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Alex And Nick

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What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?131: Warrior (2011)Hey, are you awake? Yeah, I’m right here. Well can I ask you, About Today?In this mixed-bag episode, Alex invites brand-new guest, Taylor, to the podcast to review Gavin O’Connor’s “Warrior” (4:28). The guys discuss boxing, brothers, MMA, Nick Nolte, Frank Grillo, Tom Hardy not knowing how to fight, meeting Joel Edgerton in real life, and what it feels like to nearly break someone’s arm.Later, Alex reviews Frank Grillo’s TV show, “Kingdom” (1:24:53), and discusses the emotional range of the show, the remarkable fighting sequences, Jonathan Tucker’s groundbreaking performance, and more. Finally, Alex br...
2024-06-272h 04What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?102: Oppenheimer (2023)All hail, Barbenheimer! Alex and Nick break down how Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” and Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” came to dominate pop culture. The guys give a spoiler-free review of “Oppenheimer,” before Alex shares his thoughts on “Barbie.” Related topics include practical effects, updated Nolan rankings, and Alex describes the “Oppenheimer” screening from hell.Somewhat-related tangents include noticeable CGI in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1,” Nick’s review of “John Wick 4,” and Nick’s mom texts in her review of “Interstellar.”Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram and Letterboxd.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's f...
2023-07-271h 20What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?100: Taxi Driver (1976)Three years of podcasting and 100 core episodes have led to this — a deep dive on Alex’s favorite movie of all time, Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver.” Nick and Alex discuss what Scorsese, Robert De Niro, and Paul Schrader each brought to the film, Travis Bickle’s unreliable backstory, Bernard Herrmann’s score, repurposing plot points from John Ford’s “The Searchers,” and how a simple shot of Travis Bickle talking on a payphone completely changed how Alex and Nick look at movies. HERE IS…Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram and Letterboxd.Watch Alex's films at http...
2023-07-121h 51What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?95: Montgomery CliftIn this supersized episode, Alex and Nick break down the full career of Alex’s favorite actor of all time, Montgomery Clift. Seventeen roles, four Oscar nominations, and a lifetime of Hollywood infamy. Our previous podcast episode on "A Place in the Sun" (featuring Alex’s dad) is here.Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram and Letterboxd.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Send us mailbag questions at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2023-05-043h 11What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?86: A Place in the Sun (1951) with Alex's DadAlex’s dad, Mark, joins Alex and Nick to talk about George Stevens’ American classic, "A Place in the Sun." They discuss risqué subject material in classic films, the full-body acting of Montgomery Clift, the inner and outer beauty of Elizabeth Taylor, the fire of Shelley Winters, gorgeous close-ups, class structure in ‘50s America, $35 tweed suits, and so much more. This is an all-timer episode.Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram and Letterboxd.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Send us mailbag questions at what...
2023-02-022h 00A Positive Climate
A Positive ClimateA Positive Climate #Wrapped: 2022 in Review with Alex and NickAlex and Nick wrap up 2022 and the end of season three with a wide ranging chat including an update on the international race to decarbonise, trends in cleantech, a check-in on our BIG predictions and our plans to bring you even more great episodes in 2023.  We cover a lot on this episode: How the narrative around decarbonisation has changed in the last 12 months - "The electric bus is leaving the station and you best get on it"  International developments: What are other countries doing to incentive change?  Trends in the Australian cleantech sector for 2022 A check-in on...
2022-10-3153 minWhat Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?73: Blonde (2022)Alex and Nick review Andrew Dominik’s controversial new film, “Blonde.” The guys discuss online hysteria, Dominik’s challenging filmography, Marilyn Monroe’s best performances, NC-17 movies, Ana de Armas, cinematographer Chayse Irvin, Nick Cave & Warren Ellis, and more. Alex ends the episode with an extended, spoiler-filled review of Olivia Wilde’s “Don’t Worry Darling.”Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Send us mailbag questions at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2022-10-041h 35What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?69: Movies That Make Us CryIn this emotional and fun episode, Alex and Nick highlight movies they can count on for a good cry. The guys discuss happy, sad, and inspiring movie cries, film as therapy, Denzel Washington as the movie crier GOAT, losing loved ones, making friends, and so much more. (Cry Count: Alex, 1 — Nick, 0).Follow @WAYW_Podcast on Twitter and Instagram.Watch Alex and Nick’s film “I Am Alive”Send us mailbag questions at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2022-08-251h 47This Is Not the Podcast You Are Looking For
This Is Not the Podcast You Are Looking ForS2 Ep. 2: Alex and Nick Have a Genuine ConversationHello, and welcome back to This Is Not the Podcast You Are Looking For.This week we cover some Star Wars news, and Nick asks Alex a few thought provoking questions that lead to some... interesting conversation to say the least. Enjoy!If you like this show, be sure to follow "This Is Not the Podcast You Are Looking For" on Spotify, Google Podcasts and/or YouTube, and follow our Instagram @notthepodcastyouarelookingforThank you for tuning in, and we'll see you in the next episode. Bye!Music...
2022-08-0940 minA Positive Climate
A Positive ClimateA Positive Climate #Wrapped: 2021 in Review with Alex and NickAlex and Nick wrap up 2021 and the end of our second season with a wide ranging chat: the current state of cleantech, some BOLD predictions about the future, the zaniest climate solutions of 2021 and what we’re excited about for 2022!  We cover a lot on this episode: Australia’s opportunity to be a renewable energy superpower; the hydrogen economy;  when we might get to high levels of EV uptake;  what our dinner plates might look like in 2025; Our favourite moments of Season 1 and 2;  Cleantech startup success stories from 2021; and  the positive mood at the end of the year...
2021-12-1340 minWhat Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?36: The Exorcist (1973)After four devious years of lying to Alex’s face, the power of Christ compelled Nick to finally watch William Friedkin’s masterpiece, “The Exorcist.” The guys catch listeners up with a few archive clips that explain their “Exorcist” drama, then Alex interviews Nick about his first time watching the film. This episode happened because of our fans – we appreciate you! Find us on Twitter @WAYW_Podcast. Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Tell us what you're watching at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2021-08-0531 minWhat Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?32: Five Films that Inspired Alex to DirectNick interviews Alex about the movies that inspired Alex to become a filmmaker. Alex discusses his lifetime obsession with film, using trauma as a creative launching point, learning how to direct from movies, and why “Antwone Fisher” may be the most important movie of his life. Let us know what films inspire you on Twitter @WAYW_Podcast.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Tell us what you're watching at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2021-06-1045 minWhat Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?31: Five Films that Inspired Nick to DirectAlex interviews Nick about the five films that inspired Nick to become a filmmaker. Nick discusses the importance of breaking film rules, confident direction, stealing from the best, and why a brief scene in “Rachel Getting Married” made him view film in a new light. Let us know what films inspire you on Twitter @WAYW_Podcast.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Tell us what you're watching at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2021-05-2740 minWhat Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?25: 2021 Oscar NominationsThe 2020/2021 Oscar nominations are in! Alex and Nick talk snubs, surprises, what it will take for David Fincher to win an Oscar, idiotic Academy politics, and “The Father” potentially being the best film ever made (even though Nick and Alex haven’t seen it). Tell us what you thought about the nominations on Twitter @WAYW_Podcast.Watch Alex's films at http://alexwithrow.com/Watch Nick's films at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Tell us what you're watching at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2021-03-1645 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPitches, Pivots, and Pilots – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT205)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about pitching with a script, and pivoting towards a screenwriting career. Plus, we discuss the latest news, including productions halting in LA, and pilot season during a pandemic. Content Editor Goodbye and Shout-Outs (00:31) TV Writing Questions: Pitching with a script, pivoting towards a screenwriting career later in life (02:56) TV Writing News: Warner Bros, Alex Trebek, and production shutdowns (17:58) Links Networking 201: Cold Contact, Queries and Etiquette (PT121) Protecting and Over-Protecting Your TV Script: Copyright, Ownership and Idea Theft (PT23) Breaking in as a TV Writer Later in Life ft. J. Holtham (PT92) "Warner...
2021-01-2529 minPaper Team
Paper TeamThe 2020 Paper Team Holiday Special (PT202)Alex and Nick celebrate the end of 2020 by taking a look back at the year for Paper Team and TV writing, plus celebrating our fans and announcing our 2021 plans for the podcast. What were the most popular and discussed episodes of Paper Team in 2020? Did we hit our 2020 goals for the podcast? What were our favorite shows, movies, music, books of the year? What are our 2021 Paper Team goals? What virtual gifts did Alex and Nick get each other? Content 1 - Paper Team Shout-outs (00:00:47) 2 - Paper Team 2020: A year in review (00:02:30) 4 - Best of 2020: TV, episodes, movies, music, books (00:13:39) 5...
2020-12-281h 00Paper Team
Paper TeamThe Paper Team 200th Episode Special (PT200)Alex and Nick celebrate the two-hundredth episode of Paper Team with a livestream event featuring several of our past guests, including TV writers, producers, and showrunners from a wide array of shows. In this first-of-its-kind live and interactive special, we cover all major TV writing topics, from building a competitive TV portfolio and managing industry relationships, to being a useful writer on staff, balancing character with story in scripts, strategies for virtual writers' rooms, spec scripts, pilot scripts, formats, and so much more. NOTE: This is the direct audio recording from our Twitch livestream with minimal editing. Occasional bumps are...
2020-12-143h 04What Are You Watching?
What Are You Watching?8: Christopher McDonaldAlex and Nick look at the career of Alex's favorite character actor, the legendary Christopher McDonald. They talk about Chris Mac's roles (Shooter McGavin! Tappy Tibbons! Tommy J!), and Alex recounts the time he hung out with Chris Mac in NYC.Watch Alex's work at http://alexwithrow.com/Read Alex's full interview with Christopher McDonald from May 2013Watch Nick's work at https://www.nicholasdostal.com/Tell us what you're watching at whatareyouwatchingpodcast@gmail.com
2020-09-0338 minPaper Team
Paper TeamCharacter Arcs, Writer Mutiny, and Gamemaster – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT188)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about character arcs and animated script length, and discuss the latest TV writing news involving the All-Rise writers' room mutiny and the WarnerMedia restructure. Plus, we talk with director Charles Mruz about his new board-game documentary Gamemaster, and tease an upcoming Paper Team mixer. Content Mixer Tease and Shout-Outs (00:35) TV Writing Questions: Character arcs and animated script length (05:31) Gamemaster documentary with director Charles Mruz (14:45) TV Writing News: All-Rise mutiny and WarnerMedia restructure (25:16) Links Gamemaster Documentary on Linktree Independent Producing ft. Jimmy Nguyen (Showrunners) (PT32) "Writers Mutiny at ‘All Rise,’ the Rare CBS Show...
2020-08-3100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Team Mentorship V – A Year Later With Paul Chang (PT187)Alex and Nick catch up with their 2019 Paper Team Mentee Paul Chang, staff writer on the upcoming animated Disney TV comedy The Curse of Molly McGee. We discuss what he's been up to over the past year, including how his first full season in a writers' room went, the importance of building relationships, how COVID has had an impact for him professionally, lessons learned from the mentorship, and much more. Plus, we reveal an update about our 2020 Paper Team Mentorship. Links Paul Chang on Twitter "The Curse of Molly McGee" Paper Team Mentorship IV – Staffing Update With Paul (PT147) If yo...
2020-08-2400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamLess TV, Less Opportunity (PT186)Alex and Nick discuss the current trend of diminishing episode orders and shorter seasons, and how that affects the size of writers' rooms, opportunities for emerging writers, and other worrying consequences for television writing. Why are TV season orders shrinking from twenty-two episodes down to as few as three? How does this affect professional opportunities for writers, both emerging and established? What does it mean for the TV business and distribution models? What are some of the long-term consequences for access and diversity in television? What are proactive ways of combating and solving these issues? Content 1 - Shorter seasons and...
2020-08-1700 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease: Microcosms – August Session (PT185)Alex and Nick feature their next Paper Tease session by giving feedback on four more of your original TV pilot teasers. Paper Tease Entries "Dad’s the Word" by Peter C. Hayward "Earthrise, Earthset" by Zac Kostyrka "Cuba Libre" by Stephen Nolly "Out for Blood" by Jack Fuhrmann If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Want to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot in an upcoming Paper Tease session? Find all the information you need at http://paperteam.co/teaser Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit th...
2020-08-1000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Pilot 301: Scope, Beginnings, and Ends (PT184)Alex and Nick talk about the big picture of your TV pilot script and its scope, from what the first episode should capture, to what it can leave out. What defines the scope of your TV pilot? What are ways of deciding when the pilot should start and when it should end? How do you tell a satisfying episodic story while also setting up a longer-tail series? What are common mistakes people make when deciding on the scope of their pilot story? Why shouldn't you "save it for later"? The Paper Team hones in... Content 1 - TV pilot scope and...
2020-08-0300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamFonts, International Writing, and 2020 WGA MBA – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT183)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about reference letters, international writing programs, spec script timelines, and title page fonts. Plus, we take a look at the latest business news, notably the new WGA 2020 MBA and success stories of past guests. Content Shout-Outs and Updates (00:32) TV Writing Questions: Reference letters, international writing programs, spec script timeline, and title page fonts (04:36) TV Writing News: 2020 WGA MBA, past guests' overall deals, and series pick-up (18:01) Links Nickelodeon Animation Writing Program ft. Katherine Wells (PT179) Building Your Career as a TV Writer ft. LaToya Morgan (PT111) DaFont Summary of the Tentative 2020 WGA MBA "...
2020-07-2700 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Staffing vs. TV Selling (PT182)Alex and Nick look at the latest debate about TV staffing versus TV selling, and discuss pros and cons of each. Is it a false dichotomy or should you prioritize one over the other? The Paper Team weighs in. Content 1 - Why "TV Staffing versus TV Selling"? (00:26) 2 - Appeal and Advantages of TV Staffing (18:07) 3 - Appeal and Advantages of TV Selling (35:22) Links Terri Kopp's Twitter thread on "to staff or not to staff" TV Writing Incubators and the Evolution of Access (PT125) If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Special thanks to...
2020-07-2000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamBeing a Black Writer in Hollywood ft. WGAW Committee of Black Writers Chairs (Michelle Amor, Hilliard Guess, Bianca Sams) (PT181)Alex and Nick invite the Chairs of the WGAW Committee of Black Writers, Michelle Amor (Playin' for Love, Of Boys and Men, The Honorable), Hilliard Guess (Deadly Class, We Got Issues, Ticker), and Bianca Sams (Charmed, The Originals, Training Day), to have an in-depth discussion about systematic racism and injustice in the entertainment industry towards Black writers, representation in and out of the writers' room, plus various ways TV writers and professionals of all levels can be part of the solution. NOTE: We recorded this episode remotely so please excuse some minor audio glitches. Links Open Letter by the WGAW...
2020-07-1300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease: Hooked On A Story – July Session (PT180)Alex and Nick return to Paper Tease by giving feedback on four of your original TV pilot teasers. Paper Tease Entries "Devotion" by JB June "The Border" by Vance Tucker "Where Blood Lies" by Byron Qiao "Nobody, Nobody" by Koby Agyeman If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Want to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot in an upcoming Paper Tease session? Find all the information you need at http://paperteam.co/teaser Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit this episode. You can find Paper Team...
2020-07-0600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamNickelodeon Animation Writing Program ft. Katherine Wells – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT179)Alex and Nick bring back their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series – a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. Our sixth part takes a look at the revamped Nickelodeon Animation Writing Program, with Katherine Wells, who heads it as the Manager of Creative Talent Development and Outreach. We discuss everything about it, from their brand new application and selection process, to how they adapt the program's content to the industry, and what comes after. Content About the Nickelodeon Animation Writing Program (00:48) 1 - The application process (02:25) 2 - The selection process (16:00) 3...
2020-06-2900 minPaper Team
Paper TeamReturn of the Pod – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT178)Alex and Nick return to Paper Team by answering your TV writing questions about outdated scripts, voice-over in shows, and pilot pitching. Plus, we discuss some of the TV business updates following COVID, including production changes, WGA demands, and new OTTs. NOTE: This episode was recorded before the current George Floyd protests. We'll be covering TV writing through the prism of representation and police brutality in upcoming episodes. Content Podcast Updates and Shout-outs (01:21) TV Writing Questions: Outdated scripts, voice-over, pilot pitching (06:31) TV Writing News: COVID consultants, new-writer discounts, Quibi, HBO Max, fall schedules (23:43) Links Peter C. Hayward's "Paper Team takeaways"...
2020-06-2200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamCOVID-19 and Hollywood: How We Adapt (PT177)Alex and Nick discuss how the current pandemic has affected them and the industry both personally and professionally, plus share helpful resources and advice on adapting. Content 1 - The Professional Side (00:41) 2 - The Personal Side (29:28) Links Official California COVID-19 Resources Resources for Film and TV Employees Impacted By the COVID-19 Industry Shutdown - Google Docs "Emergency Funds for Freelancers, Creatives Losing Income During Coronavirus" - KQED Relief Fund for Hollywood Support Staff Actors Fund - COVID-19 Relief Supplemental Income for Writers (PT35) Miro Staying Productive During Hiatus (PT126) If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at...
2020-04-2000 minPaper Team
Paper Team2020 TV Writing Program Updates – CBS/NBC/WB (PT176)Alex and Nick virtually sit down with the decision makers behind the major TV writing programs to get updates on what they're changing (or keeping) in 2020. From spec writing samples to new deadlines, we talk shop with Jeanne Mau, who supervises the CBS Writers Mentoring Program, Grace Moss, running the NBC Writers on the Verge Program, and Rebecca Windsor, director of the Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop. Content The CBS Writers Mentoring Program in 2020 (00:58) The NBC Writers on the Verge Program in 2020 (08:27) The Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop in 2020 (24:26) Links CBS Writers Mentoring Program CBS Entertainment Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) on...
2020-04-0600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamEpisodes, Actors, and Contagion – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT175)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about episodic versus serialization, actor schedules, and fellowship specs. Plus, we look at some TV business news tied to the coronavirus and the upcoming WGA-MBA negotiations. NOTE: This episode was recorded before the current "shelter in place" orders. Get the latest updates and resources about COVID-19 in California at https://covid19.ca.gov. Stay home, stay safe. Content Announcements and Shout-outs (00:51) TV Writing Questions: Episodic v. serialized, actor schedules, fellowship specs (05:12) TV Writing News: WGA-MBA negotiations and coronavirus (17:24) Links Javi's Twitter thread on serialization The Art of the TV Episode (PT20) Writing...
2020-03-3000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamUK Animation and Developing Animated Stories ft. James Hamilton (The Amazing World of Gumball) (PT174)Alex and Nick invite James Hamilton, writer on The Amazing World of Gumball, UniKitty!, and head-writer on an unannounced animated show for Netflix, to discuss working in UK animation, developing stories around someone else's visuals, and being head-writer on a series. How do you get freelance animation writing work while living overseas? Why did performing live sketch comedy help break in to TV writing? What are the differences between the industry in the UK and US? How does a head writer build their team and foster a creative environment in the room? What are some tips on developing and pitching...
2020-03-2300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease: Clash of the Tightens – March Session (PT173)Alex and Nick have a new Paper Tease session where they give feedback on five of your TV pilot teasers. Paper Tease Entries "The Barcode Diaries" by Alissa Rivas "Nudge" by David Crosman "Uncommon Grounds" by Mitch Bechtold "The Squire" by Vivek Choudry "Strange, CA" by Ben Warner If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Want to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot in an upcoming Paper Tease session? Find all the information you need at http://paperteam.co/teaser Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit...
2020-03-1600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamShowrunning Duncanville & The Simpsons ft. Mike Scully (PT172)Alex and Nick invite Mike Scully, executive producer, co-creator, co-showrunner of FOX's Duncanville, long-time writer/showrunner of The Simpsons, and writer/producer on Parks and Recreation/The Carmichael Show/Everybody Loves Raymond, to learn all about his writing process and running a comedy room. From staffing a writers' room and reading samples, to breaking episodes and producing an animated show, we take a deep dive into what goes into creating a comedy series from the inside. Content 1 – Beginnings, pitching, and becoming a showrunner (00:00:43) 2 – Staffing Duncanville and other writers' rooms: reading samples, assembling the right staff and advice for showrunner meetings (00:09:19) 3 - Th...
2020-03-0900 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTips and Tricks for the TV Industry (PT171)Alex and Nick share tips and tricks all about handling the TV writing industry. From managing contacts and representation, to juggling projects and dealing with staffing and writers' room red flags, we look at common problems you may have and how to solve them. How can you get to know working writers/showrunners? How should you maintain relationships when you don’t have anything new to share? How are you able to find the right manager or agent? How should you handle reps not providing enough meetings or sending samples out? Should you take freelance development work? What if you ca...
2020-03-0200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamCharacter Names, Rebranding, and Fellowship News – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT170)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about character names, fellowship specs, Paper Tease limits, and choosing representation based on packaging. Plus, we look at some of the latest TV writing news, including Netflix removing titles, Disney dropping Fox names, and HBO Max productions. Content Post-Mixer and Shout-outs (00:32) Audience Questions: Character names, packaging, 2020 specs, and Patreon (09:48) TV Writing News: Censorship, OTT movies, and studio rebranding (28:21) Links Manager Communication, Assistant Work, and Staffing Starts (PT167) Showrunning Daybreak ft. Aron Eli Coleite (PT159) "Netflix Reveals Titles Pulled From Service Over Government Demands" - The Hollywood Reporter "Disney Drops Fox Name, Will...
2020-02-2400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease Execution – February Session (PT169)Alex and Nick have their first Paper Tease session of 2020 and give feedback on five of your TV pilot teasers. Paper Tease Entries "It Gets Better" by Nathaniel Nauert "American Roulette" by Michael Hager "Reissued" by Adam Moerder "Chrysalis" by Dan Benamor "Candy Is Awesome" by Steve Kimura If you enjoy Paper Team, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Want to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot in an upcoming Paper Tease session? Find all the information you need at http://paperteam.co/teaser Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit...
2020-02-1000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamKnowing Your Worth as an Assistant: Expectations, Opportunities, and Negotiations (PT168)Alex and Nick take an honest and practical look at what you should be expecting and asking for as an assistant in a TV writers' room or entertainment industry desk. From our real personal stories and tips negotiating your rate/benefits, to finding value from your job even when things get dire, this is a jam-packed episode you don't want to miss, all about knowing and fighting for your worth as an assistant in Hollywood. What should you expect from a support staff position in terms of salary and benefits? What are common ways you might get screwed over? How...
2020-02-0300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTell Us About Yourself: Crafting the Personal Pitch (PT165)Alex and Nick answer the dreaded "tell us about yourself" question, including going over how to craft a compelling personal pitch for general meetings, showrunner meetings, or the #WGAStaffingBoost, using actual examples and actionable steps. Plus, we announce the date and location of our upcoming January mixer. Announcement We're having our second mixer this month! Join us Friday, January 31 at Village Idiot on Melrose. The event starts at 7:30PM. More information available at http://paperteam.co/mixermelrose Content Announcement: January Mixer (00:37) 1 - The importance of knowing your personal story (01:20) 2 - Content of your personal story and examples (03:16) 3 - Tailoring your...
2020-01-0600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamThe 2019 Paper Team Holiday Special (PT164)Alex and Nick celebrate the end of 2019 by taking a look back at the last year of the decade, both for Paper Team and TV writing news, plus answering more of your questions, celebrating our fans, and announcing our 2020 plans for the podcast. When and how can you include holidays in your scripts? What were the most popular and discussed episodes of Paper Team in 2019? What were our favorite shows, movies, music, books of the year? What are our favorite series of the past decade? What are our 2020 Paper Team goals? What gifts did Alex and Nick get each other? ...
2019-12-2300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWriting Scripts That Go Viral ft. Jordan VanDina (Animaniacs/What Would Diplo Do) (PT163)Alex and Nick are joined by Jordan VanDina, writer on the new Animaniacs TV show, the upcoming movie The Binge with Vince Vaughn, and creator/writer of Weekend Scripts, to discuss generating scripts that will go viral, leveraging online success to get work, plus the importance of having a pasta pass in your arsenal. How do you go about promoting stunt scripts? What are ways of writing scripts quickly? How can you leverage online success to get representation and work? How was Weekend Scripts born? What was the experience of working on What Would Diplo Do? What is the new...
2019-12-1600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPositive Mindset and Resilience in the Writers’ Room ft. Rochée Jeffrey (SMILF/90210) & April Shih (You’re the Worst/Undone) (PT161)Alex and Nick are joined by Rochée Jeffrey (writer on SMILF and 90210) and April Shih (writer on You're the Worst, Undone and Mrs. America), to discuss the importance of self-care, growth mindset, knowing when to say no, and handling conflict in the writers' room. Why is it important to set intentions and goals for yourself? How do you manage impostor syndrome? What are growth and positive mindsets? How do you find community and support? How do you handle conflicts in a writers' room? When is it appropriate to quit a writing job? How do you deal with a hostile e...
2019-12-0200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamScript Readiness, Contests, and Career Detours – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT160)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about contests, script readiness, and career detours. Plus, we look at some of the latest TV writing news about the WGA negotiating committee, speed-binging, and moving up the ladder. Content Post-Austin and Shout-outs (01:04) Audience Questions: TV writing contests, script readiness, Los Angeles, and career detours (03:52) TV Writing News: WGA negotiating committee, speed-binging, moving up, and Game of Thrones news (27:35) Links "Breaking Into TV" AFF Twitter thread "Structuring a Series" AFF Twitter thread Feedback and Notes: Building Your Reading Onion (PT08) Moving to Los Angeles (and Things We Wish We Knew) (PT01) WGA...
2019-11-2500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamShowrunning Daybreak ft. Aron Eli Coleite (PT159)Alex and Nick invite Aron Eli Coleite, executive producer, co-creator, and showrunner of Netflix's Daybreak, to learn all about his writing process and running (or curating) the post-apocalyptic dramedy. From staffing a writers' room and breaking character stories, to communicating a creative vision and producing the show, we take a deep dive into what goes into creating a series from the inside. Content 1 - Beginnings and becoming a showrunner (00:01:09) 2 - Staffing Daybreak: reading samples, assembling the right staff, showrunner meetings, and creating opportunities (00:20:16) 3 - The Daybreak writers' room and writing process: blue-skying, breaking episodes, structure, and character arcs (00:37:26) 4 - Production...
2019-11-1800 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease Reveals – November Session (PT158)Alex and Nick have their last Paper Tease session of 2019 by giving feedback on five more of your TV pilot teasers. Plus, we reveal the winner of our November 20 live table read, and share all the ticket information for this event. Announcement Tickets for our next live event are now available! The live table read will be on November 20 in DTLA. This event will be followed by a Q&A/feedback session, so we'd love to have you in the audience. All proceeds go to Art Share LA, the last community art space in the Arts District. You can get...
2019-11-0400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPreemptive Specs, Political Tweets, and Peacock – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT157)Alex and Nick answer your TV writing questions about political tweets, topic suggestions, and predicting fellowship specs. Plus, we catch up on some TV writing news from the past few weeks, including the WGA election results, the announcement of a new OTT service, and a TV crossover event. Reminder Our next live event will be on Wednesday, November 20. We'll be doing a table read of a pilot script from one lucky Paper Tease winner! Join our Patreon to get early tickets. Content Announcements and Shout-outs (01:07) Audience Questions: Political tweets, TV writing education, and predicting speccable shows (05:56) TV Writing News: WGA...
2019-10-2800 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Prose 201: Breaking Rules (PT156)Alex and Nick delve into the nuances of editorializing on the page, and take a look at unconventional ways of breaking rules in your TV writing. What is the goal of breaking rules with prose? What are unique tools to convey information in scene descriptions? How do you direct on the page in an emotional way? When can you editorialize your writing? What is meta-prose and how should you use it? When is formatting worth playing with? The Paper Team comments... Content 1 - Preface (01:01) 2 - Editorializing the prose (04:19) 3 - Directing on the page (23:56) 4 - Meta-prose and breaking the fourth wall (30:25) 5...
2019-10-2100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease: Perspective – October Session (PT155)Alex and Nick have another Paper Tease session and give feedback on five of your TV pilot teasers. Plus, we share some big Austin Film Festival news and we reveal the date of our next live event! Announcements 1 - Paper Team will be at the Austin Film Festival! It all happens Saturday, October 26. Nick's panel "Breaking into TV" will be at 10:45AM at the Driskill's Citadel Room. Alex's panel "Structuring a Series" will be at 3PM at the Driskill's Maximilian Room. We'll also be having a Paper Team Meetup at the Driskill bar at 5PM on that same Saturday. 2...
2019-10-1400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWriting Classic Multicams to Cable Darlings ft. Dan O’Keefe (Seinfeld/Veep) (PT154)Alex and Nick invite Dan O’Keefe, writer on Silicon Valley, Veep, and Final Space, to talk about his experience writing on classic multicams, late-night comedy, and half-hour cable darlings. What are the differences working on single-cam and multi-cam? How do you keep a consistent career in comedy writing? What is it like working on a serialized half-hour? How do you tackle the politics of late-night and comedy rooms? What is some advice for pitching and selling shows? The Paper Team grins... Content Writing classic multicams, late-night, and cable comedy darlings, with Dan O’Keefe (00:39) Final Advice, Resources, and Next Week...
2019-10-0700 minPaper Team
Paper TeamFrom Comic-Book Adaptations to Action-Driven Content ft. Sue Chung (Agent Carter/The Brave) (PT152)Alex and Nick invite Sue Chung, writer on Agent Carter, The Brave, and The Red Line, to discuss her experiences working on TV dramas, including comic-book adaptations, limited series, and action-driven content. What are ways of handling that first week in the writers' room? What was the writing process for Agent Carter and The Brave? How did The Red Line approach representation and social issues? What are differences writing on a limited series over an ongoing show? How was the experience of pitching and selling a pilot? The Paper Team parachutes... Content Writing comic-book adaptations, action-driven content, and limited series...
2019-09-2300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Tease Returns – September Session (PT151)Alex and Nick renew their popular Paper Tease session and give feedback on five of your TV pilot teasers. Paper Tease Entries "Princi-pal" by Michael Hager "Black Market Freelancer" by David Crosman "The Psychics" by Varta Torossian "F.M.A.C." by Ahmed Aki Aslan "Leopold: The Lost Elephant" by Jordan Sandfer Want to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot in an upcoming Paper Tease session? Find all the information you need at http://paperteam.co/teaser If you enjoyed this episode and others, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Special thanks to...
2019-09-1600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamImpostor Syndrome, Staffing Submissions and Commercials – Paper Scraps Monthly (PT149)Alex and Nick discuss the latest TV writing news on staffing submissions, and answer your TV writing questions about career obstacles, spec scripts, and how valuable ideas actually are. Plus, we announce an upcoming Paper Team travel. Reminder Paper Tease is back! If you'd like a chance to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot, you can now submit it at http://paperteam.co/teaser NOTE: We'll actually be off next week for Labor Day, but we'll return on Monday, September 9 for our jam-packed 150th Episode Special! Content Announcements: Austin Film Festival and Paper Tease (01:21) Audience Questions: Specs...
2019-08-2600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamCommon Mistakes to Avoid in Your TV Scripts (PT148)Alex and Nick discuss the many common mistakes to avoid in your TV scripts. From structure and character to dialogue and formatting, we go over the frequent problems we've encountered, and our advice on fixing them. Content 1 - Before the draft (01:41) 2 - Macro mistakes: structure, acts, stories (13:54) 3 - Micro mistakes: scenes, dialogue, prose (28:37) 4 - On the page (42:07) If you enjoyed this episode and others, please consider supporting us on Patreon at paperteam.co/patreon! :) Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit this episode. You can find Paper Team on Twitter: Alex - @TVCalling Nick - @_njwatson For any...
2019-08-1900 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Team Mentorship IV – Staffing Update With Paul (PT147)Alex and Nick catch up with their first mentee Paul Chang, recently staffed on a Disney animated series, to hear about what he's been up to and get his perspective on being a new staff writer in television. How do you prepare yourself for staffing opportunities? How do gauge which representation is right for you? Why is it important to celebrate all the wins? How do you deal with imposter's syndrome? How do you stay present and useful in the writers' room? Links Paul Chang on Twitter Paper Team Mentorship I – "Mid-Death Crisis" Overview (PT128) Paper Team Mentorship I - Pa...
2019-08-1200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Business Resources We Use (PT146)Alex and Nick share the many TV business resources they use for networking, meetings, contact management, writing news, and everything to navigate the television industry. We go over our personal recommendations we've used over the years, and why they matter to us. Content 1 - Books (00:42) 2 - Apps/Software (11:34) 3 - Hardware/Tools (28:57) 4 - Websites (35:39) 5 - Podcasts (55:23) Links "Small Screen, Big Picture" - Chad Gervich "How to Manage Your Agent" - Gervich Chad "Hollywood Game Plan" - Carole Kirschner "This Business of Television" - Howard J. Blumenthal "Producing Animation" - Catherine Winder and Zahra Dowlatabadi "The One-Hour Drama: Producing Episodic Television"...
2019-08-0500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Scraps Monthly – Branding Samples, Manager Opinions, and OTTs (PT145)Alex and Nick look at the latest TV writing news and answer your questions about classes, branding yourself as a nascent writer, and advice about managers. Plus, we announce the return of a fan-favorite segment and we need your help for a very special episode. Announcements 1 - Paper Tease is back! If you'd like a chance to get feedback on the teaser of your TV pilot, you can now submit it at http://paperteam.co/teaser 2 - We need your help for our 150th episode! Do you have a favorite Paper Team moment, guest, or episode? Send us your suggestions...
2019-07-2900 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWriting Heroes and Breaking Genres ft. Tamara Becher-Wilkinson (Doom Patrol/Daredevil) (PT144)Alex and Nick invite Tamara Becher-Wilkinson, writer and co-executive producer on Doom Patrol and Daredevil, to discuss her writing process, breaking stories across different genres, and her experiences in the writers' room. What are ways of overcoming procrastination and imposter's syndrome? How can you stay creatively fulfilled while working across multiple genres? What has the experience been working on both DC and Marvel properties? What was the writers' room of Doom Patrol like? Why does representation matter in genre? How do you balance meta and absurdity with grounded characters and stakes? The Paper Team patrols... Content Writing Heroes and Breaking...
2019-07-2200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamComedy v. Drama II: Blurred Lines (PT143)Alex and Nick revisit the topic of one of their seminal episodes: Comedy versus Drama. Should you still declare a major in the age of dramedies and blurred formats? Are boundaries and page-count still relevant as a TV writer? How should you approach staffing and your writing samples in today's era? Content 1 - What we covered three years ago and what prompted this episode (00:33) 2 - How these blurred lines have affected TV staffing and the industry (11:52) 3 - How this evolution has impacted our own TV writing (21:30) 4 - Frequently asked questions (31:26) Links Comedy v. Drama: Declare Your TV Major (PT02) TV...
2019-07-1500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamHow to Take Feedback (PT142)Alex and Nick discuss how to take feedback in your TV writing. Whether you're on staff or working on your own projects, why and how should you take notes, and when should you say no? Why is it important to be malleable with your TV scripts? What are the differences in approaching notes as a staff writer and with your own material? How do you deconstruct feedback and understand what needs to be fixed? How should you take a note? When is it worth saying no? How do you reject a note? Content 1 - The mindset of receiving criticism (00:23) 2...
2019-07-0800 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPerforming In and Out of the Writers’ Room ft. Charla Lauriston (Hoops/People of Earth) (PT141)Alex and Nick welcome Charla Lauriston, writer on Hoops, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and People of Earth, to discuss pitching in the writers' room and working as a stand-up comedian. How can you be effective in a writers' room? Should you gauge your own pitches? How does stand-up translates to TV writing? What is the process of writing a comedy routine? How do you sustain a TV writing career beyond that first job? The Paper Team is a laugh riot... Content Performing In and Out of the Comedy Writers' Room with Charla Lauriston (00:30) Final Advice, Resources, and Next Week On (46:33) Links ...
2019-07-0100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Scraps Monthly – Records, Routine, and Resolution (PT140)Alex and Nick answer your questions about writing routine, episode formats, and international writing education. Plus, we give our thoughts on the latest TV writing news, including The Good Place's final season and the UTA/Paradigm rumors. Content Records, shout-outs and reviews (00:28) Audience Questions: international writers, music routine, formats, experience (07:39) TV Writing News: The Good Place and UTA/Paradigm (25:09) Links Should You Pay for TV Writing Education? (PT19) TV Writing Resources We Use (PT139) La Femis (Cursus Ecriture et Création de Séries) Storyhive Putting Yourself Out There (PT75) Breaking in as a TV Writer Later in Life ft. J...
2019-06-2400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Writing Resources We Use (PT139)Alex and Nick share the TV writing resources they use for the screenwriting craft, from books, websites, and podcasts, to apps, tools, and hardware. We go over some of our personal recommendations we've discussed over the years, and why they matter to us. Content 1 - Books (00:30) 2 - Finding Scripts (11:05) 3 - Apps/Software (14:19) 4 - Hardware/Tools (19:08) 5 - Websites (25:46) 6 - Podcasts (34:55) 7 - Miscellaneous (39:06) Links "The Cheeky Monkey" - Tim Ferguson "Writing the TV Drama Series" - Pamela Douglas "Television Writing from the Inside Out" - Larry Brody "The TV Writer's Handbook" - Ellen Sandler "Write to TV" - Martie Cook "Elephant Bucks"...
2019-06-1700 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Team Mentorship III – “Mid-Death Crisis” Outline (PT138)Alex and Nick advance in their Paper Team Mentorship with winner Paul Chang, and his comedy pilot MID-DEATH CRISIS. Step three: an outline of the pilot episode, with every act broken down scene-by-scene. We answer some feedback and discuss our thoughts on the outline live. Content Updates and listeners' thoughts on the second mentorship episode (00:37) Discussion of the "Mid-Death Crisis" outline (07:24) Links "Mid-Death Crisis" outline Paper Team Mentorship I – "Mid-Death Crisis" Overview (PT128) Paper Team Mentorship I - Paul's Update Paper Team Mentorship II – “Mid-Death Crisis” Beat Sheet (PT134) Paper Team Mentorship II - Paul's Update Paul Chang on Twitter If you e...
2019-06-1000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamFox Writers Lab ft. Moira Griffin – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT137)Alex and Nick return to their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series – a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. Our fifth part takes a look at the Fox Writers Lab, with Moira Griffin, who oversees the program as Executive Director of Production and Creative Labs for 21st Century Fox. We discuss everything, from the latest update about the program and its application process, to what they focus on in scripts, loglines, and what comes after. Content About the Fox Writers Lab (00:43) 1 - The application process (06:41) 2 - The selection process (23:27) 3...
2019-06-0300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Scraps Monthly – Similar Ideas, Quality of Dialogue, and Staffing Opportunities (PT136)Alex and Nick answer audience questions about similar premises, quality of dialogue, and cultural experiences. Plus, we catch up on some of the TV writing news from the past few weeks, including a discussion on staffing opportunities, Netflix and Disney. Content Shout-outs (00:24) Audience Questions: Similar ideas, quality of dialogue, cultural experience, animation (02:46) TV Writing News: Staffing opportunities, Netflix and Disney (20:29) Links "To Live & Dialogue in LA" podcast Inspiration vs. Stealing in TV Writing (PT58) TV Dialogue 101 (PT51) Writing Samples and Preparing for TV Staffing ft. Liz Alper & Kai Wu (PT119) "Feeling the Churn: Why Netflix Cancels Shows After A Couple...
2019-05-2700 minPaper Team
Paper TeamEarning Your Way Into the Writers’ Room ft. Ning Zhou (Ozark) (PT135)Alex and Nick invite Ning Zhou, story editor on Ozark, to discuss how she worked her way up through the assistant ranks and into the fabled writers' room. What is the process of writing for Ozark? How do you transition into the writers' room? How can you nail that assistant interview? What are ways of being a valuable showrunner's assistant and writers' assistant? Why is it important for the support staff to make their career goals clear? Why is communication so important in television? The Paper Team moves up... Content Earning Your Way Into the Writers' Room with Ning Zhou (00:32) ...
2019-05-2000 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Team Mentorship II – “Mid-Death Crisis” Beat Sheet (PT134)Alex and Nick continue their Paper Team Mentorship with winner Paul Chang, and his comedy pilot MID-DEATH CRISIS. Step two: a beat sheet of the pilot episode, including general acts and story arcs. We hear about the pilot episode, and discuss our thoughts live. Content Quick recap and listeners' thoughts on the first mentorship episode (00:30) "Mid-Death Crisis" – Beat sheet (06:41) Discussion of the beat sheet (08:30) Links "Mid-Death Crisis" beat sheet Paper Team Mentorship I – "Mid-Death Crisis" Overview (PT128) Paper Team Mentorship I - Paul's Update Bringing the TV Writers' Room Process Home (PT06) Paul Chang on Twitter If you enjoyed this epis...
2019-05-1300 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWarner Bros. Television Writers’ Workshop ft. Rebecca Windsor – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT133)Alex and Nick expand their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series – a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. The fourth part is all about the Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop, with Rebecca Windsor, director of the program. We cover everything, from what they want in the application and selection process, to how they adapt the workshop to fit the evolving industry. Content About the Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop (00:50) 1 - The application process (03:43) 2 - The selection process (18:08) 3 - The program (31:54) 4 - After the program and final advice (45:44) Links Warner Br...
2019-05-0600 minPaper Team
Paper TeamNBC Writers on the Verge ft. Karen Horne – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT132)Alex and Nick pursue their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series – a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. Part three centers on the NBC Writers on the Verge Program, with its director Karen Horne, Senior Vice President of Programming Talent Development & Inclusion for NBC Entertainment and Universal Television Studios. Everything is discussed, from what they look for in spec scripts and essay questions, to the importance of the interview process and how the program has evolved over the years. Content About the NBC Writers on the Verge program (00:49) 1 - Th...
2019-04-2900 minPaper Team
Paper TeamCBS Writers Mentoring Program ft. Jeanne Mau – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT131)Alex and Nick continue their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series – a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. Our second part focuses on the CBS Writers Mentoring Program, with its supervisor Jeanne Mau, Senior Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion at CBS. We go over everything, from the importance of the letter of interest and scripts, to the interview process and how the program helps its writers navigate a room. Content About the CBS Writers Mentoring program (00:42) 1 - The application process (03:48) 2 - The selection process (13:40) 3 - The program (21:11) 4 - Af...
2019-04-2200 minPaper Team
Paper TeamDisney ABC Writing Program ft. Kristi Shuton – Inside the TV Writing Programs (PT130)Alex and Nick begin their "Inside the TV Writing Program" series - a deep dive into what goes on inside every major TV writing program from the decision makers themselves. Our first part is all about the Disney ABC Writing Program (now known as the Walt Disney Television Writing Program), with Kristi Shuton, who oversees the program as Manager of Creative Talent Development & Inclusion at the Disney ABC Television Group. All the ins-and-outs are covered, from the application and selection process, to the content of the program and what comes after. Content About the Disney ABC Writing program (00:48) 1 - The...
2019-04-1500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Team Mentorship I – “Mid-Death Crisis” Overview (PT128)Alex and Nick start the Paper Team Mentorship with winner Paul Chang, and his new comedy pilot MID-DEATH CRISIS. Step one: a basic series overview with premise, characters, themes and arcs. We hear for the first time Paul's pitch, and share our thoughts live. The mentorship begins... Content About the PT Mentorship and Paul (01:07) "Mid-Death Crisis" - Basic series overview (08:07) Discussion of the basic series overview (14:59) Links Paul Chang on Twitter "Mid-Death Crisis" basic series overview document This episode brought to you by Script PipelineSubmit by May 1st to the 2019 Script Pipeline contest for a reduced entry fee Special thanks...
2019-04-0100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Scraps Monthly – March Paper Tease and Mentorship Winner (PT127)Alex and Nick give feedback on eight more teasers in the final Paper Tease session for a while. Plus, we finally reveal the winner of our upcoming Paper Team Mentorship. The Paper Team goes in... Content March Paper Tease Session (01:07) Paper Scraps: Quick word about the WGA/agency negotiations (53:21) Paper Tease Entries "Ash & Bone" by Dean Benamor "D.O.A." by Tom Andrade "Finding Satoshi" by Shruti Saran "Monsters Don't Kill" by Anthony Decimus "Two Timing" by Megan Kingsbury "Super" by Michel Lichand "Vigilante" by Christina Arango Downling "White Rose" by Matt Michael Melvin Special thanks to Alex Switzky for...
2019-03-2500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamStaying Productive During Hiatus (PT126)Alex and Nick discuss ways of surviving your hiatus and staying productive during the off season. Why is being active all year long important? How do you look for a next job? How do you keep in touch during a hiatus? Why are hobbies and social interactions vital? How can you keep yourself healthy and financially stable? Plus, we make three major Paper Team announcements about what is coming up. The Paper Team doesn't wait... Content Announcements: WonderCon 2019, TV writing programs, final Paper Tease (00:23) 1 - Why staying active during a hiatus is important (04:02) 2 - Being productive in your writing (08:22) 3...
2019-03-1800 minPaper Team
Paper TeamTV Writing Incubators and the Evolution of Access (PT125)Alex and Nick have a candid discussion about the emergence of TV writing incubators, and the current state of access in the television industry for up-and-coming writers. What are TV writing incubators? What do those programs mean for our industry? Is every facet of TV writing going to be turned into a competition? How have TV writing opportunities changed for new writers? What are ways of improving the situation? The Paper Team takes a chance... Links Imagine Impact Rideback TV Incubator Sundance Episodic Program Special thanks to Alex Switzky for helping us edit this episode. If you enjoyed this episode...
2019-03-1100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWriting and Pitching Across Formats ft. Gretchen Enders (Queen America/Grace and Frankie) (PT124)Alex and Nick invite Gretchen Enders, writer on TV series (Queen America, Grace and Frankie, Take My Wife, Gortimer Gibbon's Life on Normal Street) and audio originals (Bedtime Stories for Cynics, This Sounds Serious), to discuss working and pitching shows across formats. How do you blend your voice within an established show? How do you find stability as a TV writer between seasons? What is good advice when taking a general meeting? How were the rooms of Queen America, Grace and Frankie, Take My Wife, and Gortimer Gibbons? How does writing radio plays compare with writing for television? What should...
2019-03-0400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamPaper Scraps Monthly – February Paper Tease and Syndication News (PT123)Alex and Nick give feedback on five Paper Tease entries and take a look at some TV writing news, including Twitter threads on staffing and articles about the syndication of iconic shows. The Paper Team licenses itself... SHOWNOTES Content Paper Tease Session (00:24) Paper Scraps: Law & Order, The Simpsons, The Critic and Twitter threads (28:16) Paper Tease Entries "Motel Verse" by Dallas Rico "Inept" by Matty Mendez "Rogue Galaxy" by J.R. Curry "Diabolical" by Renier Murillo "Evangelist" by Seth Yergin Links "Why Isn’t Law & Order Streaming Anywhere?" - Vulture "What Will Happen to The Simpsons as Disney Takes Over Fox?"...
2019-02-2500 minPaper Team
Paper TeamInternational TV Writing Models ft. Des Doyle (Showrunners) (PT122)Alex and Nick invite Des Doyle, director of the Showrunners documentary, and behind several writing programs for Screen Skills Ireland, to discuss international TV writing and exporting the showrunner model to other markets. How does the American showrunner model differ from the way television is written internationally? How do you create that setup globally? How does auteur theory impact TV? Why is there a rising cost in television production? How do you move up the ladder of TV writing outside America? Is the showrunner model the best for a writers' room? The Paper Team exports itself... SHOWNOTES Content Showrunning and...
2019-02-1100 minPaper Team
Paper TeamNetworking 201: Cold Contact, Queries and Etiquette (PT121)Alex and Nick discuss cold contacting people. From formulating queries for your scripts to the proper etiquette when reaching out, learn how you should go about contacting people who don't know you. What are the best ways of contacting people cold? Do query letters work? What should you put in a query letter? How do people perceive you when you reach out? What is the proper etiquette to cold contacting people? Plus, we celebrate our new Patreon subscribers! The Paper Team formulates... SHOWNOTES Content 1 - How to cold contact people (02:24) 2 - Query Letters (17:30) 3 - Etiquette: Dos and donts (26:03) Takeaways, Resources...
2019-02-0400 minPaper Team
Paper TeamFinding Stability as a Nascent TV Writer ft. Julia Yorks (The Adventures of Puss in Boots/Skylanders Academy) (PT120)Alex and Nick invite Julia Yorks, writer on The Adventures of Puss in Boots, Skylanders Academy, and Trolls: The Beat Goes On, to discuss finding stability as a nascent TV writer and moving up the ladder. How do you navigate building a career as a new TV writer? How do you deal with the instability of the profession? How can you balance other jobs with writing? What is the process of transitioning to full-time staff writer? How was the writing process of Puss in Boots, Skylanders Academy and Trolls? The Paper Team steps up... SHOWNOTES Content Finding stability as an...
2019-01-2800 minPaper Team
Paper TeamWriting Samples and Preparing for TV Staffing ft. Liz Alper (The Rookie) & Kai Wu (Deception) (PT119)Alex and Nick invite fellow TV writers Liz Alper (The Rookie/Hawaii Five-0) & Kai Wu (Deception/The Flash) to debate what samples are worth writing, and how they get ready for staffing season. Are features better samples than TV pilots or specs? Should writers chase trends? What are ways of researching a spec script? How can you get ready for staffing season? How do you handle a difficult showrunner as a staff writer? Plus, we give feedback on three Paper tease entries and discuss the latest TV writing news. The Paper Team cuts deep... SHOWNOTES Content Paper Tease Session (00:00:48) 1...
2019-01-2100 min