Podcast · Film & TV

Bulletproof Screenwriting™ Podcast

by Bulletproof Screenwriting · English · Film & TV

The Bulletproof Screenwriting Podcast shows you how to make your screenplays bulletproof. Weekly interviews with Oscar® and Emmy® award winning screenwriters, story specialists, best-selling authors, Hollywood agents and managers, and industry insiders. We cover every aspect of the screenwriting pro

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 55 min
Latest: 8 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026 · 54 min

BPS 492: How One of the WORST Movies Ever Made Became a Cult Classic with Jackey Neyman

Actress, artist, and producer Jackey Neyman takes us behind the scenes of one of the strangest cult movies in filmmaking history: Manos: The Hands of Fate. Jackey was only six years old when her father joined the production and brought far more than his performance to the movie—he also provided sets, props, costumes, furniture, a car, a Doberman, and his daughter for the cast. Jackey remembers what it was actually like making the ultra-low-budget production, watching the disastrous original premiere, and seeing a movie everyone involved tried to forget suddenly find an enormous new audience…

Play episodeWhatsApp Download

Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E491 · 1 Oct 2026 · 49 min
BPS 491: The Screenwriting Advice Hollywood Writers Actually Use with Andrew Bloomenthal
Entertainment writer, screenwriter, and independent filmmaker Andrew Bloomenthal joins the show to discuss what years of interviewing working screenwriters and directors taught him about storytelling, preparation, and the filmmaking business. Andrew explains how his background in financial journalism unexpectedly opened the door to entertainment writing, eventually giving him opportunities to interview filmmakers including Oliver Stone and Michael Moore and contribute to publications such as Creative Screenwriting and Script Magazine. He also shares why every assignment should be treated as…
E490 · 24 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 15 min
BPS 490: He Waited 11 YEARS to Make His Movie—Then Jimmy Kimmel Changed Everything with Don Barris
What happens when Hollywood never comes knocking? Comedian, filmmaker, podcaster, and longtime Jimmy Kimmel collaborator Don Barris shares the unconventional journey that eventually led to the cult comedy Windy City Heat. After leaving Michigan for California, Don struggled through stand-up, lived in his car for extended periods, and spent years developing his own comedy projects rather than waiting for Hollywood to discover him. That persistence eventually connected him with Jimmy Kimmel and helped transform an unusual Comedy Store concept into one of the strangest cult comedies ever…
E489 · 17 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 10 min
BPS 489: He Made 1,500 Short Films Before Hollywood Took Notice with Michael Rousselet
What happens when Hollywood keeps saying no, but you refuse to stop making movies? Filmmaker and screenwriter Michael Rousselet shares the unconventional path that took him from USC film school to creating more than 1,500 Five Second Films and eventually co-writing and directing the cult comedy Dude Bro Party Massacre III. Michael breaks down what film school actually taught him, why failure is essential to becoming a better filmmaker, how constant production sharpened his craft, and why filmmakers need to stop waiting for permission and start creating with whatever resources they have.…
E488 · 10 Sep 2026 · 47 min
BPS 488: How The Asylum Makes Movies That Actually Make Money with David M. Latt
How do you build an independent film studio that produces movies constantly without betting the entire company on every release? In this episode, David M. Latt, co-founder of The Asylum, breaks down the unconventional business model behind one of the most prolific independent production companies in Hollywood. From working out of an apartment to releasing dozens of films, creating Sharknado, and expanding into television with Z Nation, David explains how pre-sales, strict budgeting, vertical integration, and relentless production allowed The Asylum to survive while much of the traditional…
E487 · 3 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 18 min
BPS 487: The Brutal Truth About Making Horror Movies with Harrison Smith
Success in filmmaking rarely comes from waiting for permission. In this episode, horror filmmaker Harrison Smith shares the lessons he learned from building a career through writing, producing, and directing independent films like The Fields, Six Degrees of Hell, Camp Dread, and Zombie Killers: Elephant's Graveyard. From working at Universal Studios to producing feature films on modest budgets, Harrison explains why experience on real film sets teaches lessons no classroom can replicate and why every filmmaker eventually has to stop studying movies and start making them. The conversation…
E486 · 27 Aug 2026 · 55 min
BPS 486: Wes Craven's Secret to Writing Great Movies with Glenn Benest
What does it really take to become a professional screenwriter? In this fascinating conversation, Glenn Benest—screenwriter of two Wes Craven films, producer, novelist, and longtime Hollywood mentor—shares the lessons that transformed his career. From adapting A Stranger in Our House to collaborating with Wes Craven on Deadly Blessing, Glenn reveals why most aspiring writers focus on the wrong things, why film school isn't always the answer, and why the screenplay itself is the only calling card that truly matters. The discussion also dives into the development of Scream, the importance of…
E485 · 20 Aug 2026 · 45 min
BPS 485: The Screenwriting Blueprint Every First-Time Writer Needs with David Hohl
Writing a screenplay is easy. Writing one that Hollywood actually wants to read is something entirely different. In this episode, veteran screenplay consultant David Hohl shares decades of experience helping writers transform rough ideas into professional screenplays. From outlining and story structure to networking, screenplay contests, and script consultants, David explains why most first-time writers fail—not because they lack talent, but because they skip the preparation that professional writers never ignore. The conversation also explores why horror remains one of the smartest genres…
E484 · 13 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
BPS 484: How One Tweet Can Change Your Screenwriting Career with Jeanne Veillette Bowerman
Breaking into Hollywood has never followed a single formula, and Jeanne Veillette Bowerman proves that some of the most successful careers begin far outside Los Angeles. After owning a motel and restaurant for fifteen years, Jeanne reinvented herself as a screenwriter, eventually becoming the editor of Script Magazine, co-founder of the influential #ScriptChat community, and a respected voice in the screenwriting world. She shares how social media transformed her career, why networking online opened doors traditional methods never could, and how writers today can build meaningful…
E483 · 6 Aug 2026 · 55 min
BPS 483: The Filmmaker Who Turned Failure Into a Feature Film with Mark Phillips
What starts as a spontaneous idea during a cold morning outside a locked office eventually becomes a life-changing adventure stretching across an entire continent. In this episode, filmmaker Mark Phillips shares the incredible story behind The Walking Fool, a documentary chronicling his attempt to walk from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. What began as a personal challenge quickly evolved into a decade-long journey involving failure, perseverance, self-discovery, and ultimately a second attempt that forced him to confront unfinished business. Along the way, Mark reveals the…
E482 · 30 Jul 2026 · 34 min
BPS 482: How a Hollywood Creature Creator Made His First Feature Film with Hiroshi Katagiri
What does it take to spend more than two decades creating creatures, monsters, and makeup effects for Hollywood before finally stepping behind the camera to direct your own feature film? In this episode, legendary special effects artist Hiroshi Katagiri shares his remarkable journey from moving to Los Angeles as a teenager from Japan to working on films like Pacific Rim, Cabin in the Woods, Green Lantern, The Time Machine, and countless other productions. Along the way, Hiroshi reveals how practical effects shaped his understanding of storytelling, why independent filmmakers should focus on…
E481 · 23 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 35 min
BPS 481: The Brutal Truth About Getting Your First Film Made with Greg Francis
On today's episode, filmmaker Greg Francis shares the incredible journey behind making his first feature film, Poker Night, after spending more than a decade fighting to bring it to the screen. From growing up in Taiwan as the son of missionaries to discovering filmmaking through public access television and documentary work, Greg explains how persistence—not overnight success—became the defining theme of his career. He discusses raising financing, navigating Hollywood, losing major actors, rebuilding projects from scratch, and why surviving the filmmaking business often matters more than…
E480 · 16 Jul 2026 · 39 min
BPS 480: Hollywood’s Book Whisperer Reveals Why Most Scripts Never Sell with Lane Shefter Bishop
What if the reason your screenplay isn't getting attention has nothing to do with your writing ability? In this eye-opening conversation, Lane Shefter Bishop—known throughout Hollywood as "The Book Whisperer"—breaks down the single most important tool every writer needs: the logline. Having built a career discovering books before publication and developing them into film and television projects, Lane reveals why most writers struggle to sell their work, how executives evaluate ideas in seconds, and why being unable to explain your story in one compelling sentence is often the first sign…
E479 · 9 Jul 2026 · 1 hr
BPS 479: How to Make an Indie Film When You Have NO Money with Bob Woolsey and Darren Borrowman
What does it really take to make an independent film with almost no money, no studio backing, and no guarantees? In this episode, filmmakers Bob Woolsey and Darren Borrowman break down the entire chaotic journey of making their indie feature film Do Something with Your Life—from crowdfunding disasters and broken cameras to film festivals, self-distribution, and the harsh realities of today’s indie film marketplace. Along the way, they share invaluable lessons about collaboration, creativity, and why waiting for permission is the fastest way to never make your movie. The conversation dives…
E478 · 2 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 58 min
BPS 478: The Untold Story of ECW’s Rise & Fall with John Philapavage
What happens when a lifelong wrestling fan decides to document one of the most chaotic and misunderstood subcultures in entertainment history? In this episode, filmmaker John Philapavage breaks down the 13-year journey of creating Barbed Wire City, the unauthorized documentary about ECW and the culture surrounding extreme wrestling. From tracking down elusive wrestlers and dealing with conflicting stories to surviving crowdfunding, licensing nightmares, and volatile personalities like New Jack, John reveals the brutal realities of making an independent documentary without studio backing. But…
E477 · 25 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
BPS 477: What James Gunn Taught Me About Success with Will Keenan
What does a career look like when it spans cult films, Bollywood productions, Hollywood boardrooms, and ultimately a complete reinvention of purpose? In this episode, Will Keenan shares one of the most unconventional journeys in entertainment. From landing the lead role in Tromeo and Juliet alongside a young James Gunn to producing independent films, working in Bollywood, and eventually becoming an executive at Maker Studios, Endemol, and Streamup, Will offers a rare insider perspective on how the entertainment industry transformed from traditional filmmaking into the digital era. But this…
18 Jun 2026 · 37 min
BPS 476: The Cinematographer’s Secret to Making Actors Trust You with Jared Hess
What separates a good cinematographer from one that directors, producers, and talent repeatedly trust with high-pressure productions? In this episode, cinematographer Jared Hess shares hard-earned lessons from over a decade shooting for ESPN, WWE, Bellator, and major fight promotions. From filming in dangerous neighborhoods and chaotic gyms to working directly with elite athletes and unpredictable environments, Jared explains why technical skill alone is never enough. The real job is managing people, emotions, pressure, and trust while still delivering cinematic images under impossible…
E475 · 11 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 14 min
BPS 475: The Art of Networking in Hollywood – Real Strategies That Work with Erman Baradi & Brandon Waites
Erman Baradi and Brandon Waites share practical, real-world advice on how to network effectively in Hollywood without coming across as desperate or transactional. Drawing from their own journeys — from military service and film school to building strong online presences — they explain why relationships, not scripts, are the true currency of the film industry. Their discussion highlights the importance of patience, professionalism, and respecting everyone from assistants to executives. The episode also explores common networking mistakes, the power of mentorship, and why building connections…
E474 · 4 Jun 2026 · 35 min
BPS 474: The Legal Mistake That Can Destroy Your Film Career with Nellie Akalp
What if the biggest threat to your film isn’t your budget… your script… or even your distribution—but something legal you never even thought about? In this episode, Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet, breaks down the essential legal foundations every filmmaker must understand before stepping onto set. From LLCs to liability protection, she reveals why treating your film like a real business isn’t optional—it’s survival. As the conversation unfolds, the deeper truth emerges: filmmaking isn’t just art—it’s structure, protection, and strategy. Nellie explains why each film should be its own entity,…
E473 · 28 May 2026 · 1 hr 23 min
BPS 473: Why Moving to L.A Might Ruin Your Film Career with Will Ball
In this episode, Will Ball—talent agent and founder of a new agency—breaks down the harsh realities of the film and acting industry that most aspiring filmmakers never hear. From the oversaturated market in Los Angeles to the misconception that talent alone leads to success, Will explains why many creatives struggle after chasing the Hollywood dream. He shares firsthand experiences from working in both Philadelphia and LA, revealing how opportunity often depends on timing, positioning, and understanding the business—not just passion. The conversation also dives into practical strategies for…
E472 · 21 May 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
BPS 472: Why Most Indie Films Fail Before Production Even Starts with Jenna Edwards
What really stops independent filmmakers from succeeding? According to producer and actress Jenna Edwards, it’s not talent, money, or even connections—it’s the complete lack of a real plan. In this powerful conversation, Jenna shares the hard truths she learned moving from acting on shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Malcolm in the Middle into producing independent films. From networking mistakes to ego-driven productions, she explains why most projects collapse long before the camera ever rolls. But beneath the filmmaking advice is an even deeper story of resilience. After surviving a…
E471 · 14 May 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
BPS 471: Why Most Creators Never Finish Their Film (Hard Truth) with James Altucher
James Altucher breaks down the real foundation of creativity and why most writers and filmmakers struggle—not because they lack talent, but because they don’t consistently generate ideas. He explains how developing an “idea muscle” through daily practice can completely transform your ability to create stories, solve problems, and build projects. Instead of waiting for inspiration, he reframes creativity as a discipline—something you train every day through repetition and experimentation. The conversation also dives into filmmaking and screenwriting from a practical perspective, including how…
E470 · 7 May 2026 · 1 hr 21 min
BPS 470: Why 99% of Indie Films NEVER Get Distribution with Bill Ostroff
What if the biggest obstacle to your film career… isn’t talent—but misunderstanding how the industry actually works? In this eye-opening conversation, Bill Ostroff—founder of one of the longest-running indie film festivals—pulls back the curtain on the hidden realities of film festivals, distribution, and why most indie films never reach an audience. From the explosion of fake festivals to the harsh economics behind entry fees, Bill exposes the truths filmmakers rarely hear before spending thousands chasing validation instead of strategy. This episode challenges the romantic idea of “just…
E469 · 30 Apr 2026 · 53 min
BPS 469: Why Most Filmmakers NEVER Finish Their Movies with Rob Dimension
What if the only thing standing between you and your film career… is you? In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Rob Dimension pulls back the curtain on the real struggles of indie filmmaking—from failed crowdfunding campaigns to the harsh truth about why most people never finish what they start. Drawing from years of experience creating films, building audiences, and navigating the chaos of independent production, Rob breaks down what actually works—and what’s just noise. It’s not about gear, connections, or luck. It’s about execution. This episode isn’t about inspiration—it’s about…
E458 · 23 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 30 min
BPS 468: The Indie Filmmaker’s Survival Guide (No Hollywood Required) with Ethan Marten
Ethan Marten shares his journey from growing up around Hollywood through his father’s connections to forging his own path as an actor, producer, and filmmaker outside the traditional system. From landing early acting roles to learning the realities of auditions, collaboration, and directing, he offers a grounded perspective on what it actually takes to sustain a career in the film industry. His experiences highlight the importance of preparation, adaptability, and understanding both the creative and business sides of filmmaking. The conversation also dives deep into indie filmmaking…
E467 · 16 Apr 2026 · 51 min
BPS 467: Why Breaking Into TV Is HARDER Than You Think with Sandra Leviton
In this episode, Sandra Leviton pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a career in television and film. From her early days working in reality TV to her time at FX during the rise of hit shows like Sons of Anarchy and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, she shares a firsthand look at how the industry has evolved—and why breaking in today is more competitive than ever. She explains the difference between film and television pathways, revealing why TV still relies heavily on a traditional “gatekeeper” system, and why many aspiring creators misunderstand how projects actually…
E466 · 9 Apr 2026 · 50 min
BPS 466: The Screenwriting Software Changing How Writers Work with Guy Goldstein
Guy Goldstein discusses how his background as both a programmer and screenwriter led to the creation of WriterDuet, one of the most innovative screenwriting tools available today. Recognizing that screenwriting is often a collaborative process, he built software that allows writers to work together in real time rather than sending drafts back and forth. The result is a platform designed to streamline the creative workflow while eliminating many of the technical frustrations writers face. The conversation explores how programming principles mirror storytelling structure, why better tools can…
E465 · 2 Apr 2026 · 50 min
BPS 465: How to Turn a YouTube Idea Into a Feature Film with Patrick Epino
Patrick Epino shares how a simple YouTube video about Hollywood tropes evolved into the crowdfunded feature film Awesome Asian Bad Guys. After building an audience through the National Film Society, Patrick and his team leveraged their online community to raise over $50,000 on Kickstarter. He explains why crowdfunding requires relentless outreach, consistent content creation, and a pre-existing audience rather than blind optimism. The conversation also explores casting through community relationships, co-directing dynamics, production challenges, and the realities of low-budget filmmaking.…
E464 · 26 Mar 2026 · 55 min
BPS 464: How to Turn a Short Film Into a Film Career with Jennifer & Kevin Sluder
Jennifer and Kevin Sluder share their journey from North Carolina to Los Angeles and how they built Sunshine Boy Productions into a growing independent film company. Kevin’s early recognition as a screenwriter opened doors, but instead of waiting for projects to materialize, the couple chose to produce their own short films. Their first project ignited a passion for hands-on filmmaking and laid the foundation for their creative partnership. As their experience grew, so did their ambitions. Jennifer stepped into marketing and branding while Kevin transitioned into directing with Heartless, a…
E463 · 19 Mar 2026 · 54 min
BPS 463: The Rodriguez List: How to Make Movies with What You Already Have with Aaron Kaufman & Brian Levin
Aaron Kaufman and Brian Levin share an unfiltered look at how independent filmmakers can build real momentum by creating instead of waiting. Drawing from experiences ranging from YouTube comedy to studio features, they explain the power of the “Rodriguez List”—writing scripts based on the assets you already have. Their approach emphasizes volume, consistency, and learning through execution rather than chasing perfect conditions or external validation. The episode also explores the realities of producing indie films in a crowded marketplace, from the challenges first-time directors face to…

About Bulletproof Screenwriting™ Podcast

Bulletproof Screenwriting™ Podcast is a English film & tv podcast from Bulletproof Screenwriting. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Bulletproof Screenwriting
Language: English
Category: Film & TV
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 55 min
Latest episode: 8 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1364705753

RSS feed Apple Podcasts

More English film & tv

Take it with you

The Melo app keeps playing with the screen off, works in the car and on your watch, wakes you to your station, and browses the whole catalogue offline. Free, no ads, no account.