Best Spec Script Podcasts (2025)

1
"How to be a Screenwriter" with Phil Stark (South Park, That '70s Show, Dude, Where's My Car?) 44:23

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1d ago44:23

44:23

Screenwriter and therapist Phil Stark joins the ISA for an honest, funny, and deeply insightful conversation about creativity, impostor syndrome, and breaking into the industry.By scott markus

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Murder of Mafia Princess and Screenwriter Susan Berman 24:44

7d ago24:44

24:44

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 affe…

1
Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein And 8 Writing Tips 15:24

14d ago15:24

15:24

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…

1
The Tragic Murder of Screenwriter Adrienne Shelly 20:44

28d ago20:44

20:44

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 a…

1
Our Guest Is Comedy Legend Jerry Zucker! 31:57

1M ago31:57

31:57

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…

1
Happy Halloween With A Recap of The Ghost And Mr. Chicken! 55:01

1M ago55:01

55:01

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 …

1
From Dream to Debut: Alex Sarrigeorgiou's First Feature Film Story, making "In Transit" 35:34

1M ago35:34

35:34

Writer, actor, and poet Alex Sarrigeorgiou talks about her creative journey and her debut feature film, "In Transit," a tender, intimate queer drama about connection, identity, and the courage to change direction in life.By Shayna Weber

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Making Back to Back Viral Short Films w/Luke Barnett (THE CROSSING OVER EXPRESS & OVATION) 1:21:43

1M ago1:21:43

1:21:43

VIDEO PODCAST AVAILABLE at YouTube.com/@AndyCompton! Please watch and subscribe to the channel for more video episodes! Hey there, everybody! Welcome to Episode 50! What an achievement! Very stoked to have screenwriter, director, producer, and actor, Luke Barnett back on the show. In this episode, we talk about his two most recent short films, THE …

1
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome as a Writer | Trusting the Process of Storytelling 6:46

2M ago6:46

6:46

"The idea of impostor syndrome is something I think we all struggle with — and I'm no exception." In this heartfelt reflection, Craig James opens up about creative self-doubt, trusting your work, and learning to let go once you've done your part.By Craig James

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Just Your Typical Award-winning Screenwriter-slash-Zookeeper | Alli Kiko Masloske's Inspiring Story 37:02

2M ago37:02

37:02

In this inspiring conversation, Alli Kiko Masloske shares her creative journey from working with animals to writing screenplays that connect deeply with audiences. From navigating chronic illness to finding her voice in a competitive industry, Alli opens up about how humor, honesty, and community have shaped her work and outlook on life.…

1
The Strange Disappearance of Screenwriter Ian Mackintosh 21:10

2M ago21:10

21:10

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 screenwrite…

1
Rewind: Drinking With Hitchcock and Writing 'Rear Window' 34:34

2M ago34:34

34:34

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 dire…

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Dani Hanks on Writing with Authentic Voice & Building a TV Career, Emerging Screenwriter Interview 37:49

2M ago37:49

37:49

Writer, director, and creative powerhouse Dani Hanks joins Shaya Weber for an in-depth conversation about her journey from actor to award-winning writer, how chronic illness shaped their perspective, and their process for writing powerful, character-driven stories. Learn how Dani approaches outlining, keeps momentum through rejection, and balances …

1
Finding Your True Writing Voice | Stop Writing for the Audience, Start Writing for YOURSELF 9:35

2M ago9:35

9:35

Every writer needs to find their true voice, that unique perspective that makes their work authentic and unforgettable. We dive into what "voice" really means and how to write from a place of honesty.By Craig James

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From Making the 2022 and 2023 Annual Blacklist to Having His Script Directed by Peter Landesman w/Kevin Sheridan (ELEVEN DAYS) 1:16:11

2M ago1:16:11

1:16:11

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, we have actor turned screenwriter, Kevin Sheridan. I've known of Kevin for awhile from Twitter but we hadn't interacted much until now. Just friends and fans from afar. It was great getting to talk to him and learn about his history as an actor, working on some huge shows of the 2000s, and then his more rece…

1
Patricia Resnick On Writing “9 to 5,” Working With Cher, And Writing For Mad Men 1:14:49

3M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

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. Write…

1
Improve Your Writing by Reading, Take 10 with Craig 5:15

3M ago5:15

5:15

Take advantage of ISA's free screenplay library to improve your own craft.By Craig James

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Carolyn And Kai Omine Talk Writing The Simpsons + Spill Exclusives 59:58

3M ago59:58

59:58

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…

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Spec Scripts Are Selling Again -- What You Need To Know 19:16

3M ago19:16

19:16

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 ha…

1
Devin Jane Febbroriello: To be a Filmmaker You Need to Understand Feedback & Collaboration 44:20

4M ago44:20

44:20

Devin Jane Febbroriello is a North American screenwriter/director + producer that specializes in the creation of thought-provoking stories centered on lovable dysfunctional families, surreal multi-genre plots, women, and dark humor. Evocative characters blaze bold paths through thematically rich circumstances to cultivate her emotive works. Devin's…

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It's Never Too Late with Comedian Aaron Foster 42:23

4M ago42:23

42:23

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, A…

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Faceoff: Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni – Three Things You Need To Know 21:22

4M ago21:22

21:22

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 Mu…

1
Conor Dowling on Breaking into Screenwriting & Filmmaking in Ireland (Emerging Screenwriter) 47:53

4M ago47:53

47:53

Conor spent most of his youth in Ireland gigging in rock bands, working in a video store and reading too many Stephen King novels. Eventually, he knew he had to course correct and follow his dreams. Conor is a writer, filmmaker and award winning podcaster from Dublin with a masters in film production from Staffordshire University. Conor writes abou…

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Author/Showrunner DJ MacHale on Unlocking Stories & Taking Control of Your Writing Career 1:20:55

5M ago1:20:55

1:20:55

Join us for a captivating evening with D.J. MacHale, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Pendragon series and creator of the cult-favorite TV show "Are You Afraid of the Dark?" From bestselling books to iconic screen moments, D.J. has spent his career crafting stories that resonate across generations. In this exclusive event, he'll shar…

1
Yazmin Monet Watkins: Poetry, Roller Skates & Speaking Truth 41:14

5M ago41:14

41:14

Yazmin Monet Watkins is a poet, comedian, screenwriter, actress, organizer, avid roller skater and adventurer. She can be seen on season two of Grand Crew on NBC, Comedy Central and has co-developed and written pilots for Netflix & Comedy Central.By Shayna Weber

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How Mike White Came Up With The Idea For Jack Black’s School Of Rock 16:03

5M ago16:03

16:03

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…

1
'And Just Like That' Kills A Character Twice – Seriously 22:52

5M ago22:52

22:52

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 ho…

1
From Acting in MAJOR PAYNE to Writing, Directing, Composing, AND Acting in BITTERSWEET (Apple TV) w/Steven Martini 1:05:26

5M ago1:05:26

1:05:26

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, we have writer, actor, director, composer, editor, and singer/songwriter Steven Martini. I met Steven on Twitter and quickly realized, "OH MY GOD, THAT'S CADET ALEX STONE FROM MAJOR PAYNE!" I was a big fan in my childhood, so it was a thrill to meet Steven now, 30 years later. And it's been an interesting th…

1
Hollywood vs History with 1979’s The Amityville Horror 30:09

5M ago30:09

30:09

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 t…

1
First Draft Practical Steps With Screenwriter Leo Andronov 42:36

5M ago42:36

42:36

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…

1
The Truth About Agents 10:54

6M ago10:54

10:54

How Writers Really Get Repped (The 90/10 Rule You Need to Know), Take 10 with ISA Founder Craig JamesBy Craig James

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Thomas Dekker Delves Deep Into Screenwriting 53:29

6M ago53:29

53:29

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, Thom…

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Allegra Oxborough, Table Read My Screenplay Grand Prize Winner & Director Paul Lindsay 16:52

6M ago16:52

16:52

The most recent Table Read My Screenplay contest brought the grand prize winner to the South of France during the Cannes Film Festival. Hear from screenwriter Allegra Oxborough & director Paul Lindsay.By Scott Markus

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Jen Butler, Emerging Screenwriter Interview Series 1:04:02

6M ago1:04:02

1:04:02

Jen Butler is a comedian and storyteller who specializes in writing feature-length, multi-layered dark comedy screenplays focusing on the complex nature of humans as they navigate spiritual and emotional awakenings. When not writing screenplays, Jen tells comedic real-talk stories to her 275,000 online followers (@jenbutlersays IG, TikTok, & Thread…

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Screenwriter Update! AJ Bermudez, author & co-writer of "My Dead Friend Zoe" 22:59

6M ago22:59

22:59

A. J. BERMUDEZ is an award-winning author and filmmaker based in Los Angeles and New York. Her first book, Stories No One Hopes Are About Them, won the 2022 Iowa Short Fiction Award and was a 2023 Lambda Award Finalist. Her most recent feature film project, My Dead Friend Zoe (co-written with director Kyle-Hausmann Stokes, starring Sonequa Martin-G…

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‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Camilla Luddington Speaks on Elisabeth Finch 19:09

7M ago19:09

19:09

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. Toget…

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Stephanie Bast, Emerging Screenwriter Interview 35:01

7M ago35:01

35:01

Stephanie Bast was abandoned in Korea, adopted by Italians and raised in a town so small and white, someone asked: "How are you gonna understand her when she starts speaking?" Fiercely loved and protected, she was taught to fear "the other" while knowing "the other" was herself. She started to write comedy to heal a wound. Now she writes to heal ot…

1
The Screenwriter And Malibu Squatter - Ellie Mae McNulty 26:24

7M ago26:24

26:24

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 wo…

1
Short Film Table Read, "Suicide at Noon" by Merrit Chelsey Schmidt 27:31

8M ago27:31

27:31

Suicide at Noon Logline: A newly organized but suicidal woman must withstand the various objections of her friends and family and convince them to support her or be forced to cancel her perfectly scheduled upcoming suicide.By Merrit Chelsey Schmidt

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The Missing Screenwriter Found With No Hands 18:41

8M ago18:41

18:41

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…

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Script Consultant Pioneer Linda Seger discusses her latest book, "Unpacking" 59:24

8M ago59:24

59:24

There's a lot to unpack here as Linda Seger is full of interesting stories and lessons learned along the way. As a pioneering female entrepreneur, she was on the cutting edge of a new type of business - being a screenplay consultant. Her passion, drive, and wiliness to dive into every opportunity took her from small town Wisconsin to lecturing arou…

1
Emerging Screenwriter Interview: Adam Karpel 51:12

8M ago51:12

51:12

A native New Yorker, Adam received a BFA from Ithaca College and completed one year of his MFA at UCLA before deciding to quit because those hard wooden classroom chairs were really chafing his ass. Writing began for him when his first play was produced at the West Coast Ensemble Theater in Hollywood. A creative executive who happened to be in the …

1
The First Room: A TV Writer's Experience w/Edith Rodriguez (DEXTER: RESURRECTION on Showtime, MATLOCK on CBS) 1:24:43

8M ago1:24:43

1:24:43

Hey there, everybody! Today on the show, we have a returning guest, Edith Rodriguez. Edith and I first spoke on the pod right after we both landed our first managers in late 2021. Now, we're back and Edith has been in two different writer's rooms and shares her experience! Edith Rodriguez grew up between the sunny beaches of Puerto Rico and cold wi…

1
Sydney Sweeney Is Turning a Reddit Story Into a Movie 20:01

8M ago20:01

20:01

Show notes to follow.By Sandy Adomaitis

1
"Offbeat," pilot episode, Table Read My Screenplay Grand Prize Winner 30:58

8M ago30:58

30:58

"Offbeat," pilot episode, 2020 Table Read My Screenplay Grand Prize Winner, written by Marshall "gripp" Gillson.By Marshall "gripp" Gillson

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"The Icebox," Award-Winning Short Screenplay Table Read 19:44

9M ago19:44

19:44

Please enjoy a performance of the Table Read My Screenplay Award-Winning short script, "The Icebox" by Brian P. Glass. Cast: Elijah Terrell Haney, Hye Bin Lee, Carson Grant, Damon Evans & narrated by Felicity Wren.By Brian P. Glass

1
Poltergeist: Hollywood's Most Cursed Film Ft. Michael McManus 27:02

9M ago27:02

27:02

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…

1
Legendary Entertainment Lawyer Peter J. Dekom Explains It All 50:22

9M ago50:22

50:22

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 co…

1
Update: Blake and Justin/Gene Hackman’s Shocking Death 22:49

9M ago22:49

22:49

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 Pro…

1
Hollywood vs. History: The Amityville Horror 31:37

10M ago31:37

31:37

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 movi…