The Story Series Podcast with Brandon Violette (For Writers Who Break The Rules)

Lincoln Jones is the founder and artistic director of the American Contemporary Ballet of Los Angeles. He has presented dance in increasingly compelling and creative formats, staging immersive productions of Inferno and Burlesque (to a score commissioned from late Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Wuorinen) and Astaire Dances. Jones' immersive staging of The Nutcracker Suite became an unexpected L.A. holiday tradition, selling out every season since its 2017 premiere. Los Angeles Magazine wrote "American Contemporary Ballet is undeniably one of the most talented institutions across the entire globe." IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Ambition and obsession: What dancers and writers have in common. • Why contrast is essential to making compelling art. • How limitations inspire better creative work.  • And why we need to study the masters in order to say something new.  RESOURCES: • American Contemporary Ballet • Upcoming Show Tickets WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Scott Sonneborn co-developed, executive produced and show ran Angry Birds Summer Madness for Netflix, while also working as the story editor on the animated series Ghee Happy, which won the 2024 Annie Award for best preschool show. Before that, he was on an overall deal at Disney Television Animation developing a show he created. Scott has story edited and written for series ranging from Beavis & Butt-Head to My Little Pony. He's also the author of more than 40 books for kids, has been nominated for an Emmy, and was a Hugo Award Finalist. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Learning to write without waiting for inspiration. • The qualities of a strong staff writer. • Show Development: Using character dynamics to generate story examples.  • And why you should always be asking yourself, "Is it fun?" RESOURCES: • Learn more about Scott Sonneborn WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Karim Zreik is a producer and entertainment executive who has delivered hundreds of hours of television across platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, ABC, and more. Previously as Senior Vice President of Original Programming & Production at Marvel Television, he helped establish Marvel as a major force in TV, overseeing the studio's landmark Netflix slate- including Daredevil and Jessica Jones. Earlier, at Junction Entertainment, known for the National Treasure franchise, and the Emmy-nominated Jericho. In his current deal with Amazon Studios, Karim oversees a development slate including Mass Effect, based on Electronic Arts' best-selling sci-fi video game franchise.  IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • How to brand yourself early (and pivot later). • Lessons from 400+ episodes of Marvel Television. • What makes a script stand out in today's industry. • And why kindness is everything in Hollywood. RESOURCES: • Karim Zreik on LinkedIn WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Curtis Jobling is the designer of worldwide hit children's television show 'Bob the Builder', and the author/illustrator of numerous children's books. He lives with his wife, Emma, in Cheshire, England, along with a menagerie of children and pets. His own animated series, 'Frankenstein's Cat' and 'Raa Raa the Noisy Lion', can both be seen on the BBC. His acclaimed best-selling series of epic fantasy novels, 'Wereworld', was published by Penguin worldwide. The million-selling 'Wereworld' series of novels has been adapted into a major new animated show for NETFLIX, titled Wolf King and produced by Lime Pictures and Jellyfish Pictures. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • From production designer to fantasy author and show creator. • Being pigeonholed in the industry- and ways to break out of it. • How creative skills are transferable across disciplines and age groups. • And "why knowing your place" is a rule worth breaking. RESOURCES: • Learn more about Curtis Jobling WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Marcie Colleen has worn many hats - teacher, actress, nanny - but now she spends her days writing children's books. She is the acclaimed author of The Super Happy Party Bears chapter book series, as well as the picture books Love, Triangle, Penguinaut!, The Bear's Garden, and Survivor Tree, a 2022 ALA Notable Book that celebrates the real-life pear tree that survived the September 11th attacks. A former Senior Writer/Editor for Epic! Originals, Marcie has written comics and prose for their digital platform, including the Kitten Ninja series, which has garnered over 40 million reads. She lives in San Diego, California, with her husband and a beloved herd of stuffed animals. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The reality of publishing: agents, rejection, and long timelines. • How to determine the right format for an idea. • The most important storytelling skill across formats. • And why curiosity should guide your creative career. RESOURCES: • Learn more about Marcie Colleen WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Thom Harp is a screenwriter and director of comedy films including "The Donor Party" and "Home Delivery", now in theaters, about a plus-sized model who invites her estranged family to witness the birth of her baby. The film stars Donald Faison, Melanie Field, Lindsay Sloane, Jimmi Simpson, Joe Pantoliano, Lesley Ann Warren, Peter MacNicol, Tracie Thoms and Rainn Wilson. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: •  The origin of "Home Delivery" (and how it almost didn't happen). • Writing toward creative and budget constraints. • The importance of tone and when not to be precious about dialogue. • And why you have to advocate for yourself. RESOURCES: • See "Home Delivery" • Learn more about Thom Harp WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

A retired New York City Police Department Detective Lieutenant with over 21 years of service, he held leadership roles in units including Internal Affairs, K-9, and the Brooklyn Cold Case Homicide Squad as well as the Criminal Intelligence Unit where he worked on joint terrorism investigations with the FBI after the September 11 attacks. He later transitioned into television, starting as a technical advisor on CSI: NY before becoming a writer and rising to Co-Executive Producer. He has since written and produced for multiple series, including Hawaii Five-0, Chicago P.D., and L.A.'s Finest. He is currently working on the second season as a co-executive producer on the CBS hit series Boston Blue. A lifelong writer, he holds a bachelor's degree in English from SUNY Empire State College and has contributed opinion pieces to the New York Daily News and Daily Wire. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: •  Breaking into TV as a technical advisor on CSI: New York. • The connection between law enforcement and storytelling. • The reality of writers rooms, feedback, and finding your voice. • And how empathy, not structure, creates real characters. RESOURCES: • John's IMDB Page WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Lee Papa is an author and performance and wellbeing coach who helps individual creatives, professionals, and teams strengthen their internal guardrails so clarity, resilience, and aligned results become sustainable. Her work blends emotional intelligence, mindful mastery, and practical insight to support the full human system behind performance. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The difference between hard work and "forced" work. • How autopilot leads to creative burnout. • Why guardrails (not restriction) actually improve creativity. • And the connection between increased awareness and better writing. RESOURCES: • Mindful Makeovers: The Reset Map - $27 USE code: STORYLETTER for 50% Discount • Schedule a 15 Minute FREE Inquiry Call with Lee WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

NYC to LA, We Ghosted Media LLC is a production studio focused on compelling storytelling and content creation. With an ever-changing industry, we find alternative ways to deliver new and exciting media that will engage in a two-way conversation with our audience. Our mission is to inspire other artists to keep telling their stories, produce immersive entertainment, and stay true to their original ideas and concepts. Run by award-winning Co-Founders Jaclynn Demas and Christopher Jammal, We Ghosted Media LLC brings 20+ years of experience in series animation, live-action and film production, and creative marketing promotion. Jaclynn and Chris have created and produced content for Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Disney, Sesame Street, PBS Kids, Amazon, and Fox.  IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The evolution of their upcoming animated series "Owen Nowhere". • How Web3 and blockchain could give creators more ownership of their IP. • The narrative possibilities of fan-driven storytelling. • And how "getting ghosted" led to the creation of We Ghosted Media. RESOURCES: • Owen Nowhere on Instagram • We Ghosted Media • Lamina1 WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Agnes is a self-published children's book author who debuted in 2024. Driven by a passion for storytelling, she overcame the challenges of self-publishing and, within 6 months, completely sold out of her debut book, "Who Took My Stuff", with a single viral video. Since then, demand has continued to grow and she's already on track to sell out again as she prepares new adventures for her readers. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The making of her viral book: "Who Took My Stuff" • Writing with simple language and "low stimulation" storytelling. • Choosing between Amazon KDP, Barnes & Noble Press, and Alibaba. • Advice for self-publishing vs. traditional publishing. RESOURCES: • Buy Agnes' Book • Agnes' Previous Episode WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Alyson (Piekarsky) Eisenband is an Emmy-nominated writer and creator, most recently serving as Story Editor on Nickelodeon's hit series Blue's Clues & You!. Her work spans television, podcasts, games, and toys, and can be found across platforms including Nickelodeon, PBS, Netflix, Disney Junior, Duolingo, YouTube, Tonies, and wherever podcasts are streamed.  IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Writing across TV, podcasts, games and toys. • Networking for writers as a long-term strategy. • How to cold reach out on LinkedIn (and get responses). • And why you shouldn't limit yourself to one lane. RESOURCES: • Alyson's LinkedIn WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Qiushi Zhang is a writer-turned-founder and CEO of Leyline, an AI filmmaking platform built specifically for screenwriters and storytellers. After years of pitching scripts, waiting on greenlights, and watching great work stall, she set out to build a tool that lets creators iterate, experiment, and make films without waiting for permission. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Why AI makes writers uncomfortable, and why that's worth talking about. • Efficiency versus effectiveness in creative work. • What storytelling looks like without permission. • And whether AI can actually make art. RESOURCES: • Leyline: https://www.leylinepro.ai WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

John Huss is a comedy writer with extensive experience in animation, late night and sitcoms. John was a staff writer on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and "The Showbiz Show with David Spade" and has done joke writing for Norm Macdonald, David Letterman, "SNL Weekend Update," Craig Ferguson, Frank Caliendo and a radio prep service. John began his career writing the series finale of the WB sitcom "Nikki," followed by two episodes of the hit ABC comedy "The Drew Carey Show." In addition to freelance work for Disney, Warner Bros., Netflix and Cartoon Network, John was nominated for three Emmys (and won one) for the PBS show "WordGirl," and has been staffed on "Spidey & His Amazing Friends," "Firebuds" and "The Chicken Squad." IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Late-night TV as a pressure cooker for writers. • Writing 50+ jokes a day and letting most of them go. • Translating comedy skills into kids TV. • And how to take notes without taking them personally. RESOURCES: • John's IMDB WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

After experiencing a tragic loss of a partner and battling some of his own personal demons, Will has grown to care deeply about having open and frank conversations around mental health. As a result, he's made it his mission to share his story in the hopes that it will show others they're not alone and perhaps encourage them to share theirs as well. In addition to his work in mental health advocacy, Will is the host of Sunday Reset w/ Will & Friends, a podcast where real conversations meet emotional honesty. He's also the author of One Step Forward: Ideally in the Right Direction, a personal collection of reflections on growth and resilience. He also just  released The Sunday Reset Journal: Writing Prompts for Your Inner Healing, which invites readers to slow down, reflect, and reset - one prompt at a time. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Writing as a tool for processing grief and anxiety. • Turning private writing into public work. • Self-publishing and creative ownership. • And why "done is better than perfect" is a rule worth breaking. RESOURCES: • Will's Book: "One Step Forward" • Will's Podcast: Sunday Reset w/ Will & Friends WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Story Series Selects is a curated episode from the archive of screenwriters and filmmakers speaking honestly about uncertainty, false starts, and what it takes to stay in a creative career.  EPISODES FEATURED: • Joey Clift's Episode • Mike Ott's Episode • Ron Mita's Episode • Daniel Calvisi's Episode • Andy Guerdat's Episode • Jeff Aghassi's Episode WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Craig Carlisle is writer, director and actor. He won an Emmy for his work on "Arthur" for PBS and was nominated for second for "Welcome to the Wayne" at Nickelodeon. Craig was a finalist for the Humanitas Prize for one of his episodes of "Sofia the First" and recently received a nomination from the Canadian Screen Music Awards for a song he co-wrote for "Thomas & Friends" (he's helped write over 180 songs for animated TV). He was Head Writer for "Pete the Cat" at Amazon and "Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go" for Netflix, and Creative Consultant/Writer on the just-dropped "Hey AJ!" for Surfing Giant Animation and Disney Junior. Craig has also worked as a voice director, film and television writer and has directed theatrical productions in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago — including Off-Broadway at the Atlantic Theater, Cherry Lane and LaMama ETC. Craig holds degrees from Indiana State University and New York University and is a proud member of The Animation Guild, Writer's Guild of America East and SAG/AFTRA. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Why writing for kids is one of the hardest forms of TV writing. • The importance of finding a story's North Star. • How limitations can sharpen storytelling choices. • And why emotional engagement matters more than comprehension. RESOURCES: •  Craig's IMDB Profile WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Michael v. Greene is an award winning writer-director and co-founder of Everyone Can Eat. His feature film, "CLIKA" (2026), follows the journey of a young Mexican-American from picking fruit in the fields to musical stardom, and will be released theatrically by Columbia Pictures. Michael penned and directed his debut feature film "LIVE" in 2018, a found-footage, psychological thriller, aiming to draw attention to human trafficking. It is distributed by Entertainment Studios / Freestyle Digital Media and currently streaming on numerous platforms. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • How a Craigslist gig led to a studio feature film. • Writing the first draft of "CLIKA" in just two weeks. • Getting authentic performances from first-time actors. • And why there's no single "right path" into the industry. RESOURCES: •  Check out CLIKA • Michael's Production Company: Everyone Can Eat WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Born in Toronto, Canada, Ryan Pyle spent his early years close to home. After obtaining a degree in International Politics from the University of Toronto in 2001, Ryan realized a life long dream and traveled to China on an exploratory mission. In 2002 Ryan moved to China permanently and in 2004 Ryan became a regular contributor to the New York Times. In 2009 Ryan was listed by PDN Magazine as one of the 30 emerging photographers in the world. In 2010 Ryan began working full time on television and documentary film production and has produced and presented several large multi-episode television series for major broadcasters in the USA, Canada, UK, Asia, China and continental Europe. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The hidden cost of post-production on "Tough Rides: China". • Owning your IP by self-financing (and why that matters long term). • Selling to Travel Channel UK and launching the franchise. • And why young creatives should leave expensive cities to find their voice. RESOURCES: • Watch Part 1 • Ryan's Website WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Born in Toronto, Canada, Ryan Pyle spent his early years close to home. After obtaining a degree in International Politics from the University of Toronto in 2001, Ryan realized a life long dream and traveled to China on an exploratory mission. In 2002 Ryan moved to China permanently and in 2004 Ryan became a regular contributor to the New York Times. In 2009 Ryan was listed by PDN Magazine as one of the 30 emerging photographers in the world. In 2010 Ryan began working full time on television and documentary film production and has produced and presented several large multi-episode television series for major broadcasters in the USA, Canada, UK, Asia, China and continental Europe. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Circumnavigating China on motorcycles, and making it into a TV series. • Self-funding and guerrilla production. • Turning a personal crossroads into a large-scale creative risk. • And why commitment matters more than clarity at the start. RESOURCES: • Ryan's Website • Ryan's Previous Episode WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

After interviewing dozens of professional screenwriters, show creators, and executives, the same mistakes, and insights, about pitching kept coming up again and again. In this episode, I distill those conversations into three practical takeaways you can apply today to your next pitch, whether it's a TV show, Film, or Limited Series. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • 3 strategies to improve your next Film / TV pitch • The most common pitching mistake writers don't realize they're making. • How to make your pitch feel personal (without oversharing). • And why the best pitches feel like campfire stories. EPISODES REFERENCED: • Ron Mita's Episode • Emily Brundige's Episode • Marisa Balkus' Episode • Nick Fillipi's Episode WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Goldie Chan, dubbed the "Oprah of LinkedIn," is an innovative LinkedIn Top Voice, author of Personal Branding for Introverts and the founder of Warm Robots, an award-winning agency. A Forbes alum and global keynote speaker, she helps Fortune 500s and creatives build lasting community and culture through brand storytelling. Known for her warmth and strategy, Goldie's work spans brand campaigns, Archie comics, and cozy product experiences. She lives in sunny Los Angeles with her very happy plants. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • The super powers that all introverts have. • How to set boundaries that protect your creative energy. • What to do to start building a brand (hint: you already have one). • And the unexpected career benefits that come from a personal brand. RESOURCES: • Goldie's Website • Buy Goldie's Book WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

Beth Mosch is an emerging writer and producer focused on showcasing female-centered, LGBTQ, and athlete-driven narratives. She graduated from USC's School of Cinematic Arts with a degree in Film & Television Production and a focus on 3D animation and has worked on productions for Netflix, Sony Pictures, WBTV, and NEON. While running a social media marketing business, she continues to write and independently produce narrative projects. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • What it really takes to break into animation. • How to overcome writer's block. Hint: There is no such thing. • The right way to network and get your script read. • And why finishing projects matters more than perfecting them. RESOURCES: • Beth's LinkedIn WANT MORE? ✏️💥 I put together a free guide called The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice. A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

A screenwriter for animated children's series, most notably Blue's Clues & You Nursery Rhymes and Barnyard Daycare at Nickelodeon, Hilary Van Hoose is also a journalist who has written for such magazines as Animation and Script. Growing up a PWD and multi-heritage homeschooler in Northern California and Hawaii, Hilary briefly studied to be a pastry chef before attending UC Santa Cruz to study abroad in France and get her BA in film, then earning an MFA in film and television production from USC. She has received accolades from Women in Animation, Children's Media Association, 1IN4 Coalition, Disability Belongs and more. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: • Why the most underrepresented diversity in media is disability. • The on-screen tropes that need to stop. • How Sci-Fi lets creators tackle disability narratives thoughtfully. • And practical steps we can all take for a more accessible industry. RESOURCES: • Hilary's Screenwriting • Hilary's Journalism • Her Article that inspired our conversation. • Ask JAN: Job Accommodation Network • Geena Davis Institute's Analysis of Disability Representation • WGA's Inclusion & Equity Report WANT MORE? ✏️💥 Make sure to get my free guide: "The Rule Breaker's Guide to Finding Your Creative Voice". A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected as a professional writer. 👉 Get it for free at StorySeriesPodcast.com CONNECT: • Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube

A short update about how the podcast is evolving and why the next chapter is all about storytelling, writing, and breaking the right rules. ✏️💥 Plus, a free download to kick things off:  "The Rule Breaker's Guide To Finding Your Creative Voice". A brutally honest roadmap built from the lessons, mistakes, and breakthroughs I've collected along my journey as a professional writer.  --> It's available for free at: StorySeriesPodcast.com.

Brian Delate is a Vietnam Veteran, actor, writer, and director whose life and work bridge trauma, creativity, and transformation. After serving in Vietnam ('69–'70), Brian rebuilt himself through education, acting, and writing, eventually training at The Actor's Studio under icons like Ellen Burstyn, Harvey Keitel, and Al Pacino. His film and television career includes roles in The Shawshank Redemption, The Truman Show, Lisa Kudrow's The Comeback, and more. Brian is the creator of the acclaimed play Memorial Day, inspired by his own experiences with PTSD, healing, and redemption. Today, he continues to write, perform, and mentor veterans in the power of story. 🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅  The looming fear of the draft and the illusion that Vietnam "wouldn't last" ✅ The push-pull of boredom and terror during war ✅ The Snoopy monologue that changed his life and launched a career ✅ Studying at The Actor's Studio: Advice from Ellen Burstyn and Norman Mailer ✅ And what it was like returning to Vietnam decades later with his hit play 📌 Learn more about Brian: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0216507 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Peter Gaffney is an Emmy-winning writer, producer and story editor of animated television, ranging from Rugrats to The Simpsons. He is the co-creator of Nickelodeon's Aaahh!!! Real Monsters.  🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅ What the iconic Rugrats taught him about creative freedom ✅ Why his approach to writing comedy hasn't changed since the '90s ✅ How meditation saved his work ✅ His honest take on AI: the danger and the opportunity ✅ And why the rule he breaks is simple: stop asking for permission 📌 Learn more about Peter: https://tinyurl.com/4z8pea47 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Emmy nominee and NYT Bestselling author Elise Allen has written for all ages, preschool to adult. She developed/showran Princess Power; other TV credits include Dinosaur Train, Sid the Science Kid, and The Lion Guard. In features, she wrote The Pout Pout Fish, plus fifteen animated Barbie movies. Books include the Elixir series (with Hilary Duff), and Gabby Duran and the Unsittables, now a Disney + show. In the digital world, she wrote for Paris and Pups, and co-created The Monty Pickle Show. Elise is dedicated to telling unique character stories that entertain while sharing messages of kindness, inclusivity, and joy.  🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅ Building Princess Power around the idea that "Princess is a verb" ✅ The challenge of crossing from animation to live action ✅ Creating messy, human characters in kids' stories ✅ Why worldbuilding includes the team behind the show ✅ And the rule she breaks in every pitch room 📌 Learn more about Elise: https://www.eliseallen.com/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Eric Miller's first brush with literary "fame" occurred when his grade school writing assignment about a bloodthirsty executioner's block earned him a trip to the principal's office. Years later, he edited the Bram Stoker Award-nominated anthology Hell Comes To Hollywood and other anthologies, wrote the screenplays for the SyFy Channel hit Ice Spiders among other genre films, and his first novel Whatever Happened to Uncle Ed? was said in part to be "…an effective blend of comedy, heart, and scares that defies expectations..." by Kirkus Reviews. Miller lives in Los Angeles, where he continues to write, make movies, and ignore advice from authority figures. 🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅ How a short story he wrote in the 80s became a finished novel decades later ✅ Mixing genres (and why that can be both your curse and your superpower) ✅ Overcoming rejection and imposter syndrome ✅ The assassin mentality of athletes - and writers ✅ And why it's better to be late than never 📌 Learn more about Eric: https://www.ericmillerwrites.com/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Adam Beechen is an Emmy-nominated writer and producer with over 200 produced episodes across live-action and animation, including MacGyver, Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Teen Titans, The Batman, and The Stinky And Dirty Show. A New York Times best-selling author (Batman Beyond: Hush Beyond), he has written comics for DC, Lion Forge, and Darby Pop, including the acclaimed graphic novel Hench, praised by Variety for its "black and comic strangeness." Beyond television, Adam's storytelling spans film, video games, and development for studios like DreamWorks, Starz, and NBC. 🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅ From Journalism to Animation – finding your real creative path ✅ Learning story by reading hundreds of scripts for Aaron Spelling ✅ What comics taught him about character, voice, and visual storytelling ✅ The secret to spotting a great script in the first 10 pages ✅ Why screenwriters get pigeonholed - and what to do about it 📌 Learn more about Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-beechen-b6320411/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Ambika Mathur aka "Amby" is an experienced model, actress, and host who began her career in Los Angeles, CA. Ambika is represented by top agencies in America and Italy. She has walked in prestigious runway shows in NYFW, PFW, LAFW, and appeared as a principal role in international campaigns, including a commercial with Visit Italy that aired in New York Times Square. Ambika currently splits her time between the US and Italy, where she moved for love. Ambika's story has captured the interest of global networks such as CNN, ABC, and Rai. She is currently developing a tv series, and can't wait to see it on screens! 🎙️In this episode, we explore:  ✅ Finding purpose after being laid off ✅ Becoming a digital nomad during COVID ✅ How a random Hinge message led to her future husband in Italy. ✅ Turning real life into art - developing two TV series based on her wild story ✅ Why she believes in creating opportunities instead of waiting for them 📌 Learn more about Ambika: https://www.ambika-mathur.com/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.  

10 guests. 10 answers. 1 powerful question: "What's a rule in your industry you don't follow or believe in?" In this bonus episode, we revisit the answers from the previous 10 guests. The designer who brought mindfulness into the workplace... The screenwriter who follows feeling over formula... The actor who refuses to give in to industry despair... The entrepreneur who doesn't chase sales... Each voice is different, but the message is the same. There's no single path. No perfect process. No permission required. ⚠️ Warning: This episode may increase your risk tolerance. 00:00 – Intro 00:58 – John S. Couch – Episode 21 01:51 – Andy Guerdat – Episode 22 07:38 – Emily Brundige – Episode 23 12:07 – Guy Toubes – Episode 24 12:29 – Brett Sorem – Episode 25 14:09 – Jane Zhao – Episode 26 14:55 – Andrew Key – Episode 27 16:37 – Chester Stockton – Episode 28 18:33 – Ari Levitch – Episode 29 21:19 – Kate Amundsen – Episode 30 23:56 – Outro 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Kate Amundsen is an accomplished American actress. Born and partly raised in Los Angeles, she spent much of her youth in Utah and New Mexico, where she discovered her passion for acting through hero Judy Garland. She has a long list of network credits that include acclaimed TV series such as 9-1-1: LONE STAR and SHAMELESS. Her film work includes the lead role in MOTHER NATURE & THE DOOMSDAY PREPPER (2025) as well as the lead in 408 OP. 1 from director Niki Byrne and the producers of Nickel Boys. She also received critical acclaim for her portrayal as the titular role in DONNA (2022), winning more than two dozen awards at various festivals including BEST ACTRESS.  🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How to turn rejection into resilience ✅ What she learned living abroad as a model ✅ Why discomfort is the best teacher ✅ How writing her own show is reshaping how she acts ✅ And why she refuses to give in to despair, even in the age of AI 📌 Learn more about Kate: https://www.kateamundsen.com 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Ari Levitch is a world builder and storyteller for games. He is also half of Mysterious Alchemy, the company that he and his writing partner, Adam Lee, created after working on Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering for almost a decade. Most recently, he served as Narrative Director on the Disney Lorcana trading card game. When he's not working, he's likely watching the Dodgers or conversing with his cat, Pippin. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How history and castles shaped his love for storytelling ✅ Writing names & flavor text for Magic: The Gathering cards ✅ The rise of D&D and why the 5th edition changed the game ✅ Embracing creative constraints ✅ And why he believes roleplaying games are memory making adventures. 📌 Obojima is the latest RPG project that he's working on with 1985 Games, and you can watch the weekly writer's room here: ⁨https://youtube.com/@obojima?feature=shared 📌 Learn more about what Ari does at Mysterious Alchemy here: https://www.mysteriousalchemy.com 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

This bonus episode of The Story Series is brought to you in collaboration with The Pitch Docs, an online platform founded by "Shimmer and Shine" Creator Farnaz Esnaashari that pairs first time show creators with seasoned veterans: https://thepitchdocs.com Nick Filippi is an Emmy Award-winning story artist, director, and producer with a passion for storytelling. He is best known for directing and producing The Penguins of Madagascar and All Hail King Julien, as well as serving as co-developer, executive producer, and supervising director on Disney's Big Hero 6: The Series. Nick began his career as a story artist, contributing to fan-favorite shows like Kim Possible, Phineas and Ferb, and Wolverine and the X-Men. Most recently, he co-developed and served as supervising producer on the animated Monster High series for Mattel and Nickelodeon. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How to handle hearing the word "no" in Hollywood ✅ Why strong characters matter more than flashy worlds in a pitch ✅ Common mistakes first-time show creators make, and how to avoid them ✅ The professional habit that's guided him through decades of work 📌 The story doesn't have to end here. If you want to get more time with Nick or other industry professionals, please visit: https://thepitchdocs.com/product/nicholas-filippi/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Chester "Chet" Stockton is an experienced technology professional and author with over three decades of experience in the enterprise software space, having held management, senior solutions engineering, and architectural roles at industry-leading companies such as VMware, Symantec, and Veritas. Chet has spent years providing technical consultation to C-suite individuals as well as mentoring young engineers. Parallel to his impactful tech career, he has dedicated himself to a lifelong passion for athletics, serving as a fitness and track coach committed to mentoring young athletes and fostering community well-being. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How the IT field evolved from number-crunching to saving lives ✅ Why data has always been "gold" (and why it matters even more now) ✅ The "five-year rule" and how it applies across careers and investing ✅ The personal habits that help balance work, family, and growth ✅ And the rule he broke to build stronger relationships 📌 Learn more about Chester: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chstockton/  📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Andrew is a husband of 15 years, a father to three boys, and has been in entertainment for 15 years. With numerous credits on network television as well as lead and supporting roles in films, he describes every day on set as the best day ever. Aside from his work as an actor, he really enjoys getting to help build a culture with the cast and crew throughout the duration of any and every shoot. Onward and upward. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Chasing the dream from Dallas → Miami → Chicago → LA ✅ How fitness kept the lights on while he pursued acting ✅ What it really means to "book the room, not the role." ✅ Landing the lead in "Mother Nature and the Doomsday Prepper" (Amazon, Apple TV). ✅ And the long game mindset every creative needs to build a lasting career. 📌 Learn more about Andrew: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7790291/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Jane Zhao is a media and marketing strategist with 10+ years of experience driving growth in live streaming and influencer marketing. She has led content strategy, partnerships, and campaign optimization at leading global tech and media platforms, specializing in creator engagement, branded content, and audience monetization. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ The grind behind live streaming (8 hours a day, 7 days a week) ✅ How creators build communities off-platform for stability and growth ✅ Cultural differences in consumer behavior between China and the U.S. ✅ Witnessing the decline of traditional ad agencies ✅ And why vertical dramas might be the next big wave of storytelling 📌 Learn more about Jane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-z-b540524a/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

This bonus episode of The Story Series is brought to you in collaboration with The Pitch Docs, an online platform founded by "Shimmer and Shine" Creator Farnaz Esnaashari that pairs first time show creators with seasoned veterans: https://thepitchdocs.com Freddy Tutiven is the Creative Director and co-owner of Fun Ideas LLC a content creator, product design and development studio. Before starting his studio, Freddy was the Vice President/Creative Director of Toys and 3D at Paramount Consumer Product overseeing toys creatively across ViacomCBS Media Networks, working on brands like SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Blue's Clues and You, Star Trek and many more. He also worked and consulted for many major entertainment studios and toy companies, including Sesame Street, Disney, Mattel, Tyco, and Spinmaster. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ The industry shift from original toys to licensed IP ✅ Why play patterns are the key to both toys and storytelling ✅ Where Freddy finds inspiration (from '80s nostalgia to Asia's newest trends) ✅ And how to refresh a brand + show with locations, vehicles, and costumes 📌 The story doesn't have to end here. If you want to get more time with Freddy or other industry professionals, please visit: https://thepitchdocs.com/product/freddy-tutiven/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Brett Sorem is the author of Land On Both Feet: Grind Through Life with a Skateboarder's Mindset. His journey has taken him from carving the streets of San Diego to skitching cabs in New York City, making nearly every major metropolitan area his home at one point or another. Through it all, one thing remained constant: his skateboard was always by his side. By the age of 20, he was sponsored by big names like Billabong, Oakley, and Savier Shoes, but he faced a life-defining choice - continue his education or pursue his skateboarding dream full-time. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Growing up between baseball and skateboarding  ✅ Making sponsor tapes and learning rejection early ✅ Why failure and resilience are baked into skateboarding ✅ Writing Land On Both Feet and turning skate lessons into life lessons ✅ And why you should never push mongo (and what that means). 📌 Learn more about Brett: https://www.landonbothfeet.com/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

This bonus episode of The Story Series is brought to you in collaboration with The Pitch Docs, an online platform founded by "Shimmer and Shine" Creator Farnaz Esnaashari that pairs first time show creators with seasoned veterans: https://thepitchdocs.com Mary is a creative, quirky, master of story spells. She is Emmy nominated for Best "Pre-school Show" for "Justin Time", developed and executive produced Netflix's "True and the Rainbow Kingdom", co-creator of Disney Jr's "Pikiwik Pack", developed girl led action series "Jade Amor", and Youtube Original "Behind the Beats". One of the EPs on the Oscar nominated feature "The Breadwinner" - an honour. She mentors diverse and upcoming voices through programs at WIFT and WIA. WGC member. Mary is most proud of her son who is in his second year at McMaster. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How creating the feeling of a pitch is just as important as the pitch itself ✅ Following up without being annoying ✅ The secret to short, powerful emails ✅ Best and worst career advice she's ever received ✅ And why showing green lawns on animated TV shows needs to stop 📌 The story doesn't have to end here. If you want to get more time with Mary or other industry professionals, please visit: https://thepitchdocs.com/product/mary-berdin/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Guy Toubes is an Emmy-nominated writer, executive producer, and showrunner who burst onto the children's television scene with Mowgli: The New Adventures of the Jungle Book, a series he co-created and produced for Fox Kids Network. Guy is also the Executive Producer and showrunner of the Emmy and Annie nominated series The Stinky & Dirty Show on Amazon Prime, the smash hit series CoComelon Lane on Netflix, and the upcoming epic action-adventure Messi & The Giants on Disney+. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Pitching Mowgli: The New Adventures of the Jungle Book with a live bear ✅ The professor who told him "arrogance" is essential for writers ✅ Panic vs. calm in the writers' room (and why both are contagious) ✅ The accidental origin of The Stinky & Dirty Show ✅ And why you've got to love what you do 📌 Learn more about Guy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-toubes-71915/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Emily Brundige is the creator of GOLDIE on Apple TV+, based on her award-winning short film of the same name, and the mind behind the cult-favorite YouTube series Pubertina. She served as Head Writer on the Emmy- and Annie-winning Hilda (Netflix) and Big Nate (Nickelodeon/Paramount+), and has over a decade of experience crafting original, heartfelt, and slightly oddball stories for kids and families. She recently self-published A Guide to Developing Animated Shows, a practical and personal resource for aspiring creators. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ How a scrappy YouTube series launched her career ✅ Creating shows that center outsider voices ✅ Writing the book she wished she had when starting out ✅ The reason proof of concept matters when pitching major studios. ✅ And why you can't just wait in this industry - you have to create 📌 Learn more about Emily: https://www.emilybrundige.com 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

This bonus episode of The Story Series is brought to you in collaboration with The Pitch Docs, an online platform founded by "Shimmer and Shine" Creator Farnaz Esnaashari that pairs first time show creators with seasoned veterans: https://thepitchdocs.com Dimitris Dodoras, born in Cologne, Germany, is an award-winning composer whose musical journey began with piano lessons and early exposure to opera, theater, and film. He earned his Bachelor in Music Composition from the Prince Claus Conservatory and University of the Arts, performing internationally with the Creative Ensemble. His work spans films, commercials, and orchestration for viral projects, with accolades including the Skoda Soundtrack Award and a Hollywood Music in Media Award for Fellini Forward. Passionate about storytelling through music, Dimitris aims to transport audiences into immersive worlds that connect and inspire. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Common mistakes new artists make and how to avoid them ✅ Why he sees himself as a storyteller through music ✅ How silence can be more powerful than sound ✅ And what he looks for in potential collaborators on The Pitch Docs 📌 The story doesn't have to end here. If you want to get more time with Dimitris or other industry professionals, please visit: https://thepitchdocs.com/product/dimitris-dodoras/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Andy Guerdat is a TV writer/producer whose credits range from "Mork & Mindy" to "Sister, Sister" to "Herman's Head," which he created. In addition to half-hour comedies, he has written hour-long dramas and TV movies, as well as animated series, including "George of The Jungle," "Higglytown Heroes," "Sheriff Callie's Wild West," "Fancy Nancy," "Paw Patrol" and "Robogobo." He has been Emmy-nominated three times for Outstanding Writing for animation. His play "Red Remembers" was produced at the Berkshire Theater Festival. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Robin Williams in the studio: what was scripted vs. improvised ✅ What really happens inside a sitcom writer's room ✅ Fighting ageism and his second act in animation ✅ Pitching a take on what became Disney's The Lion King ✅ Why Hollywood is built for dreamers (and how to stay one) 📌 Learn more about Andy: https://youtube.com/@thegodraft?feature=shared 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

This bonus episode of The Story Series is brought to you in collaboration with The Pitch Docs, an online platform founded by "Shimmer and Shine" Creator Farnaz Esnaashari that pairs first time show creators with seasoned veterans: https://thepitchdocs.com Scott Gray is an Emmy and Writers Guild Award-winning writer with over two decades of experience in animation. He's written for Rugrats, Pupstruction, LazyTown, Rusty Rivets, Mecha Builders, and more, with credits across Nickelodeon, Disney, Netflix, and Sesame Workshop. He's served as a head writer, staff writer, and story editor, and has also contributed to comic books, video games, and national comic strips. Known for his sharp dialogue, character-driven storytelling, and versatility, Scott has helped shape some of the most beloved children's shows on TV. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Breaking in with zero credits ✅ The dos and don'ts of pitching your first show ✅ When to push back on network notes ✅ What Scott looks for in a great sample ✅ And why preschool writing might be harder than sitcoms 📌 The story doesn't have to end here. If you want to get more time with Scott or other industry professionals, please visit: https://thepitchdocs.com/product/scott-gray/ 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

John S. Couch is a visionary writer, designer, and technologist dedicated to unlocking creative potential. He leads Galvanize Studios, which has partnered with Amazon Prime Video and Verses.ai on future-focused design and strategy. Formerly Chief Experience Officer at Blockchain Creative Labs (Fox) and VP of Product Design at Hulu, John has shaped groundbreaking user experiences - from Hulu's major redesigns to web3 innovation in content creation. His book, The Art of Creative Rebellion, reflects his belief that curiosity and courage are essential to progress.  🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ The tension between rules and rebellion in creative work ✅ How AI is changing (and challenging) the soul of storytelling ✅ Why design is empathy in action ✅ What it takes to creatively thrive inside corporate walls ✅ And how to lead with love, not fear 📌 Learn more about John: https://www.john-couch.com 📬 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: https://www.storyseriespodcast.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

10 guests. 10 answers. 1 powerful question: "What's a rule in your industry you don't follow or believe in?" In this bonus episode, we revisit the answers from the last 10 guests - a mix of showrunners, startup founders, fitness experts, and creative disruptors - each offering their own raw, unfiltered take on the rules they've chosen to break.  From ignoring screenwriting "don'ts" to saying no to gigs that don't align with your life to tossing out the 10,000-hour myth - this is a masterclass in risk-taking, reinvention, and rewriting the rules.  ⚠️ Warning: This episode may increase your risk tolerance. 00:00 – Intro 01:17 – Marlyn Benitez – Episode #11  02:18 – Rick Suvalle – Episode #12 03:28 – Mengting Hou – Episode #13 05:31 – Mike Reagan – Episode #14 08:14 – Noël Stark – Episode #15 09:07 – Farnaz Esnaashari – Episode #16 09:58 – Daniel Calvisi – Episode #17 13:26 – Tanya Memme – Episode #18 15:02 – Jeff Aghassi – Episode #19 17:14 – David Levy – Episode #20 20:27 – Outro 📝 Have you signed up for the newsletter yet? Each week I share reflections, favorite moments, and what stuck with me from the latest episode: the-story-series-podcast.kit.com 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

David Levy is the Head of Studio at Pinkfong USA, where he oversees original IP and creative direction on co-productions for the company behind Baby Shark. With over 20 years in animation, Levy has held roles at Disney, Viacom, and Warner Bros. As Director of Animation at Disney+, he led teams creating content for Pixar, Lucasfilm, and more. He is also the author of Your Career in Animation: How to Survive and Thrive, and has taught at Parsons, SVA, and NYU. A former president of ASIFA-East, Levy brings deep creative and leadership experience to every stage of production. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ The power of personal storytelling ✅ What it means to be a "virtual studio" ✅ Maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset ✅ Why every "no" is worth collecting ✅ Reinventing yourself in moments of industry disruption  📌 Learn more about David: https://a.co/d/dt5yqL5 📌 Watch David's Short Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yUV4DJGvRc&list=RD4yUV4DJGvRc&start_radio=1 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Jeff Aghassi is a 30-year film and television industry veteran, literary manager, and producer. He began as a location manager on Tank Girl and The Crucible before moving into agenting under renowned agent Lynn Pleshette. Jeff contributed to sales of major works including Cold Mountain, Memoirs of a Geisha, and Brokeback Mountain. Since 2007, he has managed a diverse roster of writers, directors, and creators across film, TV, and publishing. His clients' work spans preschool animation to award-winning features, including The King's Speech. As a producer, Jeff's credits include the documentary series Sports On Fire and numerous projects in development. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ The King's Speech - Origins to Oscar night ✅ Producing the documentary series Sports on Fire ✅ The impact of streaming on the TV landscape ✅ Qualities he looks for in clients ✅ Why timing and leverage are everything when opportunity knocks 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Tanya Memme is an Emmy-nominated TV host, award-winning producer, and internationally recognized speaker, best known as the host of A&E's hit series Sell This House. Over her 20-year career, Tanya has anchored and produced acclaimed programs for networks including A&E, TLC, Hallmark, and CBS, conducted hundreds of celebrity interviews on the world's biggest red carpets, and appeared in more than 50 national commercials. She is the founder of Mastering the Spotlight Academy, where she empowers leaders and entrepreneurs to command the camera with authenticity and confidence. 🎙️In this episode, we explore: ✅ Going from pageants to primetime ✅ The grind behind landing her first national commercial ✅ That terrible audition that led to her becoming a household name ✅ Reinventing herself as a speaker and coach ✅ Helping others find confidence and authenticity on camera 📌Learn more about Tanya: https://tanyamemme.com/ 🎥 Prefer to watch this episode? Catch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bviolette?feature=shared 🔔 Like what you hear? Subscribe to The Story Series Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.