that wasn't bad enough, she was forced to abort a fetus because chemotherapy made the pregnancy impossible.
You won't believe the shocking story that comes next!
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Mother Of All Episodes May 12, 2024

Happy Mother's Day! Join Sandy and Terry on today's show as they discuss how mothers are portrayed in movies and explore the idea of screenwriters seeking feedback from the most influential women in their lives—their moms.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Broadcast 41 With Professor Carol Stabile May 05, 2024

Our esteemed guest is Professor Carol Stabile, the author of The Broadcast 41, a profound exploration of the experiences of 41 remarkable women. These women, including some of the most prominent figures of their time: Dorothy Parker, Gypsy Rose Lee, Lena Horne, and screenwriter Vera Caspray, challenged the rigid norms of the American television and radio industry during the tumultuous 1950s 'Red Scare' period. Carol, a highly respected Professor of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives for the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Oregon brings her extensive academic background and expertise to her work. Along with Broadcast 41, Carol is the author of Feminism and the Technological Fix, White Victims, Black Villains: Gender, Race, and Crime News in US Culture, and other books.
You can purchase The Broadcast 41 on Amazon.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Judy Blume's Top Writing Tips To Get You Started And To Keep You Going Apr 28, 2024

Do you know Judy Blume? She's a fantastic author who has written some of the most beloved childhood novels, such as "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret," "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing," and "Deenie." Sandy and Terry discuss some of the best writing tips for aspiring writers by Judy Blume, gathered by Literary Hub's Emily Temple. Trust me, this advice is perfect for anyone who wants to write books, screenplays, or short stories. So, let's get started!
The article by Emily Temple discussed in the episode is from Literary Hub.
https://getpocket.com/read/8dtpGT9bA5b1dh6827gbz7dCRmd4A6aM1bOYF6WX86Z6f8Xb5660lQVFqebzF3bT_2dac52dd6eb378ddfe90d625cd6bac09
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

How The Rinsch Stole $55 Million From Netflix Using Kindhearted Keanu Reeves Apr 21, 2024

Sandy tells the strange story of Netflix reportedly paying director Carl Rinsch $55 million for a sci-fi series that he failed to complete and spent most of the money on crypto investments, five Rolls Royces, and a $380K watch. Now, Carl Rinsch is demanding an additional payment of $14 million from Netflix.
Plus, does Terry get a visit from Black-eyed kids!!!!!!!!
Research for the story includes:
The New York Times article by John Carreyrou entitled, The Strange $55 Million Saga of a Netflix Series You’ll Never See
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/22/business/carl-rinsch-netflix-conquest.html
Wikipedia
IMDB
THE WRAP article by Mike Roe entitled Netflix Director Spent Millions of the Streamer’s Money on Crypto and Rolls-Royces in $55 Million Sci-Fi Writeoff
https://www.thewrap.com/carl-erik-rinsch-conquest-netflix-writeoff-crypto/
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Rewind -- Behind the Scenes with Kristin Overn the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE Awards Apr 14, 2024

In this rewind episode, we talk with Kristin Overn, the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards competition. Kristin began her film career as a producer's assistant and script reader at companies like Davis Entertainment, Bonneville Worldwide, and 20th Century Fox. Since then, she has consulted, collaborated, and developed screenplays with dozens of writers, producers, and production companies. Kristin also has extensive experience in production and has served as a producer, line producer, and UPM on various independent features, original sitcom pilots, and several award-winning short films, TV commercials, and videos. She is a member of the Producers Guild of America and the Directors Guild of America.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Holdovers Accused Of Plagiarism Apr 07, 2024

Sandy and Terry delve into the latest plagiarism controversy. The Alexander Payne-directed film The Holdovers didn’t win for the Best Original Screenplay at the 96th Oscars, but Da’Vine Joy Randolph did take home the Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. The film is highly regarded by critics and audiences alike. In early March 2024, reporter Tatiana Siegel at Variety published a report on allegations made by Simon Stephenson, a screenwriter who worked on films such as Luca and Paddington 2. In a 33-page document, Simon claims that The Holdovers, written by David Hemingson, was transposed from his unproduced script, Frisco and that the similarities are “line-by-line” and have been routinely described as “brazen.”
Research for this episode includes:

Variety’s Tatiana Siegel article, Alexander Payne’s ‘The Holdovers’ Accused of Plagiarism by ‘Luca’ Writer (EXCLUSIVE)https://variety.com/2024/film/news/the-holdovers-accused-plagiarism-luca-writer-1235935605/
The Wrap’s Mike Roe article, Prominent Screenwriters Skeptical of Claims ‘The Holdovers’ Was Plagiarized https://www.thewrap.com/the-holdovers-plagiarized-luca-writer-claims-robert-king/
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

HBO Max's Hard-Hitting Doc 'Quiet On Set' Hits Home About RECESS Mar 31, 2024

After watching "Quiet On Set," the Max documentary about allegations against producer Dan Schneider, who is accused of creating a toxic work environment on his Nickelodeon shows and engaging in inappropriate behavior, Sandy can't stop thinking about it. It reminds her of the story she shared with you in Episode 86, about her time writing for ABC/Disney's RECCES entitled "Harassed and Pitching," a Humanities Prize-nominated script.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Don’t You Forget About John Hughes Mar 24, 2024

Sandy and Terry delve into 4 impactful quotes by screenwriter, producer and director, John Hughes. One of the most successful and influential filmmakers in Hollywood history, John has helped launch the careers of Andrew McCarthy, Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Macaulay Culkin, Judd Nelson, and John Candy.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Lucy Walsh Talks About Her New Book Remember Me As Human Mar 10, 2024

Sandy hangs out with the award-winning actress, musician, and screenwriter Lucy Walsh.
When Lucy was seventeen, she was given sixty-three of the love letters her Grandfather Dale wrote her Grandmother Wanda while he was in World War II. A dozen years later, life-changing events compelled Lucy to fly from Los Angeles to tiny Newman, Illinois, to spend three days talking with Wanda, which ended up being their final conversations. Lucy transformed her journey into a masterclass on humanity, chronicled in her new book Remember Me As Human: What Three Final Days with My Grandmother Wanda Taught Me About Truly Living
Remember Me As Human is available for pre-order now and everywhere else on March 12th: https://www.amazon.com/Remember-Me-As-Human-Grandmother/dp/B0CT9PZ88L/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2V59GXX3GWBQ0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.NfoI3cOAS6ut7cmEyM0Lfw.dJX3Q_AVWZreCyfC3V70dueQZHy8a9JuL4jD0OJSH1o&dib_tag=se&keywords=remember+me+as+human+lucy+walsh&qid=1710072024&sprefix=Remember+me+as+human%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Screenwriting Scam Alert! Mar 03, 2024

Terry recently received a phone call from a childhood friend who asked for help. The friend, has a friend, who was offered a huge deal for something they had written, and would Terry get him up to speed on "Hollywood" deal making. However, as Terry spoke with the friend, he began to suspect that the whole thing might be a scam. Unfortunately, this is not a new problem. Scammers often prey on vulnerable artists, especially screenwriters, by making false promises to them.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Screenwriter Stan Zimmerman Shares Stories From His New Book The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore Feb 25, 2024

We are thrilled to have a special guest, Stan Zimmerman, who is a renowned film and television writer. He has been nominated for two WGA Awards for Best Comedy Episodic Writing for his work on The Golden Girls and Roseanne. Stan talks about his new book, The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+girls+stan+zimmerman&crid=2D56CM0FL6JH2&sprefix=stan+zimmer%2Caps%2C415&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_11

We loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone interested in writing for television or what happens behind the scenes.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Rewind - Tips To Get You Writing Feb 18, 2024

One of the biggest challenges for new and seasoned writers is to sit down and start writing their screenplay. It's common for writers to have an excellent idea for a script for months but not put anything down on paper. To make matters worse, they might see a movie trailer that looks exactly like the movie they have in their head, causing them to feel discouraged and frustrated.

In this episode, Sandy and Terry Writers focus on "how to begin" with tips by Dean Orion. He wrote the book Live To Write Another Day, A Survival Guide for Screenwriters and Creative Storytellers. You can find Dean's book on Amazon.

We pick a card from the Woracle Deck, created by writers for writers; the Woracle Cards are an essential tool to help writers generate ideas for new or existing stories. The cards aim to inspire and rejuvenate the creative juices to get the words flowing back on the page.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Why Should Screenwriters Care About Public Domain Feb 11, 2024

For screenwriters, the Public Domain can be a treasure trove of inspiration and material. Hollywood is obsessed with Intellectual Property (IP) and buying the rights to the latest hit book or graphic novel can be expensive and out of reach for most screenwriters. By tapping into the public domain, screenwriters can find stories, characters, and themes that are already known and loved, and put their own spin on them. On January 1, 2024, a version of Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain in the United States, after almost a century of copyright protection. The public domain refers to all creative works for which no exclusive intellectual property rights apply, either due to copyright expiration, copyright loss because of loopholes and mistakes, death of the copyright owner, or failure of the copyright owner to file for the rights or extension to those rights. Since no one holds exclusive rights, anyone can legally use or reference those works without permission. For example, starting in 2024, the Steam Boat version of Mickey Mouse can be utilized.

REARCH INCLUDED:

Wikipedia

IMDB
http://web.law.duke.edu/cspd/mickey/

https://historydaily.org/steamboat-willie-facts-stories-trivia-mickey/3
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Taylor Swift Writing Mystery Solved Feb 04, 2024

Did Taylor Swift pen the spy thriller that inspired the new film ARGYLLE?
Hang out with Sandy and Terry, who explores how the internet built a conspiracy theory that Taylor Swift secretly wrote the spy thriller ARGYLLE.
Matthew Vaughn directs ARGYLLE, which stars Henry Cavill, Ariana DeBose, Bryan Cranston, Dua Lipa, and Bryce Dallas Howard as Elly Conway.
Plus, in honor of Super Bowl LVIII, Terry takes a quiz on football movies.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Netflix Blockbuster Scandal Jan 28, 2024

Adam Joiner, an ordinary man from the Sacramento area of California, managed to secure millions in funding for a movie that his brother Andrew wrote called 'Legends.' The movie blends legendary 19th-century American figures and steampunk Avengers, designed to satisfy the increasing demand for big-budget fantasy-action films. However, the following story is full of twists and turns that result in 'Legends' not becoming a legend, and someone must take the blame.
Research for this episode includes:
The Guardian article by Jake Flanagin, The Blockbuster That Wasn't: Inside an Alleged $14m Scam To Make The Next Netflix Hit
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2019/sep/26/netflix-legends-film-fraud-scam-allegations-adam-joiner
IMDb.
A press release from the United States Attorney’s Office Central District of California dated Wednesday, November 10, 2021, entitled South Bay Man Sentenced to Over 8 Years in Prison For Movie Investment Scam and Fraudulently Selling House Bought with Illicit Proceeds.
http://justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/south-bay-man-sentenced-over-8-years-prison-movie-investment-scam-and-fraudulently

MEL Magazine’s THE REAL-LIFE HOLLYWOOD HOAX THAT TURNED A FAKE BRADLEY COOPER EPIC INTO A $14 MILLION SCAM by Zaron Burnett III.
http://melmagazine.com/en-us/story/the-real-life-hollywood-hoax-that-turned-a-fake-bradley-cooper-epic-into-a-14-million-scam

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Tears and Laughter And Crying At Work Jan 21, 2024

Sandy and Terry are back and ready to take on 2024. However, Terry encountered a problem when both of his computers crashed, and he lost both copies of the Final Draft. Meanwhile, Sandy worked hard over the holidays to set up a writing office but now finds herself in a difficult situation and turns to The Writers' Hangout for some advice and support.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
PAGE International Screenwriting Awards- Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest and one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Snow White And The Legendary Hollywood Party Jan 14, 2024

Join us as we rewind and discuss one of the most legendary parties in Hollywood history. After the success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Walt Disney threw a party at the Norconian Resort located in the California Desert to thank his employees. However, the party quickly becomes wild and crazy, and Walt never speaks of it again. It was an unspoken rule among the employees that the party would not be mentioned if you wanted to keep your job.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
Contact us at the writershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
PAGE International Screenwriting Awards- Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest and one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

CHINATOWN: Why A Famous Last Line Almost Never Happen - REWIND Jan 07, 2024

Join Sandy and Terry as they discuss one of the film's most iconic closing lines - "Forget it, Jake. It's Chinatown" - from the 1974 movie CHINATOWN. The film was written by Robert Towne and directed by Roman Polanski. It features Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway in the lead roles. In this episode, we will discover the fascinating story behind the creation of this famous last line and why it nearly didn't make it into the movie.

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.

📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, don't hesitate to get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards

Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Oh My God! They Killed Kenney! The Too Short and Fascinating Life of Screenwriter Doug Kenney Dec 31, 2023

Happy New Year!
In today's episode, we will rewind the story of Doug Kenney, the screenwriter and co-founder of National Lampoon, who was behind popular movies like Animal House and Caddyshack. Despite being remembered as a 'genius' by his friends and colleagues, Kenney tragically passed away at the age of 33 after falling off a cliff in Hawaii.
If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a review.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast, please write us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
We would love your comments on Instagram @thewritershangoutpodcast

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Holiday Clip Show Of The Writers’ Hangout Dec 23, 2023

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Sandy and Terry! Writers, we've compiled a clip show of our past two years hanging out with you!!

Kick back next to a cozy fire and start the show, or be like me and turn on a fake fireplace because you live in Southern California, and it is 62 degrees outside.

We love you and are excited to see what the future holds for us in 2024!
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Billy Wilder's 10 Crucial Tips To Write A Great Screenplay Dec 17, 2023

During today's show, Sandy and Terry will discuss Billy Wilder's 10 tips for excellent screenplay writing. Few screenwriters are as pedigreed as Billy Wilder, renowned as one of the most creative filmmakers of American cinema's Golden Age. Billy was nominated 21 times at the Academy Awards, 13 for his screenwriting and 8 for his direction. He won the Best Director award for his 1945 film "The Lost Weekend" and again 15 years later for "The Apartment". Thanks to the success of "The Apartment," Wilder became the first person to win an Academy Award as a producer, director, and screenwriter for the same movie.

Cameron Crowe said, “There’s no better film school than listening to what Billy Wilder says.”

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Norman Lear Lifetime Of A Legend Dec 10, 2023

Sandy and Terry reflect on the life of writer and producer Norman Lear, who transformed American comedy with his daring and immensely popular early-'70s sitcoms such as "All in the Family" and "Sanford and Son," who passed away on Tuesday at 101.

Norman Lear created some of the most iconic shows of the 1970s, such as All in the Family, Sanford and Son, One Day at a Time, The Jeffersons, Good Times, and Maude. Apart from his successful career in the entertainment industry, he is also recognized as a political activist who established the civil liberties advocacy group People for the American Way in 1981.
Rhonda Garelick https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/07/style/norman-lear-tv-women-feminism.html
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Screenwriter Diane Hanks And The Woman With The Purple Heart Dec 03, 2023

The Writers' Hangout Podcast has a special treat for you today. Our guest is 2016 PAGE Awards winner Diane Hanks, who has joined us to discuss her stunning novel WOMAN WITH A PURPLE HEART.

The story of Lieutenant Annie Fox, the first woman to earn a Purple Heart, is told in "The Woman with the Purple Heart." Annie was the chief nurse at Hickam Hospital, located at Hickam Air Field adjacent to Pearl Harbor, on December 7, 1941. The hospital was bombed heavily during the attack.

You can purchase WOMAN WITH A PURPLE HEART at your local independent bookstore or on Amazon.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

10 Movies Coming To A Theater Near You Nov 26, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they discuss the variety of movies released at the end of 2023. We will see a bit of everything: boys to men wrestling, Beyoncé touring, and Timothée Chalamet singing. This season's movie lineup is sure to captivate audiences of all tastes. So come and tune in to Sandy and Terry's conversation as they share their thoughts on the latest and greatest films of the season.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

7 Quick Tips for Creating Memorable Character Names Nov 19, 2023

In this episode, Sandy and Terry discuss seven tips on creating memorable character names for your stories.

Have you ever wondered how important character names are in a story? Well, let's ask Google: "The right name can help the reader easily identify each character. However, getting too creative with your name choices can be distracting or even confusing for the reader. The wrong name can take the reader out of the story and make them question why you, as the author, made such an inane choice."

Therefore, writers, grab a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and enjoy this quick and helpful episode where you will learn some great tips on naming your characters effectively.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest TV Theme Songs of All Time Nov 12, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they go through Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest TV Theme Songs of All Time! From Seventies sitcoms with expository jams to modern prestige classics with experimental scores, from 'Sanford and Son' to 'Succession,' from 'Match Game' to 'Game of Thrones.'
Will your favorite make the list? Enjoy, and get to humming.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

The Bitter Sweet Symphony of Adrienne Shelly - Rewind One Year Later Nov 07, 2023

In honor of the late writer, director, and actor Adrienne Shelly, we are reposting The Writers' Hangout Episode dedicated to her story in the month she passed. This is an opportunity to get to know this talented and amazing woman whose life was cut short by a tragic event.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Dread: 22 Tales Of Terror With Screenwriter Kevin Bachar Nov 05, 2023

On today's show, Kevin Bacher, the winner of the 2018 Page Awards Grand Prize, is here. Kevin was a guest on The Writers Hangout last Spring, Episode 69, where we discussed his movie, THE INHABITANT, starring Dermot Mulroney and Leslie Bibb. THE INHABITANT was released last year in theaters and can be found on Amazon Prime and Hulu.

Besides being a screenwriter, Kevin is an EMMY-winning WGA documentary director/writer. If you have watched The Discovery Channel, you must have seen his work. In this episode, we discuss Kevin's new short story collection, DREAD: 22 Tales of Terror, which reveals the darker side of nature.

DREAD is a collection of tales that offer horrifying reasons why thousands of people have gone missing in the wild. Kevin, an Emmy-award-winning National Geographic cinematographer, has swum with sharks, climbed the peaks of mountains, and explored the darkest of forests. In DREAD, he weaves together terrifying true stories from his real-life adventures with twisted fiction from the depths of his frightening imagination. Flip the pages to indulge in the dark side of nature— haunted forests, tree demons, monstrous snakes, and a search-and-rescue team terrorized by the ghosts of those they couldn’t save.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Happy Halloween With A Recap of The Ghost And Mr. Chicken Ft. Screenwriter Mark Steen Oct 29, 2023

Happy Halloween!!
Hang out with Sandy, Terry, and special guest screenwriter Mark Steen as they recap "Ghost and Mr. Chicken," starring Don Knotts from "The Andy Griffith Show" fame.

Directed by Alan Rafkin and written by James Fritzell and Everett Greenbaum, "The Ghost and Mr. Chicken" is about a timid typesetter who hasn't a ghost of a chance of becoming a reporter - until he decides to solve a murder mystery and ends up spending a fright-filled night in a haunted house.

You don't need to watch the movie to enjoy the show, but we encourage you to do so since it's a fun movie that the whole family can enjoy.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

How Writers Find Their Agents And Managers Oct 22, 2023

Thanks for hanging out with us!
In this episode, Sandy and Terry discuss a Twitter thread that provides valuable insights into how signed writers found their representation—special thanks to Tyler Clair Smith, the writer on X who inspired this episode. Follow Tyler Clair Smith @tclairsmith - we certainly did!
In this episode, we discuss helpful internet programs for screenwriters. The Writers’ Hangout Podcast did not receive payment for our opinion.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
You can follow us on Twitter @pageawards.com and Facebook @pageawards

Terry's Love Of The Marx Brothers And The Art Of Improvisation Oct 15, 2023

We discuss Terry’s love of The Marx Brothers and his appreciation of improvisation. The Marx Brothers were a famous comedy act that succeeded in vaudeville, on Broadway, and in 14 motion pictures between 1905 and 1949. The American Film Institute selected five of the Marx Brothers' fourteen feature films as among the top 100 comedy films. Critics, scholars, and fans widely regard the Marx Brothers as some of the greatest and most influential comedians of the 20th century. They perfected the art of improvisation during their time, making their comedy timeless and unforgettable to Terry and the world.

Research for this episode includes:
20 Famous Movie Scenes That Were Actually Completely Improvised by Thomas Delatte for thethings.com/famous-movie-scenes-actually-completely-improvised/#jar-of-dirt-pirates-of-the-caribbean
Wikipedia
IMDB
editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/marx-brothers/
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
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How Mike White Came Up With The Idea For School Of Rock 20 Years Later Oct 08, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry in their discussion about the 20th anniversary of School of Rock and the process of generating creative ideas when a screenwriter begins to write a movie. We find the process intriguing - from when an idea strikes the writer, often while in the shower, to how they shape it based on their life experiences.

Research for this episode included:
One Great Rock Movie Can Change the World: An Oral History of ‘School of Rock’ written by Angie Martoccio rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-features/school-of-rock-anniversary-oral-history-jack-black-1234822127/
How a Script for a Friend Turned into a Cross-platform Classic written by Nicole Bitette paramount.com/news/content-and-experiences/school-of-rock-oral-history
Wikipedia, and IMBD.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
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What Is S.A.D. And Why Writers Should Spend Winter in Lithuania Oct 01, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they discuss what is going on with the writer's strike, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and writing in winter in Vilnius.
Research for this episode relied heavily on the NIH National Institute of Mental Health.

nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

Other resources:

thealaskafrontier.com/do-you-get-paid-to-live-in-alaska/#:~:text=Since%201982%20every%20qualified%20Alaskan,it%20sustainably%20for%20the%20future.

vox.com/culture/2023/9/24/23888673/wga-strike-end-sag-aftra-contract

If you are distressed or thinking about hurting yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or use the Lifeline Chat on the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
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Hey Writers What's The Big Idea Sep 24, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they discuss the "big idea" - a high-concept premise that can persuade studio executives to read your script and turn it into a movie. Terry shares his opinion on the best pizza in the San Fernando Valley, while Sandy gets serious about New York bagels.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Creator/Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please get in touch with us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
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Harassed And Pitching A Humanitas Prize Nominated Script Sep 16, 2023

Sandy and Terry hang out and discuss Sandy being sexually harassed and bullied but still pitching a Humanitas Prize-nominated idea to Disney/ABC/ RECESS with her former writing partner.
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Hollywood Then and Now With John Wirth and Gail Matthius Pt. 2 Sep 10, 2023

Hang out with our guests, John Wirth and Gail Matthius, a Hollywood couple who met in high school, fell in love and moved to Hollywood to pursue their dreams.
Gail was a cast member on Saturday Night Live in 1981 and is known for her voice acting work in animated shows, including Bobby's World, Tiny Toon Adventures, Animaniacs, and The Tick.

John Wirth is a television showrunner, producer, and writer. His credits included HELL ON WHEELS, WU ASSASSINS, TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES, and NASH BRIDGES.

In part one, Gail and John discuss the early days and their willingness to work hard to succeed. In this episode, we focus on the difference between the time when Gail and John were struggling versus today in 2023, when, unfortunately, actors and writers have to strike for decent wages and protection from artificial intelligence.

Hollywood Then And Now With John Wirth and Gail Matthius Pt. 1 Sep 03, 2023

Hang out with our guests, John Wirth and Gail Matthius, a Hollywood couple who met in high school. Gail was a cast member on Saturday Night Live in 1981 and is known for her voice acting work in animated shows, including Bobby's World, Tiny Toon Adventures, Animaniacs, and The Tick.

John Wirth is a television showrunner, producer, and writer. His credits included HELL ON WHEELS, WU ASSASSINS, TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES, and NASH BRIDGES.

In part one of this two-part episode, Gail and John discuss the early days and their willingness to work hard to succeed in show business. In part two, we'll focus on the difference between when Gail and John struggled and in 2023, when actors and writers must strike for decent wages and protection from artificial intelligence.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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How To Procrastinate Like A Successful Screenwriter Aug 27, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they talk procrastination with a capital P! Everyone deals with it, but how do you stop procrastination? Then, once you do, what do you write your screenplay about? You have three great ideas, but which one do you write? We address this in the latest episode and have a few laughs.

Research for this episode includes articles from the following publications.
“Leonardo da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson

proactivitylab.com/the-7-most-famous-procrastinators/

johnaugust.com/2009/which-project-should-i-write

https://screenwritingfromiowa.wordpress.com/2011/08/07/pages-per-day/https://www.pcma.org/the-upside-of-procrastination/

https://solvingprocrastination.com/famous-procrastinators/#:~:text=Below%2C%20you%20will%20find%20a,Victor%20Hugo%2C%20and%20Steve%20Jobs
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Sandra Bullock’s The Blind Side Controversy Aug 20, 2023

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they discuss THE BLIND SIDE controversy over Michael Oher, the NFL veteran whose life inspired the movie and who is suing his conservators, Sean and Leigh Ann Tuohy, for $15 million.

The former Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers Tackle says in his filing that he gave the rights to his life story away to 20th Century Fox in 2007 without any payment whatsoever and that he was missing profits from John Lee Hancock’s 2009 film, which grossed $309 million at the worldwide box office.
The resources for this episode include A look at Michael Oher's Ole Miss Recruitment, the Tuohys impact, and 'Blind Side' fallout. USAToday

After 19 years, the Tuohys say they plan to terminate Michael Oher's conservatorship – NPR.

The Blind Side author responds to Michael Oher's lawsuit, saying Hollywood is to blame for the lack of profits by Jessica Wang.
https://ew.com/movies/the-blind-side-author-responds-michael-oher-lawsuit/#:~:text=from%20the%20movie.-,%22Everybody%20should%20be%20mad%20at%20the%20Hollywood%20studio%20system%2C%22,in%20the%20Tuohys%27%20pockets.%22

Wikipedia and IMDB

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer/Host Sandy Adomaitis
Co-host Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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Screenwriter Stephen Gaghan of 'Traffic' Fame Took Some Rough Turns On The Road To Success Aug 13, 2023

Rewind: How do they do it? How do successful writers become successful? They must all lead charmed lives. One imagines a successful writer who works hard, gets up at 4 a.m., goes to the gym, then slides behind the laptop for four hours. Afternoons, they take their doodle around the block of their tony neighborhood, then put in another two solid hours of editing. Have a healthy dinner with friends, then go to bed for a brilliant night's sleep. Well, dear writers, as we know on The Writer's Hangout, it doesn't always go well when we tell you a story about a screenwriter.

Hang out with Sandy and Terry, who tell you the fascinating story of screenwriter and director Stephen Gaghan, known for writing the screenplay for Soderbergh's film TRAFFIC, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and Syriana, which he wrote and directed.

Research for this episode included:

The Newsweek article Sheik, Rattle and Roll by Newsweek Staff

https://www.newsweek.com/sheik-rattle-and-roll-115527

The New York Times article Gritty Portrayal Of the Abyss From a Survivor; The Screenwriter for 'Traffic' Says He Drew on His Past By Rick Lyman

https://www.nytimes.com/2001/02/05/movies/gritty-portrayal-abyss-survivor-screenwriter-for-traffic-says-he-drew-his-past.html

The Los Angeles Times article Stephen Gaghan, one-time Hollywood wunderkind, returns after a long absence with ‘Gold’ by Steven Zeitchik

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-stephen-gaghan-gold-20161114-story.html

IMDB and Wikipedia
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer/Host Sandy Adomaitis
Co-host Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Play Guess The Movie With Sandy and Terry Aug 06, 2023

Time to play – The Writers’ Game Show!!!! Sandy will give a brief synopsis of a movie that involves music, one sentence at a time, and we’ll see how many sentences Terry and you take to come up with the movie's name. We are going for a low score here. If you get it on the first sentence, you give yourself a one, the second sentence a two, etc.

All synopsizes are courtesy of Google.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer/Host Sandy Adomaitis
Co-host Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Best-selling Author and Screenwriter Claire McGown Let’s Us In Jul 30, 2023

Today, we have a great guest on the show, best-sell author and screenwriter Claire McGown. Claire was born in Northern Ireland and grew up in a village where she said, “The most exciting thing that ever happened was a herd of cows getting loose in the road.” Clair now lives in London, and her latest mystery thriller book, LET ME IN, was just released. The Irish Times said, “A knotty, twisty tale…unfolds at a cracking pace.” I had so much fun getting to know Claire that I didn’t want to stop recording!
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer/Host Sandy Adomaitis
Co-host Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

#hotwritersummer Jul 23, 2023

Friend of the pod and production coordinator extraordinaire Kathy joins us to look at the WGA and SAG strike through the lens of the people behind the scene. What happened to everyone else working as a production assistant, gaffer, or script coordinator just a few months ago? When will the strike end? What are the writers and actors looking for? Tune in, and all will be explained.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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PAGE International Screenwriting Awards

Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Hang Out With The Hollywood Sign Jul 16, 2023

On this episode, we invite you to hang out with Sandy as she takes a look at Hollywood's most iconic landmark, the Hollywood Sign. Originally built as “Hollywoodland” as an advertisement to lure in real estate investors, it has seen tragedy, facelifts, and even a couple of good pranks over the decades. The Hollywood Sign is celebrating its 100 Anniversary throughout 2023.

The Best Alien Miniseries Ever And Hooligan Fireworks Jul 09, 2023

We dive deep into the 1980s class miniseries V.
V: The Original Miniseries is a two-part science-fiction television miniseries written and directed by Kenneth Johnson. V aired in 1983 and initiated the science-fiction franchise concerning aliens known as the "Visitors" trying to gain control of Earth and of the ways the populace reacts.
Alone, the behind-the-scenes exploration of V: The Original Miniseries is an interesting story, but for writers, learning about classic television, films, shorts, and media content is important. You don't want to be that writer who whines, "I wasn't born then," when your studio executive or showrunner brings up a film or television show from the past, right?
Research:
The V Files: The Shocking Legacy of an ’80s Sci-Fi Cult Classic

Hollywood backstabbing, conspiracy theories, and the devastating murder of a star behind the TV alien-invasion sensation. By Anthony Breznican
vanityfair.com/hollywood/2023/05/the-v-files-legacy
and
40 Years After V Debuted, The Miniserises Still Has Lots to Say
Creator Kenneth Johnson looks back at the highs and lows of the sci-fi mega-hit.
b y Yzaki Hasan https://www.ign.com/articles/40-years-after-v-debuted-the-miniseries-still-has-lots-to-say
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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

We're Back With The Writers' Strike and A.I. Theatre Jul 02, 2023

We are back! The Writer’s Hangout is back with a brand-new episode. We break down the current WGA Writers’ Strike and whether A.I. can write a screenplay better than a human. We introduce A.I. Theater, where Terry reads from three scripts written by bots. Writers, we challenge you not to laugh at these delightful screenplays. The scripts are all written by bots and can be found on the Instagram Account: @bot_scripts
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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Rewind - The Strange Disappearance of Screenwriter Ian Mackintosh Jun 25, 2023

Rewind -- British screenwriter Ian Mackintosh's plane went missing on July 7, 1979, nineteen days before his thirty-ninth birthday, over the Gulf of Alaska. What happened remains a mystery. Join us as we tell the story of Lieutenant Commander Hamish Ian Mackintosh, a British Royal Navy officer, a writer of thriller novels, and a screenwriter for British television.

Ian's series, THE SANDBAGGERS, was groundbreaking. The New York Times said "the best spy series in television history." Ian MacKintosh was among the first writers to present espionage realistically and as a sordid series of political struggles, double-crosses, and personality clashes.
If you want to read more about Ian Mackintosh, I highly recommend The Life and Mysterious Death of Ian Mackintosh by Robert G. Folsom.

TWH Podcast Update Plus Writing Rear Window With Hitchcock and Hayes Jun 18, 2023

We wanted to “jump on the mic,” as the kids say, and give you a Writers’ Hangout update. Terry and I have been working on some projects that took our time away from recording, but we’ve been working behind the scenes on future episodes and are excited about hanging out with you soon. I miss you guys a lot. In the meantime, here’s a favorite episode of mine and Terry's entitled; WRITING REAR WINDOW WITH HITCHCOCK AND HAYES. Learn how a short story from a dime store magazine turned into one of the most discussed films produced in Hollywood and the fifth-grossing film of 1954. The film REAR WINDOW, starring Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly, Raymond Burr, and Thelma Ritter, was written by John Michael Hayes and directed by Alfred Hitchcock.
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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Rewind - Page Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Two Jun 11, 2023

REWIND of two more PAGE Awards Judges, Dwayne Smith and Mike Kuciak continue the conversation on how they evaluate your screenplay.

Mike Kuciak has two movies coming out in 2022; he's the writer-director and writer-producer of the other. He's a producer on a third film scheduled to begin production in late 2022. He has served as a producer and executive producer on several independent films. He was the senior vice president of development for a literary management-production company and, after that, the founder/CEO of his own company before hanging that up to focus on writing/directing/producing.

Dwayne Smith has been a professional screenwriter since 1999 and has written scripts for Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Intermedia, and Gold Circle. His urban thriller PAY THE LADY is in post-production, and his sci-fi feature IMPLANT is in pre-production. Representing the management firm Circle of Confusion at numerous screenwriting conferences and festivals, Dwayne has listened to hundreds of pitches and read countless screenplays in search of new writing talent. As a judge for the PAGE Awards, he reads Comedies, Thriller/Horror, Science Fiction, and Action/Adventure scripts.

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Hollywood's favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

The Fascinating Death Of Screenwriter Gary DeVore Jun 04, 2023

Rewind of Episode 3 -- Sandy and Terry Sampson discuss the little-known mystery of the 1997 disappearance of screenwriter Gary Devore. Gary was returning home after working out the ending of his latest script, which he claimed would blow the lid off government secrets when he disappeared without a trace. Did Gary step out to "buy a pack of cigarettes," or was he met with foul play? We'll delve into what happened that fateful night and revisit the rumors and conspiracy theories that continue to baffle and disturb people.

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.

Executive Producer Kristin Overn

Producer Sandy Adomaitis

Producer Terry Sampson

Music by Ethan Stoller

Rewind The Unbelievable Story of TV Writer Elisabeth Finch and Grey's Anatomy May 21, 2023

We are rewinding episodes 17, 18, and 48 -- The Unbelievable True Story of Elisabeth Finch and Grey's Anatomy.

Rising star and television writer Elizabeth Finch wrote many emotional scripts for GREY'S ANATOMY, exploring cancer, abortion, and sexual abuse using her life experience. In March of 2022, Grey's Anatomy writer Elisabeth Finch was investigated by Disney and placed on administrative leave by the production company Shondaland over concerns about her medical history. Elisabeth told friends and co-works at Grey's Anatomy she'd been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer called Chondrosarcoma in 2012. She wore a bandage that covered her port, was pale, nibbled on saltines, and took breaks to vomit during work. Elisabeth's cancer inspired a storyline on Grey's Anatomy, where the character Catherine Avery, played by Debbie Allen, was diagnosed with cancer like Elisabeth in Season 15 of Grey's in 2018. Elisabeth also lost a kidney; then, part of her tibia was removed due to chemotherapy. If that wasn't bad enough, she was forced to abort a fetus because chemotherapy made the pregnancy impossible.
You won't believe the shocking story that comes next!

Swimming With Screenwriter Kevin Bachar May 14, 2023

We have a fantastic show for you as we continue celebrating our sponsor, The PAGE AWARDS' 20TH Anniversary, with 2018 Page Awards Grand Prize winner Kevin Bachar. Kevin's screenplay - THE INHABITANT- starring Dermot Mulroney & Leslie Bibb came out last year in theaters and can be found on high-end streamers like Amazon Prime and Hulu.

Kevin was a Senior Producer at National Geographic Television for ten years before forming his production company, Pangolin Pictures. Since then, he's developed and produced films and series in all genres but specializes in Natural History films. Kevin's films have won three EMMY awards and garnered another six nominations, including two 2011 Prime-Time Emmy nominations for Jaws: The Inside Story and John Belushi: Dancing on the Edge.

Kevin's screenplays won numerous competitions, including the 2018 Page Awards Grand Prize!
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Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
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Hang Out And Play: Name The Movie May 07, 2023

Time for some housekeeping plus an announcement from our sponsors, The PAGE Awards, on their upcoming deadline.
We play a fun round of NAME THE MOVIE -- A fun game that will challenge your film knowledge and keep you on the edge of your seat. Sandy reads the synopsis of a movie one sentence at a time. How many sentences will it take before you can NAME THE MOVIE!! If you're up for the challenge, you'll have a blast playing NAME THE MOVIE.
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Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
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Hanging Out With The Comic's Daughter Carrie Freeman Pt. 2 Apr 30, 2023

Part two and the conclusion of last week's episode with author Carrie Freeman.
If you have listened to part one, I recommend you go back and listen to Episode 66, HANGING OUT WITH THE COMIC'S DAUGHTER CARRIE FREEMAN. In this first episode, we covered Carries fascinating younger life, and in this episode, we chat with Carrie about her writing journey and the mentors who helped her get where she is today.
To purchase THE COMIC'S DAUGHTER by Carrie Freeman https://www.thecomicsdaughter.com
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Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Hanging Out With The Comic's Daughter Carrie Freeman Apr 23, 2023

We have a terrific show with guest Carrie Freeman.
Born in Dallas, Texas, Carrie Freeman is the third in a generation of writers, columnists, and performers, dating back to 1905, when her great uncle, Sime Silverman, launched the entertainment bible, Variety. Carrie is an accomplished actress with an extensive background in performing, theatre directing and teaching.
A truly talented and gifted writer Carrie wrote a book entitled THE COMIC’S DAUGHTER based on her life, and it caught the attention of a Producer/Director, and now they are off to the races to make the movie.
This will be a two-part episode. In this first episode, we will cover Carries fascinating younger life, and in the second half, we will center on Carrie’s writing journey and the mentors who helped her get where she is today. Does the name David Mamet ring a bell?
To purchase THE COMIC'S DAUGHTER by Carrie Freeman
https://www.thecomicsdaughter.com
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PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Brooke Shields And One Regret Apr 16, 2023

Hulu's documentary PRETTY BABY: Brooke Shields reminds Sandy she spent time on the set of SUDDENLY SUSAN, the NBC half-hour sitcom, and walked away disappointed in something Brooke did to Kathy Griffin.
Terry asks a simple question that reminds Sandy of one of her biggest regrets.

You don't have to have watched PRETTY BABY: Brooke Shields to listen to this episode.
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PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Wild Story Behind 1993's The Super Mario Bros. Movie Apr 09, 2023

Did you know there was another SUPER MARIO BROS MOVIE besides the animated blockbuster with Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Seth Rogen, and Fred Armisen? The first SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE hit theaters in 1993 and was the first feature-length live-action film based on a video game. It follows brothers Mario Mario (Bob Hoskins) and Luigi Mario (John Leguizamo) in their quest to rescue Princess Daisy (Samantha Mathis) from a dystopic parallel universe ruled by the ruthless King Koopa (Dennis Hopper), directed by the husband-and-wife team Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel. Unfortunately, it was a box office failure, and critics hated it. The credits list three writers Parker Bennett, Terry Runté, and Ed Solomon.
Why did one MARIO movie succeed when the other MARIO movie didn’t? That’s the big question Sandy and Terry tackle in this episode.
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Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

How Aaron Sorkin The WGA And You Feel About AI Writing Apr 02, 2023

For today’s episode, we have a follow-up on Season One, Episode 61 entitled Can A.I. Write A Screenplay With Filmmakers Jon and Matt Firman, it came out last month. You don’t have to go back and listen to episode 61, but things will make more sense if you do. In the A.I. episode, we explored the benefits of using AI to help writers manage their process from idea to script and spoke to the creators of Story Prism a suite of AI-powered writing tools to help creators flesh out their stories.
In this episode, we dive into how the WGA, Aaron Sorkin and you feel about A.I.-assisted writing and more!
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Breaking Into Hollywood With A Little Help From Harold Ramis Mar 26, 2023

You never know when your big break will happen. In this episode co-host Terry Sampson share how he landed his big break compliments of Harold Ramis.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Can A.I. Write A Screenplay With Filmmakers Jon and Matt Firman Mar 19, 2023

We have a terrific show for you with today’s guests Jon and Matt Firman who are Baltimore, MD-based indie filmmakers. After spending more than eight years immersed in the local film community, brothers Jon and Matt saw a need for writers to have an easier way of turning their ideas into stories. So, the brothers decided to explore the benefits of using AI to help writers manage their process from idea to script, which led them to develop Story Prism a suite of AI-powered writing tools to help creators flesh out their stories.
Writers, AI writing is not your dad’s spellcheck it is way more powerful, and I would be curious to know how you feel as writers felt about AI assistants with your writing after you listen to what Matt and Jon have to say. Send an email to thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com or dm us on Instagram instagram.com/thewritershangoutpodcast/
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Rewind With How Page Judges Evaluate Your Script Mar 12, 2023

One of our most listened to episodes. Two PAGE Awards Judges, Victoria Lucas and Laurie Ashbourne, talk about how they evaluate your screenplays, whether you're just starting or have a script in the competition. You do not want to miss this inside talk.
⭐️ Laurie Ashbourne began her film career in Disney animation, and over the past 20 years, she has worked as a story consultant, writer, and producer for Disney, Amazon, and many independent producers. She has over 30 features and short films to her credit, including her new family feature CHRISTMAS TIME, which is currently in post-production. As a PAGE judge, Laurie reviews scripts in several different genre categories, including Family Films, Comedies, Dramas, and Shorts.
⭐️ Victoria Lucas is an independent producer who has developed scripts for projects starring Antonio Banderas, Scarlett Johansson, Wesley Snipes, and Hilary Swank. Among her favorite projects is the highly acclaimed coming-of-age film, The Island on Bird Street, awarded the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Victoria is also a Judge for the PAGE Awards contest, in a variety of genres including Drama and Historical Films

👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Living Outside Of LA And Having A Screenwriting Career with Matias Caruso Mar 05, 2023

Our guest is screenwriter Matias Caruso who lives in Argentina. Matias taught himself English and how to write screenplays — and after writing and working hard to develop his craft, he wrote an absolutely stunning script called CARNIVAL that won our Grand Prize in 2014. After his win, Carnival was optioned by a PAGE judge and signed by an agent. Matias continues to live in Argentina, and he never moved to the States; he has since had a couple of movies (MAYHEM and WITCH) produced.
WORDPLAY: Pro screenwriting secrets from working screenwriters Terry Rossio & Ted Elliott -- wordplayer.com
If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Screenwriter Angela Bourassa Explains It All Feb 26, 2023

We continue to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our sponsor, The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards, with our guest Angela Bourassa. Angela won the Gold Prize in the Science Fiction category for her script EVERYTHING IS RIGHT UNTIL IT'S WRONG, and under its new title, TURN ME ON; the movie was filmed last year, produced by Truant Pictures and Blue Creek Pictures, directed by Michael Tyburski, and starring Bel Powley and Nick Robinson. It's now in post-production.

In addition, Angela's movies IF YOU WERE THE LAST and BLACK BAGS have also recently been produced, and IF YOU WERE THE LAST is premiering at SXSW next month.
If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Did A Potato Cause Thelma Todd's Death Ft. Forensic Death Investigator Kyle Finney and Judy TrueCrime Feb 19, 2023

We're going to pause on interviewing the PAGE Award-winning screenwriter series to bring you the latest on the Thelma Todd murder mystery we talked about last December. If you haven't listened to the two-part episode called Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age, I highly recommend you go back and listen. The episodes aired on December 4th and 11th of 2022.
Of all the screenwriter crime stories we have discussed on The Writers' Hangout, the Thelma Todd story is the one people comment about most. So, we put together a panel, including a Forensic death investigator, Kyle Finney, a True Crime fanatic JudyTrueCrime, and co-host Terry Sampson. We discuss the case through the lens of modern-day forensics and give our opinions on what happened.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Television Writer Jason Gavin Talks Flag Football and Friday Night Lights Feb 12, 2023

It is Super Bowl LVII weekend, and we have a treat for you. Our guest is television writer Jason Gavin, who got his big break when he got staffed on a show called Friday Night Lights. Kristin Iversen of Nylon wrote, "Friday Night Lights had achieved a rare trifecta in the world of prestige television: critical acclaim, cultishly adoring fans, and a genuinely wide audience (which, sadly, it didn't have when it aired on network television, but what are you going to do).'

Jason's other credits include ROYAL PAINS, HAWAII FIVE-O, and ROSWELL, NEW MEXICO. Jason is a co-executive producer on the much-anticipated return of DARK WINDS, the number-one show on AMC+, and one of the executive producers on MARVEL's ECHO, out this summer.
Jason talks about his first time in a writers' room; a fender-bender he got into as a writers' PA on NASH BRIDES and more.

Hanging Out With Television Writer Davah Avena Feb 05, 2023

We continue celebrating the 20th anniversary of the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards with Davah Avena. Davah took home the 2006 Silver Prize for Best TV Drama Pilot and has risen in television from staff writer to Co-Executive Producer on shows like FIREFLY LANE and ZOEY'S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST.
Plus Davah Avena plays YOU WROTE THE EPISODE BUT DO YOU REMEMBER THE EPISODE and might just become our Queen Quiz.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Screenwriter Alexandra Qin Takes On ThirstyGirl Jan 29, 2023

We continue to celebrate our sponsor, The PAGE INTERNATIONAL Screenwriting awards 20 Anniversary Celebration, I spoke with our Grand Prize winner Alexandra Qin an independent filmmaker based in New York City with a background in technology, social justice, and visual/ performance art. Her first screenplay, ThirstyGirl, won the 2022 PAGE Grand Prize. A raw, intimate story about addiction, sisterhood, and Asian-American identity, it was heavily inspired by Alexandra's own journey of addiction and recovery.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Become A Better Person Become A Better Writer with Screenwriter Larry Postel Jan 22, 2023

We continue to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our sponsors, The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards, by interviewing past winners. Today we have Larry Postel, who took home the PAGE Awards Grand Prize in 2005. Since then, Larry has written four original spec screenplays that have made. Including The Main Event, a Netflix Original; High Holiday, a Peacock Original; Flip Turn, an indie drama available on Amazon; and Sony's 5000 Blankets.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Hanging Out with PAGE Award winner Nardeep Khurmi Jan 15, 2023

In honor of our sponsors, PAGE International Screenwriting Awards , celebrating their 20th anniversary, I'm interviewing some of the competition's winners. Today's guest is Nardeep Khurmi, who won the PAGE 2021' Silver Prize in drama for his screenplay, LAND OF GOLD.
LAND OF GOLD also received AT&T's 2021 Untold Stories award, which provides a grant of $1 million to underrepresented filmmakers to make their first feature film. We talk to Nardeep about the making of LAND OF GOLD, how growing up in Philly by way of Switzerland and England shaped him, and how being an actor helps his writing.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

Hanging with PAGE Awards Winner and Screenwriter R. Scott Shields Jan 08, 2023

We have a terrific show for you today. As promised, for January 2023, we are doing a series of interviews with PAGE Awards winners. First up is R. Scott Shields who won the PAGE Bronze Prize in 2009 for his beautiful family drama STRAWBERRY MANSION and then won our Grand Prize in 2010 for his animated feature SUPERCAT! Since then, sometimes with representation and sometimes without, Scott went on to write a sci-fi fantasy for Hydraulx Entertainment called JASON AND THE ASTRONAUTS and was hired to write two sports biopics.

Scott discusses getting a writing assignment without representation, what makes a good bio-pic, and why you never say no when your next-door neighbor asks you to write a short film that will get shot.

The Year 2023 Coming In Hot... Jan 01, 2023

Happy New Year!! We have a fun, happy episode this week. Sandy puts all the Christmas movies away for the year and discusses her favorite New Year's Eve movie scenes. Terry checks in with a report for the San Fernando Valley. And last but not least, Sandy reads your New Year Writing Resolutions, and one lucky winner wins a free entry into the PAGE Awards Competition.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Very Merry Christmas by The Snow-Globes ft. in Episode 49 Dec 25, 2022

Listen to VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS by The Sno-Globes featured in Episode 49 --That Time The 'Titanic' Cast and Crew Ate PCP-Spiked Chowder
Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

That Time The 'Titanic' Cast and Crew Ate PCP-Spiked Chowder Dec 25, 2022

Ho, Ho, Ho!! Happy Holidays.
On August 9, 1996, a late-night shoot of James Cameron's TITANIC suddenly broke out into chaos after crafty served the cast and crew seafood chowder. At first, everyone thought it was food poisoning from the chowder, but someone had spiked the food with PCP. To commemorate the film’s 25th anniversary of TITANIC being released, let’s look back on a fateful night.
Listen to VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS by The Sno-Globes featured in this episode.
Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday musichttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s

Listen to When You Wish A Christmas Wish by The Sno-Globes Dec 18, 2022

Listen to When You Wish A Christmas Wish by The Sno-Globes featured in Episode 48 Update - Elizabeth Finch The GREY'S ANATOMY Writer Accused Of Faking Cancer.
Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s

Update - Elisabeth Finch The GREY'S ANATOMY Writer Accused Of Faking Cancer Dec 18, 2022

Update on one-time rising star Elisabeth Finch the GREY'S ANATOMY writer accused of faking cancer. What made her do it and can she make a comeback?
👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

How I Love That Santy Claus by The Sno-Globes Dec 11, 2022

Listen to HOW I LOVE THATY SANTY CLAUS by The Sno-Globes featured in Episode 47 Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age - Pt. 2

Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age - Pt. 2 Dec 11, 2022

The conclusion of Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age.
Actress Thelma Todd was the “Queen of the Lot” and had made it in Hollywood when she died of mysterious circumstances at just 29 years old. Who killed her? Could it be her business partner Roland West a one-time screenwriter? Maybe it was the ex-husband, son of the Broccoli King, and agent Pat DiCicco? Police investigate, and all roads lead to The Trocadero, a famous nightclub that opened on the Sunset Strip in 1934.
Hang out with us as we unfold the inexplicable death of Thelma Todd.
❄️ We are thrilled to have music by THE SNO-GLOBES. Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Listen To The Sound Of Christmas by The Sno-Globes Dec 04, 2022

Listen to The Sound Of Christmas by The Sno-Globes featured in Episode 46 Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age - Pt. 1

Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Thelma Todd's Inexplicable Death In Hollywood's Golden Age - Pt. 1 Dec 04, 2022

Actress Thelma Todd was the “Queen of the Lot” and had made it in Hollywood when she died at just 29 years old. Who killed her? Could it be her business partner Roland West a one-time screenwriter? Maybe it was the ex-husband, son of the Broccoli King, and agent Pat DiCicco? Police investigate, and all roads lead to The Trocadero, a famous nightclub that opened on the Sunset Strip in 1934.
Hang out with us as we unfold the inexplicable death of Thelma Todd.
❄️ We are thrilled to have music by THE SNO-GLOBES. Here's a link to listen to more of their holiday music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFx8spF0Cc&t=5s
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Insider Kelly Edwards Explains What A Creative Executive Wants Nov 27, 2022

Today we have the talented and charming Kelly Edwards, who has worked for every major studio in Hollywood and developed shows like LIVING SINGLE, GIRLFRIEND, THE PARKERS, CLUELESS, AND TWO GUYS A GIRL AND A PIZZA.
After a film and television executive career, she transitioned to writing.

Kelly wrote the best seller, The Executive Chair: A Writer’s Guide To TV Series Development, and if you want to write for television, get this book. The Executive Chair is like getting the playbook of the other team but ethical!

Kelly is currently a producer and television writer.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Do I Have To Live In L.A. To Be A Screenwriter? Nov 20, 2022

We discuss the age-old question, do you have to move to Los Angeles to be a successful screenwriter with answers from William Goldman, Diablo Cody, and Aaron Sorkin? Plus, a fun quiz that pits a native-born Los Angeleno, Kathy Rager, and The Writers' Hangout's very own Terry Sampson.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Walt Disney FIGHT For Your Right To Party Nov 13, 2022

COME HANG OUT with us as we talk about one of the most famous parties in Hollywood. To thank his employees for the success of SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS, Walt Disney threw a party at the Norconian Resort in the California Desert. The party turned wild, and Walt himself never referred to the party again. And, if you wanted to keep your job, you didn’t mention it either.
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📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

The Bitter Sweet Symphony of Adrienne Shelly Nov 06, 2022

Adrienne Shelly was waiting to hear if the movie she wrote, directed, and starred in, WAITRESS, would get selected for the Sundance film Festival. On Halloween night in 2006, Shelly and her husband, Andy Ostroy, threw a party for their family and friends. The next day, Andy found Adriene hanging from a sheet in her office's bathroom in the West Village. Police said suicide, but anyone who knew Adrienne didn't believe this for a second. Join us as we tell you the story of this remarkable woman who the world must never forget.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Writers' Room Survival Guide by Niceole Levy Oct 30, 2022

On the eve of Halloween, we have only treats for you because our guest Niceole Levy is here to discuss her new book entitled: The Writers’ Room Survival Guide Don’t Screw Up the Lunch Order and Other Keys to a Happy Writers’ Room.

Niceole has written on Ironside, Shades of Blue, Cloak & Dagger, and S.W.A.T. She is currently a co-executive producer on Graymail, which will air on Netflix.

Grab your favorite Halloween candy, and let’s start the show.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Hanging Out With Emmy-Winning Comedy Writer Ken Levine Oct 23, 2022

Writers, we are so happy to have Emmy-winning writer/director/ playwright and major league baseball announcer KEN LEVINE hangs out with us. Ken’s credits include M*A*S*H, WINGS, CHEERS, FRASIER, and ALMOST PERFECT, which he created with his writing partner, DAVID ISAACS. He voiced Dan Hoard in THE SIMPSONS as well as co-wrote the episode. Ken has directed over 60 TV episodes, co-wrote the Tom Hanks movie VOLUNTEERS, and has a popular podcast called Hollywood and Levine.

Ken shares excellent tips on how to get your spec to the top of the pile, a gem of an idea on the way to make sure your writing sample stands out, and the best crew gift he ever got.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Life & Ghastly Death of Director/Writer Al Adamson Oct 16, 2022

Spooky Season continues with Sandy and Terry as they discuss the life and gruesome death of Al Adamson, a horror film director and writer. Al worked on the fringes of Hollywood during the golden age of drive-ins and grindhouse films. Al died in 1995 in a manner so dreadful it could have been a scene from one of his movies.
The 2019 documentary discussed in the episode:
BLOOD & FLESH: THE REEL LIFE & GHASTLY DEATH OF AL ADAMSON
vudu.com/content/movies/details/Blood-Flesh-The-Reel-Life-Ghastly-Death-of-Al-Adamson/1325672
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

PAGE Judge Nate Adams On Why He Options A Script And More! Oct 09, 2022

PAGE Awards’ Judge Nate Adams hangs out with us!!!
Nate is an award-winning writer, Director, and Producer with over 20 years of experience in entertainment. His career started as an actor but quickly transitioned to screenwriter, where Nate was re-writing and polishing scripts for some of the biggest producers in Hollywood. In 2006, Nate started directing and producing, and he hasn't looked back.
Nate shares his experience of killing his screenplay, from getting made to buying props at Home Depot to get the perfect shot.
We also put Nate through the paces with a pop quiz entitled YOU PRODUCED THE MOVIE BUT DO YOU KNOW THE MOVIE!
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Was The Poltergeist Movie Set Cursed Ft. Michael McManus Oct 02, 2022

Sandy and Terry discuss Poltergeist, one of America's most beloved horror films.
Released by MGM on June 4th, 1982, and written by Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, and Mark Victor, POLTERGEIST is rumored to be cursed for using real human skeletons during a pivotal scene. The curse is blamed for three lives lost in brutal and devastating ways.
POLTERGEIST just might be the most cursed film in Hollywood history.

We'll also be talking to writer and actor Michael McManus who played Ben Tuthill in POLTERGEIST, the neighbor next door, and get the real story of what happened.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Screenwriter Robert Riskin Out Of Capra's Shadow Sep 24, 2022

Sandy and Terry discuss screenwriter Robert Riskin who spent most of his career working with legendary director Frank Capra. Over the years, Capra's name has overshadowed Riskin's enormous contribution to their collaborative work. And in the end, one of these men didn't show up at the other's funeral.

Robert Riskin was like a character from one of his films, a self-made man who didn't graduate from a prestigious college. He didn't go to college at all.

Join us as we put Robert Riskin into the spotlight where he belongs.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

CHINATOWN: Why A Famous Last Line Almost Never Happen Sep 18, 2022

Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they talk about of the most famous last lines in film, "Forget it, Jake. It's Chinatown" from the 1974 film CHINATOWN written by Robert Towne, directed by Roman Polanski and starring Jack Nicolson and Faye Dunaway. But in this episode, we learn that famous last line almost didn’t happen and why!
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
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💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

A "Dirty" Book Makes It To The Big Screen Sep 11, 2022

Gotta get off, gonna get
Have to get off from this ride
Gotta get hold, gonna get
Need to get hold of my pride

When did I get, where did I
How was I caught in this game
When will I know, where will I
How will I think of my name
Roberta Flack/20th Century Fox Records/Johnny Williams · Barbara Parkins · Dory Previn
Hang out with Sandy and Terry as they chat about Valley of the Dolls, one of the best-selling books in publishing history written by Jacqueline Susann. VALLEY OF THE DOLLS chronicles the rise and fall of three young women in show business. Written by three very different writers, Harlan Ellison, Helen Deutsch and Dorothy Kingsley, VALLEY OF THE DOLLS will always have a place in the history of Hollywood.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Tips To Get Your Script Started Sep 04, 2022

The hardest thing for new writers, and many seasoned pros, is to sit down and start writing your screenplay. Sure, you’ve been contemplating and telling everyone who will listen what a great idea you have for a script for months but haven’t written anything down.

Then, you see a movie trailer that looks exactly like the movie you have in your head, and you want to curl up in a ball and punch yourself in the face.

Writers, in this episode, Sandy and Terry focus on “how to begin” with tips by Dean Orion. He wrote the book Live To Write Another Day, A Survival Guide for Screenwriters and Creative Storytellers. You can find Dean's book on Amazon.

We pick a card from the Woracle Deck, created by writers for writers; the Woracle Cards are an essential tool to help writers generate ideas for new or existing stories. The purpose of the cards is to inspire and rejuvenate the creative juices to get the words flowing back on the page.

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Welcome to my Ted Bergman Rogue Comedy Writer Talk Aug 28, 2022

Hello Writers, come hang out with Sandy and Terry as they talk about Ted Bergman, a 40-year veteran comedy writer with a long list of credits, including THE MUSTERS, HOLLYWOOD SQUARES, ALL IN THE FAMILY, SANFORD AND SON, WHAT'S HAPPENING, GIMME A BREAK, and THE GARY SHANDLING SHOW. Find out how Ted's Auntie Lee started his long writing career with a favor. Plus, we take you behind the scenes for a week at comedy legend Redd Fox's hit show SANFORD AND SON.

👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Writing REAR WINDOW with Hitchcock and Hayes Aug 21, 2022

Hello Writers, come hang out with Sandy and Terry as they discuss how a short story from a dime store magazine turned into one of the most discussed films produced in Hollywood and the fifth-grossing film of 1954. The film REAR WINDOW, starring Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly, Raymond Burr, and Thelma Ritter, was written by John Michael Hayes and directed by Alfred Hitchock.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Send Help with Writer, Producer and Creator Mike Gauyo Aug 14, 2022

Tèlman kontan ou isit la!
We’re talking with Haitian-born writer and showrunner Mike Gauyo, one of Hollywood’s top emerging creatives best known for his writing roles on HBO’s hit series INSECURE and Netflix’s GINNY & GEORGIA, about his new series SEND HELP, a coming-of-age dark comedy, premiering August 11th on AMC'S ALLBLK network.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to comment, please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

Backstory Story: Bruce Joel Rubin Aug 07, 2022

I was thinking about how screenwriters spend a lot of time coming up with a backstory for their characters, so I thought it would be fun to turn the tables and delve into the backstory of a screenwriter.
Bruce Joel Rubin is an American screenwriter, meditation teacher, and photographer. His films often explore themes of life and death with metaphysical and science fiction elements. Jacob's Ladder, My Life, and Ghost are prominent among them, for which he received the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Mamet Memo Everyone Is Still Talking About Jul 31, 2022

Hang out with us as we dive into the Mamet Memo.
In 2005, playwright, film director, screenwriter, and producer David Mamet wrote a memo to the writing staff of his CBS show The Unit. The memo surfaced online after the series was canceled and has been passed around writers’ room ever since. This doc is filled with wisdom that works for both television and film.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Finding The Perfect Writers' Room During The Age of Covid Jul 24, 2022

I was going to tell you the remarkable story of the unjustly overlooked screenwriter, but I had a strange week and needed to share it with you.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Rejection While Writing Jul 17, 2022

As a writer, you will have to deal with rejection.
First, do not beat yourself up emotionally.
Second, hit play and hang out with us as we talk about hit movies and television shows rejected by Hollywood's best. Including BACK TO THE FUTURE, PULP FICTION, and STRANGER THINGS.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Behind the Scenes with Kristin Overn the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE Awards Jul 10, 2022

In this episode, we have Kristin Overn the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards competition. She began her film career as a producer's assistant and script reader at companies like Davis Entertainment, Bonneville Worldwide, and 20th Century Fox, and since that time, she has consulted, collaborated, and developed screenplays with dozens of writers, producers, and production companies. Kristin also has extensive experience in production, and she has served as a Producer, Line Producer, and UPM on various independent features, original sitcom pilots, several award-winning short films, TV commercials, and videos. She is a member of the Producers Guild of America and the Directors Guild of America.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Four Jul 03, 2022

We continue our conversation on how PAGE Awards Judges evaluate your screenplay with Karen Craig and Scott Barkan. Next week to wrap up this four-part series we’ll be talking to Kristin Overn, the Founder and Executive Director of the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.

Karen Craig is a professional screenwriter and script doctor whose credits include such films as AMERICAN PSYCHO II, starring Mila Kunis and William Shatner, and FORBIDDEN SECRETS, starring Kristy Swanson. Karen has served as a judge for the PAGE Awards for the past 12 years, reviewing both Thriller/Horror scripts and Family Films.

Scott Barkan is a professional screenwriter with several produced films and sold scripts to his name. He has worked with Blumhouse and Lionsgate and is repped by Mainstay Entertainment and CAA. Scott is also a university professor, teaching music and communications. As a PAGE judge, he primarily reads Action/Adventure, Thriller/Horror and Science Fiction scripts.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Three Jun 26, 2022

Two more PAGE Awards Judges, David Portlock, and John Evans continue our conversation on how they evaluate your screenplay. These two Judges drop a lot of helpful info in this interview.

✰ David Portlock has worked as a script reader for United Talent Agency and currently works for Bassett Vance Productions. Over the past 15 years, David has consulted and assisted dozens of writers in the development of their films. Also a screenwriter himself, David wrote and directed a feature film that was picked up by HBO, Cinemax, and Starz, a short film that premiered at Sundance, and a horror script that topped the Bloodlist. As a PAGE judge, David evaluates screenplays in the Science Fiction, Thriller/Horror, Comedy, and Drama categories.

✰ John Evans received his MFA in Screenwriting from Boston University, and since moving to LA he has worked in the development departments at ABC Studios, The Donners Company, Kopelson Entertainment, and AEI. John has also taught writing at the college level, authored six educational books, and worked as a copywriter and editor for several film distribution companies. John is the editor of our PAGE Awards ezine, and as a contest judge, he primarily reads Thriller/Horror scripts and TV Drama Pilots.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script: Part Two Jun 19, 2022

Two more PAGE Awards Judges, Dwayne Smith, and Mike Kuciak continue the conversation on how they evaluate your screenplay.

Mike Kuciak has two movies coming out in 2022; he’s the writer-director and writer-producer of the other. He’s a producer on a third film scheduled to begin production in late 2022. He has served as a producer and executive producer on several independent films. He was the senior vice president of development for a literary management-production company and, after that, the founder/CEO of his own company before hanging that up to focus on writing/directing/producing.

Dwayne Smith has been working as a professional screenwriter since 1999 and has written scripts for Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Intermedia, and Gold Circle. His urban thriller PAY THE LADY is currently in post-production, and his sci-fi feature IMPLANT is now in pre-production. Representing the management firm Circle of Confusion at numerous screenwriting conferences and festivals, Dwayne has listened to hundreds of pitches and read countless screenplays in search of new writing talent. As a judge for the PAGE Awards, he reads Comedies, Thriller/Horror, Science Fiction, and Action/Adventure scripts.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

PAGE Awards Judges Reveal How They Evaluate Your Script Jun 12, 2022

Two PAGE Awards Judges, Victoria Lucas and Laurie Ashbourne, talk about how they evaluate your screenplays, whether you're just starting or have a script in the competition. You do not want to miss this inside talk.
⭐️ Laurie Ashbourne began her film career in Disney animation, and over the past 20 years, she has worked as a story consultant, writer, and producer for Disney, Amazon, and many independent producers. She has over 30 features and short films to her credit, including her new family feature CHRISTMAS TIME, which is currently in post-production. As a PAGE judge, Laurie reviews scripts in several different genre categories, including Family Films, Comedies, Dramas, and Shorts.
⭐️ Victoria Lucas is an independent producer who has developed scripts for projects starring Antonio Banderas, Scarlett Johansson, Wesley Snipes, and Hilary Swank. Among her favorite projects is the highly acclaimed coming-of-age film, The Island on Bird Street, awarded the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Victoria is also a Judge for the PAGE Awards contest, in a variety of genres including Drama and Historical Films

👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Strange Disappearance of Screenwriter Ian Mackintosh Jun 05, 2022

British screenwriter, Ian Mackintosh’s plane went missing on July 7, 1979, nineteen days before his thirty-ninth birthday, over the Gulf of Alaska. What happened still remains a mystery. Join us as we tell the story of Lieutenant Commander Hamish Ian Mackintosh, a British Royal Navy officer, a writer of thriller novels, and a screenwriter for British television.
Ian’s series, THE SANDBAGGERS was groundbreaking. The New York Times said "the best spy series in television history." Ian MacKintosh was among the first writers to present espionage realistically and as a sordid series of political struggles, double-crosses, and personality clashes.
If you would like to read more about Ian Mackintosh I highly recommend The Life and Mysterious death of Ian Mackintosh by Robert G. Folsom

👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Having Fun with Screenwriter Seth Cohen May 29, 2022

Our guest is writer extraordinaire Seth Cohen. Seth and his partner, Amu Pocha are known for the NBC sitcom Undateable, Netflix's animated Paradise PD, and The Head of the Class reboot for HBO Max. Seth is currently a consulting producer on FARZAR, an upcoming Netflix animated series.

👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us @thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Unbelievable Story of Elisabeth Finch: Part 2 May 21, 2022

In part two, we continue the story based on the Vanity Fair article on television writer, Elisabeth Finch who wrote many of the emotional scripts for GREY'S ANATOMY exploring cancer, abortion, and sexual abuse using her own life experience.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Unbelievable Story of Elisabeth Finch: Part 1 May 15, 2022

In part one, rising star and television writer, Elizabeth Finch wrote many of the emotional scripts for GREY'S ANATOMY exploring cancer, abortion, and sexual abuse using her own life experience. But when an email arrived at Shonda Rhimes’ production company, Shondaland, as well as ABC’s parent company, Disney, that Elizabeth wasn't telling the truth. Elizabeth has been put on a leave of absence.
👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Mother's Day With or Without You and the Fearless Claudette Wells May 08, 2022

Join us as we celebrate Mother's Day with actor, writer, and voice-over artist Claudette Wells as we discuss how moms influence our creativity. Plus, Claudette shares a story about Bill Murray, hanging out with Anne Beatts, and being a founding member of Dead Mother's Day. I promise you it isn't as terrible as it sounds!
👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @thewritershangoutpodcast
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

History vs. Hollywood: 1979’s The Amityville Horror May 01, 2022

Sandy and Terry explore the difference between the movie and the true story. First up is 1979’s Amityville Horror, starring Josh Brolin, Margot Kidder, and Rod Steiger. Amityville Horror is about a family terrorized by supernatural forces after moving into a murder house in Amityville, Long Island, New York.

👍 If you enjoy the show, please follow us and leave a review so we can keep hanging out.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos @page_awards.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Story of Susan Berman, Screenwriter, and Mafia Princess Apr 24, 2022

On Christmas Eve 2000, Susan Berman, a journalist, screenwriter, and author was murdered in her home at 1527 Benedict Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills. Susan, the only daughter of a mobster and former dancer, grew up as mob royalty, where Elvis and Liberace entertained on her birthdays. Her tragic death shocked her friends but did Susan know her killer?
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
📸 Check out our IG for photos of Susan Berman @page_awards.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Amy Pocha What You Wanna Do Apr 16, 2022

Today's guest is television writer Amy Pocha. Amy and her partner, Seth Cohen, are known for the NBC sitcom Undateable, Netflix's animated Paradise PD, and The Head of the Class reboot for HBO Max. Amy is currently a consulting producer on FARZAR, an upcoming Netflix animated series. Amy talks about writing for television and how she walked away from one of her first jobs in the entertainment industry as a big winner.
👍 If you enjoy the show please remember to follow us and leave a review where you listen to podcasts.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please contact us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Gary's Wonky Finger Is The Key Apr 10, 2022

We have a very special guest today, Judy TrueCrime, a friend of the Pod here to discuss Episode 3 of The Writers’ Hangout, The Mysterious Death of the Hollywood Screenwriter.
👍 If you enjoy the show please leave us a review where you listen to podcasts.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please write us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Producer Victoria Lucas Tells the Story of Her Grandmother, Bess Meredyth, Silent Film Screenwriting Legend Apr 03, 2022

On The Writers' Hangout, we talk with Victoria Lucas, an independent producer who has developed scripts for projects starring Antonio Banderas, Scarlett Johansson, Wesley Snipes, and Hilary Swank. Among her favorite projects is the highly acclaimed coming-of-age film, The Island on Bird Street, awarded the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Victoria is also a Judge for the PAGE Awards contest, and her family has worked in Hollywood since the very earliest days of the film industry.

We're going to talk with her about her legendary grandmother Bess Meredyth, a screenwriter, actress, and founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.

👍 If you enjoy the show please leave us a review where you listen to podcasts.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast or would like to make a comment please write us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Oh My God! They Killed Kenney! The Too Short and Fascinating Life of Screenwriter Doug Kenney Mar 26, 2022

Today we tell the story of the screenwriter and mastermind behind ANIMAL HOUSE, CADDYSHACK, and co-founder of NATIONAL LAMPOON, Doug Kenney. Friends and co-workers remember him as a “genius,” Kenney, who died at 33 when he fell off a cliff in Hawaii.
If you enjoy the show please leave us a review.
💙 If you have an idea for the podcast please write us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
We would love your comments on Instagram @thewritershangoutpodcast

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer's 25th Anniversary Special with Steve La Rue Mar 20, 2022

What's the sitch? We're celebrating the 25th anniversary of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER with Steve La Rue.
Steve is an internationally recognized leader in film and television development. Steve has 20+ years working independently and for Paramount Pictures Corp., NBC/Universal, and 20th Century Fox, where he championed such series as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The X-Files, The Simpsons, King of the Hill, Battlestar Galactica, and Farscape.

So, Scoobie Gang, no Scully here, Steve gives us the straight origin story behind BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER.
If you enjoy the show please leave us a review.
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
IG @thewritershangoutpodcast

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Hollywood Hyphenate Michael Hitchcock Talks Writing and Acting In Hollywood Mar 13, 2022

Host Sandy Adomaitis and screenwriter Michael Hitchcock discuss the first film he wrote, WHERE THE DAY TAKES YOU, what it is like to direct an episode of GLEE and how he balances being a true Hollywood hyphenate. Michael has not only written on some of your favorite television shows, he can also be seen on the big screen in BARB AND STAR GO TO VISTA DEL MAR, Christopher Guest’s BEST IN SHOW, and the iconic WAITING FOR GUFFMAN.
If you enjoy the show please give us a five-star review and leave a review.
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
IG @thewritershangoutpodcast

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Screenwriter Paul Bern the Man Who Changed How You Write and Married Jean Harlow Mar 06, 2022

In today's episode, we share the fascinating story of screenwriter-director Paul Bern. Paul Bern, known throughout the movie business as "Hollywood's Father Confessor," earned a reputation for being a loyal and supportive friend and becoming one of MGM's most respected and creative screenwriter-directors. Paul married Jean Harlow, an American actress. Known for her portrayal of "bad girl" characters and as a leading sex symbol of the early 1930s, Jean earned the nicknamed "The Blonde Bombshell."
If you enjoy the show please give us a five-star review and leave a review. Also, let us know if you think Paul's death was a murder or a cover-up on our IG Page @thewritershangout or email us at thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
Let us know if there is a story you'd like us to cover at thewritershangoutpodcast.com.
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
IG @thewritershangoutpodcast

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Tales from the Trenches with Screenwriter Vivian Lee Feb 27, 2022

Sandy and screenwriter Vivian Lee discuss the difference between early success as a writer and coming up through production, writing dark and complicated characters, their long-time friendship, and how Vivian manages to write on a deadline with a toddler. Vivian's credits include "From," a brand new sci-fi, horror show on Epix, and for Netflix's "Lost in Space," "The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance," and "Cowboy Bebop."
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
Follow Vivian Lee @TheViv86

The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

How to Spend $600 Million Dollars: The Story of Screenwriter Steve Bing Feb 20, 2022

In episode five, we take you into the complicated and lux world of Stephen Leo Bing, an American businessman, philanthropist, film producer, and screenwriter.
Enjoy the show.
Contact us: thewritershangoutpodcast@gmail.com
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Behind the Scenes with Screenwriter Zack Stentz Feb 13, 2022

Today on THE WRITERS' HANGOUT, we have the talented screenwriter Zack Stentz who co-wrote the blockbusters movies "Thor" and "X-Men: First Class. Zack's tv credits include "Fringe," "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles," and "The Flash." Zack's latest endeavor is "Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous," which he developed for Netflix.
We discuss Zack's Twitter feed which is jam-packed with valuable info for writers and his witty observations; how he and his writing partner split up the work when writing "Thor" and why he won't be invited back to a punch-up room anytime soon.
Enjoy the show.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer/Engineer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.

The Mysterious Death of the Hollywood Screenwriter Feb 06, 2022

In this episode, Sandy and producer Terry Sampson discuss the little-known mystery of the 1997 disappearance of screenwriter Gary Devore. Gary was returning home after working out the ending of his latest script, which he claimed would blow the lid off government secrets when he disappeared without a trace. Did Gary step out to “buy a pack of cigarettes,” or was he met with foul play? We’ll delve into what happened that fateful night and revisit the rumors and conspiracy theories that continue to baffle and disturb people.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Can Improv Really Make You a Better Screenwriter? Jan 30, 2022

Our second episode features screenwriters Steve Mazur (Liar Liar, The Little Rascals, Phil) and Mark Steen (Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, Dilbert, Sparks), who talk about how simply attending one improv class can make you a better writer! Steve and Mark also go head-to-head in a pop quiz battle to determine who knows their favorite movie best. Will it be Steve with Tom Hank's beloved BIG or Mark who answers questions from the entire JAMES BOND franchise?
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsor the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

Welcome To The Writers' Hangout Jan 22, 2022

In this first episode of THE WRITERS' HANGOUT, host Sandy Adomaitis interviews superstar TV producers Toni Graphia (OUTLANDER, BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES) and John Wirth (WU ASSASSINS, HELL ON WHEELS, TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES) who discuss life in the writers' room, what they look for when hiring new writers and how to succeed in this crazy business.
The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsor the WRITERS' HANGOUT.
Executive Producer Kristin Overn
Producer Sandy Adomaitis
Producer Terry Sampson
Music by Ethan Stoller

PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Hollywood’s favorite screenwriting contest -- one of the industry's top sources for new talent.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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