Episode Summary
Screenwriter, producer, and Page Craft Writing co-founder Heidi Hornbacher joins Clint to share her journey from UCLA to Los Angeles, founding writing retreats in Italy, and helping writers avoid common pitfalls. Heidi opens up about creative mistakes, the importance of mentorship, and why getting agreements in writing matters. This episode is packed with honest advice, memorable stories, and practical wisdom for anyone pursuing a creative path.
Timestamps & Topics (Time is approximate)
00:00:02 – Introduction & Guest Overview
00:01:04 – Heidi’s Journey & Page Craft
00:04:00 – Italy Retreats & Creative Inspiration
00:05:57 – Lessons Learned & Writing Mistakes
00:08:41 – The Rewrite Process
00:10:32 – Breaking into Filmmaking
00:13:35 – Saying Yes & Learning on the Job
00:16:38 – Mentorship & Community
00:20:44 – Directing & Producing
00:24:00 – Production Mishaps & Problem Solving (“Washed Away”)
00:29:22 – Agreements, Credits & Professional Boundaries
00:35:04 – Navigating Low Points & Self-Doubt
00:45:12 – Community, Success & Validation
00:52:32 – Plugs & Contact Info
Key Takeaways
Mistakes are learning opportunities—embrace them!
Always get agreements in writing to protect your work and relationships.
Mentorship and community are crucial for creative growth.
Resilience and adaptability are essential in the unpredictable film industry.
Redefine success: it’s about community, learning, and persistence.
Resources & Links
Page Craft Writing: https://pagecraftwriting.com
Slamdance Script Clinic
“Washed Away” (short film) - https://youtu.be/OMi51zjil5c?si=E1aqpu2tVPreiVtd
East Side Writers Meetup (Los Angeles)
WGA West: https://www.wga.org/contracts/contracts/mba
Heidi’s interview with Canvas Rebel - https://canvasrebel.com/meet-heidi-hornbacher/
Clint’s Newsletter: https://clinttill.substack.com/
Clint’s Linktree: https://linktree.com/clinttill
Connect with Heidi Hornbacher
X (Twitter), Blue Sky, Instagram, LinkedIn: @HeidiHornbacher
Website: https://heidihornbacher.com
Calls to Action
Subscribe and leave a review!
Share this episode with a friend in the creative industry.
Join the East Side Writers Meetup if you’re in LA.
Check out Page Craft’s Italy Retreat for immersive writing experiences.
