The Script Reader Pro Podcast

In this episode, Scott and Desiree give insight on what to keep in mind when taking your idea forward, and how to stay on the right track when it comes to keeping it in the lane of creating something that has a definite audience, and can sell. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-47-mapping-your-screenplay-part-2/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.co...

This episode is the first in an exciting 4-part series where Scott and Desiree walk you through what to keep in mind when finding that next idea and listening to that spark inside you as you map your next feature-length screenplay. Click here to read the full show notes: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-46-mapping-your-screenplay/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri...

In this episode, Scott & Desiree break down what a thriller really is, how to make it work, and the things to keep in mind when you attempt to write a thriller that will make the industry pay attention. Click here to read the full show notes: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-45-anatomy-of-a-thriller/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Scott and Desiree talk about all the reasons why you should be reading as many screenplays as you can; they also use one scene from The Dark Knight as an example of how to break down and study those screenplays, not just read them. It's all about "doing the work." Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-44-read-the-damn-screenpla...

In this episode, Scott and Desiree talk about one of the scariest things for anybody: change. They talk about how as a writer trying to break into a very collaborative business, where everybody has an opinion, needs to be malleable and easily adaptive to change. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-43-change/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri...

What does it look like to become successful after going through a mentorship with us? How does it help you grow in confidence and skill? In this episode, Scott and Desiree talk with Phillip McSween, a mentorship alumni who is making waves in Hollywood, as all three cover the importance of not staying closed off and alone in your own little writing bubble. Read the full show notes here: https://www...

What makes a twist land? What makes a moment satisfying? Setups and payoffs. In this episode, Scott and Desiree break down the importance of planting story elements early, and how to cash them in later for big emotional (or explosive) effect. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-41-set-ups-and-payoffs/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy fo...

In this episode, we’re diving deep into what it really means when dialogue (or plot or character) is “on the nose”, and why it kills the magic in a script. From clunky exposition to cliché characters and spoon-fed plot twists, this episode unpacks how to spot and fix on-the-nose writing. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-40-on-the-nose/ Hos...

In this episode, Scott puts Desiree on the spot and together they build a character from scratch, digging into wants vs. needs, defining moments, secrets, fears, and how reality TV can sharpen your character radar. Plus a rapid-fire Q&A on overwriting, wardrobe on the page, swearing, and page count. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-39-...

In this episode, Scott and Desiree dive into why building a strong portfolio is essential before reaching out to managers, agents, or producers. From how many scripts you need to what else belongs in your portfolio, they share practical steps to help you stand out and be taken seriously. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-38-building-a-portf...

In this episode, Scott and Desiree break down the art of writing a killer logline, that one-sentence hook that makes someone have to read your script. They share the 5 C’s of loglines, common mistakes to avoid, and insider tips for making your idea irresistible. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-37-loglines/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/p...

In this episode, Scott and Desiree break down what makes great TV, using Department Q as a masterclass example. From broken characters to intricate plotting, they explore how to write layered, memorable drama for the screen (and how not to do it). Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-36-great-tv-writing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy...

In this episode, Scott and Desiree break down the first pages of six produced screenplays, exploring what grabs the reader, what sets the tone, and what falls flat. Expect sharp insights, script analysis, and plenty of laughs as they dissect one of the most crucial parts of your screenplay: page one. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-35-ope...

In this episode of the Script Reader Pro Podcast, Scott and Desiree explore how to develop your idea into a strong foundation before you start writing. From pressure-testing your premise to using loglines and comps, this episode helps you set your script up for success before page one. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-34-give-and-take-note...

Feeling stuck in self-doubt? You’re not alone. In this heart-to-heart episode, Scott and Desiree talk about the highs and lows of being a screenwriter, and why believing in yourself might just be the most important tool in your writing kit. They share personal stories, mindset tips, and practical ways to keep going when the rejection hits hard. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptread...

How do you master pacing in your script? In this episode, Scott and Desiree break down what makes a screenplay feel too slow or too rushed, genre by genre. Plus, they analyze real examples, dish on movies they’ve watched, and banter about coffee mugs, revenge, and chatterbox movie habits. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-32-how-to-master-p...

Are you ready to elevate your scenes? Our latest podcast episode dives into the anatomy of a scene, exploring the essential do's and don'ts every writer should know. We discuss the importance of conflict, pacing, and ensuring each scene serves a purpose in your screenplay. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips. Don'...

Scott gets down to BUSINESS in this info-packed episode. Learn what a manager does, if you need one, and the exact steps needed to approach and hopefully secure one.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know how important the first 10 pages of a script are in getting (and keeping) a reader's attention. This week Scott and Desiree will show you how to do that by doing a read-through of the first 10 pages of "Bones and All." It's a fantastic opening to a movie and Scott does a deep dive on how it pulls the reader in and explains how you can apply the same methods to your own writing. Hosted...

In this episode of The Script Reader Pro Podcast, Desiree and Scott explore the importance of challenging yourself as a writer. They discuss how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to authentic storytelling and personal growth. From tackling uncomfortable subjects to embracing feedback, they share insights on how to push boundaries and enhance your craft. Plus, they highlight the inspiring...

In this episode of the Script Reader Pro Podcast, Scott and Desiree dive into the real work of screenwriting — rewriting. They share practical tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that will help you turn that messy first draft into a killer final script. Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-27-writing-is-rewriting-but-how/ Hosted on Acast. Se...

Romantic comedies are back! In this episode, we break down what makes a great rom-com - from classic tropes to modern twists. Learn how to balance humor and heart, avoid common mistakes, and craft a love story that keeps audiences hooked. Whether you're a rom-com fanatic or just love great storytelling, this one's for you! Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-po...

Want to make your screenplays stand out? In this episode, we break down what it means to think outside the box in screenwriting. From crafting original ideas to unexpected character choices, Scott and Desiree explore how to write scripts that get remembered.  Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/podcast-ep-25-writing-outside-the-box/ Hosted on Acast...

In this episode of the Script Reader Pro Podcast, we’re diving deep into screenplay structure. What is it? How do you master it? And how does it differ for TV vs. film? Scott and Desiree break it all down, covering the three-act structure, TV formats, storytelling techniques, and the key to crafting compelling narratives. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned screenwriter, this episode will help...

In this episode of the Script Reader Pro Podcast, we chat with Matthew Currie Holmes (MCH) about his unique Fast Draft Method, a game-changing approach to overcoming writer’s block and getting your screenplay down quickly. Learn how you can complete a script in just 15 days and take your writing to the next level! Read the full show notes here: https://www.scriptreaderpro.com/resources-podcast/epi...