Screenwriting Speakers

A screenwriting speaker is someone who specializes in sharing insights, techniques, and experiences related to the craft and business of screenwriting - typically in a public speaking format like webinars, conferences, podcasts, or virtual summits.

Unlike a traditional screenwriter who works behind the scenes, a screenwriting speaker steps in front of the audience to teach, inspire, and sometimes challenge conventional thinking. They might be professional screenwriters, educators, script consultants, or industry veterans who've written for TV, film, or digital platforms. What sets them apart is their ability to communicate complex storytelling concepts in a way that resonates with both beginners and seasoned creators.

These speakers often cover topics like story structure, character development, dialogue, pitching, and navigating the entertainment industry. Some focus on genre-specific writing - like horror or sci-fi - while others dive into representation, diversity, or the economics of screenwriting.

In many cases, screenwriting speakers are invited to events, podcasts, or summits to share their journey, offer practical advice, and help others improve their storytelling skills. They serve as a bridge between theory and practice, offering real-world context to the art of writing for the screen.

So whether you're hosting a virtual summit or curating a speaker lineup for a film school event, a screenwriting speaker brings both credibility and creativity to the conversation.

When you're curating an event or podcast that touches on storytelling, creativity, or media, bringing in a screenwriting speaker isn't just a nice-to-have - it's a strategic move. These speakers offer a unique lens into how stories are built, which is foundational across industries.

First, screenwriting is the blueprint of visual storytelling. Whether it's a Netflix series or a 30-second ad, the script is where it all begins. A screenwriting speaker helps demystify that process, showing audiences how to think like a writer - which is incredibly valuable for marketers, entrepreneurs, and educators alike.

Second, they're often skilled communicators. Because screenwriters are trained to write dialogue and structure narratives, they tend to be excellent at delivering talks that are both informative and emotionally engaging. That makes them ideal for virtual summits or workshops where audience retention is key.

Third, they bring cross-disciplinary relevance. A screenwriting speaker might talk about character arcs, but those same principles apply to branding, UX design, or even leadership training. Story is everywhere - and these speakers help people see that.

Finally, in a world flooded with content, understanding what makes a story resonate is a competitive edge. A screenwriting speaker doesn't just talk about writing - they teach people how to connect, persuade, and inspire through narrative. That's why they're not just relevant to filmmakers, but to anyone who communicates for a living.

Screenwriting speakers do more than just talk about scripts - they teach, inspire, and translate the art of storytelling into practical lessons for diverse audiences.

They typically deliver talks, workshops, or interviews where they break down the mechanics of screenwriting. This might include explaining the three-act structure, how to write compelling dialogue, or how to pitch a screenplay to studios. For example, someone like Shonda Rhimes might discuss how she builds ensemble casts, while a speaker like Robert McKee might dive into the philosophy of story.

Beyond teaching technique, screenwriting speakers often share their personal journeys - the rejections, the breakthroughs, the late-night rewrites. These stories resonate with aspiring writers and creatives who are navigating similar paths. It's not just about the 'how' - it's also about the 'why' and the 'what it takes'.

They also adapt their content to different formats. On a podcast, a screenwriting speaker might focus on conversational insights and industry trends. At a virtual summit, they might lead a structured masterclass with slides and Q&A. In a corporate setting, they might explore storytelling as a tool for leadership or brand development.

In short, screenwriting speakers educate, entertain, and empower. They help people understand the structure behind great stories - and how to use those structures to tell their own.

Becoming a screenwriting speaker is all about blending your storytelling chops with a knack for public speaking. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Master Your Craft
- Before you speak about screenwriting, you need to know it inside and out. Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or just getting started, build a portfolio of scripts, credits, or collaborations. Even short films or indie projects count.
- Tip: Join screenwriting contests or labs like Sundance or Austin Film Festival to build credibility.

2. Define Your Niche
- Are you an expert in character development? Dialogue? Writing for TV vs. film? Find your angle. The more specific your expertise, the easier it is to stand out.
- Example: Pilar Alessandra focuses on pitching and story structure, which makes her a go-to speaker for those topics.

3. Build Your Speaker Page
- Create a professional speaker page that includes your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and video clips of past talks. This is your digital resume.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with event organizers and showcase your availability.

4. Start Small, Then Scale
- Speak at local film festivals, writing groups, or online summits. Record these sessions to build your speaking reel.
- Once you've got a few under your belt, pitch yourself to larger conferences like SXSW, Raindance, or ScriptFest.

5. Network with Hosts and Organizers
- Use LinkedIn, Twitter, or Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, virtual summit organizers, and event planners. Offer value first: suggest a topic their audience would love.
- Tip: Follow up with a short pitch email that includes your speaker page and a few suggested talk titles.

6. Collect Feedback and Refine
- After each talk, ask for testimonials and feedback. Use this to improve your delivery and content.
- Bonus: Post clips and quotes on social media to build your authority.

Becoming a screenwriting speaker isn't about being famous. It's about being helpful, clear, and passionate about storytelling. Start where you are, and build from there.

To be a screenwriting speaker, you need more than just a love for movies. You need a mix of storytelling expertise, communication skills, and credibility in the writing world. Let's break it down:

1. Screenwriting Experience
You don't need to have written a blockbuster, but you do need to show that you understand the craft. This could be:
- A few completed scripts (even unproduced)
- Festival placements or awards
- Writing credits on indie films, web series, or TV shows
- Teaching or mentoring experience in screenwriting

2. A Clear Speaking Focus
What do you want to be known for? Some speakers focus on genre writing, others on pitching, or writing for streaming platforms. The more defined your focus, the easier it is for hosts to book you.

3. Public Speaking Skills
Even if you're not a natural speaker, you can improve with practice. Start with:
- Toastmasters or improv classes
- Practicing on YouTube or Instagram Lives
- Speaking at local writing groups or virtual panels

4. A Speaker Profile
This is where Talks.co can help. You'll want a speaker page that includes:
- Your bio and headshot
- Topics you speak on
- A short video or audio clip
- Testimonials or audience feedback

5. Connections with Hosts and Platforms
Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and event planners. The easier you make it for them to find and book you, the more gigs you'll land.

Being a screenwriting speaker is about sharing your knowledge in a way that inspires and educates. Whether you're teaching structure to beginners or breaking down the hero's journey for advanced writers, your voice matters.

Yes, screenwriting speakers do get paid, but the amount and frequency vary widely depending on experience, audience, and event type. Let's look at the landscape:
Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Unpaid (but valuable): Many new speakers start by speaking for free at local events, podcasts, or virtual summits. These gigs help build credibility, generate leads, and create content for your speaker reel.
- Paid: Once you've built a reputation, you can start charging. Mid-level speakers often earn between $500 and $2,500 per event. High-profile names can command $5,000 to $25,000 or more.
Factors That Affect Payment
- Event Type: Corporate training events or film industry conferences usually pay more than community meetups or college panels.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences typically mean higher budgets.
- Speaker Reputation: A speaker with screen credits, books, or a large following can charge significantly more.
Examples
- A speaker like Linda Seger (author of 'Making a Good Script Great') might charge $5,000+ for a keynote.
- A newer speaker with a few indie credits might start at $500 for a workshop.
Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Builds authority	Not all gigs pay
Can lead to consulting work	Travel costs may not be covered
Great for lead generation	Payment terms can vary

So yes, screenwriting speakers get paid, but it's often a mix of paid and strategic unpaid gigs, especially early on.

Screenwriting speakers make money in a variety of ways, and the smartest ones diversify their income streams. Here's a breakdown of the most common revenue models:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most direct income source. Speakers are paid to present at:
- Film festivals (e.g., Austin Film Festival, Sundance panels)
- Industry conferences (e.g., ScreenCraft Summit)
- Universities and writing programs

2. Workshops and Masterclasses
Many speakers create their own paid workshops, either in-person or online. These can range from $50 webinars to $1,000+ multi-week courses.
- Example: Corey Mandell offers online screenwriting labs that attract hundreds of students.

3. Consulting and Script Coverage
After a talk, attendees often want more. Offering script consulting, feedback, or coaching is a natural upsell.
- Rates vary from $150 for basic coverage to $1,000+ for in-depth consulting.

4. Book Sales and Digital Products
Speakers with books or digital products (like templates, pitch decks, or writing guides) can sell them at events or online.
- Example: Blake Snyder's 'Save the Cat!' became a best-selling book and brand.

5. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
Some speakers partner with software companies (like Final Draft or Celtx) or educational platforms for affiliate income.
- Example: Promoting a screenwriting course on Udemy or MasterClass can earn commissions.

6. Online Summits and Talks.co
Platforms like Talks.co allow screenwriting speakers to get booked for virtual events, podcasts, and summits. These can be paid gigs or lead generators for other services.

So while speaking fees are great, the real money often comes from what happens after the talk: courses, consulting, and content.

The income of screenwriting speakers varies widely based on experience, niche, and how they package their offerings. Let's break it down with some real-world context:
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typical Range: $0 to $500 per event
- Profile: New to speaking, may have indie film credits or teaching experience
- Opportunities: Local film groups, online summits, podcasts
Mid-Level Speakers
- Typical Range: $500 to $2,500 per event
- Profile: Some screenwriting credits, a book or course, growing audience
- Opportunities: Film festivals, writing conferences, university workshops
High-Level Speakers
- Typical Range: $3,000 to $25,000+ per event
- Profile: Recognized names with major film/TV credits, bestselling books, or large followings
- Opportunities: Keynotes at major festivals, corporate training, international summits
Additional Revenue Streams

Source	Potential Monthly Income
Online courses	$500 - $10,000+
Script consulting	$1,000 - $5,000+
Book royalties	$100 - $2,000+

Example: A mid-level speaker who does 2 paid talks a month at $1,000 each, plus earns $2,000 from consulting and $1,000 from course sales, could make $5,000/month.
So while not every screenwriting speaker is raking in six figures, the top earners are combining multiple streams to build sustainable income.

Hiring a screenwriting speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on who you're booking and what kind of event you're hosting. Here's a breakdown:

1. Local or Emerging Speakers
- Cost: $200 - $1,000
- Best for: Writing groups, indie film meetups, online summits
- What you get: 1-hour talk or workshop, often virtual, sometimes in-person

2. Mid-Tier Professionals
- Cost: $1,000 - $5,000
- Best for: Film festivals, universities, industry panels
- What you get: Keynote or breakout session, Q&A, possible consulting add-ons

3. High-Profile Experts
- Cost: $5,000 - $25,000+
- Best for: Major conferences, corporate training, international summits
- What you get: Keynote, travel/accommodation, sometimes a book signing or VIP session

Factors That Influence Cost
- Speaker's reputation and credits: Someone with Emmy or Oscar nominations will charge more.
- Event size and location: Larger or international events often require higher fees.
- Format: Virtual talks are usually cheaper than in-person ones.

Tips for Booking
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget.
- Consider offering value beyond cash: exposure, networking, or product promotion.
- Bundle services: Some speakers will discount if you book a talk + workshop + consulting.

In short, screenwriting speakers can fit a range of budgets, but the more experienced and in-demand they are, the higher the cost.

Here's a list of some of the most respected and impactful screenwriting speakers of all time. These individuals have not only mastered the craft but also inspired thousands through their talks, books, and workshops:

- Robert McKee: Author of 'Story', McKee is arguably the most famous screenwriting speaker ever. His seminars have influenced writers like Peter Jackson and John Cleese.

- Linda Seger: Known for 'Making a Good Script Great', Seger has spoken at hundreds of conferences and is a go-to expert on structure and rewriting.

- Syd Field: Often credited with creating the modern screenwriting template, Field's lectures and books laid the foundation for generations of writers.

- Blake Snyder: His 'Save the Cat!' method became a global phenomenon. Snyder was a dynamic speaker who made structure accessible and fun.

- Pilar Alessandra: Host of the 'On the Page' podcast and a frequent speaker at festivals, Pilar is known for her engaging, practical teaching style.

- Christopher Vogler: His work on 'The Writer's Journey' brought Joseph Campbell's hero's journey into the screenwriting world. He's spoken at Disney, DreamWorks, and beyond.

- John Truby: With his 'Anatomy of Story' framework, Truby has taught thousands of writers in over 30 countries.

- Michael Hauge: A favorite among romance and drama writers, Hauge's talks focus on emotional storytelling and character arcs.

- William Goldman: Though not a frequent speaker, his rare talks and interviews (like at the Writers Guild Foundation) were legendary.

- Aaron Sorkin: Known for his masterclasses and occasional live events, Sorkin's insights into dialogue and pacing are unmatched.

These speakers have shaped how screenwriting is taught and practiced. Their influence goes far beyond the stage.

Looking for the top screenwriting speakers today? These are the professionals who are actively shaping the conversation around storytelling, structure, and the screenwriting industry across the globe:

- Pilar Alessandra (USA): A powerhouse in both podcasting and live events, Pilar teaches globally and is known for her hands-on workshops and approachable style.

- Julian Friedmann (UK): A literary agent and speaker who brings a business-savvy perspective to screenwriting. He frequently speaks at European festivals like Raindance and London Screenwriters' Festival.

- Karel Segers (Australia): Founder of The Story Department, Karel is a regular speaker in Asia-Pacific and known for blending Hollywood structure with global storytelling techniques.

- Christopher Vogler (USA): Still active on the speaking circuit, Vogler's hero's journey framework is a staple at international film schools and festivals.

- Valerie Fridland (USA): A linguist and speaker who brings fresh insights into dialogue and character voice. She's been featured at TEDx and screenwriting summits.

- Ken Dancyger (Canada): Co-author of several screenwriting textbooks, Dancyger is a frequent speaker at North American universities and international writing programs.

- Lucy V. Hay (UK): Known as 'Bang2write', Lucy is a screenwriter, script editor, and speaker who champions diversity and inclusion in storytelling.

- Danny Stack (Ireland): Co-founder of the London Screenwriters' Festival and a speaker focused on writing for children's TV and animation.

- Meg LeFauve (USA): Oscar-nominated for 'Inside Out', Meg speaks at Pixar events, MasterClass, and international festivals, offering deep dives into emotional storytelling.

- Daniel Calvisi (USA): Creator of the Story Maps system, Daniel is a frequent speaker at writing conferences and offers global webinars.

These speakers are not only experts in their field but also educators who are actively shaping the next generation of screenwriters around the world.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about screenwriting speakers. Whether you're just starting out or thinking about inviting one to your event, chances are you've heard at least one of these.

1. Screenwriting speakers only talk about movies.
This one's easy to believe, especially if your only exposure to screenwriting is Hollywood. But screenwriting speakers often cover a wide range of storytelling formats: TV, web series, branded content, even video games. For example, someone like Neil Landau, who's worked on both film and television, often speaks about narrative structure across platforms. His talks are just as relevant to a Netflix producer as they are to a YouTube creator.

2. They're all screenwriters first, speakers second.
Not always. Some screenwriting speakers are educators, consultants, or even podcast hosts who specialize in breaking down story mechanics. Think of Pilar Alessandra, who built her reputation through her script notes and workshops before becoming a sought-after speaker. Her strength lies in teaching, not just writing.

3. You need to be in LA or New York to book or become one.
That was true a decade ago. Today, virtual summits and online platforms have changed the game. Speakers from Australia, India, or South Africa are now regularly featured in global events. Talks.co, for instance, helps match podcast hosts with niche experts, including screenwriting speakers, regardless of geography.

4. They only appeal to filmmakers.
Not even close. Marketing teams, corporate trainers, and even UX designers bring in screenwriting speakers to learn about storytelling, character development, and emotional arcs. Airbnb's design team once referenced Pixar's storyboarding process to improve user journeys. That's storytelling in action.

5. They're all about theory, not practice.
The best screenwriting speakers blend both. They use real scripts, dissect scenes, and even run live writing exercises. It's not just 'Save the Cat' slideshows. It's hands-on, often interactive, and deeply practical for anyone who wants to understand how stories work.

So if you've been holding back because of one of these myths, it might be time to rethink what a screenwriting speaker can actually bring to the table.

When you look at the journey of successful screenwriting speakers, what stands out isn't just their writing chops. It's how they translate complex storytelling into something audiences can actually use. Let's dive into a few standout examples.

Linda Seger didn't start out as a Hollywood insider. She came from a background in theology and drama, eventually becoming one of the most respected script consultants in the industry. Her book 'Making a Good Script Great' became a staple in film schools, and her speaking gigs followed. What made her stand out? She didn't just critique scripts, she taught writers how to think like producers. Her talks often blend spirituality, structure, and strategy-something you don't see every day.

Then there's Aaron Rahsaan Thomas, co-creator of the rebooted 'S.W.A.T.' series. He's spoken at universities, festivals, and industry panels, often focusing on diversity in storytelling. What makes his sessions powerful is how he breaks down the intersection of personal identity and genre writing. He doesn't just talk about screenwriting-he talks about who gets to tell which stories, and why that matters.

In the indie world, Emily Best, founder of Seed&Spark, has carved out a niche as both a speaker and a platform builder. While not a traditional screenwriter, her talks often focus on how creators can fund, distribute, and pitch their stories. She's spoken at SXSW, Film Independent, and dozens of virtual summits. Her sessions are part screenwriting, part entrepreneurship, and all about empowerment.

And let's not forget Karel Segers from Australia. He's a screenwriter, story analyst, and founder of The Story Department. His speaking style is direct, data-driven, and global. He's worked with writers from over 30 countries and often speaks about how cultural context shapes narrative structure. His case studies include everything from Bollywood thrillers to Scandinavian noir.

Each of these speakers brings something different to the table. But what they all share is the ability to connect storytelling to real-world outcomes-whether that's getting a project greenlit, building a brand, or just telling a better story.

If you're keeping an eye on where screenwriting speakers are heading, you're not alone. The landscape is shifting, and those who adapt will thrive. Here's what's coming next:

- Cross-industry storytelling. Screenwriting speakers are no longer just talking to filmmakers. They're being invited to speak at tech conferences, marketing summits, and even healthcare innovation forums. Why? Because everyone needs to tell a compelling story. Expect to see more speakers tailoring their content for non-traditional audiences.

- Virtual-first formats. The pandemic normalized online speaking, but now it's evolving. Screenwriting speakers are building interactive workshops using tools like Miro and Zoom breakout rooms. Some are even offering asynchronous courses with live Q&A follow-ups. The future isn't just digital-it's hybrid, flexible, and scalable.

- AI and story structure. With tools like ChatGPT and Sudowrite entering the writing space, screenwriting speakers are being asked to weigh in. Are these tools helpful or harmful? Many are now incorporating AI ethics and usage strategies into their talks. The best speakers will be those who can guide creators through the noise.

- Global voices, local stories. There's a growing appetite for regional storytelling. Screenwriting speakers from Nigeria, Brazil, and South Korea are gaining traction at international events. Platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are driving this demand, and speakers who understand cross-cultural narrative will be in high demand.

- Data-driven storytelling. Studios are using analytics to decide which scripts get greenlit. Speakers who can bridge the gap between creativity and data-like explaining how audience segmentation affects story arcs-are becoming increasingly valuable.

So if you're planning to become a screenwriting speaker or book one, think beyond the traditional film school lecture. The future is interactive, interdisciplinary, and international.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your speaking game, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here's a curated list of platforms, apps, and resources that can help you grow as a screenwriting speaker:

1. Talks.co - A podcast guest matching tool that connects experts with podcast hosts. Perfect for screenwriting speakers looking to build authority and reach new audiences. Tip: Create a niche profile that highlights your storytelling specialty-TV pilots, character arcs, or genre writing.

2. Final Draft - The industry-standard screenwriting software. Not just for writing-use it to create sample scenes or breakdowns for your talks. Pro tip: Export scenes into PDFs to use as handouts during workshops.

3. Miro - A collaborative whiteboard tool that's great for virtual workshops. Use it to map out story structures live with your audience. It's especially useful for interactive sessions where you want people to build a story together.

4. Stage 32 - A global network for creatives in film, TV, and digital media. They offer webinars, pitch sessions, and speaking opportunities. Tip: Join their 'Script Services' section to get feedback and build credibility as a story expert.

5. Canva - For designing visually engaging slide decks. Use templates to create presentations that stand out. Bonus: Their 'Present and Record' feature lets you create pre-recorded talks.

6. Scribophile - A writing community where you can workshop scripts and get feedback. It's not speaker-specific, but it helps you stay sharp and connected to emerging writers.

7. Notion - Organize your speaking topics, script examples, and event contacts all in one place. Create a 'Speaker Hub' with links to your decks, bios, and testimonials.

Use these tools not just to build your talks, but to build your brand. The more organized and visible you are, the more likely you'll get booked-and remembered.