The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast cover art

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

The Successful Screenwriter with Geoffrey D Calhoun: Screenwriting Podcast

By: Geoffrey D. Calhoun
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Welcome to The Successful Screenwriter Podcast your go-to source for in-depth discussions, expert insights, and captivating interviews in the world of screenwriting. Hosted by seasoned screenwriter Geoffrey D. Calhoun, this podcast is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced screenwriters, offering a wealth of insights and guidance.

About the Podcast:
Dive deep into the art and craft of screenwriting with our engaging episodes that cover a spectrum of topics – from mastering the screenplay format to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, providing valuable takeaways for writers at every stage of their journey.

Host:
Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriting instructor and best selling author with a passion for storytelling. With a proven track record in the film industry, Geoffrey has not only honed his craft as a successful screenwriter but also shares his wealth of knowledge as an instructor. His unique journey in the world of screenwriting has equipped him with a unique perspective, making him an essential guide for screenwriters of all levels.

Key Features:
  • Expert Interviews: Gain insights from renowned screenwriters, filmmakers, and industry professionals who share their experiences, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories.
  • Screenwriting Tips: Unlock the secrets of successful screenwriting with actionable tips, tricks, and techniques discussed in every episode.
  • Film Analysis: Explore in-depth film analyses, breaking down the storytelling techniques that make movies memorable and impactful.
  • Exclusive Industry Insights: Access exclusive industry secrets and stay updated on the latest trends. Get insider knowledge to navigate the world of screenwriting with confidence.
Connect with Us:
  • Subscribe to the podcast on Spreaker for regular updates.
  • Engage with us on Instagram @screenwriterpod for the latest news, discussions, and community interactions.
  • Visit our official website thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com for additional resources such as: Screenwriting Gigs, Screenplay Library, Seminars and other exclusive content.
Embark on your screenwriting journey with The Successful Screebwriter Podcast. Let's transform your storytelling aspirations into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Subscribe to our screenwriting podcast now and join our vibrant community of storytellers!

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)The Successful Screenwriter Art
Episodes
  • EP 313 – ELSY: The Post-Apocalyptic Vertical Series That Could Change Everything

    EP 313 – ELSY: The Post-Apocalyptic Vertical Series That Could Change Everything
    Jun 7 2026
    What if the voice keeping you alive couldn't be trusted?

    In this special episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Assistant Director Kristy Leigh Lussier and interviewer Jess Paul to pull back the curtain on Elsy, a cinematic post-apocalyptic vertical series premiering this July. For over a decade, Elsy existed in different forms a web series, a feature film, a television project before finally finding its perfect home in the exploding world of vertical storytelling.

    Now, Geoffrey makes his directorial debut with a psychological thriller that blends mystery, survival, loneliness, and hope into a mobile-first cinematic experience unlike anything currently available in the vertical space.

    In this episode, you'll discover:
    • How vertical storytelling is transforming the entertainment industry
    • The challenge of creating a cinematic experience in a vertical format
    • The process of casting Karly Coffee, Rochelle Nicole, and Eric Roman
    • Behind-the-scenes stories from shooting 21 episodes in just 5 days
    • Why loneliness is the emotional core of Elsy
    • The future of vertical series and why Geoffrey believes this is where storytelling is headed
    Elsy follows a young woman trapped inside a bunker after a mysterious catastrophe leaves the world buried beneath ash. Alone, isolated, and running out of supplies, she discovers a voice on a CB radio. But as hope grows, so do the questions. Can she trust the person on the other end? And what happens when survival depends on believing a lie?

    If you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, content creator, or simply fascinated by where entertainment is headed next, this episode offers an inside look at the future of storytelling.

    Topics Covered
    • Vertical Series Production
    • Post-Apocalyptic Storytelling
    • Psychological Thrillers
    • Writing for Mobile Audiences
    • Film Production on a Budget
    • The Future of Streaming Content
    • Behind the Scenes of Elsy
    About ELSY
    Elsy is a cinematic vertical thriller following a young woman surviving alone in a bunker after the collapse of civilization. As she forms a connection with a mysterious voice over a CB radio, she begins questioning everything she thought she knew about her world.

    Written and Directed by Geoffrey D. Calhoun.

    Coming July 2026.

    🚨 Watch the ELSY Trailer: Instagram: @screenwriterpod

    Watch the trailer, follow the journey, and share your theories before the series premieres.

    #Elsy #VerticalSeries #PostApocalyptic #PsychologicalThriller #IndieFilm #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #VerticalDrama #DirectorDebut #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter #SurvivalThriller #MysterySeries #MobileStorytelling #FilmmakerPodcast









    🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!
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    45 mins
  • Ep 312 - Hollywood Is Changing Faster Than Most Writers Realize

    Ep 312 - Hollywood Is Changing Faster Than Most Writers Realize
    Jun 1 2026
    Hollywood is in the middle of a major shift, and many writers may not realize how quickly the rules are changing. In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy explore the success of creator-driven projects like Backrooms, the growing influence of online audiences. They discuss what today's moviegoers are actually paying to see, how YouTube creators and independent filmmakers are bringing audiences back to theaters, and what these changes mean for screenwriters trying to build careers in an evolving industry.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode
    • Why creator-driven films are disrupting Hollywood
    • What the success of Backrooms reveals about modern audiences
    • Strategies for writing authentic dialogue
    • How to approach talent attachment and financing
    Help us spread the word and support indie filmmaking! Our new vertical thriller Elsy premieres this July, and the first trailer is live now on Instagram.

    Watch the Elsy trailer now on Instagram Here

    Watch the trailer, share it to your stories, comment your theories and tag a friend who loves mystery, suspense, and post-apocalyptic storytelling. Every share helps us reach new viewers and brings more attention to independent filmmaking.

    About the Host
    With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.

    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun
    Website:thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
    Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter


    Connect with Kristy
    Instagram: @kantoka127
    Watch The Witch Wolf's Mate: C

    #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #Hollywood #Backrooms #IndieFilm #Screenwriter #WritingCommunity #FilmIndustry #Storytelling #TheSuccessfulScreenwriter

    🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!
    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
  • Ep 311 - Why Fan Service Is Killing Movies

    Ep 311 - Why Fan Service Is Killing Movies
    Apr 13 2026
    In this episode, Geoffrey and Kristy lighten things up after a heavy week and dive into what’s happening in movies right now. From walking out of Super Mario Bros 2 to breaking down why fan service is starting to replace real storytelling, this conversation gets honest about where the industry is heading. They also explore why adaptations like Project Hail Mary are resonating with audiences, how the Hero’s Journey is still alive and well, and answer real screenwriting questions from listeners. If you’ve been frustrated with modern films or wondering how to sharpen your own writing, this episode gives you clarity and direction.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode
    • Why fan service is replacing story in major IP films
    • The problem with introducing characters too late in a script
    • Why faithful adaptations like Project Hail Mary work
    • The truth about the Hero’s Journey and why it never dies
    • How to write stronger characters in short films
    • Best practices for writing love scenes in today’s industry
    • How to approach a 48-hour film festival script
    • Why you don’t need Hollywood to succeed as a screenwriter
    Key Moments
    • 00:20 – Opening and shift to a lighter episode
    • 00:55 – Geoffrey walks out of Mario Bros 2 and why
    • 02:14 – The rise of fan service over storytelling
    • 06:52 – Why Project Hail Mary connects with audiences
    • 14:34 – “The Hero’s Journey is dead?” debate
    About the Cohost
    Kristy Leigh Lussier is a filmmaker and storyteller working across multiple formats, including the fast-growing vertical content space. She brings both creative and production insight into modern storytelling trends and industry shifts.

    About the Host
    With films on network television, streaming platforms, and in theaters, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is a screenwriter, author of The Guide for Every Screenwriter, and a passionate mentor in the industry. He hosts The Successful Screenwriter podcast to empower writers and filmmakers at every level.

    Resources Mentioned in the Episode
    • Project Hail Mary
    • Interstellar
    • The Martian
    • Ready or Not 2
    • They Will Kill You
    Connect with Guest
    • Instagram: @kantoka127
    • Watch her vertical drama: The Witch Wolfs Mate
    Connect with Geoffrey D. Calhoun
    • Website: thesuccessfulscreenwriter.com
    • Instagram: @screenwriterpod
    • YouTube: @thesuccessfulscreenwriter
    #screenwriting #filmmaking #writingtips #screenwriterlife #storytelling #filmindustry #indiefilm #writerslife

    🎬 Get Free Script Leads — be the first to know which producers are requesting scripts and accepting submissions.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe. Share it with a fellow screenwriter who’d find it valuable!
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
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